Systems and methods for efficient microwave drying of extruded honeycomb structures

摘要

Systems and methods for efficient microwave drying of extruded honeycomb structures are disclosed. The methods include conveying first and second sets of honeycomb structures in opposite directions through multiple applicator cavities. Each honeycomb structure has a moisture content MC, and the honeycomb structures within each cavity define an average moisture content MCA between 40% and 60% therein. The methods include irradiating the first and second sets of honeycomb structures within the cavities with microwave radiation having an amount of input microwave power PI that results in an amount of reflected microwave power PR from the honeycomb structures, where PR<(0.2)PI. This allows for a relatively high microwave power to be maintained in each cavity. Batch microwave drying methods are also disclosed.

主权项

1. A method of efficiently drying honeycomb structures in a microwave dryer having at least one applicator, comprising:
conveying first and second sets of at least one honeycomb structure per set in opposite directions through at least one applicator having a cavity, wherein each honeycomb structure has a moisture content, and wherein an average moisture content averaged over all of the honeycomb structures within the cavity during drying is between 40% and 60%; and irradiating the first and second sets of honeycomb structures within the cavity with microwave radiation to effectuate drying, the microwave radiation having an amount of input microwave power PI that creates an amount of reflected microwave power PR from the honeycomb structures, where PR<(0.2)PI.