What Is Molecular Distillation and How Does It Work?
Molecular distillation is a type of short-path vacuum distillation used to separate and purify heat-sensitive or high-molecular-weight compounds. Unlike traditional distillation, it operates under ultra-high vacuum (typically below 0.01 mbar), which significantly reduces the boiling points of substances. This allows separation at much lower temperatures, minimizing thermal degradation.
In molecular distillation, the material is heated and spread into a thin film. Volatile molecules evaporate and travel a very short distance to a condenser, while heavier or less volatile components remain behind. The short path and low pressure enable precise separation of complex mixtures such as essential oils, cannabinoids, vitamins, and fatty acids.
How Vacculex Vacuum Pumps Provide Solutions
VSP Series Screw Vacuum Pump
The VSP Series Screw Vacuum Pump is engineered specifically for demanding steam sterilization processes, achieving an ultimate vacuum down to 10 Pa(A) for reliable and efficient air removal. Its advanced temperature control system ensures stable performance under high thermal stress, reducing wear on internal components. Designed to resist condensation, it protects against moisture-related damage, while PEEK-coated surfaces offer superior corrosion resistance and extended operational life. With robust construction, thermal stability, and precise performance, the VSP Series is a trusted choice for critical sterilization applications.
MB Series Mechanical Vacuum Booster
The MB Series Mechanical Vacuum Booster is designed for high-performance and durability, featuring a five-point bearing system, precision seals, and dual oil reservoirs to ensure stable, long-term operation. Helical gears provide smooth and quiet performance, while a nitrogen barrier system effectively prevents oil contamination. Capable of handling differential pressures up to 120 mbar with air or water cooling, the booster is protected by anti-corrosion coatings and supports multiple seal configurations for safe use with corrosive or toxic gases. With inlet capacities reaching 110,000 m³/h, the MB Series delivers powerful and adaptable vacuum enhancement for demanding industrial environments.
Why Choose Vacculex Vacuum Pump for Molecular Distillation?
Stable Deep Vacuum Control
Vacculex vacuum pumps deliver consistently low pressure, essential for precise molecular separation in short-path distillation.
✔ Supports efficient evaporation at lower temperatures
✔ Improves separation of high-boiling-point or sensitive compounds
✔ Ensures high-purity output and process repeatability
Superior Chemical Resistance
Constructed with corrosion-resistant materials and protective coatings, Vacculex pumps are ideal for aggressive solvents and reactive substances.
✔ Safely handles acids, bases, and organic solvents
✔ Reduces risk of internal damage or contamination
✔ Extends equipment lifespan in harsh chemical environments
Low Thermal Stress Operation
Engineered for thermal stability, the pumps operate reliably under high heat without degrading performance.
✔ Prevents overheating during prolonged use
✔ Protects thermally sensitive compounds during processing
✔ Enables continuous operation in high-temperature setups
Long-Term Durability & Low Maintenance
Designed with robust components and advanced sealing systems, Vacculex pumps require minimal maintenance over long-term use.
✔ Reduces downtime and servicing costs
✔ Provides consistent performance over extended periods
✔ Ideal for 24/7 industrial or laboratory workflows
Where Are Vacuum Pumps Used in Molecular Distillation?
Maintaining High Vacuum Levels
Vacuum pumps create the ultra-low pressure environment required to lower boiling points, enabling efficient distillation of heat-sensitive compounds.
✔ Enables separation at reduced temperatures to protect delicate materials
✔ Improves purity by preventing thermal decomposition
✔ Supports precise control of distillation parameters
Removing Non-Condensable Gases
Vacuum pumps extract air and inert gases from the system, which could otherwise interfere with evaporation and reduce separation efficiency.
✔ Eliminates gases that may cause contamination or process instability
✔ Enhances vacuum quality for consistent product output
✔ Prevents buildup that could impair pump or equipment performance
Stabilizing Pressure During Operation
Vacuum pumps maintain steady and consistent vacuum levels, crucial for achieving reproducible distillation results and product quality.
✔ Avoids pressure fluctuations that can affect separation precision
✔ Ensures continuous, smooth operation in batch or continuous distillation
✔ Supports process scalability from lab to industrial scale
Enabling Continuous Processing
By reliably maintaining vacuum, pumps allow molecular distillation systems to run uninterrupted in both laboratory and industrial settings.
✔ Facilitates long operational cycles without downtime
✔ Supports high throughput and efficiency in production
✔ Reduces maintenance needs through stable performance
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Discover the perfect vacuum solution for your molecular distillation needs. Contact us now for pricing and expert assistance!
FAQ
- Lowers Boiling Points
Reduces system pressure to allow distillation at lower temperatures, protecting heat-sensitive compounds from degradation. - Enables Efficient Separation
Maintains ultra-high vacuum needed for precise molecular separation and high product purity. - Removes Non-Condensable Gases
Extracts air and inert gases that could interfere with evaporation and reduce process efficiency. - Ensures Stable Process Conditions
Provides consistent vacuum levels for repeatable and reliable distillation outcomes. - Supports Continuous Operation
Allows molecular distillation systems to run steadily without pressure fluctuations or interruptions.
Effective molecular distillation typically requires vacuum levels below 0.01 mbar (about 1 Pa). The exact pressure needed varies depending on the chemical properties of the feed material. Vacculex pumps can achieve and maintain these ultra-high vacuum conditions, ensuring precise separation and high product purity.
Yes. Vacculex vacuum pumps are constructed with corrosion-resistant materials such as PEEK coatings and stainless steel components. These protect internal parts from damage caused by aggressive solvents, acids, or other reactive chemicals commonly encountered in molecular distillation processes, extending pump life and reliability.
Maintenance intervals depend on operating hours and process conditions. Under typical molecular distillation use, inspecting and servicing the pump every 6 to 12 months is advisable. Routine checks include oil changes (if applicable), seal inspections, and cleaning to prevent contamination buildup. Proper maintenance maximizes pump efficiency and prevents unexpected downtime.
Absolutely. Vacculex offers a versatile range of vacuum pumps designed for various capacities, from compact units for laboratory research to high-capacity pumps for large-scale industrial molecular distillation. Their modular design allows easy integration into different system sizes, supporting both batch and continuous processing.
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