Dahmes Released VacuCoil Preheater for Spray Drying
The new high-pressure system aims to improve dryer output by preheating liquid concentrates under vacuum conditions.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Manufacturing
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Dahmes has introduced the VacuCoil, a high-pressure preheater designed to increase spray dryer production efficiency. The unit mounts on the feed line and uses vacuum-condensing steam to heat liquid concentrate before it reaches the atomizer.
Why it matters
By raising the feed temperature, the system lowers concentrate viscosity, allowing for higher solids content in the drying process. The vacuum environment facilitates this heating without denaturing heat-sensitive proteins.
The VacuCoil maintains a consistent surface temperature of approximately 160°F to heat concentrates. This process is engineered to boost spray dryer output by 7% to 9% in typical applications, with performance gains exceeding 11% in certain scenarios.
The players
Dahmes
Dahmes is an engineering and manufacturing firm specializing in processing equipment for the dairy and food industries.
The details
The unit exposes concentrate to 160°F for a few seconds before atomization, effectively reducing microbial load. Designed for both new builds and retrofits, the system allows for installation while plants remain operational without requiring new building or permits.
Timeline
Dahmes introduced the VacuCoil high-pressure preheater on October 5, 2026.
Market Landscape
The introduction of the VacuCoil signals an industry shift toward modular, high-efficiency retrofits that enhance existing infrastructure rather than requiring full-line replacements. This positions the technology as a competitive alternative to traditional, capital-intensive system upgrades.
Facilities managers can implement the VacuCoil as a retrofit to improve production capacity without the downtime associated with construction or complex permitting. This allows manufacturers to increase output and reduce microbial load using their current spray drying equipment.
The takeaway
Optimizing liquid concentrate feed temperatures remains a key strategy for increasing yield in industrial drying operations. Implementing high-pressure preheating allows for significant throughput gains while maintaining the structural integrity of heat-sensitive ingredients.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest innovations in Manufacturing.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Food Engineering.
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