Common Wiped Film Distillation Problems: Part 1
Wiped film distillation is an incredibly efficient and powerful tool.
Until it isn’t.
When working well, wiped film distillation is low maintenance and easy to run. Wiped film stills can quickly distill large volumes of material. They offer low residence times and minimal heat exposure, so even the most sensitive distillations can be processed quickly and well.
When not working well, wiped film distillations can make you pull out your hair.
Common problems include:
Super slow feed rates – anytime you try to use a feed rate the manufacturer recommends, the system just shuts down and problems develop. You might even think your manufacturer made up the feed rates just to sell the equipment. They didn’t. But the distillation does need to be optimizes.
Vacuum loss as the run progresses – the run start fine. But as you go, the pressure continually rises no matter what you do.
Vacuum pump failure - Your vacuum pump is constantly seizing up. Or maybe you have replaced your vacuum pump multiple times, and you don’t know why
If this sounds like your distillation, know that you are not alone. These common problems can be fixed. I’ve experienced every one of these problems anlved them.
Send me a message and we can setup a free consultation to discuss your situation.
