4 Impressive Short Path Distillation Units

A Comparative Analysis

Short path distillation is a versatile technique widely used in various industries to separate and purify substances. ChemTech Services Inc. offers many short path distillation units, but today we will focus on 4 distinct options. In this blog post, we will compare and analyze the MINI-4, MINI-5, KDL-6, and KDT-6 units to understand their similarities, differences, and the industries or businesses they are best suited for.

MINI-4 Short Path Distillation Unit

The MINI-4 is a compact and reliable distillation unit designed for small-scale operations. These units are ideal for small-scale operations in industries such as pharmaceuticals, essential oils, and cannabis processing. It offers precise control and moderate throughput for businesses that require efficient separation of compounds. Let’s explore its key features:

Similarities:

Sturdy Support Frame: All four units feature a robust 304 stainless steel support frame, ensuring stability and longevity.
Feed System: The MINI-4, MINI-5, KDL-6, and KDT-6 include a 2-liter hot oil heated feed tank and a gear pump feed metering system, allowing precise control over the feed rate.
Evaporator Circulation: All units have evaporator circulators to maintain optimal temperature conditions during the distillation process.
Vacuum System: They are equipped with a backing rotary vane pump (8 M3/hour) and a turbomolecular pump (90 L/sec) for a powerful vacuum system.

Differences:

Evaporator Size and Material: The MINI-4 utilizes a borosilicate glass evaporator with a surface area of 0.040 square meters.
Circulators: It includes a feed circulator (2kw; 20-250°C) and a condenser circulator (2kw Heat/500w Cool; -50-200°C). An optional cold trap circulator is available.
Sample Collection: The MINI-4 comes with a 1-liter flask for product collection.

MINI-5 Short Path Distillation Unit:

The MINI-5 is an upgraded version of the MINI-4, offering enhanced productivity and performance. The MINI-5 is well-suited for industries that require higher throughput and productivity which makes it particularly beneficial for businesses involved in pharmaceutical research, botanical extractions, and production facilities where a greater volume of distillate is required. Let’s explore its unique features:

Similarities:

Support Frame and Feed System: The MINI-5 shares the same sturdy support frame and feed system as the MINI-4.
Evaporator Circulation and Vacuum System: Similar to the other units, the MINI-5 also features evaporator circulators and a powerful vacuum system.

Differences:

Evaporator Size and Material: The MINI-5 boasts a larger borosilicate glass evaporator with a surface area of 0.060 square meters.
Circulators: It includes a feed circulator (2kw; 20-250°C), evaporator circulator (3kw; 0-250°C), and a condenser circulator (2kw Heat/500w Cool; -50-200°C). An optional cold trap circulator is available.
Sample Collection: The MINI-5 offers the option of a 6-position carousel for convenient collection of multiple samples.

KDL-6 Short Path Distillation Unit:

The KDL-6 is a robust distillation unit designed for advanced laboratory operations. With more options available than on the Mini models, it is an excellent choice for businesses in the chemical, pharmaceutical, and petroleum industries, where high throughput and the ability to see the distillation process are essential. Let’s examine its distinctive features:

Similarities:

Support Frame, Feed System, Evaporator Circulation, and Vacuum System: The KDL-6 shares these similarities with the KDT-6 model.

Differences:

Evaporator Size and Material: The KDL-6 utilizes a borosilicate glass evaporator with a surface area of 0.060 square meters.
Circulators: It includes a feed circulator (2kw; 20-250°C), evaporator circulator (3kw; 0-250°C), residue circulator (2kw; 20-250°C), and a condenser circulator (2kw Heat/500w Cool; -50-200°C). A cold trap circulator is also provided.
Sample Collection: The KDL-6 features a 6-position carousel for efficient sample collection.

KDT-6 Short Path Distillation Unit:

The KDT-6 offers unique features and capabilities for specific industrial needs. The KDT-6 is designed for industrial applications that require exceptional durability and performance. It is suitable for industries such as pharmaceuticals, fine chemicals, and petrochemicals, where precise separation and large-volume production are essential.

Similarities:

Support Frame, Feed System, Evaporator Circulation, and Vacuum System: The KDT-6 shares these similarities with the other units.

Differences:

Evaporator Size and Material: The KDT-6 utilizes 316 stainless steel for its evaporator, providing exceptional durability. It features a surface area of 0.060 square meters.
Better heat transfer of stainless allows for higher throughput.
Circulators: It includes a feed circulator (2kw; 20-250°C), evaporator circulator (3kw; 0-250°C), residue circulator (2kw; 20-250°C), and a condenser circulator (2kw Heat/500w Cool; -50-200°C).

A cold trap circulator is also provided.

Sample Collection: The KDT-6 features a 6-position carousel for efficient sample collection. Hot oil heated discharge gear pumps are available as an optional feature.

Interested in Purchasing a Short Path Distillation Unit?

ChemTech Services Inc. offers a range of short path distillation units suitable for various industries and production scales. The MINI-4 and MINI-5 are ideal for small to medium-scale operations, while the KDL-6 and KDT-6 cater to industrial-scale requirements. By understanding their similarities, differences, and target industries, businesses can choose the most suitable unit to optimize their distillation processes. ChemTech Services Inc. provides reliable and advanced solutions for efficient separation and purification needs across multiple industries. Our team is happy to help answer any questions you have and make sure you get the right unit/s for your specific needs. Contact us today for more information or to talk about our custom options.

Tags: Continuous short path distillation, distillation systems, KDL-6, KDT-6, MINI-4, MINI-5, short path distillation