glassware

Oldershaw columns

Precise separation for laboratory distillation​

The Oldershaw column is a specialized fractional distillation column for laboratory-scale operations. Its design, featuring a series of perforated plates, allows for superior separation of liquid mixtures.

Enhanced efficiency

Design incorporates a vacuum jacket to minimize heat loss and perforated plates to promote efficient heat and mass transfer, leading to superior separation.

Stepwise separation process allows for precise control over temperature and pressure, crucial for accurate and reproducible results.

Compact design ideal for labs with limited space.

Oldershaw column by H.S. Martin Scientific Glassware

FAQs

What is an Oldershaw column?

An Oldershaw column is a specialized type of distillation column designed for laboratory use. It features a vacuum-jacketed design with perforated plates, enhancing its efficiency and precision for separation processes.

Oldershaw columns are used for various laboratory applications, including:
  • Simulating chemical processes to evaluate the feasibility of separation by distillation.
  • Determining the efficiency of separation in scaled-up processes.
  • Conducting research on distillation techniques and parameters.

There are several advantages to using an Oldershaw column:

  • Enhanced efficiency: The vacuum jacket and perforated plates promote efficient heat and mass transfer, resulting in better separation.
  • Precise control: The design allows for precise control of temperature and pressure, ensuring accurate results.
  • Laboratory-scale: Ideal for research and development due to its smaller size and ease of use.

An Oldershaw column works by creating a counter-current flow of vapor and liquid. The vapor rises through the column while the liquid flows down, coming into contact with each other on the perforated plates. The components with lower boiling points vaporize first and rise higher in the column, while those with higher boiling points remain in the liquid phase and flow downwards.

Technical specifications

H.S. Martin oldershaw columns are designed and manufactured with the following specifications.

Material

High-quality borosilicate glass, known for durability and resistance to thermal shock (Pyrex® or Kimax®)

Design

Series of uniform perforated plates or trays that create discrete stages for vapor-liquid interaction. Vacuum-jacketed design to minimize heat loss and ensure a stable temperature gradient.

Application scale

Laboratory and pilot-scale

Annealing point

560°C (Pyrex®), 565°C (Kimax®)

Strain point

510°C (Pyrex®), 513°C (Kimax®)

Softening point

821°C (Pyrex®), 827°C (Kimax®)

Thermal expansion coefficient (0-300°C)

33 x 10-7 l/°C (Pyrex®), 32 x 10-7 l/°C (Kimax®)

Joint type

Standard taper joints, spherical ground joints

Available joint sizes

A range of sizes, including 24/40, 29/42, 34/45, etc.

Why choose H.S. Martin for Oldershaw columns?

H.S. Martin is a trusted provider of high-quality scientific glassware. Our Oldershaw columns are meticulously crafted from top-grade borosilicate glass, ensuring optimal functionality and longevity. We offer a range of sizes and configurations to meet your specific needs.  

When you choose H.S. Martin for your Oldershaw columns, you’re investing in:

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