WO1997033469A1 - Fours rotatifs du type tunnel a systeme de chauffage rayonnant a conduits multiples - Google Patents

Fours rotatifs du type tunnel a systeme de chauffage rayonnant a conduits multiples Download PDF

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Publication number
WO1997033469A1
WO1997033469A1 PCT/AU1997/000132 AU9700132W WO9733469A1 WO 1997033469 A1 WO1997033469 A1 WO 1997033469A1 AU 9700132 W AU9700132 W AU 9700132W WO 9733469 A1 WO9733469 A1 WO 9733469A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
kiln
product
jacket
zone
emitter
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/AU1997/000132
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Ian Jeffrey Bersten
Dirk Domenico Cortesi
Original Assignee
Roasting Technologies Pty. Ltd.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from AUPN8592A external-priority patent/AUPN859296A0/en
Priority claimed from AUPN8708A external-priority patent/AUPN870896A0/en
Application filed by Roasting Technologies Pty. Ltd. filed Critical Roasting Technologies Pty. Ltd.
Priority to AU18628/97A priority Critical patent/AU1862897A/en
Publication of WO1997033469A1 publication Critical patent/WO1997033469A1/fr

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A23—FOODS OR FOODSTUFFS; TREATMENT THEREOF, NOT COVERED BY OTHER CLASSES
    • A23L—FOODS, FOODSTUFFS, OR NON-ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, NOT COVERED BY SUBCLASSES A21D OR A23B-A23J; THEIR PREPARATION OR TREATMENT, e.g. COOKING, MODIFICATION OF NUTRITIVE QUALITIES, PHYSICAL TREATMENT; PRESERVATION OF FOODS OR FOODSTUFFS, IN GENERAL
    • A23L3/00—Preservation of foods or foodstuffs, in general, e.g. pasteurising, sterilising, specially adapted for foods or foodstuffs
    • A23L3/005—Preservation of foods or foodstuffs, in general, e.g. pasteurising, sterilising, specially adapted for foods or foodstuffs by heating using irradiation or electric treatment
    • A23L3/0055—Preservation of foods or foodstuffs, in general, e.g. pasteurising, sterilising, specially adapted for foods or foodstuffs by heating using irradiation or electric treatment with infrared rays
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01M—CATCHING, TRAPPING OR SCARING OF ANIMALS; APPARATUS FOR THE DESTRUCTION OF NOXIOUS ANIMALS OR NOXIOUS PLANTS
    • A01M19/00—Apparatus for the destruction of noxious animals, other than insects, by hot water, steam, hot air, or electricity
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01M—CATCHING, TRAPPING OR SCARING OF ANIMALS; APPARATUS FOR THE DESTRUCTION OF NOXIOUS ANIMALS OR NOXIOUS PLANTS
    • A01M21/00—Apparatus for the destruction of unwanted vegetation, e.g. weeds
    • A01M21/04—Apparatus for destruction by steam, chemicals, burning, or electricity
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A23—FOODS OR FOODSTUFFS; TREATMENT THEREOF, NOT COVERED BY OTHER CLASSES
    • A23B—PRESERVING, e.g. BY CANNING, MEAT, FISH, EGGS, FRUIT, VEGETABLES, EDIBLE SEEDS; CHEMICAL RIPENING OF FRUIT OR VEGETABLES; THE PRESERVED, RIPENED, OR CANNED PRODUCTS
    • A23B9/00—Preservation of edible seeds, e.g. cereals
    • A23B9/02—Preserving by heating
    • A23B9/04—Preserving by heating by irradiation or electric treatment
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A23—FOODS OR FOODSTUFFS; TREATMENT THEREOF, NOT COVERED BY OTHER CLASSES
    • A23L—FOODS, FOODSTUFFS, OR NON-ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, NOT COVERED BY SUBCLASSES A21D OR A23B-A23J; THEIR PREPARATION OR TREATMENT, e.g. COOKING, MODIFICATION OF NUTRITIVE QUALITIES, PHYSICAL TREATMENT; PRESERVATION OF FOODS OR FOODSTUFFS, IN GENERAL
    • A23L11/00—Pulses, i.e. fruits of leguminous plants, for production of food; Products from legumes; Preparation or treatment thereof
    • A23L11/30—Removing undesirable substances, e.g. bitter substances
    • A23L11/36—Removing undesirable substances, e.g. bitter substances using irradiation, e.g. with wave energy; Using electrical means or magnetic fields
