Agglomerated Powders

Agglomerated powder production using multi-stage processing in spray dryers
Agglomerated powders are created in systems based upon the integrated fluid bed or belt and a multi-stage concept. The moist powder, produced during the first drying stage, forms agglomerates, which are post-dried and cooled during the following stages.

TALL FORM DRYER ^TM
The tower spray dryer has a top mounted nozzle assembly and features a fines return capability. The atomized spray dries while gently falling down the tower. The end powder is effectively separated from the exhaust air in the enlarged lower cone section. Post-drying and cooling are carried out in a vibrating fluid bed mounted beneath the tower. The tall form dryer is suited for both non-fat and fat-containing products, producing non-agglomerated and agglomerated free-flowing powders including baby food.

Spray Drying Agglomeration
Agglomerates and Agglomerated powders are produced by using multistage processing in spray dryers that features

- external vibrating fluid beds
- internal fluid beds
- internal moving belts

In such processing, the first stage of drying takes place in the drying chamber, where drying is partially completed. The moist powder passes to the second stage fluid bed and/or belt sections of the dryer, where particles bind together to form porous agglomerates. The size and structure of the agglomerates are controlled by the selected operating temperature of the spray dryer.

Powder Feeds

Rewet Agglomeration
Powders are wetted by steam or a fine spray mist in an agglomerating chamber, which can also contain a rotating disc to further condition and stabilize the agglomerates produced. Post-drying of agglomerates is carried out in a vibrating fluid bed, followed by size classification. The undersized particulates are returned to the agglomeration zone. Control of the wetting rate and subsequent drying determines the final agglomerate size: Lower range 500 microns mean size, higher range 2000 microns mean size.

Fluid Bed Agglomeration
Fluid bed technology is used to fluidize the powder with hot air while sprayed simultaneously with a binder liquid. This process causes particle adhesion, agglomerate formation and drying, and is applicable to both batch and continuous operation. Control of air velocity and wetting rate determines the final agglomeration size. The process produces agglomerates of narrow size distribution: Lower range 100 microns mean size, upper range 1000 microns mean size.

Read more about agglomerated powders.

For U.S agglomerated powders inquiries, please visit the Niro Inc website: www.niroinc.com

for further information please contact
email