AYAN-F80 Molecular Distillation System by Anyan Instruments

Overview

The AYAN-F80 Molecular Distillation System is a high-vacuum, short-path thermal separation instrument engineered for the gentle, high-selectivity purification of thermally labile, high-boiling, or highly viscous compounds. Operating under ultra-low pressure (≤10 Pa), it exploits differences in molecular mean free path—rather than relative volatility alone—to achieve separation. In this regime, molecules travel directly from the heated evaporative surface to the opposing condenser without significant intermolecular collision, enabling distillation well below conventional boiling points. This principle is especially critical for sensitive materials such as unsaturated fatty acids (e.g., EPA/DHA), phospholipids, natural antioxidants (tocopherols, astaxanthin), pharmaceutical intermediates, and polymer precursors, where prolonged thermal exposure would induce degradation, isomerization, or polymerization. The AYAN-F80 employs a mechanically driven rotating wiper system to generate a uniform, sub-millimeter-thick turbulent liquid film on the heated cylindrical surface—ensuring rapid heat transfer, minimal residence time (<30 seconds), and consistent mass transfer kinetics across variable feed viscosities.

Key Features

• Stainless steel 316L construction for full compatibility with aggressive organic solvents and corrosive feedstocks
• Integrated high-efficiency internal condenser with 0.25 m² active surface area, positioned concentrically within the evaporator cylinder for minimal vapor path length (<50 mm)
• Adjustable heating mantle with PID-controlled temperature range from ambient to 200°C (±1°C stability)
• Brushless DC motor drive delivering precise, low-vibration rotation up to 450 rpm; compatible with multiple wiper configurations (sliding, hinge, roller) for optimized film formation across viscosity ranges (10–10,000 cP)
• Dual independent collection system: two customizable receiving flasks (standard 2 L each) with quick-release PTFE valves for sequential or parallel fractionation
• Integrated vacuum monitoring and control interface supporting connection to secondary backing pumps and diffusion or turbomolecular primary pumps
• Water-cooled cold trap (included) with flow-regulated inlet to maintain stable base pressure and prevent volatile condensate backstreaming

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The AYAN-F80 is validated for use with heat-sensitive natural products, synthetic monomers, essential oils, and bioactive lipids requiring ISO/IEC 17025-aligned purification protocols. Its design conforms to key mechanical and safety standards applicable to laboratory-scale vacuum processing equipment, including CE marking per Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU. While not certified for GMP manufacturing, the system supports GLP-compliant operation through traceable parameter logging (temperature, vacuum, rotation speed), documented cleaning procedures, and material-of-construction traceability (certified SS316L weld logs available upon request). It meets ASTM D2892 and D5236 guidelines for high-vacuum distillation methodology validation when paired with calibrated pressure transducers and temperature sensors.

Software & Data Management

The AYAN-F80 operates via an embedded industrial touchscreen HMI with real-time graphical display of process variables: evaporator temperature, condenser temperature (optional probe), vacuum level (capacitance manometer input), rotational speed, and coolant flow rate. All parameters are timestamped and stored internally (≥10,000 data points) with USB export capability in CSV format. Optional RS-485 Modbus RTU interface enables integration into centralized LabVantage or DeltaV SCADA environments. Audit trail functionality—including user login, parameter changes, and alarm events—is configurable to align with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when deployed with external electronic signature and access control systems.

Applications

• Purification of omega-3 ethyl esters from fish oil hydrolysates while preserving cis-configuration integrity
• Deacidification and deodorization of crude vegetable oil fractions without stripping tocopherols
• Isolation of monoglycerides and diglycerides from glycerolysis reaction mixtures
• Recovery of fragrance volatiles (e.g., linalool, citral) from botanical extracts at <80°C
• Removal of residual catalysts (e.g., Sn(Oct)₂) from biopolymer synthesis streams
• Concentration of heat-labile alkaloids (e.g., vinblastine precursors) from plant cell culture broths

FAQ

What vacuum level is required for optimal performance?
The AYAN-F80 achieves highest separation efficiency at ≤10 Pa (≤0.075 Torr), typically maintained using a two-stage vacuum system: a diaphragm pump for roughing and a turbomolecular or oil-diffusion pump for high vacuum.
Can the system handle highly viscous feedstocks like crude lanolin or bitumen derivatives?
Yes—when equipped with the optional hinge-type wiper assembly and pre-heated feed preheater (up to 80°C), the AYAN-F80 reliably processes feeds up to 8,000 cP at 60°C.
Is fractional collection possible with different boiling point cuts?
While the AYAN-F80 does not feature automated multi-port collectors, its dual-flask configuration allows manual sequential switching during operation; custom manifold upgrades support up to four discrete fractions.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for the wiper assembly and seals?
Wiper blades should be inspected after every 200 operating hours; PTFE or ceramic-coated variants offer extended service life. Viton O-rings in vacuum zones require replacement every 12 months under continuous use.
Does the system include documentation for IQ/OQ protocol development?
Yes—a comprehensive User Requirements Specification (URS), Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) report, and calibration certificate package (traceable to NIST standards) are supplied standard with each unit.