CIRCULATING HEAT-MOISTURE DRYING EQUIPMENT USED FOR PROCESSING COFFEE HUSK INTO CASCARA TEA

Abstract

The useful solution refers to a circulating heat-humidity dryer used for processing coffee husks into Cascara tea. The device consists of an insulated drying chamber, a multi-tiered perforated tray assembly, a heating unit or heat pump, a circulating fan, supply air lines, return air lines, air diffusers or flow-directing baffles, a controllable moisture release valve, an inlet air filter, supply air temperature and humidity sensors, return air temperature and humidity sensors, a probe or estimator for material moisture content, and a central control unit. The control unit is configured to operate a multi-stage drying program including initial drying at 45°C to 55°C to a material moisture content of 28% to 35%, moisture equalization in 1 to 4 hours, and final drying at 55°C to 65°C to a product moisture content of 8% to 12% or a water activity not exceeding 0.60. The device helps distribute air evenly, control moisture release, reduce edge burning, minimize moisture discrepancies between trays, and stabilize the quality of Cascara tea.