Fractional Distillation Systems and Components

Pope's state-of-the-art line of mid-sized fractional distillation systems fills the gap between small laboratory bench scale units and large process systems. The 1 - 100 gal/hr throughput capacity is ideal for pilot plants and for applications requiring small production runs. These systems incorporate precision design and fabrication with meticulous finishing to rigorous standards. This makes them particularly suitable for critical applications such as fine chemicals, pharmaceuticals, foods, flavors, cosmetics, extracts, etc.

Pope Fractional Distillation Systems are available:

• for batch or continuous feed applications
• in 1 - 100 gal/hr range of throughput capacities
• with 1" - 12" column diameters, in standard flanged sections
• in 316-L stainless steel (glass and special alloys also available)
• with a wide variety of column packings and internals (Pro-Pak® protruded metal is our standard packing)
• as turnkey systems, partial systems and individual components

Batch Mode

When relatively small quantities of liquid are to be processed, when an extremely high level of purity is required or when more than

Typical Systems Include:

• Boiling vessel with fill and drain valves, sight glass, sensors for liquid level, pressure and temperature, and extra ports.
• Choice of heating options.
• Column section(s), pre-loaded with packing and required internals.
• High efficiency condenser with cooling water lines, metering valve and flow meter.
• 3-way automatic reflux valve.
• Distillate product cooler and sight glass.
• Receiving vessels for cut fractions (discharge pumps optional).
• 3-way receiver selector valve.
• Control system - standard, PLC or computer-based.
• Skid platform and support structure for system.
• Insulation.

Continuous Mode

When large or continuous quantities of liquid are to be processed and/or when an extremely high level of purity is not required, continuous mode is preferable.

Typical Systems Include

• Precision metering feed pump.
• Feed preheater section with feedback control.
• Valve manifold for selection of feed point to column.
• Column section(s), pre-loaded with packing and required internals.
• High efficiency condenser with cooling water lines, metering valve and flow meter.
• 3-way automatic reflux valve.
• Distillate product cooler and sight glass.
• Distillate and Residue discharge pumps.
• Horizontal kettle-type reboiler with steam or hot oil heating controls, level switch, vapor return to column, bottoms discharge port.
• Bottoms cooler.
• Control system - standard, PLC or computer-based.
• Skid platform and support structure for system.
• Insulation.

Typical Column Packing Options:

* Pressure drop stated per foot of column height
Note: Data collected at total reflux condition

Atmospheric operations with n-heptane/methylcyclohexane test mixture
Vacuum operation with n-decane/trans-decalin test mixture

Published with permission of Cannon Instrument Company, State College, Pa.

AUTOCOL™ Glass Fractional Still System

Pope's Autocol Glass Fractional Stills for batch laboratory work, small scale processing or solvent recovery. Complete automated packaged systems with safety cabinet and Pope Model 3000 Batch Distillation Controller. Pro-Pak®-loaded, flasks sizes are 5, 12 or 22 liters. Alternate sizes and configurations are available.

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