A spice processor dries chili and herb batches with 25,000 m3/h of 55 C exhaust. EN159 recovered heat to preheat incoming drying air.
The Challenge
Drying required steady 40 C intake air. Fuel cost was high and the operator needed recovery that keeps exhaust moisture away from the product.
Why Plate Air-to-Air Recovery
Food drying uses sensible-only plate recovery: separated streams, no moisture carry-back, no rotary wheel. This keeps the product air clean and meets hygiene rules.
The EN159 Solution
EN159 BXB plate module, 25,000 m3/h, intake 20 C raised to 40 C, food-grade stainless plates, cleanable for spice dust.
Measured Results
- Recovered heat: about 0.35 MW
- Intake preheated from 20 C to 40 C
- Fuel use cut by 26 percent
- Estimated payback: 14 months
Compliance and Selection Notes
Sensible-only plate recovery, no return air, no rotary wheel. Food-duty stainless, washable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why plate and not rotary for herbs?
Rotary wheels move moisture and aromatics between streams and risk cross-contamination. Plate keeps streams separate.
Can it handle spice dust?
Yes, stainless plates are cleanable; a pre-filter protects the core.
Related Guides and Tools
Plate Heat Exchangers · Food and Agricultural Drying Recovery · Drying Heat Recovery · Chrysanthemum and Honeysuckle Drying · Contact EN159
Get a Site-Specific Recovery Estimate
Talk to an EN159 application engineer about your spice and herb drying exhaust stream. Call 15753355505 or visit our contact page for a site-specific recovery estimate.