SFE Liquid - Liquid separations

Core | Counter Current Columns

Core Separations specializes in manufacturing a wide range of vital components utilized in CO2 extraction systems. As a prominent leader in the field of supercritical extraction, we maintain the highest standards of quality, safety, and functionality through our production methods and established practices. With more than 20 years of experience in working with supercritical fluids, our extensive knowledge positions us as experts in developing tailored systems for processing diverse natural products

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Liquid Separations

The Counter Current column operates as a multi-stage liquid-liquid extraction system. In contrast to their solid-liquid counterparts (refer to Core | Extraction systems), these columns execute continuous separations, yielding two distinct feeds. One is the raffinate, a fraction from which more volatile components have been reduced, and the other is the extracted phase, enriched with the volatile compounds. hello

Learn about Supercritical CO2

Why not read about some of the most common applications below?

De-odourisation

Traditionally de-odourisation of edible oils such as soybean oil or palm oil is accomplished through steam distillation. The process generates aqueous waste known as Hydrosol, which contains a mixture of free fatty acids and tocopherols.

The same process can accomplish using CO2 counter current technology as scCO2 is effective at removing free fatty acids and the oxidative compounds commonly associated with the odour and off-taste to many edible oils.

De-acidification

De-acidification of free fatty acids from oils can be successfully achieved through physical processing, such as steam distillation or through chemical conversion with sodium hydroxide to form soaps. Both methods produce by-products such as aqueous waste streams that require disposal or impact the oil recovery through emulsification of the oil.

CO2 counter column can effectively remove these fatty and later processed to form the soap like products.

Vitamin E

Isolation of vitamin E and other Tocopherols from vegetable oils can be accomplished using counter current column technology to isolate these compounds in high yield. It is achieved by manipulating a temperature gradient along the column similar to that used in distillation.

The same technique can be used to process fish oils high in omega-3 poly unsaturated fatty acids such as EPA, DHA or DPA can also be achieved through CO2 processing through a counter current column.

Detoxification

Processed oils often contain pollutants such as dioxins and heavy metals. CO2 processing is effective in the detoxification of many unwanted materials in food products especially those who were extracted using CO2 as the primary method of processing.

However oil can be re-mediated using CO2 counter current technology to easily remove the harmful dioxins such as PCDD’s, PCDF’s and DL-PCB’s.

Multi Zone Separation

Core Separations’ countercurrent columns are engineered to disentangle intricate mixtures by establishing a density gradient throughout the column. This is achieved by employing multiple heating zones, facilitating a distinct density gradient for the separation of components. Typically, the columns feature four zones spanning a 2-meter length, but they can be customized to incorporate additional zones if needed.

Modular Length

The column consists of couplers and column segments. Each segment can function as a zone for separation. While the standard column length is 2 meters, it can be extended by integrating additional couplers and column sections, making it adaptable for various complex separations

Multi-port

Multi-Port

Each coupler features two ports adaptable for various applications. They enable the introduction of the feed mixture at different points along the column, influencing the desired degree of separation. Additionally, these ports can measure the internal gas temperature throughout the column, ensuring precise control over your process.

CCC System Options

Our systems are designed to be modular and upgradeable. This allows our customers to modify the systems to meet their research needs or processing requirements.

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Fractionation

Fractionation

Enhanced fractionation of the mixture separated from the column can be realized with the use of multiple collectors. Incorporating several collectors allows for an additional separation gradient, aiding in isolating purer fractions.

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Flow Meters

Flow Meters

CO2 pumps equipped with flow meters are capable of accurately measuring the flow of CO2 while compensating for any variations in density. They account for any fluctuations in the CO2, ensuring precise control of CO2 flow throughout the extraction process.

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Packing Materials

Packing Materials

Packing materials in the column influence compound mass transfer. By adjusting the packing, we can better separate similar compounds. Core Separations columns support varied packing materials, making our systems ideal for complex separations.

Unique Core Separations Features

Core | Pumps

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SFX Control Software

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Core | Vessels

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Frequently Asked
Questions

Got any questions, just ask!

1. How does counter Current Columns differ from supercritical extraction systems?

While both systems can be used for separation and extraction processes, counter current columns are used for liquid-liquid extraction, whereas supercritical fluid extraction is typically used for extracting from solid matrices. Counter-current columns can handle larger volumes and are more continuous in nature.

2. How does counter Current Columns work?

In contrast to the typical supercritical extraction process, where both pressure and temperature can be manipulated, the counter-current column functions more akin to a distillation column. Here the column pressure remains constant, and the temperature varies along the length of the column, creating a gradient from top to bottom. This variation in temperature directly influences the density of CO2 within the column, thereby allowing compounds to be separated based on their solubility in different CO2 density levels.

3. How do I separate my compounds in a counter current column?

In order to effectively separate your compounds, it's essential to have an understanding of their solubility under varying conditions. Typically, the solubility of your compounds under specific pressure and temperature conditions can be determined using a standard supercritical extraction system. Once you've established approximate solubility levels, these conditions can then be replicated within the counter-current column for effective separation.

4. My compounds are closely related is it still possible to separate them?

Distinguishing between compounds with comparable solubilities can present a challenge, even when employing a counter-current column. However, just as in a distillation column, separation isn't solely dependent on temperature gradients. The theoretical plates within the column also significantly contribute to the separation process. Factors such as the column's packing material and length can therefore greatly impact the degree of separation you can achieve for your compounds.

5. What happens to column raffinate?

The insoluble compound in the column eventual fall to the base of the column and collect in a raffinate collection vessel that can be collected throughout the process.

6. What happens to the extract?

In the process, the extract travels up the column and exits the system through the automatic back pressure regulator (ABPR). Similar to a conventional extraction system, the extract is then gathered in cyclones positioned after to the ABPR.

Why use Supercritical CO2

Supercritical Fluid Extraction (SFE), is commonly used to extract compounds from solid botanical materials due to its achievable pressure and low temperature (critical temperature and pressure of 31 °C and 74 bar). It has a number of benefits unique to CO2 over traditional petrochemical derived alternatives.

Selective Fractionation

With a system that has multiple collectors with their own back pressure regulators, the conditions in each separator can be adjusted to achieve a specific density. Selectively precipitating different compounds into each of the separators.

Isolation

When isolating the extract from a CO2 extraction, it requires depressurisation of the CO2. This involves a phase change from a supercritical fluid into a gas. This ultimate change in density results in the separation of the dissolved compounds from the CO2. The CO2 gas is then able to escape leaving the extract uncontaminated by the extracting fluid.

Environmentally Responsible

Unlike other solvent extraction, CO2 is recovered from other industrial processes as a by-product. The renewable and abundant nature of CO2 is one of the most attractive properties when using CO2 as an alternative solvent.

Tunable Polarity

The polarity of the CO2 can be adjusted with the addition of a solvent of higher polarity such as ethanol. Small percentages of more polar solvents can have a significant effect on which components are extracted. It can also help reduce the pressures required to extract components such as polyphenols.

Tunable Density

By altering the pressure and temperature alters the CO2 density is tuneable giving CO2 its selective extraction properties.

Recyclable

One of the most powerful aspects of CO2 as a solvent is witnessed when collecting the product from the separator as it reverts to a gas, so leaving your product uncontaminated. We can also re-use the CO2 by re-compressing it.

Learn how our systems work!

We strive to create Systems that are user-friendly and efficient, ensuring a seamless experience from straightforward operations to low dead volume pipework. Our systems are designed to deliver exceptional selectivity in CO2 processing and maintain a high standard of extract quality.