gea extraction brochure tcm30 23532

GEA Mechanical Equipment / GEA Westfalia Separator

ExtractionComponents, systems and installationsfrom GEA Westfalia Separator

Liquids to Value

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GEA Westfalia Separator

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Contents 4 1. Introduction

4 1.1 Fundamentalaspectsofextraction

6 2. ExtractionTypes

6 2.1 Antibiotics

Directextraction–totalyieldupto98%

7 2.2 Statins

Directextractionforhi-techdrugs

8 2.3 Steroids/hormones

Obtainingestrogenandsimilarsubstances

9 2.4 Plantextracts

Gentleextractionforsensitiveactive

ingredients

10 2.5 Polycarbonate

Polymerextraction/washingprocesses

11 2.6 Pectin

Fromcitrusfruitstosettingagent

13 3. CentrifugalExtraction

13 3.1 Mixers

14 3.1.1 Centrifugalmixer

14 3.1.2 Integratedmixerinthebowlhead

15 3.2 Centrifuges

16 3.3 Liquid-liquidextraction

16 3.3.1 Separatorwithsolid-wall

disc-typebowl

17 3.3.2 Separatorwithself-cleaning

disc-typebowl

18 3.3.3 Driveconceptsforseparators

19 3.4 Solid-liquid-liquidextraction

19 3.4.1 Extractiondecanters

20 3.5 Solid-liquidextraction

20 3.5.1 Clarifyingdecanters

20 3.5.2 Clarifyingseparators

21 3.5.2 WestfaliaSeparator®varipond®–

reliablemasteringphaseseparation

21 3.5.3 Innovativedriveconcepts

fordecanters

23 3.6 Alternativeprocesses:

Filtrateextractionordirectextraction

23 3.6.1 Filtrateextraction:

Antibiotics

24 3.6.2 Directextraction

25 4. Explosion-ProtectedCentrifuges

27 5. CeramicMembraneFiltration–

Ultra-andMicro-FineClarification

28 6. AutomationSystems–PlugandPlay

29 7. SpecialMaterials

30 8. CentralProcessEngineering–

theReliableBasisforDecision-Making

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Theterm“extraction”isderivedfromtheLatinword“extrahere.” “Ex”specifies thedirection,i.e.,outof,and“trahere”describestheaction,namely drawing or removing. Extraction isdefinedastheprocessofremovingasubstanceorseveralsubstances fromanother substance.Theprocess isextremely important inawiderange of technical applications, for instancebiotechnology, the pharmaceutical and foodindustriesaswellasenvironmentalprotection.Extractionisaseparatingprocesswhichhastheadvantageoflowenergyconsumption.

Overall, particularly gentle processes arecharacteristicofthese“lifesciences”methods.Inbiotechnologyproductioninstallations, theprocessof separating thevaluablesubstancesfrom the biosuspension and the subsequentpurificationofsuchsubstanceswiththeaidofextractionarekeyaspects.Sensitivesubstancesarefrequentlyprocessedinbioprocesses.Theirstructure and biological activity require verylowtolerances,particularlywithregardtotheprocessingstageofextraction.Thishas tobeadjustedtobebroughtintolinewiththeambientconditions.ThevitalprocessparametersinthisrespectarethepHvalue,thesaltconcentrationandthetemperature,aswellasthestructureofthevaluablesubstance.

Innumerousareasofapplication,extractionisthemoreefficient,moreselectiveandlessexpensivealternativecomparedwithcompetingseparatingmethodssuchasdistillation,evaporationandmembranetechnology.Extractionhasbecomeestablished inconjunctionwiththefollowingprocessconditions:

Minorboilingpointdifferencesofthe componentstobeseparatedoraceotropic separation,e.g.,separationofisomers, aromaticsubstancesoraliphates

Heat-sensitiveorunstablesubstances,e.g., antibiotics

Non-volatilesubstances,recoveryand purificationofcatalystsorheavymetals

Mixtureswithinorganiccomponentswhichwouldresultinencrustationofevaporator

surfacesinconjunctionwiththethermal separatingprocess

Separationoflowmasscontentsofa componentwhichisnotreadilyvolatile

Introduction

The tasksofextractioncoverawiderangeofapplications. In the field of hydrometallurgy,extractionmethodsareusedforprocessingore,recoveringmetalsfromwastesludgesandforpurification.

Environmental protection is an area ofapplication for extraction which is becomingmoreandmoreimportant.

1.1 Fundamental aspects of extractionThe extraction agent or solvent is extremelyimportant for carrying out an extractionprocess,asthevaluablesubstance(theextractE), is released with the aid of an extractionagent. The nature of the phases which areinvolved characterize the extraction processas solid-liquid extraction or liquid-liquidextraction.

Liquid-liquidextractionisusedforseparatingvitaminmixtures.Anewmethod isalsousedforpurifyingphosphoricacid.Theprincipleofliquid-liquidextractionisillustratedinFigure1.

A fundamental criterion for liquid-liquidextractionisthattheextractionagentandtheliquid in which the extract is dissolved [thecarriermedium(T)]arenotperfectlymiscible.Inexcessofacertainconcentration,twophasesformwithaclearlydefinedboundary.Afamiliarexample is themixingbehaviorofwater andbutylacetate.

The two phases are known as the extract (E)phaseandtheraffinate(R)phase.Theextractphase is the phase into which the extract istransferredfromthecarriermedium.Ideally,itconsistsexclusivelyoftheextractionagentandtheextract,whereastheraffinatephaseconsistsonlyofthecarriermedium.Apartfrombeingless than perfectly miscible with the carriermedium,theextractionagenthastomeetfurtherrequirements.

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Thesecriteriaincludethefollowing: Capacitytoabsorbalargeamountof

extract(highcapacity) Highdegreeofselectivity Minimumcostforprocessingtheextract Highavailabilityandlowprice Lowlevelofcorrosion Lowor,ifpossible,notoxicity

Of the above-mentioned requirements,capacityandselectivityareofprimaryinterest.However, the corrosion properties as well asthetoxicitylevelsarealsobecomingmoreandmoresignificant,particularlywhenextractionmethodsareusedinthefoodanddrugfield(lifesciences)withrespecttoGMPguidelines.

Capacityisameasureofquantity,i.e.,itspecifiestheamountofextractwhichcanbeabsorbedbytheextractionagent.Selectivityisameasureofquality.Itexpressestheefficiencywithwhichthesolventdistributesthevaluablesubstancesover the various phases within a separatingstage.

