Drying hoppers are part of most drying systems. They are usually sized to hold about four times the hourly throughput of the dryer they serve.
The operation of a resin drying hopper involves heating the air inside the hopper to a specified temperature and circulating it through the resin. The heated air absorbs moisture from the resin, drying it to the desired level. The hopper is typically equipped with a heater, a blower, and temperature and moisture sensors to monitor and control the drying process.
Resin drying hoppers are available in a range of sizes and capacities to meet the needs of different applications. They are typically made of stainless steel or other durable materials to withstand the harsh conditions found in industrial environments. Additionally, some resin drying hoppers are equipped with additional features, such as digital controls and alarms, to make the drying process more efficient and reliable.
Basic features you should look for in a resin drying hopper:
- Sizes range up to 18,000 lb. capacity
- Stainless Steel or Carbon Steel Construction - Depending on Size
- Insulation
- Elongated Sight Glass
- Large Access Door
- Slide-gate Shutoff and Drain
- Return Air Pellet Screen
- Mounting Bracket for Heater/Blower
Full insulation is the most important feature to ensure energy efficiency. The insulation should be at least 2” thick and should be included in the cone area as well as the sides of the hopper.
