Armfield - Miniature-Scale Research & Development Technology - FT29 Batch Solvent Extraction and Desolventising Unit

All vessels, pipes, valves and fittings in contact with process materials are constructed in stainless steel with the exception of the borosilicate glass solvent condenser. The support framework is also stainless steel.

This vessel also incorporates a direct steam distribution pipe through which steam can be metered at a variable rate.

Vapour from the vessels, produced in the desolventising process, is directed by ducting to the solvent condenser, an inclined cylindrical tube containing a double coil through which cooling water is circulated. Condensate (usually a mixture of solvent and water) drains into the solvent water separator tank, which enables thorough separation of the solvent and water by a gravity process.

Note: Only hexane or solvents having a similar specific gravity can be effectively separated in this tank.

Solvent reclaimed from this vessel can then be recirculated by the solvent pump at a regulated rate through a variable-area flow meter. Excess water overflows to a waste water tank from where it can be disposed of on completion of the process. Operation at reduced system pressures are achieved by a PTFE diaphragm-type vacuum pump. The outlet of this pump is piped through a flame arrester to a suitable ventilation point.

Each vessel is equipped with suitable level/sight glasses so that the processes can be observed and monitored. Pressure and temperature gauges are supplied where necessary as are adequate sampling and drain valves.

Hexane is the most widely used solvent in the extraction process and due to the inflammable nature of this product, electrical equipment has been kept to a minimum. Where electrical equipment must be used, it is specified to the appropriate standards for safety.

The main processing vessels have been designed in accordance with the appropriate code of practice for welded pressure vessels.

The Armfield Industrial Division designs and manufactures research & development systems, primarily for the food, beverage, dairy, edible oil and pharmaceutical industries. Used by many of the world's leading corporations, Armfield systems enable researchers and product developers to replicate full-scale industrial manufacturing processes on a miniature-scale in the laboratory.

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