Blog

How does EnWave’s REV™ technology work? Common questions explained

October 23, 2025

Advanced food drying technology is transforming the way manufacturers create nutrient-rich, shelf-stable products. EnWave Corporation’s patented Radiant Energy Vacuum (REV™) technology leads this revolution by offering faster drying, better nutrient retention, and scalable solutions. Curious about how it works and what it can do for your food processing or product development needs? This blog dives deep into the technology behind REV™, answering the most common questions in an easy-to-understand format.

Vacuum microwave drying machine from EnWave Corporation.

What Is vacuum microwave drying and how is it different?

Vacuum microwave drying combines two powerful processes: vacuum pressure and microwave energy. Under vacuum, the boiling point of water is lowered, allowing moisture to evaporate at much lower temperatures. Simultaneously, microwave energy heats food volumetrically from the inside out, evenly and rapidly removing moisture.

This combination is fundamentally different from traditional air drying, which uses hot air to remove moisture slowly, or freeze drying, which sublimates ice under vacuum but is typically slower and more energy-intensive.

REV™ drying preserves flavor, color, texture, and nutrients like no other method, producing high-quality foods in less time.

How fast is REV™ drying compared to other methods?

REV™ dramatically reduces drying times. While freeze drying cycles often take between 24 and 48 hours, REV™ can dry many products within 30 to 60 minutes, and sometimes even as fast as 10 minutes, depending on the product. This speed enables manufacturers to increase production throughput, reduce energy consumption, and get products to market faster.

Of course, actual drying times depend on many factors including your product type, starting moisture content, drying goals, and desired texture. If you have a product in mind and want to learn more about how REV™ drying can help you reach your goals, feel free to contact our team!

Does REV™ technology preserve nutrients?

Absolutely. Because drying occurs at lower temperatures and in a vacuum, heat-sensitive vitamins, antioxidants, and bioactives remain intact. Studies have shown REV™ drying preserves vitamins like vitamin C at rates close to freeze drying but with far less energy and time.

Flavor compounds and vibrant colors are also better maintained compared to conventional drying.

What kind of products can be dried with REV™?

REV™ technology is highly versatile. It handles a wide range of products, including:

Obst und Gemüse
Dairy products such as cheese and yogurt
Meat and seafood
Herbs and nutraceuticals
Pet foods and snacks

This flexibility opens opportunities for innovators across food categories looking to develop shelf-stable, nutrient-dense products.

How scalable is REV™ technology?

REV™ offers solutions for every production scale:

Small pilot units for R&D and startups grinding their first batches
Medium-scale units for growing manufacturers
Large industrial-scale systems supporting commercial throughput

Optional support equipment and conveyor systems facilitate automation, enabling large-scale, continuous processing compatible with freezer loading and unloading.

Is there automation for loading and unloading?

Yes. While the 10kW REV™ unit is batch-based, EnWave’s larger-scale continuous models are equipped with Optional Support Equipment and Conveyors (OSEC). These automate tray loading and unloading, and operations can integrate with freezer environments for seamless processing. See demonstrations on EnWave’s YouTube channel featuring partners like The Green Organic Dutchman.

What safety features protect operators?

Safety is paramount. REV™ systems have built-in multiple interlocks preventing microwave leakage. Leakage sensors monitor emission levels and will immediately shut power to magnetrons if levels exceed regulatory limits (such as 1mW/cm² longer than 1 second), meeting Canadian Safety Association (CSA) standards.

How much training is provided for operators?

EnWave provides comprehensive training on using the Human Machine Interface (HMI), running process calculations, and equipment operation. Training usually spans 2-3 days during commissioning but can be extended according to client needs to ensure confidence in equipment operation.

How does REV™ compare to freeze drying in footprint?

REV™ machines require substantially less floor space, sometimes a fraction of what freeze dryers consume, and have lower operational costs. Faster cycles translate into less energy usage and higher throughput, making REV™ a more cost-effective solution for many applications.

Can REV™ dry various particle sizes and complex products?

Yes. REV™ technology efficiently handles diverse product formats, including powders, flakes, whole fruit pieces, and delicate bakery or dairy snacks. Tray and tumble drying configurations provide flexibility to accommodate fragile or hearty ingredients.

Is EnWave’s REV™ technology environmentally friendly?

Besides energy efficiency, REV™ drying uses a closed-loop system that minimizes emissions and avoids hazardous chemicals. Reduced waste and longer shelf life also contribute to sustainability by lowering food loss and transportation emissions.

What support does EnWave provide beyond equipment?

EnWave offers comprehensive support that goes far beyond just supplying drying machinery. Our customers benefit from technical consultations, pilot trials at our toll drying facilities, recipe development assistance, and expertise in scaling production. This partnership approach ensures that clients maximize their return on investment and achieve product success from concept through commercialization.

Additionally, we frequently connect prospects with trusted third-party manufacturers or facilitate collaboration among our existing partners. When you partner with EnWave, you gain access to a full, collaborative network of companies in the food manufacturing space, helping you navigate the complexities of production, packaging, and distribution seamlessly.

Hear from our clients

Companies like BranchOut Foods and Ashgrove have dramatically scaled production and expanded product lines using REV™ technology, attributing faster drying cycles, consistent quality, and nutrient preservation as key drivers of market success. Read case studies here.

Ready to see REV™ in action?

Discover how EnWave’s REV™ technology can revolutionize your drying processes for superior food innovation, efficiency, and sustainability. Schedule a technical consultation today. Explore enwave.net to get started.