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A23—FOODS OR FOODSTUFFS; TREATMENT THEREOF, NOT COVERED BY OTHER CLASSES
    • A23L—FOODS, FOODSTUFFS, OR NON-ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, NOT COVERED BY SUBCLASSES A21D OR A23B-A23J; THEIR PREPARATION OR TREATMENT, e.g. COOKING, MODIFICATION OF NUTRITIVE QUALITIES, PHYSICAL TREATMENT; PRESERVATION OF FOODS OR FOODSTUFFS, IN GENERAL
    • A23L5/00—Preparation or treatment of foods or foodstuffs, in general; Food or foodstuffs obtained thereby; Materials therefor
    • A23L5/10—General methods of cooking foods, e.g. by roasting or frying
    • A23L5/15—General methods of cooking foods, e.g. by roasting or frying using wave energy, irradiation, electrical means or magnetic fields, e.g. oven cooking or roasting using radiant dry heat
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A23—FOODS OR FOODSTUFFS; TREATMENT THEREOF, NOT COVERED BY OTHER CLASSES
    • A23L—FOODS, FOODSTUFFS, OR NON-ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, NOT COVERED BY SUBCLASSES A21D OR A23B-A23J; THEIR PREPARATION OR TREATMENT, e.g. COOKING, MODIFICATION OF NUTRITIVE QUALITIES, PHYSICAL TREATMENT; PRESERVATION OF FOODS OR FOODSTUFFS, IN GENERAL
    • A23L5/00—Preparation or treatment of foods or foodstuffs, in general; Food or foodstuffs obtained thereby; Materials therefor
    • A23L5/30—Physical treatment, e.g. electrical or magnetic means, wave energy or irradiation
    • A23L5/36—Physical treatment, e.g. electrical or magnetic means, wave energy or irradiation using irradiation with frequencies of more than 10 MHz
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A23—FOODS OR FOODSTUFFS; TREATMENT THEREOF, NOT COVERED BY OTHER CLASSES
    • A23L—FOODS, FOODSTUFFS, OR NON-ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, NOT COVERED BY SUBCLASSES A21D OR A23B-A23J; THEIR PREPARATION OR TREATMENT, e.g. COOKING, MODIFICATION OF NUTRITIVE QUALITIES, PHYSICAL TREATMENT; PRESERVATION OF FOODS OR FOODSTUFFS, IN GENERAL
    • A23L7/00—Cereal-derived products; Malt products; Preparation or treatment thereof
    • A23L7/10—Cereal-derived products
    • A23L7/197—Treatment of whole grains not provided for in groups A23L7/117 - A23L7/196
    • A23L7/1975—Cooking or roasting
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A23—FOODS OR FOODSTUFFS; TREATMENT THEREOF, NOT COVERED BY OTHER CLASSES
    • A23N—MACHINES OR APPARATUS FOR TREATING HARVESTED FRUIT, VEGETABLES OR FLOWER BULBS IN BULK, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; PEELING VEGETABLES OR FRUIT IN BULK; APPARATUS FOR PREPARING ANIMAL FEEDING- STUFFS
    • A23N12/00—Machines for cleaning, blanching, drying or roasting fruits or vegetables, e.g. coffee, cocoa, nuts
    • A23N12/08—Machines for cleaning, blanching, drying or roasting fruits or vegetables, e.g. coffee, cocoa, nuts for drying or roasting
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F26—DRYING
    • F26B—DRYING SOLID MATERIALS OR OBJECTS BY REMOVING LIQUID THEREFROM
    • F26B17/00—Machines or apparatus for drying materials in loose, plastic, or fluidised form, e.g. granules, staple fibres, with progressive movement
    • F26B17/18—Machines or apparatus for drying materials in loose, plastic, or fluidised form, e.g. granules, staple fibres, with progressive movement with movement performed by rotating helical blades or other rotary conveyors which may be heated moving materials in stationary chambers, e.g. troughs
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F26—DRYING
    • F26B—DRYING SOLID MATERIALS OR OBJECTS BY REMOVING LIQUID THEREFROM
    • F26B3/00—Drying solid materials or objects by processes involving the application of heat
    • F26B3/28—Drying solid materials or objects by processes involving the application of heat by radiation, e.g. from the sun
    • F26B3/30—Drying solid materials or objects by processes involving the application of heat by radiation, e.g. from the sun from infrared-emitting elements

