LENTIL DRYING MACHINE

Lentil Drying Machine: How It Works & Types

A lentil drying machine is used to reduce the moisture content of freshly harvested lentils, ensuring proper storage, preventing spoilage, and improving processing efficiency. Lentils are typically harvested with 16-18% moisture, but for safe storage and milling, they need to be dried to 13-14% moisture.

How a Lentil Drying Machine Works

1. Loading the Lentils

   • Freshly harvested lentils are loaded into the drying chamber.

   • Some systems use conveyors or augers for automated feeding.

2. Air Circulation & Heating

   • The machine blows hot air through the lentils to remove moisture.

   • Temperature and airflow are controlled to prevent lentil cracking.

3. Moisture Evaporation

   • Moist air is vented out, and dry air continues to circulate.

   • The drying process can take 4-12 hours, depending on the machine type.

4. Cooling Phase

   • After drying, a cooling system stabilizes the lentils to prevent condensation.

5. Unloading & Storage

   • Dried lentils are moved to storage bins or processing facilities.

Types of Lentil Drying Machines

1. Batch Dryers

   • Lentils are dried in fixed amounts per cycle.

   • Ideal for small- to medium-scale farming.

   • Example: Bin Dryers, Box-Type Dryers.

2. Continuous Flow Dryers

   • Lentils move through the dryer in a steady stream.

   • High capacity, best for large-scale production.

   • Example: Cross-Flow Dryers, Counter-Flow Dryers.

3. Fluidized Bed Dryers

   • Uses high-velocity hot air to "fluidize" the lentils for fast, uniform drying.

   • Best for high-quality lentil processing.

4. Solar-Powered Dryers

   • Uses solar energy for low-cost, eco-friendly drying.

   • Suitable for small-scale farmers in sunny regions.

Benefits of Using a Lentil Drying Machine

✅ Prevents spoilage & mold growth
✅ Improves storage life & reduces losses
✅ Enhances milling efficiency (fewer broken lentils)
✅ Faster drying compared to traditional methods
✅ Reduces dependence on unpredictable weather

Would you like recommendations on affordable lentil dryers or DIY drying solutions? 😊