Thehigherthecapacity,thegreatertheefficiencywithwhichthevolumestreamscanbeadjusted.Assuming that volume streams remainunchanged, a solvent with a high capacity isabletoabsorbmoreextractthanasolventwithalowercapacity.

Thehighertheselectivity,thelowerthenumberof separating stages. This means that theinstallationor the separatingdevicebecomessmaller.When the choice of solvent is beingconsidered,ithastobekeptinmindthatthereis frequentlyan inverse relationshipbetweencapacity and selectivity. In other words, highcapacity is frequently accompanied by lowselectivity,andviceversa.Thechoiceofsolventisfrequentlyanoptimizationprocessinwhichacompromisehastobefoundbetweenselectivityandcapacity.

Fig. 1 Example of liquid-liquid extraction

Before extraction

Solvent (LM)

Liquid mixture(X + Y)

Carrier liquid Y(raffinate phase)

Extraction solution LM + X(extract phase)

Mixing

After extraction andseparation

Fig. 2 Various extraction agent / carrier substance mixtures

2.1 AntibioticsDirect extraction – total yield up to 98%Antibiotics form the most important groupof drugs in the fight against infectiousdiseases. Representing around 13% of totalpharmaceutical consumption, they have thehighest market share of any pharmaceuticalproduct.Thepharmaceuticalindustryextractsantibioticsfromfermentationbroths.

GEAWestfaliaSeparatorsupportsthisprocesswith special decanters resulting in efficientdirectextractionwhichissimultaneouslykindtotheenvironment.Extractionalwaysconsistsofmixingandseparating,processeswhichcanbeviewedascomplex.ThisiswhyGEAWestfaliaSeparator developed a patented extractiondecanterforextractingactiveingredientswhichcombines the two process steps, mixing andseparating,inasinglemachine.

Thisdecanterallowssuspensionswithahighsolids content to be processed.This propertymakes it suitable for direct extraction ofantibioticsfromtheculturesolution,whichhasahighmyceliumcontent.Filtration,whichusedtobeessential,istherebyrenderedobsolete,andthecontinuousprocessavoidslossofvaluablematerial,aproblemassociatedwithfiltration.

Thisincreasestotalyieldtoupto98%.Comparedto conventional counter-current extraction,directextractionissignificantlylessexpensivebecausefilteraidsarenolongerrequired.Thefermentationbrothisnotdilutedbyfilterwashwater,reducingtherequirementforsolventandtheriskofinfection.Asafinalconsequence,thenewmethodalsoreduceswastewaterpollutionandthevolumeofwastewaterproduced.

Fig. 3 Extraction of antibiotics

Filtration

Counter-currentliquid-liquid extraction

Continuous directextraction using decanter

Precipitation

CentrifugationWashingCentrifugation

Drying

Raw salt

Liquid-liquidextractors

FermentationMold fungus

Mycelium and contamination

Nutrient solution

Counter-currentextraction decanter

or

2. Extraction Types

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2.2 StatinsDirect extraction for hi-tech drugsDirect extraction with decanters from GEAWestfalia Separator plays an important rolein pharmaceuticals other than antibiotics.Hi-tech drugs such as statins are alsoobtained by this method. In pharmacology,a statin is a drug belonging to the class ofsubstances known as HMG-CoA reductaseinhibitors.AsHMG-CoAisanintermediateofhuman cholesterol synthesis, statins such asLovastatin are used primarily as cholesterol-lowering agents (CSE inhibitors). In additionto fat metabolism disorders, statins are alsosuccessfully used to treat diseases of ourmodernsocietysuchasdiabetes (Pravastatin)or fungal infections (Nystatin).GEAWestfaliaSeparator has developed extraction decantersand polishing separators which can be usedto obtain these statins economically throughdirectextraction.

Lovastatinwaslicensedasacholesterol-loweringagentin1987andsincethenhasbeenoneofthemostimportantdrugsofthiskind.TheflowchartshowsthecomplexprocessinvolvedinthedirectextractionofLovastatinfromthefermentationbroth. Extraction decanters operated on thecounter-current principle are used in fourconsecutive stages. A polishing separatorobtainstheenrichedextract.Themachinesaredesigned to be gas-tight in accordance withcurrentexplosionprotectionguidelines,withtheresultthattheysatisfyallsafetyspecifications.ThisversatileprocesscanbeusedinasimilarwaytoobtainPravastatinandNystatin.

Fig. 4 Lovastatin extraction

1st stageextraction decanter

Fermentation brothButyl acetateWetting agent

First-stage extract

Alkali water

Extracted broth

Sulfuric acidButyl acetateWetting agent

Butyl acetateWetting agent

Butyl acetateWetting agent

2nd stageextraction decanter

Polishing separator Enriched extract

4th stageextraction decanter

3rd stageextraction decanter

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2.3 Steroids / hormonesObtaining estrogen and similar substancesSteroidsareendogenoushormonesasare thesex hormones estrogen and testosterone andthe hormones of the adrenal cortex, cortisoland aldosterone. They are used for hormonetherapyaswellasinantirheumatic,antiarthriticand muscle-building preparations. EfficientproductionisprovidedbyextractiondecantersfromGEAWestfaliaSeparator.

In order to produce steroid hormones forpharmaceuticalapplicationsoutsidethebody,weusedirectextractionfromspecialnutrientsolutions.IncontinuousdirectextractionfromGEAWestfaliaSeparator,thefermentednutrientsolution is treated by liquid-liquid extractionor in a counter-current process. Followingprecipitation,concentration,crystallizationanddryingoftheextract,thesteroidhormonesareavailableintheformofarawsaltandcanbeprocessedbythepharmaceuticalindustry.

Fig. 5 Obtaining steroids

Filtration or

Counter-currentliquid-liquid extraction

Continuous directextraction using decanter

Precipitation

Crystallizedproduct

Concentration /precipitation

Drying

Raw salt

Liquid-liquidextraction

FermentationMold fungus

Mycelium and foreign substances

Nutrient solution

Counter-currentextraction decanter

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2.4 Plant extractsGentle extraction for sensitive active ingredientsThere are approximately 500,000 species ofhigher plants around the world, of whicharound70,000serveasabasisforplant-baseddrugs. Ingredients are extremely sensitivesubstanceswhichhavetobetreatedgentlybythebiotechnicalprocessused toobtain them.Extractiondecantersandpolishingseparatorsfrom GEA Westfalia Separator are perfectlydesignedforthispurpose.

The structure and biological activity of thesubstances mean that very specific mediumconditions have to be used. The extractionprocessisparticularlysuitableforthis,buthastobepreciselyadaptedtosuitprocessparameterssuchaspH,temperature,concentrationandthedelicatestructureofthevaluablesubstances.

