For companies and researchers planning to invest in a supercritical CO2 extraction system, understanding the components and technical parameters of this system is essential.
Different system sizes, vessel configurations, and control levels determine yield, purity, and scalability.
This article provides a clear overview of each component and helps you choose the right system based on your material type, production scale, and budget.
1. Main CO2 Extraction System Components
1.1 Extraction Vessel
The extraction vessel is the core chamber where raw material contacts supercritical CO2.
- Pressure range: 10–50 MPa
- Temperature: 35–80°C
- Material: Stainless steel 304/316L
Selection Tip: For essential oil or herbal extraction, 10–25 MPa is sufficient; for cannabinoids or pigments, use 30–45 MPa
Supercritical CO2 Extraction of Essential Oils from Common Aromatic Plants
1.2 Separator Tanks
The separator tanks reduce pressure to separate extracted compounds from CO2.
- Usually, 2–3 tanks in series for fractional collection.
- Typical pressures: 5–15 MPa
Selection Tip: Multi-stage separation allows better control of terpene and oil fractions.
1.3 CO2 Pump and Compressor
Provides continuous, stable flow and maintains supercritical pressure.
- Flow rate: 10–50 kg/h (adjustable by vessel size)
- Pump type: Plunger or diaphragm
Selection Tip: Ensure the pump matches your desired extraction throughput (kg/h).
1.4 Heat Exchanger and Temperature Control
Maintains CO2 temperature during compression and expansion.
- Improves energy efficiency and extraction stability.
Selection Tip: Systems with dual temperature probes (vessel + CO2 line) provide more accurate process control.
1.5 Control System (PLC / HMI)
Modern CO2 extraction systems include automatic pressure and temperature control.
- Functions: Pressure regulation, safety alarms, real-time monitoring, and data logging.
Selection Tip: Choose PLC control if you need repeatable recipes or GMP documentation.
2. Key Technical Data Reference
| Parameter | Typical Range | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Extraction Pressure | 25–35 MPa | Determines solubility & selectivity |
| Extraction Temperature | 40–60°C | Affects compound stability |
| CO2 Flow Rate | 10–50 kg/h | Impacts yield per hour |
| Separator Pressure | 5–15 MPa | Enables fractional separation |
| Vessel Volume | 5–100 L | Defines batch capacity |
Example:
- 5L–10L → Lab & pilot research
- 25L–50L → Small-scale production
- 100L–300L → Industrial continuous operation
3. Choosing the Right System for Your Application
| Application | Recommended Pressure | Typical Volume | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Essential oils & flavors | 10–25 MPa | 5–25 L | Gentle extraction |
| CBD or hemp | 30–40 MPa | 25–100 L | High selectivity & yield |
| Spices & pigments | 25–35 MPa | 25–200 L | Multi-stage separation helpful |
| Food & nutraceuticals | 20–30 MPa | 50–200 L | Clean-label extraction |
If your biomass moisture is >10%, drying and decarboxylation before CO2 extraction is recommended for higher yield and stability.
4. Conclusion
Understanding CO2 extraction system components and performance data helps buyers compare systems more effectively.
When selecting equipment, focus on:
- Extraction vessel capacity & pressure rating
- Separator design (number & control)
- Pump stability and CO2 flow
- PLC automation level
The right configuration ensures higher extraction efficiency, lower energy cost, and reproducible product quality.
FAQ
Q1: What are the essential CO2 extraction system components?
A1: Extraction vessel, separator tanks, CO2 pump/compressor, heat exchangers, and PLC control system.
Q2: How do I choose the correct vessel volume?
A2: Base it on your daily raw material load — for 25–30 kg/day, a 25L × 2 system is suitable.
Q3: Why use multiple separators?
A3: To collect different fractions (terpenes, waxes, oils) at optimized pressures.
Q4: What materials are suitable for vessels?
A4: Stainless steel 304 or 316L, depending on corrosion and pressure requirements.
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Our CO2 extraction systems have been sold to over 30 countries, including the USA, Germany, Thailand, and Australia. From start-up brands to well-known herbal extract manufacturers, our customers trust us for:
- Reliable equipment performance
- Excellent technical support
- One-stop turnkey solutions
- Remote installation guidance and training
Supercritical CO2 Extraction Market Report
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