Heating/Cooling Jacket

A heating/cooling jacket is an essential part of a reactor module that provides precise temperature control by circulating heating or cooling fluids through an enclosed space surrounding the reactor vessel. It maintains optimal reaction conditions, prevents thermal runaway, and ensures consistent product quality in chemical processes. The jacket is designed to fit reactor vessels with a volume capacity ranging from 50 to 5000 liters, and the heat transfer area typically spans 0.5 to 10 square meters, depending on the reactor size and required thermal performance. Construction materials commonly include stainless steel 316L, carbon steel, or Hastelloy, selected based on process media compatibility and operating conditions. The design pressure range is 1.0 to 1.6 MPa, and the design temperature range is -40 to 200°C (per EN 13445), with special gasket materials required above 200°C. Wall thickness varies from 4 to 12 mm (per ASME B36.10), and surface finish ranges from 0.4 to 0.8 μm Ra (per ISO 1302) for hygienic applications. Connection sizes are DN25 to DN100 (per EN 1092-1), and the weight ranges from 100 to 2000 kg. The jacket operates by circulating a thermal fluid (such as water, oil, or steam) through the space between the reactor wall and the jacket shell. Heat transfer occurs through conduction across the reactor wall, with temperature controlled by adjusting fluid flow rate, temperature, or switching between heating and cooling circuits. The heat transfer coefficient typically ranges from 200 to 800 W/(m²·K), and the flow rate is 5 to 50 m³/h. The leakage rate is ≤0.01 mL/min (Class A). These values are reference ranges; verify model-specific parameters and standards with the legal manufacturer or supplier before procurement.

The jacket operates by circulating a thermal fluid (such as water, oil, or steam) through the space between the reactor wall and the jacket shell. Heat transfer occurs through conduction across the reactor wall, with temperature controlled by adjusting fluid flow rate, temperature, or switching between heating and cooling circuits. The design allows for efficient heat exchange, with a typical heat transfer coefficient of 200–800 W/(m²·K) depending on fluid properties and flow regime. Flow rates of 5–50 m³/h are common, and the system can be integrated with external temperature control units. Proper selection of materials, wall thickness, and surface finish ensures compatibility with process media and operating conditions. Regular inspection of gaskets, connections, and internal surfaces is necessary to maintain performance and prevent leaks.