Theefficacyofaphytopharmaceuticalproductalsodependsonadequateandconsistentdosageoftheplantextract,soindustrialstandardizationis important. Plant extracts are defined asconcentrated preparations of liquid, solid orviscousconsistency.Asarule,theyareobtained

bymaceration(extractiontoequilibriumwithwateroralcohol)orpercolation(extractiontoexhaustionwithwateroralcohol).Akeyfactorin production is selection of the extractionagent.Water-soluble(hydrophilic)constituentscanbeextractedwithwater,while fat-soluble(lipophilic) constituents are extracted froma particular part of the plant with alcohol orothersolvents.

Compared to competing separationprocessessuchasdistillation,concentrationandmembranetechnology,extractionhasprovedmoreefficientintermsofprocesstechnologyandmoreselectiveandcheaperinnumerousapplications.Itisnotonlyextremelygentle,butisalsocharacterizedby a low energy requirement. The extractiondecantersandpolishingseparators fromGEAWestfaliaSeparatorusedinthepharmaceuticalindustry cover all processes and modes ofoperation. Liquid-liquid extraction can berealized, as can liquid-liquid-solid and liquid-solidextractions.Figure6showsatypicalplantextractionprocess.

Fig. 6 Plant extraction

Phase mixing

Extract

Solid

Extract

Solid for recovering solvent

Solvent

Medium fromfermentation Solvent

1st separatingdecanter

2nd separatingdecanter

Phase mixing

Polishing separator

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2.5 PolycarbonatePolymer extraction / washing processesWhenthecompactdiscwasinvented25yearsago,itchangedstereosystems,recordshopsandturnedpolycarbonateintoaworldstar.Today,polycarbonatesare someof themostpopularplasticsasaresultoftheirexcellenttransparencyand impact resistant properties. They can befoundinnumerousapplicationssuchaselectro-technology, equipment construction, the carmakingindustryorformakingeyeglasslenses.

Separators are used in the phase boundarymethodintheproductionofpolycarbonateinwhichthepolycarbonate,afterthereaction,isdissolvedinanorganicsolvent.Asecondwaterphase contains dissolved salts and unwantedadditives. Pure polycarbonate is obtained bydistilling off the solvent after being washedelectrolyte-free.

Thewashingprocessiscarriedoutinamulti-stageprocesswithacidandcompletelydesalinatedwater.Separatorswithasolid-wallbowlareusedforseparatingthepolymersolutionandwashingliquidintheindividualwashingstages.

Stand-alonemachinesandcompletelinesTheaimistoachievenotonlyextremepuritybutalsominimumresidualwatercontentintheorganicphasetomeetthemarket’sincreasinglystringentproductqualityrequirements.Theseproductrequirementsaremetbyusingseparatortechnologyathighspeeds.Solid-wall,disc-typeseparatorsoftypeXTAandXTCareusedattheacidstage.Allproduct-contactingcomponentsaremadeofhighcorrosionresistantmaterials.Inadditiontothesestandalonemachines,GEAWestfalia Separator also supplies completeprocesslinesforwashing.

Fig. 7 Production of polycarbonate

Reactor

Caustic sodasolution

Catalyst acid

Outgoing air

Wastewater

Polycarbonatesolution

Demineral-ized water

HCl

NaOH

Bisphonel A, methylene chloride,phosgene and additives

Separator I

Separator III

Separator II

Separator IV

Separator V

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2.6 PectinFrom citrus fruits to setting agentPectin (from theGreek “pektos”=gel) occursin all higher plants. Citrus fruits occupy aspecialposition,astheyhaveanunusuallyhighconcentrationofpectinsubstancesintheflavedoandalbedo(about25%ofthemoistmassofthewholecitrusfruit).Thepectinobtainedfromthecitruspeelisusedmainlyasasettingagentinthefoodindustry,butalsoforpharmaceuticaland cosmetic products. Global production ofpurepectinisestimatedatabout35,000tonsofwhich70%comesfromcitruspeel.ThepectinprocessfromGEAWestfaliaSeparatorprovidestoday’s producers with an extraction processwhichisasgentleontheproductasitisefficient.

Followinganinitialtreatmentofthefreshpeelandstorageinmechanizedsilos,thedriedpeelismilledandfedintotheextractionprocess.

Thepectinsareextractedbyavarietyofacidswith a pH-value of 1 to 3, at a temperaturebetween65°Cand85°Candforanextractionperiodof0.5to6hours.Extractiondeliversarawextractwith0.3to1%pectin.Separatingthisviscoussolutionfromtheheavilyswollenand in somecasesdisintegratedpomacecakeis the key technical problem in the pectinindustry. In the pectin process from GEAWestfaliaSeparatorshowninFigure8,thistaskismanagedbycombininganumberofdecantersandafilterpress.Theextractthenrunsthroughtheseparatorandprecoatfiltrationbeforethepectin is precipitated using isopropanol. Theexcessprecipitant is then separatedbyagas-tightdecanteruntilonlydrypurecitruspectinwithgoodstoragepropertiesremains.

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Fig. 8 Obtaining pectin

Reaction tankpH = 1.5 – 3

Separator

TankpH = 2.2 T~ 65 ºC

Adsorber toremove color

Decanter,gas-tight

Screens

Filter press

Precoat filtration

Isopropanolprecipitation

Isopropanol

Isopropanol(recovery)

Precipitated pectin gel

Pectin fibers

Dryer

Decanter IIDecanter I Decanter III

Dried pectinRaw materialH2OHNO3

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Centrifugal extraction is the link betweenthermal andmechanicalprocess engineering.Thechoiceofsolventisbasedonthermodynamic

3. Centrifugal Extraction

andchemical/physicalprinciples,whereasthedesign of the centrifuge and the separatingprocessarebasedonmechanicalprinciples.

3.1 MixersAn extraction stage always consists of amixingunitandacentrifugeunit.Inthecaseof the mixing unit, there are two equipmentalternatives. First, the centrifugal mixer andsecond,theintegratedmixerinthebowlheadtheofseparators.

and higher overall yield qualities

to a large extent, avoid valuable substance decayShort contact time

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Advantages of centrifugal extraction fromGEA Westfalia Separator... ...so that you...

