Torktumlas

Torktumlas is a Swedish term that refers to a specific type of industrial drying process, primarily used for textiles and other materials. It involves tumbling the items in a heated drum, where a current of air circulates to evaporate moisture. This method is distinct from line drying or air drying, as it utilizes mechanical action and controlled heat to expedite the drying process.

The torktumlas process typically involves loading the wet items into a large, rotating drum. Heat is then introduced, usually through an electric element or a gas burner, and a fan draws air through the drum. As the drum rotates, the items are lifted and dropped, which helps to separate them and ensure even exposure to the heated air. This continuous movement and airflow facilitate rapid moisture removal.

While commonly associated with laundry and domestic clothes dryers, the principle of torktumlas is applied on a much larger scale in industrial settings. For example, in textile manufacturing, large tumblers are used to dry fabrics after dyeing or washing. The exact temperature, tumbling speed, and airflow are carefully controlled depending on the type of material being dried to prevent damage and achieve the desired level of dryness. Variations in the process exist, such as the use of different types of heat sources or the inclusion of steam for conditioning.