Samsung working with US labs to develop next-generation clothes dryer

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SEOUL, January 15 (AJP) - Samsung Electronics said on Thursday that its research into next-generation clothes-drying technology has been selected for official support by the U.S. Department of Energy.

The South Korean electronics giant said the project aims to develop a high-performance dryer that sharply reduces energy use while maintaining drying efficiency.

Samsung is working with Oak Ridge National Laboratory of the U.S. and the University of South Carolina’s department of chemical engineering on the research.

The project focuses on applying a high-efficiency dehumidifying material, known as a desiccant, to clothes dryers. The technology is designed to cut electricity consumption during drying to about 35 percent of that used by conventional vented dryers, while delivering comparable drying performance.

Vented dryers are valued for their shorter drying times because they expel humid air outdoors. However, Samsung said their low energy efficiency makes them difficult to operate in typical U.S. homes using 120-volt power, often requiring separate 240-volt electrical work. They also require external ducting to vent air outside.

Samsung said commercializing the new technology would allow high-performance dryers to run on standard 120-volt power without the need for external venting, reducing installation constraints.

Such improvements could expand the use of dryers in a wider range of housing, including multiunit residential buildings and small apartments, the company said.

Samsung said it plans to apply the research findings across multiple product lines, including standalone dryers and all-in-one washer-dryer units.

Moon Jong Seung, a vice president in Samsung Electronics’ Digital Appliances Business Division, said the project represents “a practical opportunity to connect innovative energy-saving technology to value consumers can feel.”

"We aim to expand appliances that support sustainable daily life through collaboration with global research institutions," Moon said.

* This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP.
Jo Seong-jun 기자 critic@ajunews.com

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