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to tunnel-type kiln apparatus and components for use with the same.
  • the invention also extends to energy and process control in such apparatus.
  • Apparatus according to the invention can find broad application in the food treatment industry, including roasting, drying, sterilisation, cooking, de- activation and disinfestation of foodstuffs and also has application in sewerage, mining, waste treatment, chemical processing and sterilisation industries.
  • the present invention in a first aspect provides a mul i- ducted jacket for supporting an emitter in a tunnel-type kiln, the jacket including: at least one duct for delivering electricity or fuel to the emitter; and at least one free duct for the delivery or removal of a commodity other than a primary coolant to/from the jacket, the emitter or the kiln.
  • a primary coolant it is meant a coolant that in use is primarily used for cooling the jacket from heat generated by the emitter.
  • the provision of such a jacket enables various control parameters to be introduced.
  • the free duct(s) can also be used to supply an additional coolant to regions within the jacket (ie. in addition to a primary coolant duct) , although more preferably can be used to introduce new material, to withdraw by-products from a process, to provide further and/or alternative power supply etc.
  • smoke is produced in a latter stage of the roasting process (ie. late in its passing through the kiln) .
  • This smoke can be withdrawn at its point of production through one of the free ducts (or through a separate exhaust system) .
  • some processes require the spraying or addition of a chemical (eg. water, oil, flavours, etc.) at a certain point in a cooking, roasting, drying or sterilisation cycle and again, one of the free ducts can be employed to introduce such a substance or commodity at a precise location.
  • a chemical eg. water, oil, flavours, etc.
  • such a duct can be used to mount a number of emitters sequentially through a kiln. Independently controllable zones through the process can then be achieved by establishing various flow regimes through the ducting of the jacket and thereby varying the particular conditions at each emitter.
  • the second invention provides a tunnel-type kiln including two or more zones, each zone being controllable independently of each other zone with respect to a product when fed through the kiln.
  • Such a kiln can be employed where different chemical and mechanical characteristics are observed for a product passing through a kiln at different stages, temperatures, humidities, moisture contents etc.
  • the addition of separate commodities, the withdrawal of by-products, or the maintenance of through-flowing product under certain conditions for certain periods of time can be achieved so that an end product having predetermined and desired characteristics can be produced.
  • Such independent control can be achieved through the variation of constructional parameters within the kiln, for example by employing transverse baffle plates, separate tunnel segments, internal helical screw combinations, baffles and scrapers etc. or through the variation of process operating parameters such as control of emitters in different parts of the kiln, addition and subtraction of products, varying flow characteristics etc.
  • the present invention provides a tunnel-type kiln adapted for having a product flow therethrough in a first direction, with helical screw means positioned in the kiln and adapted in use for engaging and moving at least part of the product in a direction counter to the first direction.
  • the helical screw means may be in the form of a peri-helical screw arranged on the interior of the kiln or in the form of one or more individual helical screws extending through the kiln and operable to achieve various through-flow and product level configurations.
  • the present invention also provides a method of treating granular product comprising the steps of :
  • Such a method can be used in all the applications highlighted in this specification and finds particular application with granular foodstuffs.
  • such a method is particularly facilitated by at least preferred combinations of apparatus as defined in the first, second and third aspects throughout this specification.
  • Figure 1 shows an end view of a preferred ulti- ducted jacket according to the invention
  • Figure 2 shows an underside view of the jacket of Figure 1 with infra-red lamps arranged therein;
  • Figures 3 and 4 show schematic end views of two different jacket parabolic reflective configurations indicating how radiation intensity may be varied;
  • Figure 5 shows a side schematic view of a tunnel- type kiln having a number of different zones therein;
  • Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view of the kiln of Figure 5 taken along the line 6-6;
  • Figure 7 shows a view similar to that of Figure 5, but for an opposite arrangement of kiln segments.
  • Figures 8, 9, 10, 12, 13, 14 and 15 show end schematic views of various kiln geometries according to the invention.
  • Figure 11 shows a side schematic view of the kiln shown in Figure 10.
  • a jacket is shown in the form of a housing 20 that has a plurality of passages therethrough.
  • the housing is particularly adapted for longitudinally supporting one or more infra-red radiating tubes (IR tubes) 22, but with slight modifications is also suitable for supporting gas burner IR generators and other types of radiation or heat emitter-type devices.
  • the housing is preferably entirely sealed (ie. to be fluid-tight) and is internally pressurised. Thus, any leak therefrom can be detected by an appropriate sensor for a pressure drop.
  • the cover 42 (described below) break or shatter during use, the process in which the housing is used can be stopped. Knowledge of the breaking of the cover can be critical when the housing is used in a food processing application.
  • the housing finds particular application with tunnel-type kilns (although is not so limited) and is generally longitudinally arranged through such kilns.
  • two or more such housings can be arranged longitudinally and in eg. parallel in a given kiln.
  • the housing 20 includes a first passage 24 running longitudinally throughout its length.
  • the housing can extend for the length of a kiln, or alternatively for the length of a tunnel kiln segment (as described below) .
  • the first passage 24 is adapted for having arranged therethrough electrical wiring to be connected between a power source (remote from the kiln and not shown) and a respective IR tube.
  • the first passage can be used for arranging gas piping therein that is connected between a gas source (located remotely from the kiln and not shown) and the burner. The gas may also be directly fed down the passage 24.
  • the wiring (or piping) is connected to respective IR tubes (or burners) by being passed along the first passage and thence through a respective first hole 26 which has been formed or drilled in the housing.
