In industrial manufacturing, drying is a fundamental yet critical process stage. Whether it's drying food products, curing chemical compounds, or setting paints and coatings, a consistent, efficient, and controllable heat source is essential. Traditional drying methods often struggle with inefficiency, uneven temperature distribution, and high emissions. Modern direct-fired duct burners are increasingly becoming the preferred solution for enhancing process drying capabilities. This article examines the Linofire series duct burner from Rapidflame to highlight the key features of an effective industrial heating solution.
Industrial drying is more than just removing moisture; it requires uniform heat distribution, precise temperature control, and clean combustion to avoid contaminating products or the work environment. Standard burners often fall short. The Linofire series, designed specifically for direct air heating and low to medium-temperature drying applications, stands out due to several key advantages:
1、High, Modular Power Output: With a powerful rating of 240 kW/ft (recommended at 200 kW/ft for HVAC applications), and a flexible modular design using linear or T-shaped segments, it can be configured to match everything from small drying lines to large industrial ovens.
2、Exceptional Turndown Ratio: A high 30:1 turndown ratio allows the burner to operate stably across a wide range of capacities. This enables precise response to the varying heat demands of different drying stages, promoting significant energy savings.
3、Clean Combustion & Environmental Compliance: Emissions are exceptionally low. For instance, when running on natural gas, carbon monoxide (CO) levels are typically just 1-2.5 ppm, and nitrogen oxide (NO₂) emissions are well below common regulatory limits (e.g., <50 ppm per US "Industrial Ventilation" standards), ensuring an environmentally friendly process.
According to its technical specifications, the Linofire duct burner is particularly well-suited for the following drying applications:
1、Low-Temperature Drying: Ideal for applications like grain drying, malt drying, paint booth air heating, and space heating. The burner's short flame length (max 700 mm) ensures hot air is mixed evenly within the ductwork, preventing hot spots.
2、High-Temperature Process Drying: Effective for chemical dryers, air dryers, baking, and curing ovens. When equipped with cast iron components, it can heat fresh air directly up to 500°C, with a maximum temperature rise of 400°C, meeting demanding industrial requirements.
To ensure optimal performance from a duct burner, several factors highlighted in the technical data should be considered:
System Configuration: Can be installed in either forced draft (burner after the fan) or induced draft (burner before the fan) systems. Proper clearance (e.g., >2.5 meters from the fan inlet) is crucial for stable airflow.
Air Intake Options: The Linofire modules offer side or rear air intake. Technical guidelines specify maximum module lengths per intake size; for example, a 2-inch rear intake can support up to 5 feet of burner length.
Air Quality Assurance: Designed for 100% fresh air applications, the burner requires intake air with an oxygen content of at least 21%. Maintaining stable airflow within ±15% of the design point is recommended for optimal combustion efficiency.
An advanced duct burner is more than just a heat generator; it is a guardian of product quality and energy efficiency. The Linofire series, with its modularity, high turndown, and ultra-low emissions, provides a robust, efficient, and clean heat source for modern industrial drying. As the focus on energy conservation and emissions reduction intensifies globally, investing in the right drying technology, like a high-performance duct burner, is a strategic move for any manufacturing operation aiming to stay competitive.
