Parabolic solar dryer
Solar dryer with parabolic reflector: concentrated radiation, no energy consumption.
What this machine does
The parabolic dryer concentrates solar radiation with a reflective surface. The product, laid on trays at the focus of the parabola, receives both direct and reflected radiation: the temperature reached is markedly higher than in flat drying, which speeds up drying kinetics and shortens the critical period during which the product stays in the moisture range favourable to moulds.
This device suits products with a high initial water content and sites that have good sunshine but no grid energy. Its limits are those of all solar drying: it depends on the weather, and its orientation must be adjusted through the day to stay effective. It therefore cannot guarantee drying capacity on a given date, which means a back-up is needed as soon as a commercial commitment exists.
See the sector Cereals & FruitAt a glance
- ReferenceCER-SCO
- SectorCereals & Fruit
- PurposeSolar dryer with parabolic reflector: concentrated radiation, no energy consumption.
A detailed PDF data sheet will be available in the document centre once produced.
The parts that do the work
Parabolic reflector
Surface concentrating solar radiation onto the drying zone, appreciably raising the temperature reached.
Trays at the focus
Product supports exposed to direct and reflected radiation, with air circulating on both faces.
Adjustable orientation
Tilt setting following the sun's path, to maintain efficiency through the day.
Product protection
Cover or transparent veil limiting exposure to dust and insects.
Technical data and configurations
| Characteristic | Indicative value |
|---|---|
| Energy | solar, no consumption |
| Tray area | according to sizing |
| Temperature reached | above flat drying, varying with sunshine |
| Products handled | fruit, vegetables, chips, spices, fish |
| Structure | corrosion-treated steel |
| Reflector | reflective surface requiring regular cleaning |
| Orientation | manually adjustable |
| Protection | insect-proof veil or cover |
These are usual design ranges for this type of machine, intended to guide early thinking. The contractual characteristics of the equipment actually manufactured — throughputs measured at acceptance, absorbed power, real footprint and weight — are established by the SOTIC design office and stated in the technical offer.
Available configurations
- Several sizes according to the volume to be dried.
- Version with thermal back-up to guarantee capacity in the wet season.
- Paired with a drying tunnel for larger volumes.
Installation requirements
- Sited clear of any shadow, orientation studied for the site's latitude.
- Ground anchoring sized for wind loading: a parabolic surface presents a large sail area.
- Handling area passable around the device.
- Protection against animals and intrusion.
Maintenance and safety at the workstation
A machine lasts as long as its maintenance does. The points below appear in the preventive maintenance plan handed over at acceptance and are covered during operator training.
Preventive maintenance
- Regular cleaning of the reflective surface: fouling directly reduces performance.
- Check anchors and structure before the windy season.
- Clean and disinfect the trays between products.
- Check the orientation mechanism.
Safety
- Glare and burn risk at the focus: do not expose hands or eyes to it.
- Do not leave the device aimed at a circulation area.
- Check wind resistance before any forecast storm.
Before ordering this machine
The tunnel handles larger volumes at moderate temperature in a closed enclosure that protects the product; it is the capacity solution. The parabolic dryer reaches higher temperatures over smaller areas, which suits quick-drying products and small quantities. The two devices are complementary rather than competing.
Only where sunshine allows. In the rainy season, solar drying alone no longer guarantees any capacity, and a product left several days part dried will degrade. As soon as a commercial commitment exists, a mechanical back-up sized on the harvest peak in unfavourable conditions must be planned.
Request a quote: Parabolic solar dryer
Tell us the throughput you are aiming for, the material to be processed and the energy available on your site: we come back with a reasoned configuration and a price, rather than a catalogue rate.
- Technical answer: we first check that this machine genuinely matches your need.
- Tailored configuration: size, drive, options and wear parts defined with you.
- Complete pricing: equipment, transport, erection, commissioning and training.
- Next steps: civil works, connections and maintenance where required.
First reply target: 48 working hours.
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