  • second coolant passages 28 are provided and are particularly adapted for the through-flow of a liquid coolant (eg. such as water) but may also have a gas coolant flowing therethrough (eg. such as cold air, nitrogen, C0 2 etc) .
  • the housing includes two further passages 30, 32 arranged outside the coolant passages.
  • Passage 30 can be used for the supply of air to a lamp end chamber (described below) and introduces air (optionally to pressurise the housing) into this chamber via flow hole 34 formed or drilled through a wall of the housing.
  • Passage 32 is typically an extra passage provided for the introduction and removal of substances including solids, liquids and gases to or from any product flowing through a kiln in which the housing is mounted.
  • Temperature, pressure, moisture and other sensors can be introduced into various zones or stages (see below) of a kiln in which the housing is positioned, by being passed down one of the extra passages 28, 30, 32.
  • the wiring etc for eg. a thermocouple that extends from the housing down into product (or space above the product)
  • a suitable receiver eg. computer controllers to provide continuous feedback about process operating parameters
  • a tap hole 36 in communication with the kiln interior, can be formed or drilled through the wall of the housing and into passage 32 at an appropriate position along the housing (ie. at a position corresponding to that position through the kiln at which the coffee beans begin to smoke) .
  • a vacuum may then be applied through the passage 32 and the smoke can be withdrawn from the process (or alternatively a separate suction line, optionally fan driven, can be provided - see for example duct 79 in Figure 6) .
  • passage 32 by either using passage 32 or a separate duct (or ducts) 79, other byproducts can be removed.
  • the coffee husks become separated from the bean centre, (ie. as the bean swells) . These husks may subsequently ignite under the high IR roasting heats and hence should be removed. This can be easily achieved with preferred duct or passage configurations according to the invention.
  • the kiln is being used for pre-cooking, for example of rice
  • this water can be passed through passage 32 via tap hole 36, optionally connected to a spray unit to evenly spray the water onto the foodstuff, at a predetermined point of foodstuff flow through the process to assist in the pre-cooking.
  • the possible permutations with the use of the multi- passage housing are endless.
  • Additional coolant passages are provided and smoke and by-product removal is made easy and controllable, as are product additions including moisture and other chemical additions, addition of colouring agents, flavours, emulsifiers, coating chemicals, etc., all at predetermined points during a product's baking, drying, cooking, roasting processes etc.
  • the housing is typically formed as an extrusion, preferably of aluminium.
  • a longitudinal channel 38 having a concave or parabolic cross-sectional shape is formed in the housing.
  • a reflective surface 40 eg. gold
  • a cover 42 typically a glass cover formed of quartz etc.
  • the infra-red tubes can then be mounted within this chamber.
  • the housing is also provided with steeply sloping sides 46 and 48. Such a configuration is advantageous when the housing is used in a rotating kiln so that any product that drops onto the housing drops back to the base of the kiln to return to the product bulk.
  • each chamber 44 is bound by reflective surface 40, cover 42 and opposing left and right end walls 50 (but only one of which is shown for each chamber 44 in Figure 2) .
  • the end walls can also be provided with a reflective surface facing into the chamber 44 to maximise reflection of radiation and heat out of the housing (ie. as shown in Figures 3 and 4) .
  • Each IR tube 22 includes a tungsten filament 52 and is formed with a short wave quartz globe (although medium and long wave globes are also used) . Tungsten filaments are the most effective source of radiant energy and the power input to each IR tube is typically varied between 1 and 3 kilowatts.
  • Each tube is supported at its opposing ends in a ceramic lamp holder 54 and the tungsten filament is in turn connected to stainless steel lamp ends 56 (or "pinchpoints”) , which in turn are connected to electrical wiring and thence a power source.
  • a second lamp-end chamber 58 is defined between the end walls 50 and is enclosed by the overlap of covers 42 and a further cover 60, itself typically formed of metal (eg. aluminium) .
  • cooling air can be pumped into the chamber via passage 30 and flow holes 34. This cooling air serves to cool the lamp ends and prevents their overheating, thereby maximising the efficiency and longevity of the IR lamps.
  • All the covers are held in position by a plurality of movable swing tabs 62 and all of the materials are selected and positioned to accommodate the differential expansion of the materials at high temperatures.
  • the lamp ends reach different operating temperatures to the lamp itself, the provision of separate chambers enables different cooling regimes to be employed and also different expansion characteristics to be accommodated.
  • tunnel apparatus 70 is inclined from its product entrance 72 to its product exit 74.
  • the tunnel apparatus includes three independently controllable and rotatable segments 76, 77 and 78.
  • the advantage of employing a number of different tunnel segments is that . each can be independently controlled for each different stage in a product's process treatment cycle. For example, a product can be subjected to infra-red radiation under a rapid rotation in first segment 76. It then passes into second segment 77 where it may be subjected to gas fired heating and rotated in an opposite and slower direction to drive off a significant proportion of moisture.
  • the third segment 78 where it is again subjected to IR radiation at an intermediate rotational speed and again in an opposite direction (rotation being indicated by arrows R) .
  • product pyrolysis and/or smoking or decomposition may occur and the smoke is generally offtaken in the direction of arrow S, for example, by making use of passage 32 in housing 20.
  • a round duct 79 (shown in Figure 6) can be employed for the offtake of fumes etc or the addition of commodities.
  • liquid 2 or CO2 can be added at a certain stage in a coffee roasting process to freeze-dry the coffee, which then may be dropped out of the tunnel apparatus .
  • each segment may be separated from an adjacent segment by a divider plate 80.
  • a divider plate 80 One such plate is shown in Figure 6.
  • the divider plate functions to provide a clear delineation between the segments, but also provides mounting positions for a housing 20 in each segment . This mounting is facilitated by an extension portion 82 which, as shown in Figure 6, extends partway across the opening to segment 77.
  • the divider plate also allows for the mounting thereon of electrical wiring, gas inlet and out-take pipes 83 (as shown in Figure ) , exhaust pipes and other electronic control lines etc.
