Method and apparatus for obstacle-free high-vacuum distillation

摘要

PICT:0607019/III/1 PICT:0607019/III/2 A vacuum unobstructed path distillation apparatus is provided with several condensing elements arranged so as to form converging passages in the space between the distilling surface and the exhaust conduit, the convergence being in the direction of the latter. The arrangement renders the apparatus partially self-evacuating. In a preferred embodiment, the condensing elements 36 comprise hollow aerofoilshaped members disposed vertically within, but spaced apart from, a rotatable distilling surface 22 in the shape of a truncated cone. Conduit 10 is connected to a source of vacuum, heating element 32 is put into operation, surface 22 is caused to rotate counter-clockwise, and cooling fluid is passed through the condensing elements by means of conduits 42, 40, 44. Degassed distilland is introduced through conduit 30 and is spread, by centrifugal force, as a thin film over the hot surface 22. The vapours evolved pass, together with gases, into venturi-shaped passages 38 where the vapours condense on the walls of the elements 36, while the gases pass on to conduit 10. The condensates are collected by gutter 48 and finally withdrawn from the still through conduit 58. Undistilled residue is withdrawn through conduit 28. Alternatively, a still with a stationary vaporizing surface may be employed.