Purpose of CSTRs in series (Continually Stirred Tank Reactor)

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the purpose of using Continually Stirred Tank Reactors (CSTRs) in series for achieving high conversions of reactants. It emphasizes that introducing the reactant stream only into the first tank in the series enhances conversion efficiency compared to a single large CSTR. A model calculation comparing two CSTRs in series with a single larger tank of equivalent mean residence time demonstrates this principle effectively. The focus is on first-order decomposition reactions with a single species.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of reactor design principles
  • Familiarity with first-order reaction kinetics
  • Knowledge of mean residence time calculations
  • Basic modeling techniques for chemical processes
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore the mathematical modeling of CSTRs in series
  • Learn about the impact of residence time distribution on reactor performance
  • Investigate the design considerations for large-scale CSTRs
  • Study the effects of reaction order on reactor design and efficiency
USEFUL FOR

Chemical engineers, process designers, and students studying reactor dynamics will benefit from this discussion, particularly those interested in optimizing conversion rates in chemical processes.

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Hi, I am somewhat new to reactor design and processes, and I am wondering what exactly is the purpose of CSTRs in series. I read somewhere that "when high conversions of reactants are needed, several CSTRs in series can be used", but couldn't one also simply use a large volume CSTR if he/she wanted a larger yield? How does being in series increase conversion of reactants?
 
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No. The difference is that you are not introducing the reactant stream into the downsteam tanks, only into the first tank in the series. Just do a simple model calculation using two tanks in series, with fresh feed introduced only into the first tank, and compare this with what you get using a single larger tank having the same mean residence time as the two tanks. You will get the idea. To keep things simple, just assume a 1st order decomposition reaction with a single species.

Chet
 

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