Chemical Reactor / Chemical Reaction Vessel

A chemical reactor is a pressure-rated vessel designed to carry out exothermic or endothermic reactions under precise temperature, pressure and mixing conditions. Standard configurations include batch, semi-batch and continuous stirred-tank (CSTR) designs, ranging from 50 L lab units to 50 m³ field-erected tanks. Construction is usually 316L or duplex stainless steel; glass-lined carbon steel is selected for strong acids. A dimple or half-pipe jacket circulates thermal oil, steam or chilled water to maintain set-points from −20 °C to 250 °C, while an internal coil provides additional heat-transfer area. A variable-speed agitator (anchor, turbine or magnetic-drive) ensures uniform composition and enhances mass-transfer for gas-liquid or solid-liquid systems. Safety features include rupture discs, pressure/vacuum relief valves, explosion vents and redundant temperature sensors tied to a PLC or DCS. Reactors can be operated under vacuum up to 10 bar or positive pressure up to 100 bar, meeting ASME VIII or PED requirements. Typical applications include neutralization, oxidation, reduction, hydrolysis, nitration and polymerization in water, wastewater and chemical plants. By providing accurate control of residence time, heat removal and mixing intensity, the chemical reactor maximizes yield, minimizes by-products and ensures consistent, safe production of commodity or specialty chemicals.