Rührkesselreaktor

A Rührkesselreaktor, often translated as stirred tank reactor or CSTR (Continuous Stirred-Tank Reactor), is a fundamental piece of equipment in chemical engineering. It is a type of reactor where reactants are mixed continuously to promote chemical reactions. The key feature is the presence of an agitator, or impeller, which stirs the contents to ensure uniform temperature, concentration, and to enhance heat and mass transfer.

CSTRs are characterized by the assumption that the contents are perfectly mixed. This means that the output stream from the reactor has the same composition and temperature as any point within the reactor itself. This perfect mixing is an idealization, and real CSTRs may have some degree of deviation from this ideal.

These reactors are widely used in various industrial processes, including chemical synthesis, fermentation, and wastewater treatment. They are particularly suitable for reactions that are exothermic or endothermic, as the stirring facilitates efficient heat removal or addition, allowing for precise temperature control. The continuous inflow of reactants and outflow of products makes them ideal for large-scale, continuous production.

Despite their simplicity and widespread use, the design of a CSTR involves careful consideration of factors such as impeller type and speed, reactor volume, and flow rates to optimize reaction efficiency and product yield. The residence time distribution of the fluid within a CSTR is also a crucial parameter affecting the overall conversion.