BW-320 Rotary Atomizer: the direct-drive solution for spray drying

In spray drying, atomizer performance is key to stable production, consistent powder quality, reliable operation, and predictable maintenance. This is particularly true in demanding production environments, where high rotational speed, continuous operation, and strict quality requirements must be managed together.
Developed by CMT Atomizers, the BW-320 is a high-performance rotary atomizer for chemical, food and pharma applications, combining direct-drive technology with simplified maintenance and clean process conditions. It is also a practical replacement for discontinued models from Bowen and Dry-Tec, offering an updated solution for plants that need to maintain or modernize existing spray drying lines.
A direct-drive rotary atomizer transfers power from the motor to the atomizing wheel without belts. By removing this transmission element, the design reduces the need for periodic inspection, adjustment, and replacement.
As a direct-drive atomizer, the BW-320 uses a direct coupling between motor and wheel to reduce mechanical wear, improve alignment, and simplify the overall machine architecture. In addition, the structural separation between the motor and the atomizer frame enables easier servicing, lower vibration, and reduced downtime.
The BW-320 is also equipped with a liquid-cooled motor, helping control thermal load during operation and maintain reliable performance even under demanding process conditions.
The BW-320 atomizer is engineered for industrial spray drying applications where high-speed operation, process safety, and continuous monitoring are essential. Its main technical features include:
The integrated monitoring system helps operators keep key parameters under control and detect abnormal conditions before they become critical. This is especially important in modern spray drying plants, where maintenance decisions increasingly rely on data, process feedback, and equipment status.
The BW-320 was designed to provide a robust and efficient alternative for existing installations using older Bowen or Dry-Tec atomizers. Thanks to its Ø320 mm body size, it can be used as a drop-in replacement, while introducing the benefits of direct-drive technology and modern monitoring.
Its simplified mechanical design reduces the number of wear components and makes maintenance easier. With no belts to manage, operators can streamline inspections and limit potential causes of misalignment or vibration.
Another key advantage is the elimination of oil contamination risk. The BW-320 uses greased bearings installed in the motor, making it an oil-free atomizer suitable for applications where product purity and contamination control are key selection criteria.
The atomizer is also designed for easy cleaning and is compatible with CIP procedures, helping production teams manage cleaning operations more efficiently. In addition, utilities can be defined together with the customer to adapt the configuration to the plant’s specific needs.
The BW-320 rotary atomizer is designed for demanding spray drying applications across different industries.
The BW-320 brings together the main features expected from a modern direct-drive rotary atomizer: high-speed operation, integrated monitoring, clean design, and simplified maintenance.
| Requirement | How the BW-320 addresses it |
| Replace obsolete atomizers | Designed as an updated alternative for discontinued Bowen and Dry-Tec models |
| Adapt to different plants | Utilities can be defined according to customer and process requirements |
| Reduce maintenance complexity | Direct-drive design with no belts and fewer wear components |
| Improve process control | Integrated monitoring for key operating parameters |
| Support clean production | Oil-free configuration with greased bearings installed in the motor |
| Limit downtime | Easier servicing, lower vibration, and simplified mechanical architecture[SR2] |
By combining direct-drive simplicity, integrated monitoring, and oil-free operation, the BW-320 gives spray drying plants a reliable, easy-to-manage solution for cleaner and more controlled production.