Processing & Handling
From Batch to Continuous Processing
Small chemical reactors offer a number of benefits compared to large reactors, such as better heat transfer and mixing. While small batch vessels are impractical at the industrial scale, continuous flow reactors can provide the benefits of small physical size…
A smart flange system for increased safety
The QVF Supra-Line is compatible with two proven flange systems — the QVF/WPR2002 and the Schott/KF systems — and thus reduces the number of technically equivalent components required while providing the user with increased safety. The Supra-Line extends the allowable…
Two more sizes added to this pipework system
Two new diameters extend the diversity of this company’s modular-pipework system for handling bulk goods, dust extraction and exhaust air. Introducing these two new nominal diameters of 280 and 315 mm adds an extra 250 products to the range, which…
Leaks are minimized in this AODD pump
The new E-Series Plastic AODD (air-operated double diaphragm) pumps feature no mechanical seals or packing, thereby eliminating a critical leak point. Instead, these pumps have a stainless-steel containment ring that creates consistent high-torque compression all the way around the ring,…
Valves: An Open and Shut Case
Though times are changing, many of the traditional challenges associated with running a chemical processing plant remain the same. For years processors have been asking for leak-proof, high-performance valves, but it is only recently that valve manufacturers are employing new…
Gas Sparging
Sparging refers to the process of injecting a gas through a diffuser into a liquid phase. It is used in both physical and chemical process applications. In physical process applications, the gas is used to either dissolve gas into liquid…
Reciprocating Compressors: Startup and Capacity Control Methods
There are two main reasons why compressor capacity regulation is used. The most prevalent reason is to adjust the suction flow to match the process demand. The second reason is to save energy. As a rule, capacity control is determined…
This osmium-based catalyst is rendered nontoxic by polymer incarceration
Professor Shu Kobayashi and his research group at The School of Science, University of Tokyo (Japan; www.chem.s.u-tokyo.ac.jp/users/synorg/index_E.html) have developed an osmium-based catalyst for performing asymmetric syntheses of drug precursors. While showing the same catalytic performance of its predecessor — a…
This silicone coating keeps electrical insulators safe
Wacker Chemie AG (Munich, Germany; www.wacker.com) has commercialized a solvent-free coating for electrical insulators. Powersil 570 Plus is said to be the world’s first insulator coating based on a patented silicone-in-water emulsion technology. Its viscosity displays a strong dependence on…
Sterile ice fog improves control of freeze-drying
Linde Gases (Murray Hill, N.J.; www.linde-gases.com) has developed a novel cryogenic technology that promotes uniformity in the formation of ice crystals during freeze-drying (lyophilization) processes for proteins, vaccines and other injectable pharmaceutical products. Lyophilization involves freezing a solution of the…