3.1.1 Centrifugal mixer (Figure 9)In the case of the centrifugal mixer, the twophases to be mixed are pumped jointly intoa rotating mixing drum (2), where they areacceleratedtothecircumferentialvelocityofthebowl.Thecentripetalpump(3)dischargestheliquidmixturefromthemixingdrum.Thetwophasesaremixedintensivelyinthechannelsofthecentripetalpump.Themixedliquidisthendischargedfromthemixerattheoutlet(4).Thepressureinthedischargelineisadjustedwiththe aid of a throttling valve. This affects thesuspensioninsuchawaythatthechannelsofthecentripetalpumpareimmersedunderthesurfaceofthesuspensionandpreventanyairintake. The hermetic version is the standardversionforgas-tightapplications.Aslideringpacking ensures a hermetic seal between thedrum and the hood. The slide ring packingconsistsofastainlesssteelhousingslideringandacounter-ringmadeofhardcarbon.

The output of the 3-phase AC motor istransferred directly from the horizontalmotor shaft to the mixer drum. The variablespeedmixerwithafrequencyconverterdriveis a further development of the original ZAmixer. In thissolution,a frequencyconvertercan be used for infinite electric adjustmentof phase mixing. The mixing characteristicscan be adjusted individually, which is ofgreat importance particularly in the case of“multipurpose”applications.Thedropsizeandthe required turbulencevaryasa functionofthe speed. The frequency converter enablestheperformanceofthemixertobeadjustedatanytime.

3.1.2 Integrated mixer in the bowl head (Figure 10)Besides the mixers installed upstream of thecentrifuges,itisalsopossibletohaveafacilityformixingtheextractphaseandraffinatephasetobe installed inside theactual separators.Amixture tobeseparated is fed in throughthefeed(1).Theextractphaseofthenextstageorthefreshextractionagent(4)ismixedwiththeheavyphaseseparatedintheseparator(theraffinate)inthecentripetalpump(5).Themixedphaseisdischargedfromtheseparatorattheoutlet(3).Theclarifiedextractphaseleavestheseparatorthroughthelightphasedischarge(2).Apartfromthefacilityformixinginthecentripetalpumpchamber, it is alsopossible for theextractionagent (4) tobeaddedto theraffinatedirectlybeforeitenterstheseparator.Theactualprocesswherebythetwophasesaremixedtakesplaceinthedistributorchamberofthebowl(6)undertheactionofcentrifugalforce.

1

2

4

5

6

3

Fig. 10 Section through the bowl of a solid-wallseparator with mixing device in the bowl head

Fig. 9 Drum of a centrifugal mixer in hermetic design, type ZA 40-67-905

1

1

4 3 2

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3.2 CentrifugesThere are various options available forthe extraction process, whereby theappropriate variant and the centrifuge tobe used is determined by the nature ofthephases.

Extraction

Liquid-liquid-solid

Extraction decanter

Multi-stage

Counter-current

Single-stage

Direct current

Liquid-solid

Clarifying decantercentrifugal clarifier

Liquid-liquid

Disc separator

Fig. 11 Overview of centrifugal extraction processes and equipment from GEA Westfalia Separator

Fig. 12 Overview: Solid content as a selection criterion for centrifugal extractors Suitable for light solvents Suitable for heavy solvents

Extraction process

Liquid-liquid Liquid-liquid-solid Liquid-solid

< 0.1 ÷ 7 ÷ 15 ÷ 60 ÷ 7 ÷ 60

Separator with solid-wall bowl

Self-cleaning separator

Self-cleaning clarifier

Nozzle-type separator

Clarifying decanter

Extraction decanter

Phases Solids content in % (by vol.) Centrifugal extractors

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3.3 Liquid-liquid extractionDisc-typeseparatorswithsolid-wallbowlsandself-cleaningdisc-typebowlsareusedforliquid-liquidextractionprocesses.

3.3.1 Separator with solid-wall disc-type bowl (Figure 13)Theseparatorisequippedwithasolid-wallbowl.Theproductflowsthroughthehydrohermeticfeed,whichminimizestheshearingforcesforsensitiveproducts,andisbrokendownintoalightphaseandaheavyphaseinthediscstack.The separated components are dischargedunderpressurebymeansofthecorrespondingcentripetalpumpsthroughoutlets.Theuseofadiscstackincreasestheequivalentclarificationarea ∑ of the separator many times overcomparedwithacentrifugewiththesamevolumewhichconsistsofasinglechamber.Dependingon the particular product characteristics, thebowl can be equipped with discharge boreholessothatthesuspensioncanbedrainedformaintenancepurposesfromthebowlwhenthemachinehascometoastandstill.Theadvantageof this arrangement is that the maintenancepersonneldonothavetocomeintoexcessivecontact with the process media. At the sametime, CIP (cleaning-in-place) is also possiblewithout thebowlbeingopened.The selectedpair of centripetal pumps also enables theseparatingzonetobeadjustedinanoptimummanner even when there is a major densitydifferencebetweentheproducts.Theseparatingzonecanbeadjusteddependingonthevolumeoftheproductsinvolved.Theseparatingzoneis adjusted by adapting the regulating rings.Theseregulatingringsalsoguaranteeextremelyefficientseparationevenwhentherearemajorfluctuationsinthecompositionofthephases.

Inthegas-tightversion,whichisalwaysessentialwhenhandlingsolvents,theseparatorisequippedwithexplosion-protectedcomponents,andthebrake chamber is in a flame-proof enclosure.Theframechamber,sealingchamberandgearchamberareequippedwithconnectionsforinertgasblanketing.Anexternalcontrolunitregulatesandmonitorsthepressureandtheflowstothecorresponding chambers for all operationsoftheseparator.Thesolid-walldisc-typeseparatorisusedprimarilyforseparatingliquidmixtureswithnooronlyminimalsolidcontents(lessthan<0.1%byvol.).Otherwise,itwouldbenecessaryfor operation to be interrupted frequentlyin order to remove the separated solidsfrom the separator either manually or usingflushingprograms.

Fig. 13 Section through a bowl of a separatorwith solid-wall bowl

Feed

Heavy phase discharge

Light phase discharge

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3.3.2 Separator with self-cleaningdisc-type bowl (Figure 14)Unlikethesituationwiththesolid-walldisc-typeseparator, self-cleaning separators are able todischargetheseparatedsolidsatfullbowlspeed.Thismeans that theyarealsoable tooperatewithproductswithasolidscontentofupto7%(byvol.).However,ithastobekeptinmindthatseparatorsareliquid-orientedmachinesandarenotusedprimarilyforremovingsolids.

Fig. 14 Section through the bowl of a separator with a self-cleaning disc-type bowl

Fig. 15 Installation with type XSC 35 separators

Feed

Heavy phase discharge


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3.3.3 Drive concepts for separatorsDifferentdriveconceptsarealsoavailablefortheseparators.Twodriveconceptsareavailable:flat-beltanddirectdrive.

