Closed-Loop Extractor: A Comprehensive Guide

A closed loop extractor is a type of extraction system used to extract essential oils, concentrates, or other desired compounds from plant material. It is commonly used in industries such as cannabis, herbal medicine, and perfumery.

The closed loop extractor operates by using a solvent, such as butane or CO2, to dissolve and extract the desired compounds from the plant material. The extractor is designed with a sealed loop system that allows the solvent to circulate through the extraction vessel, capturing the desired compounds in the process. The solvent is then separated from the extracted material, typically through a combination of evaporation and purging techniques, leaving behind a concentrated extract.

The closed loop design is essential for safety and efficiency. It minimizes the risk of solvent leakage and allows for the collection and reuse of the solvent, reducing waste and cost. The system is typically equipped with various components, including a collection chamber, recovery tank, solvent pump, valves, and pressure gauges, to control and monitor the extraction process.

Closed loop extractors are favored for their ability to maintain a controlled and closed environment throughout the extraction process, ensuring a safer and more efficient extraction compared to open blast methods. They allow for precise control over temperature, pressure, and solvent flow, resulting in higher-quality extracts with greater purity and consistency.

A closed loop extractor works by utilizing a closed system to extract desired compounds from plant material. Here’s a general overview of how it operates:

1. Loading: The plant material, such as cannabis or herbs, is loaded into the extraction vessel of the closed loop extractor. This vessel is designed to hold the plant material securely during the extraction process.
2. Solvent Injection: A solvent, commonly butane or CO2, is injected into the extraction vessel. The solvent acts as a medium to dissolve and carry the desired compounds from the plant material.
3. Extraction: Once the solvent is injected, it interacts with the plant material, dissolving the desired compounds, such as essential oils or cannabinoids. This process is facilitated by factors like temperature, pressure, and agitation, which can be controlled within the closed loop extractor.
4. Circulation: The dissolved compounds, along with the solvent, form a mixture known as the “solution.” This solution is circulated within the closed loop system, typically driven by a pump. The closed loop design ensures that the solvent and solution remain contained within the system, minimizing the risk of leaks or contamination.
5. Filtration: As the solution circulates, it may pass through filtration media, such as screens or filter plates, to remove any solid particles or plant material debris. This step helps to obtain a cleaner and purer extract.
6. Separation: After the desired compounds have been extracted, the solution is directed to a collection chamber or recovery tank. In this stage, the solvent and extract are separated from each other. Various techniques can be employed, such as evaporation, vacuum purging, or heat application, to remove the solvent from the extract.
7. Solvent Recovery: The recovered solvent is typically collected in a separate tank or vessel for reuse in future extractions. Closed loop systems are designed to allow for efficient solvent recovery, reducing waste and operational costs.
8. Final Product: Once the solvent has been effectively removed, the result is a concentrated extract containing the desired compounds. This extract can then be further processed, refined, or used as-is for various applications, such as in the production of oils, concentrates, or other products.

Using a closed loop extractor offers several benefits over other extraction methods. Here are some key advantages:

1. Safety: Closed loop extractors are designed with safety in mind. The closed system minimizes the risk of solvent leakage, reducing the chances of accidents or exposure to flammable or hazardous substances. This makes them safer to operate compared to open blast extraction methods.
2. Controlled Environment: Closed loop extractors provide a controlled environment for the extraction process. Operators can regulate factors such as temperature, pressure, and solvent flow, allowing for precise control over the extraction parameters. This control contributes to consistent and repeatable results.
3. Efficiency: Closed loop extractors are efficient in terms of solvent usage. The closed system allows for the collection and reuse of solvent, reducing waste and operational costs. It also facilitates solvent recovery, enabling multiple extraction cycles without the need for excessive solvent replenishment.
4. High-Quality Extracts: The closed loop design helps maintain the integrity and quality of the extracted compounds. By controlling factors like temperature and pressure, it is possible to preserve the delicate flavors, aromas, and therapeutic properties of the plant material. Closed loop extractors can yield extracts with higher purity, consistency, and potency compared to other extraction methods.
5. Versatility: Closed loop extractors are versatile and can be used for various plant materials. They are commonly employed in the cannabis industry but can also be utilized for extracting essential oils, herbal extracts, and other desired compounds from different botanical sources.
6. Scalability: Closed loop extractors are available in different sizes and configurations, allowing for scalability to meet production needs. They can be used for small-scale operations and easily scaled up to accommodate larger extraction volumes.
7. Compliance: Closed loop extractors are often designed to comply with industry regulations and safety standards. This ensures that the extraction process meets legal requirements, making them suitable for commercial operations and regulated markets.

