About R.T.D. STUDIES IN PACKED BED REACTOR APPARATUS
Specification:
R.T.D. STUDIES IN PACKED BED REACTOR APPARATUS
Axial diffusion and dispersion offluid in packed beds are important for design and operation of separationequipment and Chemicals reactors. The tracer technique, the most widely usedmethod for the study of axial dispersion.
In stimulus response experimentation,we perturb the system using pulse input of tracer and then see how the systemreacts or responds to this stimulus.
The analysis of the response givesthe desired information about the system. The setup consists of a glass columnpacked with Rasching Rings and one feed tank. Water is fed to the reactorthrough liquid distributor, fitted at the bottom of the column.
Rotameter is provided to measure theflow of water. The flow rate can be adjusted by operating the needle valveprovided on Rotameter. For understanding the R.T.D. characteristics, a specialarrangement to inject tracer into the lower end of reactor, using a syringe, isprovided. Samples can be taken periodically from the top outlet of reactor.Pressure Regulator & Pressure Gauge are fitted in the compressed air line.
Experimentation/Learning Objectives
To plot RTD curve for Packed BedReactor.
To determine the Dispersion No.
Utilities Required
Compressed Air Supply: 0.25 CFM@1 bar
Water Supply.
Floor Drain.
Floor Area Required: 1.0 m x 1.0 m.
Instruments, Laboratory Glassware andChemicals required for analysis as per the system adopted.
Technical Details
Reactor Column: Material Borosilicate Glass
Packing: Rasching Rings, Material Borosilicate Glass. Size 8-10mm(approx.)
Feed Tank: Material Stainless Steel, Capacity 20 Ltrs.
Feed Circulation: By compressed air.
Flow Measurement: Rotameter.
Piping: Stainless Steel and PU pipe.
Pressure Regulator: 0-2 Kg/cm2
Pressure Gauge: Bourdon type 0-2 Kg/cm2
Stop Watch: Electronic
Arrangement is done to inject tracerinto the lower end of reactor
Accurate Residence Time AnalysisThis apparatus is engineered to facilitate thorough residence time distribution (RTD) studies in packed bed reactors, allowing users to understand flow dynamics and tracer dispersion. The removable column and variable packing options enhance flexibility, enabling a wide range of experiments for educational or research purposes.
User-Friendly Operation & Data AcquisitionEquipped with both digital and manual data logging, the apparatus offers straightforward operation and direct measurement display. The flow control valve and immediate digital response simplify adjustments and monitoring, while included accessories like a stopwatch and measuring cylinder streamline experiment setup.
Safe and Reliable for Laboratory UseSafety considerations include thermal overload protection for the pump, sturdy stainless steel and glass construction, and standard glass connections. Compactly designed for benchtop mounting, this unit fits efficiently into laboratory spaces without compromising on experimental capabilities.
FAQs of R.T.D. STUDIES IN PACKED BED REACTOR APPARATUS:
Q: How is the RTD (Residence Time Distribution) experiment conducted using this apparatus?
A: To perform an RTD analysis, you introduce a tracer pulse through the feed tank, adjust flow rates using the digital flowmeter, and monitor the effluent concentration over time using manual or digital timing devices. Data logging can be managed with the included stopwatch or digital timer for accurate representation of residence times.
Q: What benefits does the borosilicate glass column offer for packed bed studies?
A: Borosilicate glass provides excellent chemical resistance, transparency for observation, and durability under varying temperatures (ambient to 60C), making it ideal for visualizing internal flow behavior and ensuring long-term reliability in academic and research applications.
Q: When should the packing material be changed or selected?
A: The choice and replacement of packing materials (glass beads or Raschig rings) depend on the specific flow characteristics being studied or after visible wear. Different packings allow users to investigate how internal structure affects fluid dynamics within the reactor.
Q: Where is this apparatus primarily used?
A: This packed bed reactor system is widely utilized in engineering research laboratories, chemical and biochemical engineering departments, and industrial training centersespecially for educational experiments and testing of plug flow reactor behaviors.
Q: What is the process for controlling flow and monitoring measurements?
A: Flow is regulated with a manual control valve and self-priming centrifugal pump, while measurements are displayed digitally for immediate feedback. Flow rates can be adjusted between 0 and 250 ml/min, with data manually recorded or logged digitally for analysis.
Q: How does the thermal overload protection enhance safety?
A: The built-in thermal overload protection safeguards the self-priming pump against overheating, minimizing equipment malfunction risks and ensuring safe operation throughout extended experimental sessions.
Q: What are the primary usage benefits for engineering students and instructors?
A: This apparatus supports hands-on learning in chemical reaction engineering by simulating industrial plug flow conditions. Its ease of use, accurate digital measurements, and versatility in experiment design help students and instructors conduct meaningful, reproducible studies.