Introduction

Aluminium Chloride (AlCl₃) is a key compound widely used in the chemical industry, particularly as a catalyst in organic synthesis and polymerization processes. At our manufacturing facility, we follow a meticulously engineered production method that ensures high purity, safety, and efficiency. Here’s a comprehensive look into the process — from raw material handling to final product packaging.

Step-by-Step Production Process

1. Melting the Aluminium

• Pure Aluminium (Melting Point: 660°C) is melted inside a specially designed reactor.
• Approximately 5.0–6.0 MT of Aluminium is required to initiate one reactor.
• Startup time ranges from 3–4 days, with full stabilization in around 3 days.

2. Chlorine Gas Introduction

• Dry Chlorine gas is introduced through graphite sparging tubes into the molten Aluminium.
• Reaction temperature is maintained around 700°C.

3. Reaction and Heat Management

• The highly exothermic reaction contributes heat:
  • Partially melts the Aluminium.
  • Supports the sublimation of Aluminium Chloride (Sublimation Point: 181°C).
  • Excess heat is radiated from the reactor walls and molten surface.

4. Condensation of Product

• AlCl₃ vapors travel to the condenser.
• Vapors cool and deposit on condenser walls as solid crystals.
• Periodic mechanical tapping discharges the solid product.

5. Sieving and Storage

• The product is transferred via screw conveyors and bucket elevators to vibro-sieves for particle size grading.
• Graded AlCl₃ is stored in silos under dry air blanketing to prevent moisture contamination.

Environmental & Safety Measures

• Unreacted chlorine and gaseous byproducts are scrubbed using high-efficiency scrubbers.
• Packing areas maintain low-humidity environments to avoid HCl fume release due to moisture sensitivity.
• All material handling is done under dry air or nitrogen atmosphere.

Reactor Operation & Maintenance

• Reactors run 24/7/365 with no planned shutdowns.
• Each reactor has a lifespan of about 2100 MT of AlCl₃.
• Reactor replacement takes 45–60 days.
• Upon shutdown, residual Aluminium solidifies and is later re-melted into ingots for reuse.

Moisture Sensitivity: A Critical Concern

Aluminium Chloride is extremely hygroscopic. Even brief exposure to atmospheric moisture can:

• Lower product purity.
• Trigger release of corrosive HCl fumes.
  Thus, humidity control is critical throughout processing, storage, and especially in final packaging.

Conclusion

The manufacturing of Aluminium Chloride is a complex, high-precision process that demands continuous operation, robust reactor design, and stringent moisture control. Our plant’s modular setup and dedicated operational strategy ensure consistent product quality and minimal environmental impact.

Why Choose Us?

In a highly competitive and quality-sensitive industry like specialty chemicals, choosing the right manufacturing partner is critical. Clients not only need consistency in product performance, but also a supplier who understands regulatory compliance, technical challenges, and long-term value. At CKKL, we don’t just manufacture chemicals—we deliver solutions tailored to your industrial needs.