Types of Chemical Reactors

Chemical reactors are available in a range of sizes and designs that are suitable for various reactions. Depending on the chemicals you work with and produce, some options will be a better choice and you need to take this into account when choosing the type of chemical reactor you should be looking for. All chemical reactors need to be operated by specially trained staff to make sure they are being used safely and correctly while producing the results you are looking for but deciding which type isn’t always easy.

There are two main types of chemical reactor; batch and continuous and both work in different ways, so you need to know which one is best for you needs.

A batch reactor works by inserting a set amount of the chemicals needed and producing a specific amount, with the size dependent on how big the reactor is. This is commonly used in laboratories on a small scale but there are much bigger versions of this reactor available. Once each reaction is complete then it is cleaned and prepared for another batch to be processed.

Continuous reactors work by having a constant flow of reactants coming into the unit. The reaction takes place and the result is withdrawn from another point. For a continuous reaction to occur an equal flow of reactants in and product out must be present at all times. There are a number of continuous reactors to choose from, such as fixed bed reactors, fluid bed reactors, tubular reactors and more.

You can also find chemical reactors in a number of different materials, including stainless steel reactors, glass lined reactors and exotic alloy reactors such as hastelloy, inconel and titanium reactors. This is another important consideration as some chemicals and reactions will need a specific material to protect against damage and potential injury. Industries likely to use chemical reactors include chemical, petrochemical and pharmaceutical but others could make use of them as well in some situations.

You’ll find a great range of chemical reactors at 3DI Equipment, including unused, used and reconditioned options. No matter what you’re looking for, we can help you find the best option so contact a member of team now to find out more.