jakosäiliön

Jakosäiliö, in English often called a distribution tank or distribution vessel, is a process equipment used to hold a liquid or slurry and distribute it to multiple downstream lines or processes. Its main purpose is to provide a controlled feed to several outlets, ensuring consistent composition, temperature, and flow to subsequent steps.

In operation, a jakosäiliö typically receives material from a single source and feeds it to a manifold or multiple outlets. Level control maintains a steady liquid level, which helps stabilize the inlet and downstream flow. Each outlet can be equipped with valves, orifice plates, or flow meters to achieve specified distribution ratios. Mixing or agitation within the tank may be employed to maintain homogeneity, especially if the feed is prone to settling or phase separation. In some designs, heating or cooling jackets are included to manage temperature.

Construction and materials depend on the process fluids and required cleanliness. Common materials include stainless steel for chemical and pharmaceutical applications, with glass-lined or coated surfaces in corrosive environments. Sanitary designs are important in food, beverage, and pharma industries, emphasizing smooth surfaces and CIP (clean-in-place) compatibility. Tanks are sized based on required hold time, total volume, and the demand of downstream outlets, with attention to dead zones and ease of maintenance.

Applications span chemical processing, petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and water treatment. Advantages include stabilized feed to multiple processes and reduced pulsation, while limitations involve potential bottlenecks if downstream demand exceeds tank throughput and the need for careful control to prevent cross-contamination or stratification.