Wiped film distillation is a specialized form of short path distillation.
It is primarily used for separating heat-sensitive and highly viscous liquids.
This process involves the creation of a thin film of the liquid on a heated surface.
This enhances heat transfer and reduces the residence time of the substances.
As a result, it minimizes degradation.
Process Description: How Wiped Film Distillation Works
Wiped film distillation operates using a vertical evaporator.
The crude material is introduced at the top of the machine.
The machine includes a rotor blade or wipers that distribute the liquid onto the inner surface of the evaporator.
This forms a thin film.
The film typically ranges from 0.1 to 0.5 mm in thickness.
This thinness is crucial for efficient heat transfer and rapid evaporation.
The thickness of the film is adjustable.
It depends on factors such as the wiper's capacity, the product's viscosity, liquid throughput, and the rotating speed of the wiper.
Mechanism of Operation: Why It's Different
The thin film created by the wipers does not experience hydrostatic pressure, concentration profile, or temperature gradient.
These are typical in other distillation methods.
This lack of pressure and gradient ensures minimal hold-up.
This is beneficial for handling heat-sensitive materials.
The radial mixing process further aids in maintaining a uniform film.
This enhances the efficiency of the distillation.
Applications and Benefits: Where It Shines
This distillation technique is particularly beneficial in industries that require the removal of volatile components.
It is also useful for the purification of substances and stripping of raw liquids from unwanted compounds.
Industries such as chemical, food and beverage, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and nuclear sectors utilize wiped film distillation.
This is due to its ability to operate at lower temperatures and pressures while increasing evaporation rates.
In the cannabis industry, for example, this process is used to separate cannabinoids from residual waxes, fats, terpenes, chlorophyll, and other plant materials that do not boil at the same temperatures.
Conclusion: Why Choose Wiped Film Distillation?
Wiped film distillation is an advanced method that provides a controlled environment for the distillation of heat-sensitive materials.
Its ability to create and maintain a thin, uniform film on a heated surface allows for efficient heat transfer and rapid evaporation.
This makes it a preferred choice for large-scale production and high throughput operations.
Continue exploring, consult our experts
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