Dual-Stage Stainless Steel Short Path Molecular Distillation Unit

The AV-FTS is a compact, two-stage wiped-film (short-path) molecular distillation system designed for laboratory research and small-batch production of ultra-high-purity compounds. By running two short-path evaporators in series in a single unit, it delivers sharper fraction cuts and higher final purity than a single-stage still — ideal for heat-sensitive, low-volatility and high-boiling-point materials. Operating under deep vacuum (<10 Pa) with residence times of only seconds, the AV-FTS is widely used for essential oil fractionation, CBD/hemp purification, flavor and fragrance refining, and pharmaceutical intermediate recovery. All wetted parts are 304/316L stainless steel with PTFE sealing for reliable, corrosion-free operation.

Key Features & Advantages

• Two-stage cascade design — dual short-path evaporators in series achieve higher purity and sharper fraction cuts in a single pass.
• 304/316L stainless steel construction — corrosion-resistant, durable, and GMP-compatible.
• PTFE sealing system maintains ultra-high vacuum integrity (<10 Pa) for low-temperature distillation.
• Wiped-film technology minimizes thermal exposure; typical residence time is only a few seconds.
• Fully automated operation with auto-feed and auto-collection for continuous, unattended runs.
• 120 W variable-speed drive (up to 450 rpm) ensures uniform thin-film formation across the evaporator wall.
• Compact bench-top footprint — ideal for R&D labs, pilot studies, and small-scale specialty production.
• Modular, plug-and-play configuration with integrated cold trap and cooling unit.
• Optional external condenser and customized packages available for specific process requirements.

Structure Diagram

• The AV-FTS combines two wiped-film evaporator columns in a single frame: feed enters the first-stage evaporator where light fractions are drawn off and fed to the second stage for final purification, while heavy residues are collected separately at each stage. Each stage comprises a motorized wiper assembly, a heated evaporator column, an internal condenser, and dedicated light/heavy fraction receivers, supported by a shared vacuum manifold and cold trap. All wetted parts are 304/316L stainless steel.
• Two-Stage Structural Schematic

Working Principle

Molecular (short-path) distillation separates components by their difference in mean free path under high vacuum. In the AV-FTS, feed is spread into a thin film by rotating wiper blades on the heated wall of the first-stage evaporator. Under vacuum below 10 Pa, the gap to the internal condenser is shorter than the mean free path of target molecules, so volatile components evaporate at low temperature and condense immediately on the cooled surface. This light fraction then advances to the second stage, where it is re-evaporated and condensed again under even more controlled conditions to reach final purity, while non-volatile residues fall and are collected from each stage. The two-stage cascade removes the need for repeated single-pass runs, saving time and improving yield for high-purity applications.

Two-Stage Cascade Working Principle

Technical Specifications

Applications

• The AV-FTS two-stage molecular distillation unit is the equipment of choice wherever gentle, high-efficiency separation and premium purity are required:
• Essential Oil & Botanical Fractionation — precise terpene and active-compound separation for premium aroma profiles.
• Hemp & CBD Purification — THC remediation and high-purity broad-/full-spectrum cannabinoid isolation.
• Flavor & Fragrance Refining — gentle concentration of delicate aromas and natural extracts without thermal damage.
• Pharmaceutical & Fine Chemicals — recovery of high-boiling-point intermediates, AP Is, and sensitive organics.
• Cosmetics & Perfumery — polishing fragrance oils, absolutes, and cosmetic base materials to premium grades.
• Petrochemical & Specialty Chemicals — purification of thermally unstable oligomers, monomers, and additives.

Typical Application Scenarios

• For more information, custom configurations, or a quotation, please contact our sales team. We offer turn-key solutions including vacuum pumps, heating/cooling circulators, and full automation packages.
• 三级子分类
• 3. Short Path Distillation Kit — Turn-key Package
• Custom configurations available
• Complete short path vacuum distillation kit for lab-scale separation and purification. Includes all glassware, heating system, vacuum pump, and accessories — ready to operate out of the box. Ideal for startups and R&D labs entering essential oil or botanical extract distillation.
• Complete turn-key package — no additional components needed
• Modular design — easily upgrade or expand
• Borosilicate glassware with standard ground joints
• Includes vacuum pump, heating mantle, and cold trap
• Step-by-step setup guide and technical support