How to solve the wall sticking problem in enamel polymerization reactors?
Thread Content
When we produce a certain type of latex, severe skin formation occurs inside the polymerization tank (an 1000L enamel tank); approximately 5 kilograms of this skin buildup accumulates in each tank, which is both wasteful and difficult to clean. It takes about an hour for staff to clean the tank thoroughly after each production cycle, leading to much complaints among the employees. I don’t know what causes it; how can I avoid it? The main raw materials used include polyvinyl alcohol, vinyl acetate, water, VAE, etc. The process starts with heating and dissolving polyvinyl alcohol in water, followed by the gradual addition of monomers for polymerization, and finally adjusting the viscosity to 6000 mPa·S. Please advise on a solution.
Could low temperature be the reason?
1. The heat removal capacity of the polymerization reactor is insufficient; measures should be taken to enhance its heat transfer capacity； 2. The mixing process needs improvement; the mixing is uneven, and the additives are not distributed evenly within the polymer ； 3. Improve the operation method.
After some time of exploration, a solution was found: it is mainly a matter of temperature control. When starting to dissolve PVA, the heating rate should not be too fast, in order to prevent the formation of foam on a large scale, which could lead to the creation of a film adhering to the walls – this **reduces the occurrence of material sticking to the walls later on.