Automatic continuous mixing

Automatic continuous mixing (ACM) [42] is an important characterization technique used in studying equilibrium and quasi-equilibrium processes. 

FIGURE 14.9 Automatic continuous mixing (ACM) schematic setup gradient mode (top) and in recirculation mode (bottom). 

BaUlet S, Grassl B, Desbrieres J. Rapid and quantitative determination of critical micelle concentration by automatic continuous mixing and static light scattering. Anal Chim Acta 2009 636 236-241. 

Compatibility between sensors and automatic and automated analytical systems is crucial as it allows two Analytical Chemistry trends to be combined (see Fig. 1.1). Probe-type and planar sensors can be used in automated batch systems including robot stations, as well as in continuous (mixed in-line/on-line) systems. On the other hand, flow-through sensors are only compatible with continuous configurations. 

This chapter deals with a variety of automatic methods with very peculiar features that distinguish them from those described In the preceding chapters and make them applicable to particular problems In areas such as completely continuous flow analysis (e.g. waste water analysis) and clinical analysis. These methods can be classified Into three general groups, namely continuous mixing methods, stopped-flow continuous mixing methods and continuous-flow titrations. 

H. Johansen, I. S. Anderson, and H. Leedgaard, Identification of Actives in Multi-Component Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms via Near-IR Reflectance Analysis Segregation and Continued Mixing in an Automatic Capsule Filling Machine, Drug Dev. Ind. Pharm., 15,477 (1989). 

Automatic Continuous Online Monitoring of Polymerization Reactions was adapted to monitoring a homogeneous continuous stirred tank reactor (HCSTR) to verify the quantitative predictions concerning f, M, and r, as a function of the flow and kinetic parameters, to determine the kinetic parameters themselves, to ascertain the ideality of mixing in the reactor, to assess the effects of feed and reactor fluctuations, and to approximate a fully continuous tube-type reactor [38],... 

Solvent Process. In the solvent process, or solvent cook, water formed from the reaction is removed from the reactor as an a2eotropic mixture with an added solvent, typically xylene. Usually between 3 to 10 wt % of the solvent, based on the total charge, is added at the beginning of the esterification step. The mixed vapor passes through a condenser. The condensed water and solvent have low solubiUty in each other and phase separation is allowed to occur in an automatic decanter. The water is removed, usually to a measuring vessel. The amount of water collected can be monitored as one of the indicators of the extent of the reaction. The solvent is continuously returned to the reactor to be recycled. Typical equipment for this process is shown in Figure 2. The reactor temperature is modulated by the amount and type of refluxing solvent. Typical conditions are ... 

In many cases, the most frequent cause of equipment outage is the lubrication system. Because magnetic bearings do not wear out, and do eliminate oil, pumps, filters, coolers, and regulating and mixing valves, the potential for improved reliability is obvious. Reliability is also enhanced by the control system, which offers continuous real-time protection. The system automatically shuts down before machinery damage can occur. 

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