Home > Introduction to Extraction

Drawing from our experience, KMPS first determines if liquid-liquid extraction is the appropriate separation technology. If the answer is yes, initial studies are performed to identify possible solvents and operating conditions. This leads to the development of a conceptual process flow sheet.

KMPS next designs laboratory and pilot plant programs to fully evaluate the process and to provide a sound basis for the scale-up to commercial size equipment. Not only are the extraction steps tested, but also the downstream distillation steps for recovery of the solvent and purification of the product. With a broad range of extractor design offerings, ranging from static to agitated columns, combined with 40+ years of liquid-liquid extraction experience, we select the extractor best suited for the particular application. For more detailed information about liquid-liquid extraction equipment design click on the Design Steps link.

KMPS then incorporates the extractor into an overall system design, which includes solvent recovery, and further product purification steps. These systems are delivered as modular units with a Process Performance Guarantee.

Industrial
Applications

Chemicals
  - Water Treatment
  - High BP Organics
Pharmaceuticals
  - Antibiotics
  - Vitamins
  - Fermentation Products
Foods
  - Lactic Acid
  - Flavors/Fragrances
Polymers
  - Caprolactam
  - Adiponitrile
Refining
  - Lube Oils
  - Aromatics

Industrial Applications

Removal of high boiling organics from wastewater
    - Such as phenol, aniline and nitrated aromatics.
Recovery of tightly hydrogen-bonded organics from water
    - Such as formaldehyde, formic acid and acetic acid.
Purification of heat sensitive materials
    - Such as pharmaceuticals, flavors, fragrances and food products.
Recovery of products from reactions
    - Such as caprolactam and adiponitrile (for nylon production), acrylic acids and agricultural chemicals.
Neutralization/washing of acids or bases from organic stream
    - Such as acrylates, nitrated organics and chloro-benzene compounds.

Complete System Design

At KMPS, we often supply the extraction and distillation components as a complete modular system. Typical examples are illustrated on this page.

Our team of experienced engineers is available to work together with you on your next liquid-liquid extraction application, from conceptualization through start-up.

ADVANTAGES OF MODULAR CONSTRUCTION:

• Lower cost/lump sum bid
• Schedule compression
• Minimal plant site interruption
• Construction proceeds while waiting for permits
• Single source responsibility
• Progress of work is not affected by weather conditions