Chemical Process Engineering & Simulation

Crystallizer Design Procedure:         The following steps are outlined for the design of a crystallizer of the Forced Circulation (FC) type. Although these calculations are limited to that style, the procedure has general application to other types of equipment. Choose the type of crystallizer that best meets the requirements for (a) product size , (b) product quality , (c) process economics , and (d) scale of operation. See Table 1 for a list of the general characteristics of crystallization equipment. Make a material balance , heat balance , and flow sheet .  Decide what retention time is required to make the required product, (a) by experience, and (b) from growth and nucleation rate data. Size the body on the basis of the controlling volume required for crystal retention with due consideration for the minimum cross-section required for vapor (evaporation) release. Size the heat-transfer surface (for evaporative types) a...

Guidelines For Crystallizer Selection: This is part one of a two-part feature that examines the fundamentals and discusses crystallization equipment selection and design. Part one focuses on the basics, providing guidance for crystallization equipment selection. Part two will focus on the crystallizer design procedure. The guidelines for crystallizer selection and operation in various chemical industry processes are discussed below. Information Required For Evaluation:         Before a potential crystallizer application can be properly evaluated, it is necessary to have certain basic information regarding the material to be crystallized and its mother liquor. Typical solubility curves are shown in Figure 1. Is the material a hydrated or anhydrous material? What is the solubility of the compound in water or any other solvents under consideration and how does this change with temperature and pH? Are there other compounds in the...