Fractional Distillation ยท May 28, 2026

Lab Scale Fractional Distillation Systems (9600 Overview)

The B/R 9600 is the standard lab scale fractional distillation apparatus for multi-liter laboratory work. It sits between high-efficiency mini systems and stainless pilot plants: large enough for purification batches, still laboratory equipment.

Charge sizes

Product literature lists boiling flask sizes of 1, 2, 3, 5, 12, 22, and 50 liters. That range covers solvent purification campaigns, intermediate cleanups, and process-development batches that no longer fit mini glassware.

If your typical charge is well below a liter, look first at mini or micro systems. If you are moving past 50 L toward production development, see pilot scale.

Column options

The 9600 can be configured with:

  • Spinning band: high efficiency with low hold-up (typically less than 1 ml in the column). Contact surfaces are often glass and Teflon.
  • Packed column: higher distillation rates; packing such as mesh or Propak-style media; plate-section designs for building efficiency.

Efficiency is described up to about 50 theoretical plates at atmospheric pressure depending on configuration. Actual performance depends on the mixture and how the system is operated.

Automation and accessories

Lab scale systems are frequently quoted with automation: controlled heating, distillation control, distillate collection, and shutdown. Optional pieces include automatic fraction collectors, vacuum systems, and PC control. That combination supports unattended runs when the method is stable, which matters for multi-hour laboratory distillations.

Typical applications

  • Solvent purification and high purity solvent recycling support work
  • Specialty chemical and intermediate purification
  • Petroleum-related laboratory fractions
  • Essential oil and natural-product separations at multi-liter scale
  • Process development before pilot scale-up

How the 9600 fits the product line

NeedConsider
Milliliter-scale, minimal hold-upMicro 800
Small lab charge, very high platesMini 36-100
1-50 L laboratory work9600 lab scale
50 L+ stainless developmentPilot scale

Specifying a 9600

When you request a quote, include:

  1. Typical and maximum charge volume
  2. Boiling range and whether vacuum is required
  3. Purity or cut targets
  4. Preference for spinning band vs packed (or ask us to recommend)
  5. Need for fraction collectors, automation, or data logging

Full details and contact form: lab scale fractional distillation apparatus. Broader context: fractional distillation equipment.

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Quotation

Talk to us about a custom column

Charge volume and boiling range are enough to start a quotation.