Infrared Drying for firecrackers. Possible?

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    Drying Infrared
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility of using infrared drying methods for firecrackers, exploring alternatives to traditional sun drying. Participants consider various drying techniques and their implications for safety and efficiency.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes using infrared panels in a tunnel to dry firecrackers, suggesting that controlling temperature and conveyor speed could be effective.
  • Another participant questions whether freeze drying could be a viable alternative for drying firecrackers.
  • A participant inquires about the experimental data regarding drying times and temperatures necessary for firecrackers, emphasizing the importance of throughput in a drying system.
  • There is a mention of vacuum drying as a potential method, with curiosity about its effectiveness in this context.
  • Concerns are raised about the risks associated with very dry conditions, including static electric discharge and ignition, highlighting the need for careful handling and grounding of materials.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express various ideas and concerns regarding drying methods, indicating that multiple competing views remain without a consensus on the best approach.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the potential risks associated with different drying methods, such as dust explosions and static discharge, but do not resolve the implications of these risks on the proposed techniques.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in manufacturing processes, safety in handling explosive materials, and innovative drying technologies may find this discussion relevant.

kunalv
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Hello.

We've been entrusted the job of building a dryer for firecrackers. We were approached by a huge firecracker manufacturing firm here for the job. The current MO of drying is simply laying the product out in the sun and allow evaporation of moisture.

But now they plan to go in for a more 'sophisticated' approach.

I know that the whole concept of heating the firecrackers to dry them sounds crazy. But, I believe if I pass them through a tunnel with infrared panels used for drying, and by controlling the temperature and speed of the conveyor, I might be able to achieve it.

Then again, I'm aware of the concept of dust explosion.

If anyone can provide some good insight into the topic, it'd be greatly appreciated.

Thanks !
 
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Would freeze drying work?
 
Sounds like an interesting idea...

Is there experimental data how long at which temperature firecrackers need to get dry?
How many firecrackers per time? That is a critical point, your tunnel won't be as large as areas with sunlight.
 
I like the "Related discussions" below, vacuum drying. Wonder if it even works like that?
 
Vacuum drying with a cold condenser would seem the way to go.

However, beware that very dry conditions increase risk of static electric discharge and ignition of the fireworks, which is one reason for using wooden implements and make sure metals are well grounded.