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Small Extraction Tank

Updated: 2026-09-18

Overview

The Small Extraction Tank is a specialized vessel designed for laboratory-scale or small-batch extraction processes. It serves as a cost-effective solution for industries requiring precise solvent-based separation without large-scale infrastructure. These systems are particularly valuable in pharmaceutical research, botanical extraction, and specialty chemical production where material quantities are limited but process control is critical. Their modular design allows integration with evaporation and condensation units for complete solvent recovery systems.

Structure and Working Principle

A standard Small Extraction Tank consists of a cylindrical vessel with a conical bottom for complete drainage, equipped with heating/cooling jackets and agitators. The system operates by immersing solid materials in solvents under controlled temperature and pressure to dissolve target compounds. The extraction process typically follows a batch cycle: loading raw materials, adding solvent, maintaining extraction parameters, draining the extract, and finally discharging spent solids. Advanced models feature programmable logic controllers (PLCs) for automated parameter management and data logging.

Key Features

Modern Small Extraction Tanks offer multiple technical advantages including precise temperature regulation (±1°C) through jacketed designs and pressure resistance up to 0.4MPa. Their compact footprint (typically 50-500L capacity) makes them ideal for pilot plants and R&D facilities. Specialized variants include: glass-lined models for acidic extractions, explosion-proof configurations for volatile solvents, and GMP-compliant units with polished surfaces for pharmaceutical applications. Many incorporate sight glasses and sampling ports for process monitoring without breaking containment.

Application Areas

Primary industries utilizing Small Extraction Tanks include phytochemical extraction for herbal medicines, where they efficiently separate active compounds from plant materials. Food technology applications include decaffeination, essential oil recovery, and natural colorant production. In chemical manufacturing, these tanks serve in specialty chemical synthesis and catalyst recovery processes. Environmental testing laboratories employ them for standardized EPA-compliant extraction procedures. The equipment's versatility supports both polar (water, ethanol) and non-polar (hexane, ether) solvent systems.

Maintenance and Precautions

Routine maintenance involves inspecting gaskets and seals for solvent compatibility wear, particularly when switching between different extraction media. Mechanical agitator bearings require periodic lubrication, while heating/cooling jackets need descaling in hard water environments. Critical safety measures include proper grounding to prevent static discharge when handling flammable solvents, installation of rupture discs for overpressure protection, and adequate ventilation for vapor management. Operators should always verify material compatibility charts before introducing new solvent-solid combinations.

B2B Procurement Guide

When sourcing Small Extraction Tanks, buyers should prioritize suppliers with ASME or PED certification for pressure vessels. Key specifications to confirm include: maximum working pressure/temperature, surface finish (Ra value), and compliance with industry standards like cGMP or USDA for specific applications. Lead times typically range 8-12 weeks for custom configurations. Consider total cost of ownership factors including energy efficiency, cleaning validation requirements, and availability of spare parts. Many manufacturers offer pilot-scale testing services to verify process parameters before full-scale procurement.

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