10
The diagram above (fig. 4) shows a two-step flow of how this is performed. Red blocks indicate closed valves,
green signifies open. During path 1, valves numbered 2 are closed, vice versa.
First start by opening the liquid port on LP tank, then follow path one. Use the top flood input valve to gently
feather solvent into the material column. The aim is to only allow enough solvent in to wet the material. The
inline ball valve can be opened so sight glasses can be used as an aid when learning.
*
If this method is used, stop flow the moment any solvent is seen hitting collection base. Too much saturation will hinder the
process**
Once the material column is saturated, close valves marked one, as well as the liquid line on the LP. Open
valves marked 2 and the vapor port on the LP, then start the Recovery Pump. The mechanical pull from the
pump will force a phase change on the solvent, turning liquid into vapor. The resulting vapor will be
recovered. As the phase change occurs, latent heat from all surfaces touched by solvent will be removed,
instantly freezing the material column. This change will occur once all pressure is relieved from the column,
and vacuum returns.
F
IG
.
4
