Wiped film distillation is a highly efficient method for separating volatile compounds from non-volatile ones. It is particularly suited for high throughput and high production scenarios.
This process operates by creating a thin film of the crude oil on a heated surface. This facilitates rapid evaporation of the volatile components under vacuum conditions.
5 Key Steps to Efficient Separation
1. Feeding the Raw Material
The process begins with the introduction of the crude oil into the wiped film evaporator. This is done through a feed inlet at the top of the device.
Typically, an automatic dosing pump is used. This allows for precise control over the feed rate.
2. Distribution and Film Formation
Inside the evaporator, rotor blades rotate and distribute the crude oil evenly across the heated inner surface of the cylindrical jacket.
Specially designed wipers, also known as PTFE rollers, help in creating and maintaining a thin film of the oil. This thin film is crucial for efficient heat transfer, even with highly viscous fluids.
3. Evaporation of Volatile Compounds
The thin film of oil on the heated surface facilitates the rapid evaporation of the more volatile compounds.
The heat transfer is primarily conductive. The vapor generated flows either counter-currently or co-currently with the rotor blades.
4. Vapor and Residue Separation
The evaporated vapor exits the machine through a vapor outlet. It is then directed towards a condenser for cooling and subsequent collection.
The less or non-volatile compounds, which may include salts, chlorophyll, and wax, are discharged through a separate outlet at the bottom of the evaporator.
5. Collection of Products
At the bottom of the evaporator, separate receiving vessels collect the high-temperature residue and the condensed distillate.
This separation ensures that the products are kept distinct and can be further processed or used as needed.
Benefits and Applications
Wiped film distillation offers several advantages. These include reduced operating temperatures and pressures, increased evaporation rates, and shortened residence time.
These benefits make it particularly useful in industries such as chemical, food and beverage, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and nuclear sectors.
The process is also space-efficient. It typically occurs within a single machine, reducing the need for additional equipment and saving on facility space.
Overall, wiped film distillation is a versatile and effective method for separating components in a liquid mixture. It is particularly beneficial for high-scale and high-throughput operations.
Continue Exploring, Consult Our Experts
Are you ready to streamline your separation processes and enhance your production capabilities? KINTEK's wiped film distillation technology is designed to deliver high efficiency and throughput, ensuring rapid evaporation and precise separation of volatile and non-volatile compounds.
Our advanced systems are engineered for industries ranging from chemical to pharmaceutical, offering space-efficient solutions that reduce operating temperatures and pressures.
Experience the benefits of reduced residence time and increased evaporation rates with KINTEK. Contact us today to revolutionize your distillation processes and elevate your production standards!
