Coflux Batch Reactors
Stirred tank reactors are used for chemical synthesis, extraction, dissolution, crystallisation, distillation and bio processes. A key function of these vessels is the addition and removal of heat. Coflux reactors use a different type heating/cooling jacket with cross flow channels and a variable area valve. This design offers the following benefits:
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Faster and more stable temperature control
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A versatile and robust PAT tool
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Wall temperature monitoring
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Heat transfer coefficient monitoring
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Improved energy efficiency
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The Coflux reactor uses a 'cross flow' jacket made up of between 15 and 30 separate heat transfer channels. A multi port valve controls the number of jacket elements in service and provides a means of dynamically controlling heat transfer area. This provides two methods for regulating heating or cooling power. The heat transfer fluid valve (TC) controls the jacket temperature and the Coflux valve (AC) controls the heat transfer area.
By using multiple small heat transfer elements, the Coflux jacket reduces energy waste (associated with cross mixing of hot and cold supply loops) by over 90%. Response time for temperature control is reduced to less 5 seconds. This ensures fast and stable temperature control irrespective of vessel size.
The Coflux valve automatically controls the jacket height so that the heating or cooling surface is covered by process fluid inside the vessel. This is particularly usesful for temperature sensitive processes like crystallisation or when heating or cooling temperature sensitive compounds. Coflux reactors are capable of very sensitive and accurate heat measurement. This is due to the Coflux valve which eliminates jacket temperature oscillations and dry wall effects. It also reduces the heat transfer area for measuring very low levels of process heat. Heat balance measurements of less 0.1W/litre are possible. Heat measurement serves as a powerful analytical tool for monitoring and controlling the process. Power (W) serves as a direct and reliable measure of process rate. This can be used to monitor rates of reaction, initiation, crystallisation, nucleation and cell growth. Enthalpy (J) can be used to monitor yield in chemical reactions and crystallisation and bio mass. Heat transfer coeffiicient (W.m-2.K-1) is derived from the heat balance data. This can be used to monitor wall fouling, viscosity changes and agitator performance. Wall temperature (K) is calculated from temperature and heat transfer data. The ability to monitor wall temperature allows the user to employ maximum heating and cooling power without causing damage to the product.
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