Flat-beltdriveInthissolution,themotorpoweristransferredtothespindlebymeansofanantistaticflat-belt.Oilcirculationlubricationensuresthatbearingsarecontinuously lubricated.Compared to thegeardrive,whichisstillusedinoldermodels,themotorpoweristransferredwithupto10%lesspowerloss.Thebeltitselfcanbereplacedquicklyandinaservicefriendlymannerwithoutthe bowl or motor having to be dismantledbeforehand.

DirectdrivesystemThe direct drive is an example of intelligentsimplification in separating technology.Wherever the upper limit for gear loads hasbeenreachedorbeltdrivesareundesirable,ourseparators with direct drive permit virtuallyloss-free power transmission. This boost inperformance simultaneously reduces thecostsofenergy,wear,maintenanceandspace.Therequiredpower is transmitteddirectly tothebowlspindlebya3-phaseACmotorwithfrequency converter control via a torsionallyelasticclutch.Thespindleassemblyissupportedbyrubber-metalcushions.Thismakespossiblelow-vibrationrunningathighbowlspeeds.

Ataglance: Extremelyspace-savingdesign Avoidanceofhousingdeformation Highperformanceinput Lowmaintenancerequirement Lessparts Reducednoice

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3.4 Solid-liquid-liquid extraction

3.4.1 Extraction decantersDecantersareaveryefficientmeansofcarryingout liquid-liquidextractionwithahighsolidscontent.GEAWestfaliaSeparatorhasdevelopedacontinuouscounter-currentdecanterspecificallyfor such applications. The counter-currentextractiondecanter is ahorizontal scroll-typecentrifugewithacylindrical/conicalsolid-wallbowl.Ascrolladaptedtothebowlwallrotateswithadifferentialspeedinsidethebowl.

Thesedecantersareabletoextractvaluablesub-stancesdirectlyoutofthesuspensions.Atypicalarea of application for these machines is theextraction of antibiotics from fermentationsolutions.Thesuspensiontobeextracted,e.g.,fermentationbroth,flowsthroughtheexternalcentrallyarrangedinlettubeandisfedintothemachineviadistributorslotsinthescrollofthebowl.Thesuspensionthenentersthecounter-current extractionzoneof thebowl,where it

flows to the conical end of the bowl via theseparating disc against the flow direction ofthe extraction agent (counter-current effect).The extracted suspension (raffinate) is thendischargedundergravity.Thesedimentedsolidsare conveyed by the scroll which rotates at adifferentialspeedinrelationtothebowl,andaredischargedundergravitytogetherwiththeraffinate.Theextractionagent (solvent) flowsthroughtheinternalcentrallyarrangedinlettubeintothedistributor,whereitentersthecounter-currentextractionzonethroughapertures.Theextraction agent flows to the cylindrical endof the bowl against the flow direction of thesuspensiontobeextracted.Itisthendischargedunderpressureviathecentripetalpump.Bothphases,namelytheextractandtheraffinate,arefirstmixedandthenflowthroughtheclarifyingzones.Thisenablesthephasestobeseparatedefficiently.Inordertopermitsafeoperationinexplosivesurroundings,thedecanterhasbeenprovidedwithagas-tightdesignandcanalsobeblanketedwithinertgas.

Fig. 16 Section through an extraction decanter

Extract Extractionagent

Suspension

Raffinate

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3.5 Solid-liquid extraction

3.5.1 Clarifying decantersBefore entering the decanter, the extractionproduct, which has previously beencomminuted,brokendownorgrounddown,ismixedintensivelywiththeextractionagentinaseparatemixer.Theinletthroughwhichthesuspensionflowsintothedecanterisarrangedaxiallyinrelationtotherotatingbowl.Thesolid-wallbowlhasacylindricalsectionforefficientclarificationoftheliquidandaconicalsectionfor dewatering the solids. The scroll, whichrotateswithaslightdifferentialspeedrelativetothebowl,conveysthesolids(extractionresidue)to the solids discharge at the conical end ofthebowl.

Theextract isconveyedtothecylindricalendof the bowl where it is discharged via acentripetalpump.

3.5.2 Clarifying separatorsInthecaseofsolid-liquidextractionprocesseswithalowsolidscontent(uptoapprox.7%byvol.), clarifiers with a self-cleaning disc-typebowl can be used as an alternative solution.Becauseof theirhigher speedsandclarifyingarea,thesemachinesprovideahigherclarifyingperformancethanisthecasewithdecanters.

Fig. 17 Section through a clarifying decanter

Suspension

Solids discharge


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3.5.2 Westfalia Separator® varipond® – reliable mastering phase separation

Theponddepthinthedecanterisanimportantparameter with which the separating zonebetween the light and heavy phase can beinfluenced.TheWestfaliaSeparatorvaripondsystem gives the user the opportunity toalter the pond depth to adapt to specificconditions during ongoing operation. AWestfalia Separator varipond disc dips intothe clarified light phase directly in front oftheregulatingring.Thisdiscformsahermeticchamber (“Westfalia Separator varipond”chamber) together with the centripetalpump, to which pressure can be appliedthrough a hole in the feed tube. Since theliquid level between the Westfalia Separatorvariponddiscandtheregulatingringisdefinedbytheoverflowdiameter,overpressureintheWestfaliaSeparatorvaripondchamberhastheeffectofenlargingtheponddepthinthedecanterbowl in accordance with the principle of thecommunicatingtubes.Asaresult,theseparatingzone between the light and heavy phase isdisplacedoutwards.Theprocessoperatorhasa tool that permits precise adjustment of thepurity of the heavy and light phases. This isindispensable for efficient and cost-savingdecanteroperation,particularlyinthecaseofchangingfeedconditions.In the case of gastight decanters, theWestfalia Separator varipond system has theadvantage that it requires no mechanicallyadjustable parts such as rotary leadthroughs.Therefore,itprovidesahighlevelofprotectionagainstdischargingharmfulgases.

3.5.3 Innovative drive concepts for decanters

Flexibleprocessmanagementwithsimultaneousmaximumavailabilityareessentialrequirementsformoderndriveconcepts.Thevarietyofprocessengineering applications in which decantersfromGEAWestfaliaSeparatorareusedrequiresdifferentdriveconcepts.Thisistheonlywaytomeetthecorrespondingproductrequirementsin an optimum manner. The product linetherefore includes drive systems with andwithoutthepossibilityofsimpleregulationofthedifferentialspeed.Therequirementsforthemachineandprocess,aswellascustomerwishesdeterminewhattypeofdriveisused.Inthecaseof decanters which are used in the chemicalindustry,flexibleandpreciseregulationofthedifferential speed is particularly important.Thisistheonlywaytoachieveextremelyhighsolidconcentrationsandthushighseparatingefficiency.The2-geardriveandthedifferentialgeardrivehavebecomeestablishedinpractice.

