What Is a Dehydrator?
A dehydrator is a device used to remove water from products. For example, in the food manufacturing industry, water droplets may adhere to retort pouches. Without proper dehydration, these water droplets can lead to mold growth and package damage when the products are boxed.
In the past, dehydrators were used for initial water removal, but often manual intervention was needed to ensure complete dryness.
Uses of Dehydrators
Dehydrators are primarily used in the food industry, particularly for drying retort pouches, including modern standing pouches. They are also effective for removing surface water from various food items like ham, sausages, and canned or bottled products. Beyond food items, dehydrators are employed for any products requiring water removal after rinsing.
Principle of Dehydrators
Dehydrators typically utilize powerful blowers to remove water. Depending on the product, hot air may also be employed. Manufacturers vary in their approaches regarding blower number, angle, and the structure of the support for the items being dried.
While more powerful blowers can generate significant noise, modern dehydrators are designed to be quieter and more energy-efficient. The use of inverters for airflow rate adjustment has contributed to noise reduction and energy conservation.
Maintainability is crucial, especially for food products, to ensure hygiene. This includes regular maintenance of the air-blowing parts and the overall structure of the dehydrator.