What Are the Different Types of Short Path Distillation?

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KD Series Continuous Distillation System by Chemtech Services Inc.

Table Top vs Continuous SPD

Short Path Distillation (SPD) is a process used in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries to separate and purify complex mixtures. SPD is an incredibly efficient method for separating components due to its ability to operate at very low pressures and temperatures, making it ideal for applications of heat sensitive products. There are two main types of SPD systems available, which are Table Top and Continuous. It’s important to understand the differences between them in order to know which one is right for your application. Let’s take a look at their features, advantages, and disadvantages. 

Table Top Distillation Systems 

Table top systems are compact, portable distillation units that can be set-up quickly and easily on almost any lab bench. They have a simple design that makes them easy to use, with no need for complicated controls. They also provide high performance with good temperature control, allowing you to achieve consistent results every time. The drawback however, is that they don’t offer excellent flexibility since they can only be used for batch processes.

The main advantage of table top systems over continuous systems is their lower cost; however, they also come with some potential drawbacks. The most significant issue is their limited capacity; because these systems are typically smaller than their continuous counterparts, they cannot handle large volumes of material at once. Additionally, they may not be able to produce high-purity products due to their limited precision control capabilities. If you are just beginning your distillation journey, or only need to produce small batches at a time, then table top systems are a great choice. 

Continuous Distillation Systems 

Continuous SPD systems are larger scale units that offer more advanced features than table top models. Chemtech’s KD Series of SPD systems are designed for highly efficient distillation processes that involve larger volumes of material at once. They have more sophisticated temperature control capabilities than table top models, allowing them to produce high-purity products consistently without compromising on speed or efficiency. Additionally, these systems often come with automated controls that make them easier to use than manual versions. 

The primary benefit of these larger scale units is their greater capacity; however, this comes at the cost of higher initial investment costs as well as additional operating expenses due to the complexity of the system itself. Additionally, there may be additional regulatory requirements associated with using these types of machines depending on where you live or operate your business from, so make sure to check the local requirements before investing in one of these systems. If you need to produce large amounts of product, one of Chemtech’s continuous SPD systems is the way to go. 

Making The Final Decision 

When choosing between table top and continuous short path distillation systems, it really depends on your needs and budget constraints. For large volumes of material requiring precise temperature control and high purity outputs, a continuous system is the best choice. However, if you’re looking for something more affordable, then a tabletop system might be the better option. Ultimately, it’s important to carefully consider all of your options before investing in any type of distillation equipment. This will ensure you’re getting the best return on your investment, while meeting applicable local safety regulations and standards.

Have more questions?

Our team of professionals is here to answer any questions you have about our equipment and services. Knowing you can speak to an expert when making this important investment in your business is part of what makes Chemtech stand out from the rest. Contact us today for more information or to purchase your new distillation system


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