Drying equipment trials
Trial drying: how to prepare raw material and document the result
What to agree on before a trial run, what data to record and how to use the result when selecting drying equipment.
Define the purpose of the trial
Before choosing a drying cabinet, it is useful to discuss a trial run with your raw material. First agree with the supplier on whether a trial is possible, its location, the sample quantity and the report contents. Formulate the question the run should answer: whether the product arrangement method is suitable, whether the specified targets are achieved or whether processing fits within the available time. Record the acceptance criteria before starting work.
Prepare a batch description
Specify the raw material name, pretreatment method, piece or particle dimensions and sample mass. If the initial moisture content is known, attach the measurement result and identify the method. Mark unknown parameters as such. To compare several runs, use agreed requirements for the starting raw material and record all differences between batches.
Document the product arrangement
Record the number of occupied trays, the product mass on each and the layer thickness. Make a diagram or take photographs of the load and mark the tray positions. Clarify which mesh trays, baking trays or other fixtures will be used in the trial and whether they will be included in the proposal. For example, the UTAL-C15 product page lists mesh trays as equipment priced separately: the scope of supply should be agreed in advance.
Agree on measurements and a run log
Together with the process technologist, define the target product parameters and how to verify them. In the log, record the start and end times of stages, set parameters, available instrument readings, stoppages and program changes. If assessing energy consumption, agree in advance on the measurement boundaries and the list of included devices. The report should make clear what was measured directly and what was calculated.
Compare the result with the criteria
After the run, record the mass of the resulting product and the results of the agreed measurements. When taking samples, state their positions in the load so that results from different trays can be compared. Attach photographs and the process technologist's comments. If the goal was not achieved, list the conditions that will change for the next trial; keep a separate record for each run.
Transfer the conclusions to the inquiry
Specify the model and configuration of the equipment tested, raw material properties, loading arrangement and conditions under which the result was obtained. Agree separately on what will need to be checked with the planned production batch. Do not present the result of a single trial as guaranteed throughput for any product. Send the supplier a description of the raw material, desired result and planned load — this will help you discuss the equipment and the possibility of a trial run in specific terms.
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