Specialized equipment designed to support botanical extraction and refinement processes. Designed by engineers for optimal performance.
Browse All EquipmentAptia engineers equipment solutions for a wide range of processes across multiple industries.
Learn More >Guides and articles written to support processors with the information they need to succeed.
Browse All Resource ArticlesA stainless steel, full vacuum rated reactor that can be used to perform many critical steps in the botanical production process.
The VCO Series is a series of multipurpose solvent recovery reactors that Aptia offers in multiple sizes. The core of the system is a versatile, stainless steel, jacketed vacuum reactor designed to support multiple extraction and refining processes. A powerful explosion proof agitator, efficient solvent condenser, and integrated solvent collection system enable recovery rates of up to 80 LPH of ethanol. Additional uses include decarboxylation, winterization, crystallization, terpene stripping, homogenizing extracts and flavorings, blending multiple batches of extracts, and creating tinctures.
Whatever your needs, the VCO helps maximize your facility’s production.
The VCO is designed to perfom many critical steps in the botanical & hemp extraction process.
The VCO can be used as a moderate capacity solvent recovery system, or as a finishing reactor paired with existing bulk solvent recovery equipment. Most falling film solvent recovery systems leave 10- 15% residual solvent in the extract which needs to be removed before sale or further processing can occur. By utilizing the VCO as a finishing reactor, total extract throughput is increased and primary falling film processes can operate at maximum efficiency.
The VCO is an ideal machine for decarboxylation and degassing of extract. The dimpled heat transfer jacket, robust tank-mounted agitator, and high-powered heaters ensure high throughput and excellent results. Additionally, the full vacuum rating of the vessel allows these processes to be accomplished under vacuum to further increase performance. The exhaust from the vacuum pump can be filtered to eliminate or greatly reduce odor emissions.
The VCO is a dynamic and versatile piece of equipment that is ideal for conducting a variety of batch processes. Paired with carefully selected ancillary equipment, the VCO is ideal for winterization, crystallization, degumming, blending, and formulating.
Manual transfer from a solvent recovery system not only poses a safety risk to operators (with extract temperatures reaching greater than 170° F), it also increases the risk of material loss due to spillage or airborne contamination. By directly piping extract from the initial bulk solvent recovery system into the VCO, these risks are avoided, and overall process efficiency is increased.
Reactor Volume
15 Gallons
Solvent Collection Reservoir
45 Liters, Stainless Steel
Agitator
Top Mounted, driven by C1D1 Group D 1-HP explosion proof motor
Manway
Fully removable for easy cleaning. Optional lifting arm to simplify removing the agitator motor
Control Panel
Indicates temperature and controls agitator speed. Mount control panel outside of the classified area
System Dimensions
33.5″ W x 46″ L x 69″ H
With Lifting Arm: 103″ H
Reactor Volume
35 Gallons
Solvent Collection Reservoir
45 Liters, Stainless Steel
Agitator
Manway
Fully removable for easy cleaning
Control Panel
Indicates temperature and controls agitator speed. Mount control panel outside of the classified area
System Dimensions
31″ W x 53″ L x 68″ H
Reactor Volume
60 Gallons
Solvent Collection Reservoir
45 Liters, Stainless Steel
Agitator
Top Mounted, driven by C1D1 Group D 1-HP explosion proof motor
Manway
Fully removable for easy cleaning. Optional lifting arm to simplify removing the agitator motor
Control Panel
Indicates temperature and controls agitator speed. Mount control panel outside of the classified area
System Dimensions
63″ W x 34.5″ L x 77″ H
With Lifting Arm: 110″ H