GEA has launched its next-generation batch freeze dryers, the RAY Plus series, enhancing the landscape of food manufacturing.
Drawing on 70 years of expertise in freeze dryer design, the RAY Plus series introduces advanced technology that significantly improves energy efficiency and hygiene. This innovation provides the food industry with a more flexible and efficient solution for preserving a wide range of fresh foods.
As freeze-drying is a highly effective method for food preservation, health-conscious consumers increasingly favor the convenience of freeze-dried smoothies and snacks. The RAY Plus series presents an ideal option, featuring a cabinet size range of 45m² to 180m², with heating plates available in layers of 10, 15, or 20, and condensers installed on both sides. Furthermore, these cabinets can be combined in groups of up to six, sharing a common control and support system. This setup enhances operational efficiency and ensures even load distribution across the production floor.
While developing the GEA RAY Plus freeze dryer, GEA utilized a proprietary computational fluid dynamic (CFD) model. This model accurately calculates flow dynamics and pressure losses under deep vacuum conditions within the freeze dryer cabinet, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.
The innovative design has resulted in an impressive nearly 50% reduction in pressure drop within the cabinet compared to previous models. This achievement is made possible by the installation of vapor traps on both sides of the cabinet, allowing vapor to enter from both the top and bottom.
Moreover, the RAY Plus series seamlessly integrates with existing RAY freeze dryers and can connect to various cooling and heating solutions, including the latest heat pump technologies. By operating at lower temperatures and handling higher batch loads, the RAY Plus achieves equivalent daily capacity while reducing energy consumption. Its flexibility enables high sublimation rates (>3kg/m²h) or greater capacity at low vacuum levels.
From the RAY 125 Plus model onwards, the freeze dryers feature four condensers (three in operation, one in de-icing) that provide a larger condensing surface. This enhancement allows operations at a condenser temperature approximately 6°C warmer, facilitating operations at lower vacuum levels with higher sublimation rates.
The RAY Plus cabinets are designed for efficient washdown procedures. All water drains directly to designated points at the bottom of the circular cabinet. Notably, any residual water can be effortlessly removed by applying a brief vacuum to the cabinet. Additionally, the design incorporates an internal camera to monitor the status inside the cabinet during operation.
This advanced series also features an intuitive user interface on the front of the unit, simplifying operation and offering remote access. A comprehensive PC-based control system remains available for detailed operational oversight and troubleshooting.
Furthermore, the RAY Plus employs trolleys that run on GEA’s reliable rail system, equipped with 80mm stainless steel pipes. Trolleys are available in configurations of 20, 30, or 40 trays, with the 30-tray solution compatible with RAY cabinets. There are also optional solutions for automatic loading, unloading, tray filling, and cleaning.
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