  • the employment of a number of dryer segments enables varying segment diameters to be employed. In Figure 5, the diameters of the tunnel segments progressively decrease whereas in Figure 7, the diameters progressively increase.
  • the segments can also be stacked, with a first segment being vertically above a second, and a second above a third etc. The product exiting the first segment then enters the second segment and so on. This results in a configuration whereby less longitudinal storage space for the apparatus is required.
  • variation of process parameters within a single tunnel segment can also result in different zones (eg. where jackets housing different types of IR emitters are arranged in series and/or in parallel; or where emitters in different parts of the tunnel are operated differently; or where coolants and product/byproduct addition/takeoff are varied throughout etc) .
  • the angle of inclination from entrance to exit can be varied to change product throughput (eg. with hydraulic lifters etc) .
  • product throughput e. with hydraulic lifters etc.
  • This in conjunction with the types of heating and radiation emitters employed, and together with the power or fuel control supplied to those emitters, can provide a number of variable parameters in the configuration, thereby enabling a wide variety of control procedures to be adopted.
  • FIGS. 8 and 9 schematic end views of a tunnel apparatus 70 with a housing 20 arranged therein are shown. It should be mentioned that as the tunnel dryer rotates, the housing is held in a constant horizontal position or at any other desired orientation, optionally adjustable (ie. its ends protrude beyond the opposing ends of the tunnel and are mounted to a frame and may therefore be engaged for adjustment of housing orientation) .
  • the divider plates 80 enable a similar horizontal configuration to be maintained when a plurality of tunnel segments are employed.
  • coolant is introduced into the housing from the lower end of the apparatus 70.
  • the used coolant can then be pumped to a cooling tower (not shown) for down-cooling prior to being recycled to the housing.
  • an extraction fan and product feeder can be provided at the entrance to apparatus 70.
  • the extraction fan can remove moist air/gas, smoke, fumes etc from the process.
  • the feeder can also include a trip switch to shut down the process/apparatus when there is no product feed entering the apparatus (eg. due to a blockage, equipment or manual error etc) .
  • Figure 9 shows a typical horizontal orientation of product P as it progresses through the tunnel 70. With increasing rotational speed (indicated by arrow R) , the product will tend to assume the less horizontal and more inclined levelling as shown by the wavy line in Figure 9.
  • the housing 20 may also be adjusted (tilted) so that the bulk of radiation is generally orthogonal to the product bed level.
  • FIGS 10 and 11 now show a tunnel configuration in which a peri-helical screw 84 is arranged on the internal circumference of tunnel apparatus 70.
  • the helical screw tends to act on product flowing through the tunnel in a counter-active direction F (ie. tending to urge the product back up the tunnel in the direction C) .
  • net product still flows (ie. because relatively more product flows down through the tunnel apparatus than is urged back up by the helical screw) .
  • the height of the helical screw does not project above the level of the product P (ie. as shown in Figure 10) so that the helical screw primarily causes product turbulence, agitation and a tumbling effect.
  • infra-red radiation With infra-red radiation, it is important to make the product bed level over its whole length because typically infra-red rays heat product to a depth of approximately 9mm for standard infra-red lamp configurations (ie. as described above) .
  • the rate of product throughput can be controlled as well as the tumbling action of the product . This means that products with uneven surfaces present a plurality of surfaces to be subjected to radiation, resulting in generally even eg. cooking, drying etc. without scorching.
  • one or more helical screw rods 88 as shown in Figure 12 can be employed.
  • the rods may be provided with baffles mounted thereon, in addition to or separately of a screw surface, or can act in conjunction with separate baffles, to agitate product more effectively.
  • the rods may include other types of protrusions for product agitation, stirring, dehusking, orientation and control in general.
  • Each of these rods also has a screw configuration and can be independently or collectively driven (rotated) so that they tend to urge product back in the direction of arrows C to cause both tumbling of the product and to effect the product downstream flow rate F.
  • the helical screw shape of the peri-helical and other screw types can be varied as to pitch, height of screw vanes, angle of vanes, vane shapes etc. Generally, the more vanes in a given length of screw, the greater the back (or upflow C) of the product.
  • the height of the screw is typically adapted to the size of the product (especially for particulate products) . Screw shapes with smooth or sharp vanes etc. can also control product flow.
  • the housing 20 can be provided with a plurality of optionally flexible scraper blades 90 projecting outwardly therefrom. These scraper blades engage against the interior wall of the tunnel apparatus 70 and screw 84 and force or scrape any product that has lodged or attached itself to the apparatus during rotation.
  • the scraper blades can be configured to scrape product off any other surface as appropriate.
  • the employment of scrapers is particularly useful for products that become sticky or tacky during a drying, cooking or roasting process etc.
  • the scrapers prevent product from being attached to the apparatus when appropriately positioned. Also non-stick surfaces can be employed throughout the apparatus to assist in prevention of product adhesion.
  • a plurality of baffles 92 can be provided, with the baffles for example extending between vanes of the peri-helical screw or alternatively extending longitudinally throughout the dryer.
  • the baffles tend to cause the product to be lifted up and around the walls of the tube (ie. when the tube is rotated in the direction of arrow R) and, depending on the angle of the baffle, will raise particles a certain height before they ultimately leave the baffle and tumble down back into the bed (ie. as indicated by arrow D in Figure 14) . Where the rotation speed is increased, the baffle will tend to throw particles further distances.
  • the steep sides 46, 48 of the housing tend to prevent product from sitting on top of the housing and enable it to roll back into the main bulk of the product.
  • the employment of baffles enhances the agitation of the product and also ensures that different surfaces of the product passing through the apparatus are presented for radiation/heating. This ensures a more uniform processing of product through the apparatus.
  • baffles are also useful for products (such as coffee) which expand when heated, roasted, or cooked etc. As the products expand, the level of the bed rises and sometimes this can effect the capacity of the emitter to heat or radiate the product.
