Abstract: A method and an apparatus for drying or heat treating granular material fed in a continuous flow. The apparatus comprises a heating container having an inlet end and an outlet end. A heating source is located entirely within the container. An auger conveyor is disposed in the container adjacent the inlet end to displace a particulate medium, capable of retaining heat, from the inlet end to a heat chamber within the container. A transporting mechanism is provided in the heating chamber for showering the particulate medium in direct contact with a flame during a predetermined time so that the medium is quickly heated to an approximate desired temperature. A mixing and drying conveyor mixes and conveys the heated particulate medium with a humid granular material whereby to dry the material by heat transfer between the particulate medium and the granular material. A separator then separates the particulate medium from the granular material.