Continuous Distillation
The DVI/100 from Pignat is a compact, glassware-based continuous distillation unit designed for hands-on instruction in chemical and process engineering fundamentals. Ideal for university and technical education, this mini pilot system simulates industrial distillation using a thermosiphon boiler and a bubble cap tray column to demonstrate heat and mass transfer concepts.
Students can explore real-world operational techniques, including thermal and mass balance calculations, overflow condition analysis, and the influence of operating parameters like reflux ratio and feed rate. The unit provides clear visual access to each stage of the distillation process, reinforcing both theoretical and practical learning outcomes.
Curriculum Highlights
- Study of continuous distillation processes
- Exploration of column hydrodynamics
- Determination of overflow conditions
- Calculation of mass and thermal balances
- Analysis of system yield and hold-up
- Hands-on control of reflux ratio and flow rate
DVI/300
The DVI/300 is an automated version of the DVI/100, featuring advanced process control and instrumentation. It includes a differential pressure transmitter and replaces the manual flowmeters with five flowrate transmitters and solenoid valves for feed, reflux, distillate, residue, and cooling water streams. These components enable automated process control via an integrated electrical cabinet equipped with a programmable controller and a touchscreen HMI for real-time supervision.
General Features:
- Glass boiler with heater and low-level detector
- Glass column (ND50) with 10 bubble cap trays
- External reflux and thermosiphon boiler operation
- Glass preheating coils and glass condenser
- Integrated cooling system with glass coil cooler
- Two 5-liter receivers (distillate and bottoms)
Instrumentation:
- 4 x Pt100Ω temperature probes
- Differential pressure transmitter
- 3 x flowmeters for liquid streams
- Level sensor with vibrating blades
- Sampling valves for in-process analysis
Utilities Required:
- Electrical Supply: 100–240 V, 1Φ, 50/60 Hz
- Water Supply: 500 L/h
Pumps:
- Magnetic feed pump with bypass valve
- Magnetic distillate and column bottom pumps
System Operation:
- Feed system for water/methanol mixtures
- Flow control and preheating prior to column entry
- Boiler with selectable fill/drain operations
- Thermodynamic control via temperature and flow rate
- Sampling points for determining mass balance
Dimensions & Weight:
- Dimensions: 65 x 27.5 x 45.3 in
- Weight: 330 lbs