  • the judicious combination of baffles of differing sizes can remove product from the bed for a time to enable the bed level to drop, thereby ensuring consistent radiation/heating.
  • Figure 15 shows a further variation employed with the peri-helical screw 84.
  • a plurality of product flow- through holes 94 can be formed in the screw vanes, again to enable a controlled product flow F through the tunnel apparatus.
  • the size of these holes can be increased progressively down through the apparatus to accommodate product expansion, or progressively decreased where a product contracts.
  • the number of holes can be increased depending on whether a faster or slower throughput is desired at any given position within the tunnel apparatus.
  • the holes also assist in creating product tumbling and turbulence to ensure maximum exposure of granular, particulate and bead-like product types.
  • various surfaces within the apparatus can employ friction modifying coatings, such as rough coatings, to facilitate a controlled flow of product .
  • a forward or rearward direction of product can also be induced by lifting the product up the sides of the tunnel apparatus in parallel channels (defined by baffles) to then land on the housing.
  • the housing may then be provided with diagonal channels in sides 46 or 48 which can either direct the product forwardly or rearwardly within the tunnel apparatus .
  • the entire process including parameters such as coolant flow, feed rate, apparatus (tunnel) inclination, radiation temperature, rotational speed(s) , agitation, gas extraction, baffle number, screw speeds etc can be computer controlled and various parameter "menus" specific or optimum to particular products to be processed can be pre-programmed into control software. All parameters can have set points, alarm ranges etc.
  • the components employed are formed from heat resistant materials, including metal materials, ceramic materials etc. (especially aluminium, stainless steel and other alloys) .
  • the apparatus described above has a very wide variety of applications including the roasting of nuts and beans, the blanching of fruit and vegetables, pre-cooking (instantising) of grains, the drying of grains, fruits and vegetables, the gelatinisation of starch, the inactivation of enzymes in a wide variety of foods, the sterilisation of foods, the disinfestation of insects within foods, the roasting, stabilising and sterilising of spices, the treatment of animal feeds, the drying of minerals and mining products in the mining industry, the sterilisation of potting soil, vermiculite expansion, the devitalisation of seed, the sterilisation of pharmaceutical products, the treatment and sterilisation of waste products including sewage etc .
  • the infra-red controlled and penetrating dry roasting method when applied to nuts and beans, produced an even roast with a high level of uniformity and repeatability. Not only was the control of such a nature that it quarantined minimum damage to nutrients like proteins, vitamins and minerals, but it also inactivated enzymes effectively that caused rancidity and reduced microbial loads drastically. This not only resulted in a much tastier product, but also a healthier product, economical to produce and with an extended shelf life. Uneven size distribution did not have an adverse effect on the end product .
  • soya fat was observed to remain intra cellular, with the result that the end products were easily processed (milled, screened, etc.) unlike conventional extruded products.
  • the shelf life of the product was extended unlike extruded products which have a very much reduced life expectancy before rancidity.
  • the infra-red process not only reduced the trypsine levels effectively every time, but also maintained the available lysine levels.
  • Infra-red treatment reduced alkaloid levels in lupins from 850 mg/kg to less than 160 mg/kg.
  • Successful precooked peas were also developed for the snack food market, using the infra-red system.
  • Infra-red treatment permitted more economic production of better quality chocolate mass and powder, guaranteeing levels of enterobacteria, salmonella and moulds. Many other advantages were achieved when cocoa beans were processed using the infra-red technology including:
  • the infra-red energy management system provided a gentle method of processing these cereals, producing a product that was very attractive from a nutritious, health, appearance and taste point of view. All the natural goodness of the grain was retained (infra-red treated flaked wheat, pearl barley, rice, rye and cereal bran were observed to be suitable for extensive use in industry) .
  • the infra-red equipment according to the invention facilitated efficient and economical processing of all of these.
  • Infra-red treated samples were compared against untreated samples after a period of 0, 6, 12 and 18 months of storage at room temperature.
  • the untreated samples showed a markedly increased percentage of free fatty acids and peroxide values and were found to be rancid, compared to treated samples.
  • Untreated samples also showed insect and mould contamination after 9 weeks, which the treated samples did not have. It was proved that infra-red treatment can be applied to prolong the safe storage of grains and grain products for up to 18 months.
  • a non-chemical, in line system for effective insect disinfestation of grain and grain products was provided. Many applications require an effective eradication of all stages of the insect, without doing harm to the seed itself.
  • Infra-red processed grains resulted in cooked starches that were more digestible and had higher energy values for most animals.
  • Gelatinised grains were incorporated into diets of piglets, pets, horses, rabbits, and cattle. Not only did the animal benefit from an increased energy value, higher digestible fibres and more readily available proteins, but also from reduced microbial contaminated product.
  • Feedlot feed conversions, and therefore economics were improved, by using less feed and reducing the feeding time. Milk productions in dairies were increased without additional feed, and higher peaks were achieved because of a denser ration. Infra-red treated barley was observed to be the most effective and palatable source for body building and muscle development in horses.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Food Science & Technology (AREA)
  • Polymers & Plastics (AREA)
  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Nutrition Science (AREA)
  • Wood Science & Technology (AREA)
  • Zoology (AREA)
  • Environmental Sciences (AREA)
  • Insects & Arthropods (AREA)
  • Pest Control & Pesticides (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Microbiology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Toxicology (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Agronomy & Crop Science (AREA)
  • Botany (AREA)
  • Apparatuses For Bulk Treatment Of Fruits And Vegetables And Apparatuses For Preparing Feeds (AREA)

