Distillation Technology
The multi-purpose solution for diverse and changing compound mixtures.


Batch distillation is very flexible, but is typically used for small and medium-sized capacities. For larger units, a continuous distillation pant is usually more energy efficient and economical.
Two operational modes are possible for the batch process:
Batch distillations are frequent in the pharmaceutical industry for small scale solvent recovery applications, for the purification of high valuable oils or also in wastewater treatment units of small capacities.

Where product purities superior to feasible concentrations through rectification are required, one of these technologies come to operation: Molecular Sieve Technology, Distillation with Entrainer, and Pervaporation through Hydrophilic Membranes.

GEA uses different types of reboilers for the energy input to the distillation columns. The choice of the suitable type depends on surrounding process and product parameters.

The thermal vapor recompression applies steam jets to raise the temperature level of vapor flows in the plant. Condensation of these boosted flows is then used for the heating or evaporating of lower temperature process flows. Thereby the steam consumption is minimized.

Production lines with optimized integrated process steps.
Since 2019, GEA has risen from underperformer to DAX member – one of Germany's top 40 listed companies – by fostering entrepreneurship and turning sustainability into a competitive advantage. It reached this milestone in its nearly 145-year history without tailwinds or shortcuts, in a world of compounding crises. This turnaround shows what's possible when purpose and performance align.
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