How to Choose the Right Cold Trap

Cold traps safeguard vacuum pumps from being contaminated by vapors being condensed in the device. They also stop oil vapors from backstreaming from the pump back to the system, making the vacuum pumps more efficient and less likely to break down.

In this article, we discuss the types of cold traps available and their benefits and applications.

What is a Cold Trap?

Cold traps are a fundamental part of solvent recovery and are used in vacuum applications where a range of vapors are present. Cold traps condense these vapors into either a solid or liquid state, stopping contamination in the vacuum pump and minimizing the maintenance needs.

Liquid Nitrogen Cold Traps

These solvent recovery systems are of the cold thimble design, meaning the surface of the device contains liquid nitrogen at -187°C. The surface is exposed to the vacuum system and condenses molecules rapidly in the vapor phase. This action leads to a trapping effect, achieving a lower base pressure and a high pumping speed.

Stainless Steel Cold Traps

Cold traps made from stainless steel are popular because stainless steel has so many beneficial attributes. It is corrosion-resistant, meaning coming into contact with vapors will not damage the material.

Stainless steel is also beneficial for cold traps due to how hygienic it is, being extremely easy to clean and sanitize.

Traditional Cold Traps 

Traditional cold traps are extremely inefficient as they need to be extremely cold. This temperature means that large amounts of nitrogen, large amounts of tap water, and anti-freeze would be employed to safeguard the temperature.

Using these materials can be extremely expensive and use excessive amounts of energy. This can increase your company’s overheads and the environmental impacts.

Revolutionary Cold Trap Alternative from Ecodyst

Ecodyst has designed and produced a revolutionary new technology that is an end to the costly and time-consuming practices associated with traditional cold traps.

Ecodyst’s system involves a high-efficiency cooling system that we have produced to offer rapid condensation, continuous cooling, and decrease evaporation time.

Want to Find Out More?

Get in touch with the team at Ecodyst to find out more about how our cold trap alternatives can help with your recovering solvent needs.