Abstract

L'utilisation de radiateurs rayonnants à brûleurs à gaz et à infrarouge dans des fours du type tunnel, rotatifs et inclinés, équipés de chemises de support est bien connue. Cependant, une géométrie mieux adaptée serait nécessaire dans cet appareil afin que l'on puisse ménager, dans une seule chemise (20), des conduits (24, 28, 30, 32) pour des câbles électriques et/ou l'alimentation en gaz, pour l'oxygène/air destiné à l'alimentation en gaz, le passage d'agent(s) réfrigérant(s) et d'additif(s), l'extraction des sous-produits, y compris les fumées, ainsi que pour le câblage destiné à la surveillance et au contrôle du processus. Les radiateurs (44) sont formés par extrusion longitudinale, et les conduits, formés de la même manière, s'étendent entièrement à travers lesdits radiateurs. Un évidement (38) généralement concave et de préférence parabolique est prévu sur la longueur du radiateur pour loger la source de rayonnement, et comporte une surface réfléchissante (40) pour acheminer l'énergie calorifique hors de la chemise. Un couvercle (42) composé de verre quartzeux est monté sur l'évidement (38) de manière à définir une chambre fermée. L'appareil intégré est utilisé pour traiter les noix, les pois et les grains tels que le soja, la féverole, le cacao, le café, les fruits et les légumes, les féculents, les graines et les céréales par des procédés consistant à les griller, les blanchir, les précuire, les cuire, les préserver, les gélatinifier, les stériliser, les sécher, les désinfecter, les dévitaliser et les dilater.
PCT/AU1997/000132 1996-03-11 1997-03-06 Fours rotatifs du type tunnel a systeme de chauffage rayonnant a conduits multiples WO1997033469A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU18628/97A AU1862897A (en) 1996-03-11 1997-03-06 Rotary and tunnel-type kilns with multi-ducted radiant heating

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AUPN8592A AUPN859296A0 (en) 1996-03-11 1996-03-11 Tunnel-type kiln apparatus
AUPN8592 1996-03-11
AUPN8708 1996-03-14
AUPN8708A AUPN870896A0 (en) 1996-03-14 1996-03-14 Tunnel-type kiln apparatus

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO1997033469A1 true WO1997033469A1 (fr) 1997-09-18

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PCT/AU1997/000132 WO1997033469A1 (fr) 1996-03-11 1997-03-06 Fours rotatifs du type tunnel a systeme de chauffage rayonnant a conduits multiples

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AU (1) AU1862897A (fr)
WO (1) WO1997033469A1 (fr)

Cited By (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP1074186A2 (fr) * 1999-07-29 2001-02-07 Heraeus Noblelight GmbH Appareil d'irradiation pour traitement d'aliments
WO2010069706A1 (fr) * 2008-12-16 2010-06-24 Ancora S.P.A. Appareil de traitement thermique de produits manufacturés, en particulier faits de matériau céramique
EP2278243A1 (fr) 2009-07-21 2011-01-26 IFP Energies nouvelles Four tournant pour traitement thermique radiatif de matériaux solides
US20130333279A1 (en) * 2012-06-19 2013-12-19 Clearsign Combustion Corporation Flame enhancement for a rotary kiln
DE102013223929A1 (de) * 2013-11-08 2015-05-28 Ps: Perfect Solutions Gmbh, Trading / Consulting Verfahren zur Dekontamination von Nahrungs- und/oder Futtermittelschüttgut
WO2015188262A1 (fr) * 2014-06-11 2015-12-17 Concept Dix2 Inc. Appareils et procédés pour la production de suppléments protéiniques

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US3923451A (en) * 1973-09-05 1975-12-02 Besser Co Continuous tunnel kiln for curing molded concrete products
US3982890A (en) * 1971-03-18 1976-09-28 Cyclamatic, Inc. Method and apparatus for curing concrete products
US4087238A (en) * 1976-09-13 1978-05-02 United States Steel Corporation Method for enhancing the heating efficiency of continuous slab reheating furnaces
GB1561786A (en) * 1976-12-09 1980-03-05 Ass Eng Ltd Heating vessles for molten metal
GB2123946A (en) * 1982-05-24 1984-02-08 Freiberg Brennstoffinst Flat flame burner
DE3235643A1 (de) * 1982-09-25 1984-03-29 Vsesojuznyj naučno-issledovatel'skij institut ispol'zovanija gaza v narodnom chozjajstve i podzemnogo chranenija nefti, nefteproduktovi sčiščennych gasov "Vniipromgaz", Moskva Strahlungsrohr
EP0132153A2 (fr) * 1983-07-19 1985-01-23 Admiral Design and Research Limited Dispositif de chauffage à rayonnement
EP0146222A2 (fr) * 1983-10-12 1985-06-26 Admiral Design and Research Limited Système de chauffage
EP0176071A2 (fr) * 1984-09-28 1986-04-02 ALUSUISSE ITALIA S.p.A. Méthode et four tunnel pour la calcination de corps carbonés, en particulier d'électrodes
WO1987000259A1 (fr) * 1985-06-28 1987-01-15 Aluminum Company Of America Procede et appareil pour extraire des substances volatiles du metal
EP0255611A2 (fr) * 1986-07-08 1988-02-10 Norsk Hydro A/S Four pour le traitement à hautes températures de produits plastiques ou durs
WO1988002284A1 (fr) * 1986-10-02 1988-04-07 Neutralysis Industries Pty. Ltd. Traitement des dechets et sechoir rotatif destine a cet effet
GB2197714A (en) * 1986-11-18 1988-05-25 Freiberg Brennstoffinst Gas burner
US4778384A (en) * 1985-11-19 1988-10-18 Lingl Jr Hans Multitrain tunnel kiln especially adapted for the underside cooling of kiln cars
EP0298790A1 (fr) * 1987-06-16 1989-01-11 Triatherm Installation de chauffage par rayonnement thermique
US4819586A (en) * 1987-01-16 1989-04-11 Linde Aktiengesellschaft Cracking furnace with improved heat transfer to the fluid to be cracked
GB2208705A (en) * 1987-08-17 1989-04-12 Admiral Design & Res Ltd Reflector space heaters
US4860461A (en) * 1988-02-19 1989-08-29 Pokka Corporation Coffee beans roasting device
EP0359515A2 (fr) * 1988-09-13 1990-03-21 Ngk Insulators, Ltd. Torréfacteur pour grains de café

