Systems connecting several CSTRs are used when the reaction is too slow.

Multiple CSTRs
can also be used when two immiscible liquids or viscous liquids are present and require a high
agitation rate.

For example, in the mixing of coagulants, the intense mixing provide by CSTRs is desirable to disperse
the reactants quickly.

Design Procedure

A general procedure for reactor design is as follows:

10.13. REACTORS 629

1. Collect together all the kinetic and thermodynamic data on the desired reaction

and the side reactions. It is unlikely that much useful information will be

gleaned from a literature search, as little is published in the open literature on

commercially attractive processes. The kinetic data required for reactor design

will normally be obtained from laboratory and pilot plant studies. Values will be

needed for the rate of reaction over a range of operating conditions: pressure,

temperature, flow rate, and catalyst concentration. The design of experimental

reactors and scale-up is discussed by Rase (1977).

2. Collect the physical property data required for the design, either from the

literature, by estimation or, if necessary, by laboratory measurements.

3. Identify the predominant rate-controlling mechanism: kinetic, mass, or heat

transfer. Choose a suitable reactor type, based on experience with similar

reactions, or from the laboratory and pilot plant work.

4. Make an initial selection of the reactor conditions to give the desired conversion

and yield.

5. Size the reactor and estimate its performance.

Exact analytical solutions of the design relationships are rarely possible; semiempirical

methods based on the analysis of idealized reactors will normally have

to be used.

6. Select suitable materials of construction.

Make a preliminary mechanical design for the reactor: the vessel design, heat

transfer surfaces, internals, and general arrangement.

7. Cost the proposed design, capital and operating, and repeat steps 4 to 6, as

necessary, to optimize the design.