Energy-Efficient Drying in the Chemical Industry and Surface Technology

HARTER's heat pump drying systems provide energy-efficient drying solutions for the chemical industry and surface treatment. The systems ensure stable and reproducible drying conditions.

In the chemical industry and surface technology, drying is a critical process step that directly impacts product quality, process stability, and cost-effectiveness. After cleaning, rinsing, or coating processes—as well as for chemical intermediates and end products—residual moisture must be reliably removed. Only then can subsequent process steps such as coating, packaging, or further processing be carried out reliably and reproducibly.

At the same time, demands for energy efficiency, sustainability, and emission reduction are increasing. Heat pump drying systems from HARTER offer a solution that combines both aspects. They operate with highly dehumidified recirculated air at low temperatures and in a closed loop. This creates stable and reproducible drying conditions—regardless of external influences.

The drying requirements in both sectors are diverse. In surface technology, the focus is often on complex geometries, sensitive coatings, and high-quality standards. In the chemical industry, on the other hand, the emphasis is often on the gentle handling of temperature-sensitive products, specified residual moisture levels, or constant process conditions.

In both cases, drying with dehumidified air enables gentle yet efficient drying. Low temperatures prevent thermal stress, while targeted airflow reliably reaches even hard-to-access areas or bulk materials. This allows both components and chemical products to be dried evenly and reproducibly.

A key advantage of heat pump technology is its exhaust-free operation. The process air is continuously dehumidified and retained within the system, creating a closed loop. This ensures consistent conditions throughout the drying process while significantly reducing energy consumption.

This technology offers clear advantages, particularly in the chemical industry, where stable process parameters are crucial. At the same time, it eliminates the need for complex exhaust air systems, which simplifies plant operation and helps ensure compliance with environmental and emissions regulations.

In many cases, the switch to energy-efficient drying technology is eligible for government subsidies. Programs designed to improve energy efficiency in industry aim to lower energy consumption and reduce CO₂ emissions.

Heat pump systems often meet the requirements for such subsidy programs, as they offer significant savings potential compared to conventional drying methods. An early assessment of eligibility can further improve the investment’s cost-effectiveness and facilitate the transition to energy-efficient processes.

Requirements in the chemical industry and surface technology are often unique and specific to each plant. Drying systems must therefore be able to integrate flexibly into existing processes. HARTER develops customized solutions for this purpose that can be used in both batch processes and continuous production lines.

Whether components on racks, in baskets, or chemical products at various process stages—the systems are precisely tailored to the product, throughput, and installation situation. This results in a solution that integrates seamlessly into the existing production flow while simultaneously increasing efficiency and process reliability.

Since 1991, HARTER has been synonymous with energy-efficient drying technology for industrial applications. Drawing on many years of experience and in-depth process knowledge, we develop customized system concepts for a wide range of applications in the chemical industry and surface technology.

From analysis and testing to the finished system, companies receive everything from a single source. The result is cost-effective, sustainable, and reliable drying solutions that meet the increasing demands of modern industrial processes while also making a significant contribution to energy savings.