FZG Series Vacuum Tray Dryer: Detailed Comparison of FZG-15 vs FZG-20 Models

When selecting industrial drying equipment for heat‑sensitive materials, the choice between different models within the same series can significantly impact production efficiency and product quality

The FZG Series square vacuum tray dryers are among the most widely used static drying solutions in pharmaceutical, chemical, and food processing industries. This article provides a comprehensive technical comparison between the FZG‑15 and FZG‑20 models to help you make an informed purchasing decision.

Understanding FZG Series Vacuum Tray Dryers

FZG Series dryers belong to the static vacuum drying category, meaning materials remain stationary on trays during the drying process. This design is particularly valuable for:

• Heat‑sensitive materials that may decompose at high temperatures
• Fragile crystals and granules requiring structural integrity preservation
• Products requiring solvent recovery through condensation systems
• GMP‑compliant pharmaceutical manufacturing

The vacuum environment lowers the boiling point of moisture, enabling efficient drying at temperatures between 35°C and 150°C while preventing product degradation.

Key Technical Parameters Comparison

Data compiled from FZG Series technical specifications

Detailed Analysis of Differences

Production Capacity

The most significant difference between these models is capacity:

FZG‑15: Accommodates 32 trays with 8 heating layers

FZG‑20: Accommodates 48 trays with 12 heating layers

This represents a 50% increase in tray capacity for the FZG‑20 model. Based on the standard tray size of 460×640×45mm, the FZG‑20 can process substantially larger batch volumes, making it suitable for higher‑throughput production environments.

Physical Footprint

While both models share the same internal width (1500mm), the FZG‑20 is deeper (1800mm vs 1400mm) and taller in exterior dimensions (2500mm vs 2060mm). The FZG‑20's additional weight (3200kg vs 2100kg) reflects its larger construction and capacity.

Vacuum Pump Requirements

Both models require different vacuum pump configurations:

FZG‑15: Typically uses 2X‑70A (5.5kW) with condenser, or SK‑6 (11kW) without condenser

FZG‑20: Uses 2X‑90A (7.5kW) with condenser, or SK‑6 (11kW) without condenser

The FZG‑20 requires a more powerful vacuum pump when using a condenser system, which should be factored into energy cost calculations.

Evaporation Performance

Both models demonstrate the same water evaporation rate of 7.2 kg/m²·hr under ‑0.1MPa vacuum at 110°C heating temperature. This indicates similar drying efficiency per unit area, with the FZG‑20's advantage deriving from its larger heating surface area.

Common Features Across Both Models

Static Drying Advantage

Both models preserve material structure since trays remain stationary during drying. This is particularly important for:

• Pharmaceutical APIs requiring crystal integrity
• Fragile granular materials
• Products where mechanical agitation would cause degradation

GMP Compliance

Both models feature:

• SUS304 or SUS316L stainless steel construction
• Smooth, weld‑free internal surfaces preventing material accumulation
• Sanitary design meeting cGMP and FDA requirements
• No dead corners for easy cleaning and sterilization

Solvent Recovery Capability

Both models can be equipped with condensers for organic solvent recovery, offering:

• Cost savings through solvent reuse
• Environmental compliance
• Reduced operational expenses for expensive solvents

Heating Source Flexibility

Both models support multiple heating options:

• Hot water circulation
• Low‑pressure steam
• Thermal oil systems

Application Suitability

FZG‑15 Best Suited For:

• Small to medium production batches
• Pilot plants and R&D facilities
• Facilities with space constraints
• Manufacturers processing moderate volumes of high‑value materials

FZG‑20 Best Suited For:

• Large‑scale production operations
• Facilities requiring higher batch throughput
• Manufacturers with ample floor space
• Operations where 50% capacity increase justifies higher investment

Selection Criteria

When choosing between these models, consider:

• Production Volume Requirements: Calculate your typical batch size and daily throughput needs
• Available Floor Space: Ensure adequate room for the larger FZG‑20 exterior dimensions
• Energy Infrastructure: Verify you have sufficient power for the FZG‑20's pump requirements
• Budget Considerations: Factor in both initial investment and operational costs
• Future Scaling Needs: Consider potential production increases over the equipment lifecycle

Both FZG‑15 and FZG‑20 models deliver the core benefits of FZG Series vacuum tray dryers: static drying that preserves material integrity, GMP‑compliant sanitary construction, and efficient low‑temperature processing for heat‑sensitive materials. The FZG‑20 offers a substantial 50% increase in tray capacity at the cost of larger physical footprint, greater weight, and more powerful vacuum pump requirements. The FZG‑15 remains an excellent choice for moderate production volumes and facilities with space limitations.

For detailed specifications, pricing, and customization options for either model, please consult our complete product documentation.