Abstract: A mechanism for batch drying of a powdered or particular product with a microwave vacuum system is disclosed along with a method of controlling the drying process. The mechanism includes a chamber for drying the product. The product is contained in an internal product container. The product container and chamber are coordinated to allow easy opening on a rail system. The mechanism includes a means for inducing a vacuum in the chamber that can also with draw solvent vapor from the chamber. A source of microwaves for the chamber is provided, and the product container has an agitation mechanism for the product. A means for controlling the drying operation is also disclosed. The preferred embodiment of the mechanism include a solvent recovery system. The method of controlling the drying process allows for the selective halting of the drying operation upon achieving selectable parameters. The control systems also allows selectable parameters to be maintained during the drying operation.