Stirred tank reactors can be operated continuously or discontinuously. Discontinuously operated stirred tank reactors are mostly used if the product quantities to be produced are small or the reactions are slow. Continuous stirred tank reactors enable the reliable production of large product quantities with a consistent quality.

CE 310.01 is part of a device series that enables experiments with different reactor types. In conjunction with the supply unit CE 310, it is possible to examine the function and behaviour of a stirred tank reactor in continuous and discontinuous operation. The supply unit CE 310 has a heating water circuit as well as all necessary connections, pumps, tanks for reactants and a product tank.

CE 310.01 is mounted onto the supply unit and held by 2 pins in position. Quick-release couplings enable easy connection of the reactor to the supply unit.

In continuous operation, two pumps on the supply unit deliver the reactants into the reactor. A stirrer ensures a homogeneous mixture and thus increases the direct contact of the reactants. The product is formed by reaction of the reactants. The mixture of product and unconverted reactants leaves the reactor through an overflow and is delivered into a tank of the supply unit.

The height of the overflow is variable. The reactor volume is therefore adjustable. The retention time of the reactants in the reactor is adjusted via the speed of the pumps on the supply unit. A chambered bottom in the stirred tank reactor serves as the heat exchanger to examine the influence of the temperature on the reaction.

The conversion in the stirred tank reactor is determined by measuring the conductivity. A combined conductivity/temperature sensor is included in CE 310. Conductivity and temperature are digitally displayed on the switch cabinet of the supply unit. In addition, the measured values can be captured and processed with data acquisition software (included in CE 310).