Drying

Steam recovery

1 STAGE DRYER OR 2 STAGE DRYER SYSTEM?

What kind of dryer systems does Sunds Fibertech supply?

Sunds Fibertech focuses on MDF dryer systems for new lines as well as for rebuilding existing systems.

Why is the drying design so important?

The dryer is a crucial piece of equipment because the fiber line represents around 30% of the investment cost in a new plant, but also almost 70% of the total operational cost.

What other factor is associated with the drying system and why?

Another factor associated with the drying system is the environmental impact due to the emissions from the cyclones.

What are the most important factors of the dryer’s design with a focus on the operational cost?

• Low energy consumption.
• Low environmental impact due to the generation of emissions.
• Tailor-made design for optimal energy consumption.

How does Sunds Fibertech address operational efficiency regarding the dryer’s design?

• Using frequency-regulated motors that promote optimal efficiency in relation to the energy used by the fans.
• Optimizing the running conditions for each product.
• Defining the dryer size design according to the specific production.

How does Sunds Fibertech manage the impact of the emissions under strict environmental regulations?

We optimize the air flows, use highly efficient cyclones and our designs are based on local regulations.

What is the difference between a one-stage dryer and a two-stage dryer?

In a one-stage dryer, the fiber is dried in one single dryer duct. However, the dryer duct needs to be quite big and long to take care of the retention time.

In a two-stage dryer, the fiber is dried to about 20% moisture content during the first stage, therefore this dryer in the first stage is also often placed vertically (such dryers require smaller footprints compared to others).  The remainder of the moisture is removed in the second stage, which can be made smaller, and hence a significant length that is needed for the retention time of the fiber is placed in the second stage. In this process, the air from the second stage is returned and reused in the first stage which means that the emissions are much lower from the two-stage dryer both when it comes to content and amount.

Can the dryer also be adapted for emission control systems?

Absolutely, the dryer can be adapted for emission control systems such as our airCleanMAX System.

How does this process start? What inputs should be considered?

The solution is based on the customer-specific needs, for a stronger design, all the data is processed in a proprietary Sunds Fibertech plant engineer’s database which includes experience from worldwide existing dryers. At this stage, the customer gets a first report on what can be achieved and the general idea to rebuild the plant.

How does the mechanical design process work?

It all starts with us at Sunds Fibertech receiving all the data from the process team and trying to fit it into the specific layout of the plant. This is done together with the customer during the site visits. In this process, all the measurements related to equipment fit are done, including all the plant changes that are not in the original drawing.

When the design team is back from site visits, we run a 3D model and start producing manufacturing drawings.

What is the biggest challenge when talking about dryer projects?

The most challenging part of the process is associated with rebuilds and especially free space. At Sunds Fibertech we always try to reuse existing equipment as a support structure.

Why is Sunds Fibertech the best option in relation to dryer solutions?

Sunds Fibertech is known for providing tailor-made dryer systems to achieve the best performance in three specific areas:

• Operational cost.
• Energy savings.
• Environmental impact – emissions control.