Key Technology introduces the newly redesigned Compact Dryer for removing moisture from fresh-cut produce after washing. Now CE-marked and UL-certified, the Compact Dryer features new Allen-Bradley controls and a new support frame to ease operation, enhance sanitation, and improve worker safety while maximizing reliability, production flexibility, and product quality.

Handling up to 600 lb (280 kg) of product per hour, Key’s Compact Dryer is ideal for small to medium volume fresh-cut processors handling a wide variety of products.  Featuring fully adjustable settings that control spin speed and cycle time, this centrifugal dryer removes moisture to enhance the quality and shelf life of leafy salad mix, shredded and chopped lettuce and cabbage, cut vegetables, herbs, onions, peppers, and other fresh-cut products. Settings can be preprogrammed and retrieved for fast changeovers that achieve optimal water removal for each product type.

The Compact Dryer is ergonomically designed to reduce the risk of operator injury while maximizing cycle times. The unit is close to the ground, which eases loading and unloading, and the basket is sized for safe lifting weights of no more than 30 lb (13.6 kg). For additional convenience, the Compact Dryer uses the same 11.6-gallon (44-liter) basket as Key’s popular Basket Wash, enabling product to be transferred from the washer to the dryer while remaining in the same basket.

The new isolator support frame allows the Compact Dryer to be free standing so processors can easily move it from one location to another. The entire unit, which weighs 255 lb (116 kg), is designed be lifted from either side via forklift or pallet jack as well as manually. With a footprint only 23 inches (575 mm) wide and 38 inches (975 mm) deep, the 30-inch (770-mm) high Compact Dryer fits easily into most plant environments. Water can drain directly onto the floor or a flexible hose can be easily connected to the bottom of the dryer via a tri-clover fitting to carry the water away.

To discourage bacteria growth and enhance sanitation, the Compact Dryer now features a self-draining control box area and a new frame with fewer horizontal surfaces and recessed areas that can trap product and liquid. Meeting NEMA 4X and IP64 standards, the stainless steel Compact Dryer is designed to withstand harsh, hot water, high-pressure washdowns. 

To improve worker safety, the new frame features an easy clean-out drain that makes it impossible for fingers to touch spinning parts. The new electronically activated mechanical lock assures the lid remains closed throughout the spin cycle.

The redesigned Compact Dryer is a standard product from Key, offering a great value-to-price ratio and quick delivery. Customers in the US and Canada can purchase the Compact Dryer through Key’s new eCommerce site at http://key.thomasnet.com/category and receive a discount off the list price and be guaranteed the product will ship within two weeks of order confirmation. All other regions can purchase through their local sales office.

The Compact Dryer is backed by a one year limited warranty. Spare parts and aftermarket support are available worldwide from Key’s extensive sales and service organization.

“Key is focused on providing fresh-cut processors around the world with equipment that will maximize product quality while increasing productivity and cutting costs,” said Teri Johnson, Fresh-Cut Industry Manager at Key Technology. “Continuing to improve the popular Compact Dryer and introducing a CE-marked version are examples of our dedication to this industry.”

Key’s semi-automated Basket Wash, Compact Dryer, and AVSealer Packaging Machine are ideal for small to medium volume fresh-cut processors. For fresh-cut processors needing higher volume solutions, Key offers fully automated, high throughput Flume Wash systems and Auto Dryers with one, two, or four drums.