2-geardriveThe advantage of the 2-gear drive whichhas been developed and patented byGEA Westfalia Separator is the facility forregulatingthescrolldrive.Thedifferentialspeedisadaptedautomaticallyandextremelypreciselyasafunctionofthescrolltorque–andthusasa function of the solids content in the bowl.Thesolidsaredischargedfromthebowlwithaconstantconcentrationand inanextremelydrystate.The2-geardrivesareusedwheneverthevolumeofsolidsisnotconstant,whenthesolidsaredifficulttoconveyandwhenveryhighrequirementsareapplicablewithregardtotheresidualwatercontentofthesolids.

Fig. 18 Westfalia Separator® varipond®

Fig. 19 2-gear drive

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DifferentialgeardriveThe differential gear drive is recommendedwhenever it is necessary to automaticallyregulatethescrollspeedinadditiontoregulatingthebowlspeed.Thiscanbeachievedbymeansof twogears.Thesecondarymotordrives thecentralinputshaftandgeneratesthedifferentialspeedproportionallytoitsownspeed.Asecondinputshaftwithoutanyspeedisconnectedtothehousing.Thismeansthatthedifferentialspeedisnotdependentonthebowlspeed.Differentialgeardrivesareusedprimarilyinthelowerrangeofthedifferentialspeeds.

Fig. 20 Differential gear drive

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Fig. 21 2-stage extraction, direct current process

Nutrient solution

Aeration

Spore emulsion

Starterfermenter

1. Discseparator

Buffer tank

Basket centrifuge

Penicillin raw salt

Effluent

Fresh solvent

Biomass

Wash water

Vacuum drum filter

2. Discseparator

Acid or caustic

Demulsifier

3.6 Alternative processes: Filtrate extraction or direct extractionBoth processes are suitable for extractingantibiotics (e.g., scraps) from a fermentationsolution.Thefiltrateextractionprocessmakes

use of disc-type separators with an upstreamfiltrationsystem.Thedirectextractionprocess,alsoknownas“wholebrothextraction,”makesuseofdirectextractiondecanters.

3.6.1 Filtrate extraction: AntibioticsIn the first step, the aqueous biomass whichcontainsthefungalmyceliumischannelledviaavacuumbowlfilterandseparated.Thefiltercakewhichformsonthebowliswashedwithwaterinordertoachieveamaximumyieldofpenicillin.Subsequently,sulfuricacidisaddedinordertochangethepHvalueinsuchawaythattheconditionsformasstransferareoptimized.Theadditionofawettingagentensureshigherseparating efficiency during the extractionprocess.Theaqueousfermentationsolutionfromwhichmostofthesolidshavebeenremovedisthenconveyed to the firstdisc-typeseparatorinthe2-stagecounter-currentextractionstage.Here,itismixedwiththesolventfromthesecondseparator which already contains penicillin.Thesolventwhichisdischargedfromthefirstseparator is subsequently precipitated andprocessed incentrifugesuntil theprovisional

end product – penicillin raw salt – isobtained in the purity required by themanufacturer. The maximum efficiencyof the two separators is equivalent to thatof two theoretical stages, and is 94 – 96%measuredagainstthefeedtothefirstseparator.However, the filtration stageupstreamof theextractionstagemeansthatthismethodsuffersseveraldisadvantagescomparedwiththedirectextractionprocess:

Increasedriskofcontaminationduetouseofwashwater

Increaseduseofsolventresultinginhigherenergycostsforrecoveringvaluablesubstancefromtheextractionsolution(morewashwater moreraffinate moresolvent highercosts)

Lossofvaluablesubstance(>5%) Onlyfilterablemyceliumstructuresfrom

fermentationcanbeprocessed.

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3.6.2 Direct extractionThe use of extraction decanters offers majoradvantages. The decanter is able to extractsuspensionswithasolidscontentofupto60%(byvol.),whichmeansthatonlyasinglestageisnecessaryforseparatingthesolids(thefungalmycelium) from the fermentation solutionandforextractingthevaluablesubstance(theantibiotic). This means that the prefiltrationstagecanbeeliminatedandthattheextractionstagecanbeinstalleddirectlydownstreamofthefermentationstage.Sulfuricacidandawettingagentareaddedto the fermentationsolution,whichisthenprocessedinthe2-stagecounter-currentprocess.

Theyieldoftwoextractiondecantersoperatedin a counter-current arrangement is 95 –96%. Laboratory trials have demonstratedthat, depending on the particular substancesystem, a theoretical stage coefficient of upto 1.7 per extraction decanter is possible. Inordertoseparateveryfinesolidparticles, thesolvent(extract)whichisdischargedfromthefirst extractiondecanter canbepolished inadownstreamdisc-type separator.This enablesextremelypureextracttobeobtained.

Fig. 22 2-stage direct extraction with extraction decanters

Nutrient solution

Aeration

Spore emulsion

Fresh solvent

Acid or caustic

1. Extractiondecanter

2. Extractiondecanter

Demulsifier

Enrichedsolvent

Disc separatorExtract polishing

Buffer tank Basket centrifuge

Effluent

Biomass

Penicillin raw salt

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Centrifuges are used in the chemical industryfor clarifying and separating flammablepharmaceutical liquids. Theoretically, suchapplicationscanresultincriticalconcentrationsofsolventvaporsandoxygeninsidethecentrifugethatcancauseexplosionsorfires.However,thevaporsmustalsobepreventedfromescapingsoasnottoposearisktothehealthoftheoperators.Boththeseriskscanbepreventedbyusinggas-tightcentrifugesfromGEAWestfaliaSeparator.

No sparks, no static charges, no hot bearings–thetestcriteriaofthestrictEuropeanATEXstandardswhich are implemented in allGEAWestfalia Separator explosion-protectedcentrifuges. In addition, before the start ofoperation,thecentrifugeisfloodedwithinertgasandblanketedwithaslightexcesspressuresothatnofurtheroxygenisabletopenetrate.This is because fire is not possible withoutoxygen.Whenprocessingsensitiveliquids,thenecessaryinertgasatmosphereintheseparatoris automatically monitored throughout theentireoperation.

