Batch Versus Continuous Processing

Batch processing involves loading feedstock chemicals into a process vessel, closing it, and reacting the vessel s contents to the desired final product. At this point, the vessel is emptied, and the entire process is repeated. Continuous processing, as the term implies, involves feeding raw materials to a reactor continuously and yields a continuous stream of desired reaction product. 

---

Leuenberger H. New trends in the production of pharmaceutical granules the classical batch concept and the problem of scale-up. Eur J Pharm 2001 52 279. Leuenberger H. New trends in the production of pharmaceutical granules batch versus continuous processing. Eur J Pharm 2001 52 289. 

Factors that affect the safety of a production system include (1) the scale of production (2) the quantity of hazardous chemicals involved (3) the hazardousness of the chemicals involved (4) batch versus continuous processing (5) the presence of pressure or temperature extremes (6) storage of intermediates versus closed loop processing and (7) multi-stream versus single-stream plants. These factors are discussed briefly below. 

Batch versus Continuous Process in Unit Operations and Equipment... 

The selection depends to a great extent on the rate of growth of the cake. This rate has a major effect on the following choices batch versus continuous process pressure or vacuum gravity filters and separation technique (filters, centrifuges, etc.). Table 22.8 (features of slurry), Table 22.9 (selection of filters), and Table 22.10 (comparison of separation processes) aid in this effort. 

---