Test Distillation
At our premises in Alzenau-Hörstein we run a test lab that is equipped with a broad range of lab- and pilot plants. The entire equipment is versatile and can be combined and configured for diverse distillation tasks. We may also work under GMP conditions. Since its inception we have performed almost 5,000 test distillations covering a remarkably broad spectrum of applications in our test lab. On a limited scale we are also in a position to perform toll distillations.
Typical objectives for test distillations include:
- Validation of the feasibility of vacuum distillation for a given thermal separation task
- Observation and analysis of important process characteristics and parameters
- Determination and optimization of relevant parameters for upscaling to industrial production
- Preparation of product samples for further analysis
Stand-alone Units
| Unit | typical Batch Sizes |
|
| Short Path | KDL 1 | ≥ 50 g |
| KDL 5 | 1…3 kg | |
| KDL 5 CADi | 1…3 kg | |
| KD 6 | ~ 50 kg | |
| Thin Film |
DSL 5 optionally equipped with a rectification column |
2…5 kg |
| RF 6 | ~ 50 kg |
We have a wide range of lab- and pilot plants available. Our pool includes the stand-alone units listed above.
Customizable multi-stage Plants
| KD 10 | Short Path Evaporator |
| KD 30 | |
| RF 10 | Thin Film Evaporator |
| RF 20 | |
| EA | Degasser |
| FFV | Falling Film Evaporator |
We may flexibly combine and assemble standard distillation components to multistage distillation plants for piloting and small production jobs. Two racks are available to build up such plants. Typical batches of feed material are in the range of 100…500 kg. The available standard components are listed in the adjacent table. Within this modular framework we may also evaluate the efficiency of different wiper systems like roller wipers or block wipers. In addition, the short path evaporators may be equipped with splash guards in order to analyze the effect of splashing on process performance.
Another very powerful option to improve separation efficiency and yield is UIC's patented washing condenser which may flexibly be integrated in the plant setup.
We provide extensive automation for our test lab units. Performance data is continuously recorded and prepared for subsequent in-depth analysis.
KD 150 with Rectification Insert
As the most recent addition to our set of plants we may offer a shortpath distillation unit KD 150 equipped with a patented rectification insert and an upstream degasser EA 350. Due to the rectification insert this device is capable to push separation efficiency for specific applications into regions that are not achievable with traditional plant designs.
A prime candidate for leveraging this innovation is, e.g., the production and refinement of Omega-3 free fatty acids from fishoil. It also proves very effective in the refinement of Biodiesel produced from waste feedstock.
The size and the performance characteristics of this plant make it suitable also for extensive toll distillations. It may easily handle feed rates of up to 250 l/h.
All our test lab units are available on a flat per diem rental fee. Please contact us for a quote for the requirements of your specific trial distillation.