A plug flow reactor (PFR) is a type of idealized flow reactor where chemicals flow continuously through a cylindrical pipe or tube without back-mixing. The term “plug flow” refers to the uniform movement of reactants and products along the reactor’s length, resembling a coherent plug. When this concept is combined with a skid-mounted design, we get a compact and efficient system for various chemical processes.
Skid-mounted PFRs offer precise residence time control, high conversion rates, and compatibility with reactions involving heat release or sensitivity to reactant concentrations. They are essential tools in chemical engineering and process industries.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Capacity: Upto 500L
- Pressure: Upto 100 Bar
- Temperature: Upto 300°C
- Design: Flame Proof as per Standard design
- Materials Of Construction: SSS-304, SS-316, Hastelloy, Titanium & all Exotic metal with/without Bonded metal. Can take up Hydrogenation Plant designs as per the latest PESO norms
- Total Automation: HMI & PLC SCADASmaller units with Hydraulic Lifting arrangements.
WORKING PRINCIPLE
- Skid-mounted PFRs work by oxidizing alcohols and other organic compounds to produce fine chemicals such as pigments and dyes.
- The fluids flow continuously and uniformly through a pipe or tube within the reactor.
- Reactants enter at one end, move throughout the reactor, and exit at the other end.
APPLICATION
- Fine Chemical Production: PFRs are used to create specialty chemicals, pharmaceutical intermediates, and high-value products.
- Polymerization: They play a crucial role in polymer production.
- Petroleum Refining: PFRs are employed in various refining processes.
- Environmental Engineering: Treating wastewater and removing pollutants.
FEATURES
- Unidirectional Flow: In a PFR, reactants and products travel in a single direction along the reactor’s length. There is no mixing or backflow, ensuring efficient chemical reactions.
- Concentration Gradient: The concentration of reactants and products changes along the reactor’s length. However, it remains consistent across any section vertical to the flow.
- Residence Time: The time a reactant volume spends within the PFR is called residence time. Residence time is constant for all volumes within the reactor.
