FALLING FILM EVAPORATOR
A Falling Film Evaporator (FFE) is a specialized evaporator used for the efficient concentration of liquids and heat-sensitive materials. It operates by forming a thin film of liquid on the inner walls of vertical tubes, where heat transfer and evaporation occur as the liquid flows downward under gravity.
KEY FEATURES OF FALLING FILM EVAPORATOR
1. Thin Film Evaporation: Liquid forms a thin film on heated surfaces, enhancing heat transfer and minimizing thermal degradation.
2. Vertical Design: Liquid flows downward by gravity, requiring minimal pumping.
3. Low Residence Time: Ensures short contact time with heated surfaces, protecting heat-sensitive products.
4. Multiple Effects: Often integrated with multiple stages (effects) to recycle energy and improve efficiency.
5. Vacuum Operation: Operates under reduced pressure to lower boiling points, ideal for temperature-sensitive materials.
Applications of falling flim evaporator
1. Food and Beverage Industry:Â Concentration of fruit juices, dairy products, and sugar solutions.
2. Pharmaceuticals: Concentration of heat-sensitive ingredients.
3. Chemical Industry: Evaporation of solvents in chemical processing.
4. Desalination: Removal of water from saline solutions in brine concentration.
5. Paper and Pulp Industry: Concentration of black liquor for energy recovery.
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Technical Specifications
1. Heat Transfer Area: Typically ranges from 5 m² to 1000 m² or more, depending on capacity.
2. Operating Pressure: Vacuum down to 0.1 mbar for heat-sensitive applications.
3. Material of Construction: Stainless Steel (304, 316): For hygienic and general use.
4. Specialized Alloys (Hastelloy, Titanium): For corrosive or high-temperature materials.
5. Temperature Range: Operates up to 120°C or higher, depending on material sensitivity.
6. Capacity: Can handle feed flow rates ranging from a few liters per hour to several tons per hour.