Spray drying of tomato pulp: Effect of feed concentration

The effect of feed concentration on spray drying of tomato pulp preconcentrated to 78, 82, and 86% wet basis is investigated in two spray drying systems: a pilot scale spray dryer (Buchi, B-191) with cocurrent regime and a two-fluid nozzle atomizer, and the same connected with an absorption air dryer (Ultrapac 2000). Data for the residue on the chamber and cyclone walls were gathered and two types of efficiencies were calculated as an indication of the spray dryer performance. Tomato powders were analyzed for moisture, particle size, and bulk density. In both spray drying systems, with increases in tomato pulp concentration overall thermal efficiency, *Correspondence: Konstantinos G. Adamopoulos, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, School of Engineering, Department of Chemical Engineering, Laboratory of Food Process Engineering, 541 24, University Campus of Thessaloniki, Greece; E-mail: costadam@eng.auth.gr.