# Steam Distillation in Aromatic Plants

Source: [https://www.stilsan.com/en/solutions/ucucu-yag-distilasyonu-icin-buhar-jeneratoru](https://www.stilsan.com/en/solutions/ucucu-yag-distilasyonu-icin-buhar-jeneratoru)

Project solutions supplying controlled steam to the distillation vessel for thyme, lavender, bay laurel and similar aromatic plants.

## Process requirement

In steam distillation, steam produced at a separate source is passed through the botanical material; the stream carrying volatile components is condensed in the condenser, and oil-water separation is performed in the downstream equipment. The plant species, whether it is fresh or dried, the filling density and the required product characteristics mean that the same steam programme cannot be used for every raw material.

## How does the solution work?

The steam generator supplies the distribution section of the distillation vessel through a controlled line. The balanced distribution of steam through the material, prevention of channeling, the condenser's ability to handle the resulting load, and the correct arrangement of condensate-aromatic water separation are addressed together. Where there is direct contact, water quality, line materials and process hygiene are also defined.

- Determining the steam or water-and-steam distillation arrangement
- Jointly assessing the capacity of the distribution system, condenser and oil-water separator
- Material and cleaning requirements for surfaces in contact with the product

## Information determining the correct capacity

The vessel's net volume alone is not sufficient. The plant mass per batch, the type and moisture content of the raw material, the target cycle time, start-up conditions, steam inlet pressure, line length, condenser capacity and the number of consecutive batches during the day should be provided. The final model selection is made using these process data and, where possible, a pilot trial.

## Stilsan approach and project boundary

Stilsan evaluates the steam source and the connection approach required for the project; the distillation vessel, condenser, separator and product recipe are clarified together with the customer's existing equipment or the project scope. If a standard model is not sufficient, custom dimensions and capacity can be assessed. Efficiency or oil quality cannot be guaranteed by the generator alone.

## Frequently asked questions

**Which aromatic plants can be processed by steam distillation?**

Steam distillation can be used for many aromatic plants such as thyme, lavender, bay laurel, sage and mint. The appropriate method and cycle should be determined according to the plant's structure, moisture content and the intended product.

**Does the steam come into direct contact with the plant?**

In steam distillation, steam is generally passed through the botanical material. Therefore, the feed water, steam line, materials in contact and cleaning conditions should be defined together with the process owner.

**Is the generator capacity selected only according to the vessel volume in litres?**

No. The plant mass and structure, filling density, target duration, steam distribution, line and condenser capacity are evaluated together.

**Does Stilsan offer a complete distillation plant?**

The quotation scope is determined according to the project. The steam generator is the core equipment; the quotation clearly states which party will provide the distillation vessel, condenser, separator, automation and site connections.

## Technical sources

1. T.C. Sanayi ve Teknoloji Bakanlığı. [Tokat İli Tıbbi ve Aromatik Bitkilerden Uçucu Yağ Üretimi Ön Fizibilite Raporu](https://www.yatirimadestek.gov.tr/pdf/assets/upload/fizibiliteler/tokat-ili-tibbi-ve-aromatik-bitkilerden-ucucu-yag-uretimi-on-fizibilite-raporu-2021.pdf)
2. FAO. [Non-Wood Forest Products: Basic Principles of Steam Distillation](https://www.fao.org/4/v5350e/v5350e.pdf)

## Related products

- [Stainless Steel Steam Machine (Custom Manufacturing)](https://www.stilsan.com/en/products/paslanmaz-buhar-makinesi): STL-003
- [Stainless Steel Steam Machine (Custom Size)](https://www.stilsan.com/en/products/paslanmaz-buhar-makinesi-ozel-boy): STL-004
- [ST-1 Steam Generator](https://www.stilsan.com/en/products/st-1-buhar-jeneratoru): ST-1
- [ST-2 Steam Generator](https://www.stilsan.com/en/products/st-2-buhar-jeneratoru): ST-2

## Related technical guide

[How is steam distillation planned for aromatic plants?](https://www.stilsan.com/en/blog/buharla-ucucu-yag-distilasyonu-nasil-planlanir)