Explore the diagram and the AST Dryer animation below to see how material moves through each stage of the drying process. Together, they provide a step-by-step look at the airflow, material flow, and engineered components that deliver fast, efficient, and consistent drying performance.

Precision control of airflow, material movement, and retention time for optimal drying performance.

Effectively dries a wide range of materials, from fine powders to sticky, high-moisture substances.

Maximizes heat transfer and evaporation for faster drying and reduced operating costs. 

The Inlet Zone performs initial size reduction and removes most moisture through a highly turbulent agitator area, adjustable paddles, and high-velocity airflow. Fixed agitator blades break apart wet material to maximize heat transfer, while adjustable paddles continuously recirculate wetter product until it becomes free-flowing. Air dams then classify the material, allowing only properly dried product to advance to the next drying zone.

The Retention Zone continues the drying process by combining adjustable mixing paddles with controlled airflow to optimize material retention. A second set of air dams further classifies the product, ensuring only properly dried material advances to the final stage.

The Discharge Zone provides final drying, controlled airflow, and efficient product discharge. Similar to the Retention Zone, it uses adjustable mixing paddles that are configured to move the finished material toward the outlet while maintaining consistent product flow.