To provide a device which lowers the water content of particulate brown coal containing water.

Heat energy and pressure are adapted to act on brown coals laid out flatly in a laminated shape inside a press. Initial surface pressure is applied, which is added mechanically to the brown coals in the press. The press is provided with an orifice which sends vapor (HD) into the press. The vapor supplies heat energy to the brown coals 14 so that they may be heated and condensed. The heat water (HW) contained in the brown coals 14 is squeezed and used as an exhaust heat source. A vessel 30 is provided so as to collect the heat water (HW). The heat water (HW) is sent to the orifice in the press. This vessel 30 is provided with an inlet for the vapor (HD) designed to push out the heat water (HW).