摘要 |
<p>A novel peat drying method and apparatus are provided herein. The method comprises substantially simultaneously subjecting the peat to water-expressing pressure between rollers and to the influence of hot air against one supported face thereof and to vacuum against the other and opposed face thereof. The improved apparatus comprises a main box and a perforate conveyor system passing longitudinally through the box. A plurality of spaced-apart water-expressing rollers are connected with the conveyor. Means at the inlet end and outlet end of the box are provided to support the peat and to allow a mass of partially dried peat to enter and to leave the box on the conveyor system while substantially preventing the escape of heat and air therefrom. Means are provided at one surface (e.g. the top) to admit drying air at high temperature and pressure, to impinge upon that surface of the partially dried peat while the peat is on the conveyor. Means are provided at the other surface (e.g. the bottom) to subject that surface to vacuum, thereby to draw air and moisture from that surface of the partially dried peat. In this way, peat logs for fuel are provided in which the costs are low due to lower fuel and equipment costs.</p> |