Electric herb drying machine

Types of electric herb drying machines

The electric herb drying machine comes in different types and models to meet various industrial and commercial production needs. The table below summarizes the main types of electric herbal dryers with their features and applications:

• Conveyor belt dryer

  During the drying process, the materials kept moving forward on the conveyor belt to achieve even drying. The dried material exits the conveyor system. The conveyor belt dryers allow for continuous drying of large amounts of material. They have precisely controlled temperature and airflow systems.

• Tray dryer

  It loads multiple trays containing herbs into the drying chamber. The hot air blows across the trays to extract the moisture content from the herb. Because of their good airflow and temperature control, tray dryers provide even drying results. Owners can adjust the number of trays to match their production needs. Usually, the tray dryers are more suitable for medium to large-scale production.

• Tunnel dryer

  Its designed especially for large-scale production. The drying air circulates inside the long tunnels. Also, the dryers have an automatic control system that adjusts the airflow and temperature according to the type of the dried herb. This helps to meet various drying requirements. The tunnel dryers are more energy-efficient than other types of dryers. They reduce the production cost effectively.

• Pneumatic dryer

  It uses the air pressure generated by the blower to mix the drying air with the herb in the fluidized state. Going through the separator unit, only the dried herb leaves the unit. This dryer is suitable for large-scale continuous drying operations.

• Rotary drum dryer

  It is composed of a round horizontal cylinder that rotates slowly. The air flow direction inside the drum can be parallel or counter current to the material's movement. Rotary drum dryers are suitable for large-scale continuous drying of certain physical and chemical properties of herbs. The drying air can be in the parallel or counter current to the material's movement.

Specification and Maintenance

Electric herb dryers have various specifications that differ from the industrial to the personal use models. Variables include the size and capacity of the machine, the kind of heating element, temperature range, timer, voltage, fan motor, noise levels, security features, and the material and dimensions of the trays.

Machines that are intended for large-scale production usually have a bigger drying chamber and a higher drying tray capacity. For example, an industrial machine may be 2000mm x 1200mm and have 20 trays. This is much larger than personal dryers or even small commercial herb dryers, which may be 600mm x 400mm and have four trays that can be stacked.

The power source of the drying machine can be AC or DC. The fan motor in small dryers is typically 20W, while it is 80W in large capacity machines, but it can go up to 250W in industrial models. The voltage for safe usage is generally around 12V to 24V, but this can also differ depending on the machine and its specifications.

Depending on whether the herb dryer is portable or not, it will have either an inward- or outward-folding door. The weights of the machines vary according to size and capacity. For example, a machine that includes an entire production line, such as the pre-processing, drying, and post-processing, would weigh an average of 2900 kg. A typical small herb dryer weighs approximately 10 to 15 kg.

Generally, maintenance tasks can easily be performed by following the user manual. Cleaning the trays is a frequent task since they tend to get dirty with herbs sticking and residue. Usually, the trays can be removed and washed in a dishwasher or with warm, soapy water. They can then be sterilized with a damp cloth and a small amount of disinfectant. Monthly cleaning of the filter is required as it gets clogged with dust and other particles. Prior to cleaning, users should turn off the electricity first, remove the filter, and then use a soft brush to remove the debris. The external body of the machine can be cleaned with a soft, damp cloth. Monthly checks on the heating element's cables and fan to see if there are any damages are also recommended. Specific areas may require lubrication, which will be indicated in the user's manual. Quick troubleshooting methods will be listed in the instruction manual, including solutions if the machine is not drying herbs properly or if the trays are not turning.

Scenarios of electric herb drying machines

• Food industry

  In the food industry, restaurants, cafes, and bakeries use herb drying machines to dry food such as fruit, vegetables, and snacks. They also use it to dry spices and herbs used for cooking. The dried food and spices have a longer shelf life and add more intense flavors.

• Pharmaceutical industry

  The pharmaceutical industry uses an herb drying machine for medicinal herbs because dried medicinal herbs have stability and a longer shelf life.

• Agro-processing

  In agro-processing, commercial farms and herb drying factories use electric herb drying machines to process dried fruits, vegetables, spices, and herbal teas for export or local markets.

• Tea and coffee production

  Electric herb drying machines are used to dry tea and coffee beans. The machines help produce a wide range of herbal teas such as ginger tea, chamomile tea, and green tea.

• Floristry

  Florists or flower factories use electric herb drying machines to dry flowers, which are then used to make floral decorations, dried flower bouquets, or preserved floral art.

• Beauty and cosmetics

  Beauty companies often use electric herb drying machines to dry flowers and herbal extracts for the beauty and skincare items.

• Industrial materials

  Industrial factories use electric herb drying machines to dry various industrial materials, including essential oil extraction, textile dyeing, and building material processing.

• Laboratories

  Laboratories use an herb drying machine to dry samples and biological materials. The machines allow for rapid drying at low temperatures.

How to choose electric herb drying machines

A buyer who is looking for industrial electric herb drying machines for sale should consider the following:

• Capacity: The capacity of the herb dryer should match the drying volume to ensure expected productivity. Manufacturing plants typically go for electric dryers with a high capacity as this supports large-scale production. They also have several drying trays. However, a small capacity electric herb drying machine unit is ideal for home or small-scale commercial use.
• Temperature control: Precise temperature regulation is crucial for maintaining the potency, flavor, and therapeutic properties of herbs. Look for machines with digital controls, timers, and automatic shut-off features.
• Noise levels: This is an important factor to consider if customers do not want a drying machine that disturbs the neighborhood. An electric herb dryer machine produces varying noise levels depending on the make, model, and size. Electric dryers are generally less noisy than electric dryers. The machines also typically have noise insulation technology that minimizes sound during operation.
• Flexibility: The examples above highlight that not all herbs require the same drying conditions. An electric dryer with flexible drying temperatures allows buyers to dry different types of herbs efficiently. A machine with adjustable drying air levels also accommodates varying herb quantities.
• Energy efficiency: Consider opting for an energy-efficient machine to help calm the environmental effects of climate change. Dryers that have insulated cabinets retain heat well and prevent heat loss. This reduces energy consumption and lowers electricity bills.

Q&A

Q: Are electric herb drying machines worth it?

A: Yes, electric herb drying machines are worth it. They are more efficient and faster than sun drying herbs. They provide a consistent drying process and allow for drying in any weather condition.

Q: How long do dried herbs last when stored properly?

A: When stored in airtight containers away from sunlight, dried herbs can last for two to three years. However, they will start losing their potency and flavor after a year.

Q: Can all types of herbs be dried using an electric herb drying machine?

A: Yes, all types of herbs can be dried using an electric herb drying machine. However, the recommended temperatures differ. Delicate herbs like parsley and cilantro should be dried at 95°F to 105°F. Oily herbs like thyme and rosemary should be dried at 105°F to 115°F. Strong large leaf herbs like sage and bay laurel should be dried at 115°F to 125°F.

Q: Does drying herbs earn one extra cash?

A: Yes, the market for dried herbs is huge. Many restaurants and food companies are always in search of dried herb suppliers. If the herbs are full of flavor and well dried and packaged, one can make a good profit.

Q: Whatエlectric herb drying machinesdo professional herbalists use?

A: There are many brands of electric herb drying machines in the market today. Professional herbalists use large industrial dryers with a huge capacity. Some of the preferred large dryers include rotary dryers, belt dryers, and tunnel dryers.