How to Use a Short Path Distillation Assembly: A Step-by-Step Guide for Botanical Processing
Short path distillation is an essential technique for high-purity separation of compounds or performing fractional separation. Whether you're operating in a small lab or pilot-scale environment, the Short Path Distillation Assembly – 2L or 5L System from Botanical Health Oils Hardware Ltd. offers the precision and modularity needed for clean, efficient refinement.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to correctly use a short path distillation setup, explain key steps, and highlight how this equipment supports temperature-sensitive compound preservation.
Step 1: Prepare the Assembly
Begin by selecting the correct system size – 2L for smaller volumes or 5L for higher throughput. Ensure that all glassware (still flask, distillation head, condenser, and receiving flasks) is clean and dry.
If you’ve chosen the insulated upright condenser jacket or the 25mm insulated jacket top for the still flask, fit these onto the appropriate components to improve thermal stability. These jackets help minimise heat loss and maintain consistent temperatures during operation.
What you'll need:
- Still flask
- Short path head with thermometer adapter
- Receiving flasks
- Vacuum adapter
- Insulation jackets (optional, but recommended)
- Heating mantle or electric jacket
- Chiller and vacuum pump
- Cold trap
Step 2: Load the Material
Make sure your material has already been winterised and the fluid removed using a rotary evaporator. This ensures a clean, viscous substance ideal for distillation.
Carefully pour the material into the still flask. Avoid overfilling—keep contents below half the flask volume to allow for boiling expansion.
Step 3: Assemble and Seal the Glassware
Assemble all 24/40 ground glass joints, securing them with keck clips. Apply a thin layer of high-vacuum grease to each joint if necessary to ensure an airtight seal.
Connect the vacuum line to the vacuum port on the adapter, and attach your cold trap between the system and vacuum pump to prevent contamination.
Step 4: Begin Heating
Start by gradually heating the still flask using your heating mantle or electric jacket. Monitor the internal temperature closely using the built-in thermometer or a digital probe.
For botanical refinement, begin at lower temperatures (around 100°C) and slowly increase to your target range. Do not exceed the thermal limits of your glassware.
Step 5: Apply Vacuum
Once the system reaches your desired operating temperature, begin applying vacuum to lower the boiling points of the target compounds.
This helps to distil delicate compounds like terpenes or isolates at significantly lower temperatures, preserving their integrity.
Watch for the formation of vapour in the short path head. The condensed material will begin to collect in the receiving flasks.
Step 6: Monitor Fraction Collection
As the distillation progresses, monitor fractions closely. You can isolate compounds based on their boiling points under vacuum. This allows you to collect the most desirable fractions while leaving behind heavier residues.
Record your temperature and vacuum readings to replicate results in future runs.
Step 7: End Process and Clean
Once the desired fractions have been collected, slowly release the vacuum and allow the system to return to atmospheric pressure.
Power down the heating element and allow the glassware to cool before disassembly. Clean each component thoroughly before your next use.
Why This Assembly Stands Out
The Short Path Distillation Assembly from Botanical Health Oils Hardware Ltd. includes:
- High-grade borosilicate glass for chemical resistance and clarity
- Modular design with 24/40 joints for universal compatibility
- Optional thermal jackets to support consistent heat management
- Available in 2L or 5L configurations for different processing needs
Whether refining botanical isolates or performing fractional separation, this setup provides the control and efficiency required for repeatable, high-quality results.
Final Tips
- Always run a test cycle to calibrate temperature zones
- Use the cold trap to protect your vacuum pump and improve purity
- Allow the system to reach thermal equilibrium before beginning vacuum application
- Maintain a clean environment to avoid cross-contamination
