The SQG-5 & 10 Solvent Recovery System uses the principle of distillation to purify and recover spent laboratory and industrial waste solvents in a self-contained portable unit. The system provides precisely controlled temperature and pressure conditions to achieve the vaporization and condensation of pure solvent vapors. Waste liquid is placed into a distillation pot where it is heated until boiling. During heating, the vapor stream rises to a condenser that cools the vapor and allows recovery of the solvent. Impurities settle to the bottom of the still and, upon completion of the cycle, are removed for disposal. Key components of the system include the (1) distillation pot, (2) a unique lid and gasket design, (3) proprietary heating element, and (4) water cooled condenser. The system provides user-friendly instrumentation and controls for power, heater, and running functions.

Process Application

The system can be applied to the recovery of a variety of solvents from waste streams generated during chemical manufacturing, metals finishing, parts cleaning, and automotive painting operations as well as in hospital laboratories and industrial testing laboratories. Specific solvents amenable to recovery include acetone, isopropyl alcohol (IPA), methanol, methylene chloride, methyl ethyl ketone (MEK), perchloroethylene, toluene, trichloroethylene, xylene, enamel reducer, CFC's, N-butyl acetate, and lacquer thinner. The unit typically can be used to purify solvents with contaminant levels of 25% or less. It is available in 5- and 10-gallon batch sizes and is mounted within wheeled cabinets that allow for permanent or mobile use.

Process Operation

The SQG-5 & 10 process operates in batch mode. Prior to turning the unit on, the operator is required to set temperature, power, and running time using controls on the control panel or through a digital remote control unit. After these parameters are set and the cooling water supply valve is opened, the process begins by placing a 5- to 10-gallon batch of the liquid waste into the still, after which a proprietary door assembly is sealed and the waste is heated to a temperature between 100 and 400 F (depending upon the solvent to be recovered). Vapors formed during the heating rise to the top of the still and are routed through a water-cooled condenser. During cooling, solvents are recovered as pure liquids and flow to a receiving vesselfor reuse, while non-condensible impurities are collected as "still bottoms." Batch times depend upon the solvent to be recovered and its concentration level. Throughput are typically about 1 gallon per hour, resulting in batch treatment times of 5 to 10 hours. After the batch run, still bottoms are removed and disposed of as hazardous waste. Disposable bag liners are available to facilitate cleanout and disposal of the still bottoms.

Are you interested in finding out how much money you can save by recycling your waste solvents? Print out our Solvent Usage Data Sheet and find out!

If you know someone who may be able to use this type of equipment (and you would like to make a few extra bucks) check out our WIN-WIN Referral Program.
Questions and requests for information may be mailed to arhino@nauticom.net