NothingisabletopenetratethisbarrierAn essential design feature of the gas-tightseparatorsfromGEAWestfaliaSeparatoristheneck bearing bridge that separates the drivewiththemotorandgearboxfromtheproductchamber.Thisbridgeisblanketedwithinertgas,and the connecting spindle is protected withdynamicspecialseals.

Theneckbearingbridgereliablypreventsthesolventfrompassingfromtheproductchambertothedrivechamberorintothesurroundings.Thisisbeneficialnotonlyfromthepointofviewof fireandhealthprotection, it alsomakes itpossibleforthesolventtodilutetheoil,whichwoulddiminish its lubricatingefficiencyandthusposearisktothedriveunit.

4. Explosion-Protected Centrifuges

Thesameisalsotrueinreverse:nooilisabletopenetratetheproductchamberandthushaveanegativeimpactonthequalityofthevaluableproduct.

ATEX95(directive94/9EC)AdirectiveformachinesoperatinginhazardoussurroundingshasbeeninforceinEuropesinceJuly1,2003.Thisaffectsnumerousapplicationsinthechemicalandpharmaceuticalindustries,particularlywheregas-tightmachinesareused.Accordingtothedirective,thefirststepistocarryoutariskassessmentoftherelevantmachinestoidentifyanypresentorpotentialrisks.

The measures are documented and thedocumentation is submitted to an EntitledBody. In specific terms, this means that GEAWestfaliaSeparatordecantersarenowequippedwithfail-safevibrationmonitoringequipment,atemperaturemeasurementfacilityaswellasaninertgasfacility.

All electrical equipment must have beenawardedanATEXcertificateoramanufacturerdeclaration.Thisdirectiveisonlyapplicabletonewmachines.AseparatedirectiveATEX137(directive1999/92EC)isapplicableforoperatorsofinstallationsinhazardousareas.Becauseofthis,operatorshavealsobeenobligedtocarryoutriskassessmentsforexistinginstallations.

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Machines and installations must have beenassessed by no later than January 1, 2006.GEAWestfaliaSeparatoroffers its customerssupport for assessing and, where reasonable,convertingthesecentrifuges.

GEAWestfaliaSeparatorimprovesinertgasconceptRequirementswithregardtosafetyandreliabilityarebecomingmorestringentforseparatorsanddecantersusedinzoneswithariskofexplosion.The existing inert gas concept is constantlyimprovedtomeettheserequirements.ThelatestEuropeanstandards,aswellasGEAWestfaliaSeparator’spracticaloperatingexperience,havebeen incorporated.Ashasbeenthecasewithmostexistingconcepts,theatmosphereintheseparatorisdisplacedwithinertgasbeforeeverystart-upandtheexcesspressureismaintainedduringoperationtomeettherequirementforminimuminertgasconsumption.

Thefittingsandmeasuringdevicesusedhavebeensubjecttoanextensivetestandhavealsobeenoptimizedasfaras investmentcostsareconcerned. The new inert gas supply facilitycomplies not only with the familiar directive94/9 EC (ATEX) but also with the TA Luft,i.e.,productleakagesfromtheequipmentarereduced to a minimum using state-of-the-arttechnology.

GEAWestfaliaSeparatorplacesgreatemphasison complete and easy-to-understand operatordocumentationaswellasacarefullyperformedconformityassessmentprocedure(CEsymbol).The company also provides informationconcerningthecorrectinstallationofseparatorsanddecantersinzonesthatareexposedtotheriskofexplosion.

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GEAWestfalia Separator has achieved a newdimension of ultra-fine clarification withsolutions comprisinga centrifugal separationsystemandfiltrationtechnology.

Inaddition tocentrifugalseparationsystems,GEA Westfalia Separator also has an expertcommand of membrane filtration withceramic elements for ultra-fine clarificationof particles with a size of up to one nano-meter. Because of this, our company is ableto significantly expand product clarificationwithin a process line. The combination ofcentrifugation and membrane filtrationimprovestheefficiencyoftheoverallinstallation.

IndividualspecificationsThe ceramic membrane installationscontinuously supply a clear filtrate with thespecifieddegreeofclarificationandthedesiredperformance.Theceramicmembraneformsamechanicalbarrierwithadefinedporesize.

GEAWestfaliaSeparatorprovidesawiderangeofceramicmembranemodulesintheporesizerangeofultra-andmicro-filtration.

5. Ceramic Membrane Filtration – Ultra- and Micro-Fine Clarification

The modules are mainly standardized, withvariable channel diameters, element lengthsand pore sizes. This membrane installationdownstreamoftheseparatorpermitsextremelyfineclarificationofparticleswithadiameterof<1micrometer.

Ataglance: GEAWestfaliaSeparatorofferssolutions

comprisingcentrifugationandmembranefiltration

Allcomponentsfromasinglesource Intelligentharmonizingofallcomponents

enhancesprocessefficiency Widerangeofceramicmembranemodules Individualconfigurationaccordingto

specificrequirements

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Everything from a single source.

GEA Westfalia Separator has extensiveexperienceinthedriveandcontroltechnologyof separation systems. Customer-specificautomation of centrifuges and membranefiltration means that their operation issimple, reliable and safe.Solutions fromGEAWestfalia Separator combine tried-and-testedprocess and machine technology with thelatest drive and control technology. Theautomationconceptsarecustomizedtomeettheindividualrequirements.Fromadviceprovidedbyexperiencedengineeringspecialists,compactcontrolunitsforindividualmachinesandpowerfulPC-based installation controls right through tocomprehensiveoriginalmanufacturerservice.

HighcompatibilityIn addition to our company‘s own compactcontrol units, the S7 control units fromSiemensconstitutethecoreitemofinstallationautomation. However, components fromAllen Bradley, Group Schneider, Mitsubishi,Modicon or Telemechanique can also be usedandcombinedwitheachotherasrequired.Thevisualization options always ensure optimumuser-friendliness.WinCCorIntouchcanbeusedforuptofivevisualizationfacilitiesintheprocessline,andcanalsobecombinedwitheachother.Whetherasimplenotificationsignaloracomplexprocessdataexchangearrangementisrequired,theconnectiontoexistinginstallationsorprocessesviasoftwareisnowadaysalmostobligatory.

6. Automation Systems – Plug and Play

Our specialists from GEA Westfalia Separatoruse the best-known systems such as ProfibusDP/PAorIndustrialEthernetaswellasadditionalconnections such as DeviceNet, ControlNet orModbusforthispurpose.Fullyautomaticoperationoftheinstallationcanalsobesupportedbyremotedata transfer by means of Internet, modem orGPRS.WithWestfaliaSeparator®wewatch®,anindependentandcomprehensiveserviceconceptisavailableforremotediagnosis.

