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Distillation columns present a different set of fabrication challenges than most process equipment: tight diameter tolerances, tray or packing support alignment, and structural stability across heights that can run into tens of meters. We take on the mechanical design and fabrication scope for both tray and packed column configurations, working from your process datasheet through to a shop-tested, code-stamped column ready for site erection.

Our fabrication covers shell rolling and welding, nozzle and manway placement, internal support ring installation, and tray or packing bed assembly, all built to hold tight to the tolerances your separation efficiency depends on. For taller columns, we also handle sectional fabrication and match-marking for field assembly, along with the wind and seismic load considerations that come with column height.

We deliver is a mechanically sound column, structurally rated for the pressures, temperatures, and loads specified, and built to the applicable code.

Specifications
Column diameter: 0.3m to 4m+ (custom sizing)Column height: Up to 60m (sectional fabrication for tall columns)Design pressure: Full vacuum to 20+ barDesign temperature: -40°C to 400°C+
Applications
Fractional distillation of liquid mixturesCrude oil & petroleum refiningSolvent recovery & purificationAlcohol & ethanol distillationVacuum distillation for heat-sensitive productsGas absorption & strippingExtractive & azeotropic distillationChemical & petrochemical fractionation
Materials
Stainless Steel 304/304LStainless Steel 316/316LCarbon SteelMild SteelHastelloyTitaniumDuplex & Super-Duplex
Compliance
ASME Section VIIIPED(CE)UKCAIBRIS2825
Frequently asked

Questions buyers ask first.

What sizes can R&D Therm fabricate?

We can fabricate equipment up to 4.5 m in shell diameter, 33 m in overall length and 42 MT single-piece weight.

Which codes and certifications do you build to?

We are ASME U-Stamp certified for pressure vessels, IBR-approved for boilers and steam pressure parts, and routinely build to PED (CE marked) for European exports.

Do you handle exotic-alloy fabrication?

Yes — titanium, Hastelloy C-22 / C-276, duplex and super-duplex stainless steels, Sanicro 28 and 904L are routine work for our welding division.

What is your typical delivery timeline?

Standard pressure vessels and heat exchangers typically ship in 12–16 weeks. Larger columns, reactors and skids ship in 16–22 weeks.

Do you provide third-party inspection support?

Yes — we work routinely with Lloyd's Register, BV, TUV, DNV, SGS and customer-nominated inspection agencies.

What does R&D Therm do?

R&D Therm designs and manufactures process equipment including pressure vessels, heat exchangers, reactors, columns and process skids for industries such as chemical, pharma, oil & gas, etc.

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What materials does R&D Therm fabricate with?

We fabricate in carbon steel (SA516 Gr. 70), stainless steel (304L/316L and higher grades), duplex and super-duplex, and other alloy materials as specified by the customer.

Build with R&D Therm

Talk to an engineer about your distillation column enquiry.