5L Stainless Steel Fractional Distillation: Operator Guide

A fractional distillation column is vital for separating components of liquid mixtures that have boiling points in close ranges. In a 5L stainless steel unit, using multiple stages of vaporization, then refluxing and condensing, yields a higher purity than using simple boiling or one-step separations.

The TOPTION 5L stainless steel fractional distillation system features reaction, heating, stirring, reflux, and distillation configured in a compact and stable unit custom-designed for laboratories that require reliable small-scale distillation.

• The 5L fractional distillation column system integrates reaction, heating, stirring, reflux, and distillation for efficient small-scale purification.
• Precise temperature limits must be followed: reactor up to 200 °C, column heating tape ≤200 °C only.
• Proper installation-correct gasket sealing, clamp tension, and motor–stirrer alignment-is essential for maintaining stable vacuum performance.
• The programmable reflux ratio controller (1:99–99:1) enables accurate timing adjustments using the SET, <, +, and – keys.
• The magnetic funnel requires correct electromagnet positioning-rotate it 180° if engagement fails.

• 5L four-port stainless steel reaction flask
• Ceramic electric heating jacket (RT–200 °C)
• Φ38 × 800 mm fractional distillation column with heating strip (RT–200 °C max)
• Precision distillation head with swinging magnetic funnel
• Reflux ratio controller (1:99–99:1)
• PT100 temperature sensors (reactor + distillation head)
• 105# serpentine condenser
• 2L receiving flask
• Stainless steel support frame with casters
• The system is built using 304 stainless steel with PTFE composite seals, ensuring that the vacuum is maintained at a level of ≤ 0.095 MPa.

✔ 304 stainless steel increased chemical resistance

✔ Hermetic vacuum seal (PTFE + rubber composite)

✔ Digitalized stirring within 20–1200 rpm range

✔ Heating of reactor to 200 °C

✔ Heating of column insulation to 200 °C

✔ Adjustable reflux ratio via magnetic funnel

✔ Programmable reflux controller

Due to these attributes, this unit is an excellent option for laboratories working with a fractional distillation column with reliable temperature control, high accuracy of reflux ratio, and good controllability of the reflux ratio.

Electrical Safety First of All

• Always use AC 220V / 50 Hz.
• Never pull or drag the power cord.
• When replacing fuses, use ones with the same specification.

The Next Precautions Are Heating

• The maximum column heating tape temperature is 200 °C.
• Do not allow the liquid to get into the heater inside the jacket.

Finally, Mechanical Safety

• All ports are to be sealed with a thin layer of vacuum silicone grease.
• Clamps and fluorocarbons should not be over-tightened.

A fractional distillation column works best when properly lubricated and all sealing surfaces are mechanically aligned.

Step 1 - Frame Assembly

Install the lift table, stainless-steel support, then the heating jacket.

Using the #50 gasket and clamp, add the stainless-steel mixing rod and stirring seal.

Step 2 - Mount Valves and Sensors

Using the #25 vent valve, mount the PT100 temperature sensor.

Step 3 - Motor and Stirring Shaft Alignment

Check for vertical alignment with the rod, the motor, and the stirring coupling.

Step 4 - Install the Fractional Distillation Column

Install the 90-degree elbow pointing vertically upward.

Fix the fractional distillation column onto the elbow using a 38# clamp (not overtightened).

Step 5 - Attaching the Distillation Head & the Condenser

Fix the whole assembly with the receiving flask at the bottom, the top PT100, and the mounted head to the serpentine condenser.

Step 6 - Installation of the Electromagnet

Mount the electromagnet.

Rotate the electromagnet 180° to engage or release the magnetic funnel if it fails to do so.

Step 7 - The Wiring Process

Plug all connections into the distillation tower instrumentation cabinet and attach the logo plate to finish.

The reflux controller controls how the fractional distillation column splits the divided liquid condensate between the condenser outlet return and the side outlet product.

Startup

Activate the red power switch.

The left display shows the top-of-column temperature.

The right display shows the reflux controller.

Setting Reflux and Production Time

Long-press SET (2 seconds) to enter setup mode.

The display shows P-6 (normal).

Short-press SET to enter time parameter adjustment.

Use the < key to switch between time units.

Use the + / - keys to edit time.

Available Time Units

This trim timing enables the fractional distillation column to keep its internal reflux pattern stable.

The column heating strip maintains temperature stability throughout the fractional distillation column.

How to Set Temperature

1. Turn on the oven.
2. On the display, the PV is the real-time temperature value, and the SV is the target temperature value.
3. Press SET to adjust the digit position.
4. Change the value using the ▲ or ▼ key.
5. Press SET to confirm your change.

⚠ Maximum allowed column temperature: 200 °C.(Heating tape will be damaged beyond this limit.)

Stirring

• Adjust with knob control (20–1200 rpm).
• Ensure the knob is returned to the minimum setting before shutdown.

Reactor Heating

• PV = current reactor temperature
• SV = target temperature of reactor
• Heating occurs only when SV > PV

• There is no power. The fuse may be blown or broken mains. Check the mains, the breaker, and the cable.
• There is no heating. A defective sensor or SSR – Check the PT100 resistance; examine the power module and replace it if necessary.
• A temperature that is not stable. Poor tuning of the PID or poor contact - tighten connectors, retune or reset the PID; confirm the steps of SV.
• Enclosure is "live" - Ground fault. Stop immediately; test ground continuity; contact a qualified service.
• Poor condensation, Insufficient cooling, or excessive boil-up. Increase coolant flow; reduce jacket SV, increase reflux duty.

• Clean all oil and solvent traces after every use.

• Use original parts provided by the manufacturer only.

Ongoing cleaning, as well as appropriate clamp tension, will be pivotal in allowing your fractional distillation column to function at its best.

Are you in need of a tailored stainless steel distillation column? We offer a range of sizes from 1 to 50 liters, allowing you to choose what's best for your needs. Our columns can be customized to withstand temperatures of up to 350 degrees Celsius, ensuring they meet the demands of various distillation processes. Whether you require a compact model or a larger system, we have the solution for you!

Contact TOPTION for specifications, drawings, and a quote!

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