Here's a clear comparison table between a conventional spray dryer and a vacuum spray dryer:
| Feature | Conventional Spray Dryer | Vacuum Spray Dryer |
|---|---|---|
| Operating Pressure | Atmospheric pressure | Reduced pressure (vacuum) |
| Drying Temperature | High (150–300°C typical) | Low (50–100°C typical) |
| Suitable for | Heat-stable materials | Heat-sensitive materials (proteins, enzymes, pharmaceuticals, flavors) |
| Drying Speed | Fast | Slower |
| Thermal Degradation Risk | Higher | Lower |
| Equipment Complexity | Simple | More complex |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Applications | Milk powder, coffee, detergents | Pharmaceuticals, bioactive compounds, sensitive food powders |