Distillation Comparison

Spinning band distillation offers a high efficiency distillation column that can produce 90+% cannabinoid distillate in a single pass. A single pass distillation means you’ll spend a lot less time distilling, and operation is streamlined.

The spinning band acts as dynamic packing, causing condensed oils to be pumped back down the column while pure vapors rise unimpeded. The result is the highest purity oil in the shortest possible time.

The integrated software allows automatic control of the distillation system. Variables like vacuum level, heat rate, bath temperature, and more are programmed and automatically controlled. Distillation results are logged and graphed. With a few optional items you can even run the system remotely. Ask us how!

Wiped film has the lowest separating power out of these three methods for distilling cannabis oil. Vapors travel only a very short distance before they are condensed. Vapors cannot become highly enriched over the short distance. This is what limits the maximum purity.

Wiped film can also require 3 passes to reach 80%+ purity range. 3 passes means a slow distillation rate and lots of operator time. A cleaning run is required between each pass adding even more time and complexity to the distillation process.

Operating wiped film involves setting and monitoring many different valves, gauges, heated zones (up to 6), flow rates, and receiver levels. Keeping this complex, manual operation going smoothly requires constant attention from an experienced operator.

Short Path Distillation is an “introductory” distillation technique sometimes used in labs in their start up phase. Short path produces useable but lower quality oil often in the 80% cannabinoid range after 2-3 passes.

A common problem during short path operation are vacuum leaks which lead to degradation and dark oil. Spinning band solves this problem by using vacuum tight o-ring joints that give a perfect vacuum seal with no vacuum grease.

As start up labs mature, they often migrate to spinning band distillation systems with higher throughput, higher purity, and more automation.