Ataglance: Strongcompetenceindriveandcontrol

technology Individualautomationconcepts Adviceprovidedbyengineeringspecialists Compactcontrolunitfromawiderangeof

manufacturers Uptofivevisualizationsintheprocessline Comprehensivecontrolpossibilitiesfrom

asimplereportingsignalrightthroughtocomplexprocessdatainterchange

ConnectionviasoftwarewithProfibusDP/PA,IndustrialEthernetorothersystems

Supportforremotetransmissionanddiagnosis(WestfaliaSeparator®wewatch®)

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Itisimportanttoselectthecorrectmaterialsforcomponentsthatcomeintocontactwithproduct,suchasthebowl,scrollordiscstack.Strength,corrosionresistanceandhygienicspecificationsareimportantcriteriainthisrespect.Ingeneral,the quality of the material must increase astherequirementsbecomemorestringent.Thestandard material is stainless duplex steel,whichhashighstrengthandexcellentcorrosionresistance. On the other hand, super duplexsteelisthepreferredmaterialformorecomplexapplications.Forparticularly“hard”applications,GEA Westfalia Separator uses special alloyssuchasIncoloy“Titanium”825orHastelloyC4.Theload-bearingparts(bowlbottomandbowltop) can also be of complete 1.4501 superduplexmaterial.

AgenuineGEAWestfaliaSeparatorspecialityisthe lining of solid-wall bowls with HastelloyC4oreventitaniumpalladium.Inthisprocess,sheetsof theappropriate specialmaterial areincorporatedinthebowltopandbowlbottomtoensurelongcorrosionprotection.Theload-bearingbowlpartshowevercontinuetobemadewith standard materials to permit high bowlspeeds.Thisprocedurehasspecificadvantages.First, ifnecessary, the liningcanbe replaced.Second,theuseofexpensivespecialmaterialisreducedtoanabsoluteminimum.

7. Special Materials

1. Inserting the lining in the bowl bottom

2. Dye penetration test after welding the lining

3. Bowl bottom with lining in place

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Customer-specific testing in Central ProcessEngineeringprovidesareliablebasisfordecision-making for all investments in mechanicalseparationtechnology.Noseparationisidenticalwith another. In many cases, it is necessarytoperformaseriesof testsbeforethecorrectdecisioncanbemadeforaspecificinstallation.GEAWestfaliaSeparatorhassetuptheCentralProcessEngineeringdepartmentforthispurpose.Depending on the specific task involved, testseriescanberunwiththecustomer‘soriginalproduct in a mobile pilot installation on siteorinthelaboratoryatGEAWestfaliaSeparator.Thespecificationof thecustomer,alongwithoperating temperature, throughput capacity,clarifying or separating efficiency and otherfactors, constitute the information necessaryto complete a reliable analysis. After everytest series, the customer receives informativedocumentation in which the technical andeconomicdataaredetailed.

FocusoninvestmentprotectionTheresults fromCentralProcessEngineeringcanbeusedtopreciselyidentifywhatmachinetype and what model from GEA WestfaliaSeparatoraremostsuitableforthespecifictask.Thecustomerachievesareliablebasisonwhichhecanmakethecorrectinvestmentdecision.

Scale-upforextractionapplicationsThe scale-up of extraction applications isoftenbasedonpracticaltrialscarriedoutwithtest centrifuges. If extraction is chemicallydeterminedandifthesolvent,thetemperaturesetting and the pH value are defined, a pilotscale operation can be tested. The mixingcharacteristics togetherwith themixing timeanddropsizeaswellassubsequentcentrifugalseparation have to be adjusted individuallyfor the specific substance system. The phaseratiobetween the raffinate and the extract isoptimizedinordertotakefulladvantageofthegivencapacityofthesolvent.

8. Central Process Engineering –the Reliable Basis for Decision-Making

Ataglance: Seriesoftestswiththecustomer‘soriginal

products InthelaboratoryofGEAWestfalia

Separatororinpilotinstallationsonsite Detailedtestdocumentation Specificmachinerecommendation Detailedmassbalance Totalcostanalysis

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Our Westfalia Separator® capitalcare service commitment

As an EN ISO 9001 company we stand behind the quality of both our products and our service. Our continuing commitment is to provide customers with the support they need to maximize productivity and minimize downtime. You can count on us for round-the-clock assistance in all service areas.

Original manufacturer’s spare parts –We house a large inventory of partsthroughoutour6officenetwork.Thesearereadytobeshippedoutwitha24-hourturn-around. Only genuine GEA WestfaliaSeparatorpartsaremanufacturedunderthesame strictquality control andusing thesame specifications and materials as ouroriginalequipment.

Factory-AuthorizedRepairs–Weoffertwofull-servicerepairfacilities,oneontheWestCoast(Patterson,CA)andoneontheEastCoast(Northvale,NJ).Thishelpstospeeduprepairtimesandkeeptransportationcostsdown.Both facilitiesare factory-certifiedandarestaffedwithexperiencedtechnicianswhohaveundergoneextensivetraining.Ifneeded,weofferover100rentalscrollsorbowlassembliestokeepcustomersupandrunningwhilerepairsareunderway.

FieldService–Wehaveanextensivefieldservice team to perform routine andpreventivemaintenanceandtohandleanyemergencies that may come up. Locatedthroughout NorthAmerica, these servicetechniciansarestrategicallypositioned inareas where their industry and process-specificknowledge ismostvaluable.Ourserviceengineersareoncall24/7.

Maximum availability

Absolute budget reliability

Permanent efficiency

Westfalia, Westfalia Separator, varipond® and wewatch® are registered trademarks of GEA Westfalia Separator GmbH.

GEA Mechanical Equipment US, Inc.GEA Westfalia Separator Division

Headquarters:100 Fairway CourtNorthvale, NJ 07647201-767-3900

Midwest:725 Tollgate Road, Suite BElgin, IL 60123630-503-4700

South:4725 Lakeland Commerce Parkway, Suite 4 Lakeland, FL 33805863-603-8900

Southwest:2408 Timberloch Place, Suite C-4 The Woodlands, TX 77380281-465-7900

West Coast:Western Region Customer Support Center555 Baldwin RoadPatterson, CA 95363209-895-6300

GEA Mechanical Equipment Canada, Inc.GEA Westfalia Separator Canada Division835 Harrington CourtBurlington, ON L7N 3P3289-288-5500

Toll-Free: 800-722-662224-Hour Technical Help: 800-509-9299www.wsus.com

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