Patent Citations (19)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3982890A (en) * 1971-03-18 1976-09-28 Cyclamatic, Inc. Method and apparatus for curing concrete products
US3923451A (en) * 1973-09-05 1975-12-02 Besser Co Continuous tunnel kiln for curing molded concrete products
US4087238A (en) * 1976-09-13 1978-05-02 United States Steel Corporation Method for enhancing the heating efficiency of continuous slab reheating furnaces
GB1561786A (en) * 1976-12-09 1980-03-05 Ass Eng Ltd Heating vessles for molten metal
GB2123946A (en) * 1982-05-24 1984-02-08 Freiberg Brennstoffinst Flat flame burner
DE3235643A1 (de) * 1982-09-25 1984-03-29 Vsesojuznyj naučno-issledovatel'skij institut ispol'zovanija gaza v narodnom chozjajstve i podzemnogo chranenija nefti, nefteproduktovi sčiščennych gasov "Vniipromgaz", Moskva Strahlungsrohr
EP0132153A2 (fr) * 1983-07-19 1985-01-23 Admiral Design and Research Limited Dispositif de chauffage à rayonnement
EP0146222A2 (fr) * 1983-10-12 1985-06-26 Admiral Design and Research Limited Système de chauffage
EP0176071A2 (fr) * 1984-09-28 1986-04-02 ALUSUISSE ITALIA S.p.A. Méthode et four tunnel pour la calcination de corps carbonés, en particulier d'électrodes
WO1987000259A1 (fr) * 1985-06-28 1987-01-15 Aluminum Company Of America Procede et appareil pour extraire des substances volatiles du metal
US4778384A (en) * 1985-11-19 1988-10-18 Lingl Jr Hans Multitrain tunnel kiln especially adapted for the underside cooling of kiln cars
EP0255611A2 (fr) * 1986-07-08 1988-02-10 Norsk Hydro A/S Four pour le traitement à hautes températures de produits plastiques ou durs
WO1988002284A1 (fr) * 1986-10-02 1988-04-07 Neutralysis Industries Pty. Ltd. Traitement des dechets et sechoir rotatif destine a cet effet
GB2197714A (en) * 1986-11-18 1988-05-25 Freiberg Brennstoffinst Gas burner
US4819586A (en) * 1987-01-16 1989-04-11 Linde Aktiengesellschaft Cracking furnace with improved heat transfer to the fluid to be cracked
EP0298790A1 (fr) * 1987-06-16 1989-01-11 Triatherm Installation de chauffage par rayonnement thermique
GB2208705A (en) * 1987-08-17 1989-04-12 Admiral Design & Res Ltd Reflector space heaters
US4860461A (en) * 1988-02-19 1989-08-29 Pokka Corporation Coffee beans roasting device
EP0359515A2 (fr) * 1988-09-13 1990-03-21 Ngk Insulators, Ltd. Torréfacteur pour grains de café

Cited By (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP1074186A2 (fr) * 1999-07-29 2001-02-07 Heraeus Noblelight GmbH Appareil d'irradiation pour traitement d'aliments
EP1074186A3 (fr) * 1999-07-29 2003-08-27 Heraeus Noblelight GmbH Appareil d'irradiation pour traitement d'aliments
WO2010069706A1 (fr) * 2008-12-16 2010-06-24 Ancora S.P.A. Appareil de traitement thermique de produits manufacturés, en particulier faits de matériau céramique
EP2278243A1 (fr) 2009-07-21 2011-01-26 IFP Energies nouvelles Four tournant pour traitement thermique radiatif de matériaux solides
FR2948448A1 (fr) * 2009-07-21 2011-01-28 Inst Francais Du Petrole Four tournant pour traitement thermique radiatif de materiaux solides
US9091480B2 (en) 2009-07-21 2015-07-28 IFP Energies Nouvelles Rotary furnace for radiative heat treatment of solids
US20130333279A1 (en) * 2012-06-19 2013-12-19 Clearsign Combustion Corporation Flame enhancement for a rotary kiln
DE102013223929A1 (de) * 2013-11-08 2015-05-28 Ps: Perfect Solutions Gmbh, Trading / Consulting Verfahren zur Dekontamination von Nahrungs- und/oder Futtermittelschüttgut
US10440978B2 (en) 2013-11-08 2019-10-15 Kreyenborg Gmbh & Co. Kg Method for decontaminating bulk food and/or feed material
WO2015188262A1 (fr) * 2014-06-11 2015-12-17 Concept Dix2 Inc. Appareils et procédés pour la production de suppléments protéiniques

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