ANDRITZ Gouda contact drum dryer

The ANDRITZ Gouda contact drum dryer is a leading solution in industrial drying technology, designed for continuous indirect drying of liquid and paste-like products. It ensures product preservation and quality retention across a wide range of applications in food and chemical processing.

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ANDRITZ Gouda single drum dryer, KD model

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ANDRITZ Gouda drum dryer for starch drying

What is a drum dryer?

A drum dryer is a thermal drying system that uses a rotating, steam-heated drum to evaporate moisture from a thin layer of product. This method is especially effective for viscous materials and sensitive compounds, offering a controlled environment that maintains product integrity.

How continuous indirect drying preserves product quality

The ANDRITZ Gouda drum dryer uses indirect heating, where steam circulates inside the drum while the product dries on its outer surface. This continuous drying process minimizes thermal stress, helping to retain flavor, nutritional value, and solubility—critical for high-quality food and chemical products.

Strengths, benefits, and features of the ANDRITZ Gouda contact drum dryer

High thermal efficiency
Ultimate stability and a long, continuous lifecycle
Designed in accordance with the highest hygienic standards
Several versions to fulfill the requirements of different applications
Vacuum drying for heat sensitive product components

Food applications

ANDRITZ Separation_Food, © RichMan - adobe.stock.com

Cereal-based baby food
Milk
Animal proteins
Yeast

Pre-gelatinized starch
Gelatin
Potatoes
Fruit

The drum drying process

The ANDRITZ Gouda drum dryer uses continuous indirect drying to gently and efficiently remove moisture from liquid or paste-like products. Steam heats the drum internally, while the product is applied as a thin film on the outer surface. As the drum rotates, moisture evaporates quickly, preserving the product’s structure, flavor, and nutritional value. A scraper blade removes the dried layer, producing flakes or powder. This process ensures quality retention, hygienic operation, and consistent results—ideal for food and chemical processing.

Protective thermal spray coating (HVAF)

To extend drum life against corrosion due to acid applications, ANDRITZ offers a high-velocity air fuel (HVAF) coating. This advanced thermal spray technology creates a dense, wear-resistant surface that withstands abrasive and acidic materials. The coating is compliant with food-grade standards and supports energy-efficient operation by preserving heat transfer efficiency. It’s a durable solution for demanding industrial drying technology environments, reducing maintenance and ensuring long-term performance.

Protective thermal spraying process (HVAF)

Technical specifications

The ANDRITZ Gouda drum dryer is engineered for high-performance industrial drying technology, offering flexibility, hygiene, and efficiency across a wide range of applications.

Operating principle: Continuous indirect contact drying

Heating medium: Saturated steam

Temperature range: 120–190 °C

Drying time: Between 3 and 100 seconds

Product consistency: Pumpable wet slurry

Materials of construction: Cast iron, chromium-plated, or chromium-carbide coated for enhanced durability and hygiene

Drum configurations

Single-drum dryers: Ideal for viscous, pulpy products; available with top or bottom applicator rolls
Double-drum dryers: Suitable for more liquid products; available with or without applicator rolls
Vacuum drum dryers: For heat-sensitive products, operating in a sealed casing under vacuum to prevent oxidation and preserve nutrients

Feed systems

Applicator rolls with servo-motor driven gap adjustment (ReGain system)
Linear feed systems for uniform product distribution

Automation and control

Metris addIQ control system for intuitive operation, remote diagnostics, and process optimization
Smart adjustment of applicator rolls for precise film thickness

Energy efficiency

Steam consumption as low as 1.4 kg per kg of evaporated water
Low dust emission and optional energy recovery systems

Hygienic design

Clear separation between mechanical and process areas
EHEDG and HACCP compliance
Easy access for cleaning and maintenance

This configuration ensures energy-efficient operation, product preservation, and quality retention, making it ideal for demanding food and chemical processing environments.