The Planex System (photo) is a new horizontal paddle vacuum dryer developed for vacuum drying of wet powders obtained from centrifuge or filter press. The system consists of a fixed cylindrical chamber with an eccentric agitator inside with two independent movements: it can rotate on its own axis and tangentially to the cylindrical chamber as well. This combined double rotation allows optimal product mixing, continuously renewing the surface exposed to evaporation. As a result, the release of solvent vapor is facilitated and drying times are significantly reduced compared to conventional systems, says the manufacturer. The unique configuration of the agitator and the double rotation provides continuous revolution of the product while limiting the mechanical and thermal stress, preventing local overheating due to friction. The mechanical stress on the product is said to be three times less than that produced in traditional paddle dryers equipped with concentric agitators. This property makes the system ideal for drying heat-sensitive products, and also leads to a reduction in power consumption by about a third. — Italvacuum S.r.l., Borgaro (Torino), Italy