A closed loop extractor can be used to make a variety of extracts from different plant materials. Here are some common extracts that can be produced using a closed loop extractor:

1. Cannabis Concentrates: Closed loop extractors are widely used in the cannabis industry to produce various concentrated cannabis extracts, such as shatter, wax, budder, live resin, sauce, and more. These extracts are rich in cannabinoids, including THC and CBD, and can be used for medicinal or recreational purposes.
2. Essential Oils: Closed loop extractors can be used to extract essential oils from aromatic plants such as lavender, rosemary, peppermint, and eucalyptus. These essential oils are highly concentrated and capture the characteristic scents and therapeutic properties of the plants.
3. Herbal Extracts: Closed loop extractors can extract compounds from a wide range of herbs and botanicals. This includes extracts from chamomile, valerian root, ginseng, and many other plants used in herbal medicine. These extracts can be used for their medicinal properties or as ingredients in natural health and wellness products.
4. Terpenes: Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. Closed loop extractors can extract terpenes, which contribute to the aroma and flavor profiles of plants. These terpene extracts can be used in various applications, such as flavoring agents, aromatherapy, or enhancing the sensory experience of cannabis products.
5. Flavor Extracts: Closed loop extractors can be utilized to extract flavors from fruits, spices, and other food-grade ingredients. These extracts can be used in the food and beverage industry for flavoring products like candies, beverages, baked goods, and more.
6. Perfume Extracts: Closed loop extractors can extract aromatic compounds from flowers and botanical sources for use in perfume production. These extracts capture the fragrance notes and essences of the plants, forming the base for creating unique perfumes and fragrances.
7. Nutraceutical Extracts: Closed loop extractors can be used to extract bioactive compounds from plants that have potential health benefits. For example, extracts rich in antioxidants, polyphenols, or other beneficial compounds can be obtained from plants like green tea, turmeric, or berries.

The main difference between an open blast extractor and a closed loop extractor lies in their design, safety features, and extraction process. Here’s a breakdown of the key distinctions:

1. Design: An open blast extractor typically consists of a simple cylindrical tube or container where the plant material is packed at one end. The solvent is then introduced at the other end, and the extract is collected as it flows out. In contrast, a closed loop extractor is a more complex system with multiple interconnected components, including extraction vessels, recovery tanks, valves, and pumps, designed to create a closed system for solvent circulation.
2. Safety: Open blast extractors carry a higher risk of accidents and safety hazards. The open design means that the solvent can potentially come into contact with an open flame or spark, leading to explosions or fires. Closed loop extractors, on the other hand, are specifically designed to minimize these risks. The closed system ensures that the solvent remains contained within the equipment, reducing the chances of leaks or ignition sources.
3. Solvent Handling: In an open blast extractor, the solvent is directly introduced into the extraction vessel, where it interacts with the plant material. The solvent and extract mixture then flows out into a collection container. In a closed loop extractor, the solvent is carefully injected into the extraction vessel, circulates through the system, and is ultimately collected in a separate recovery tank. This allows for the solvent to be reused, reducing waste and cost.
4. Control and Precision: Closed loop extractors provide greater control over the extraction process compared to open blast extractors. With closed loop systems, operators can regulate factors like temperature, pressure, and solvent flow, allowing for precise control over extraction parameters. This control contributes to consistent and repeatable results.
5. Efficiency and Quality: Closed loop extractors tend to be more efficient and produce higher-quality extracts compared to open blast methods. The closed system allows for better solvent containment, reducing solvent loss and waste. It also helps maintain the integrity of the extracted compounds by minimizing exposure to air and contaminants during the extraction process.
6. Compliance: Closed loop extractors are often designed to comply with industry regulations and safety standards. This is particularly important in regulated markets, such as the cannabis industry, where compliance with safety and quality standards is crucial. Open blast extractors may not meet these requirements and may not be suitable for commercial use in regulated environments.

Yes, a closed loop extractor can certainly be used for CBD extraction. CBD (cannabidiol) is one of the major cannabinoids found in cannabis plants, and closed loop extractors are commonly employed in the cannabis industry for extracting CBD-rich extracts.

The closed loop extraction process allows for precise control over parameters such as temperature, pressure, and solvent flow, which is beneficial for CBD extraction. The choice of solvent used in the closed loop extractor will depend on the specific extraction method employed. Common solvents for CBD extraction include hydrocarbons like butane or propane, as well as supercritical carbon dioxide (CO2).

When using a closed loop extractor for CBD extraction, the plant material, typically CBD-rich cannabis flowers, is loaded into the extraction vessel. The solvent is then introduced into the vessel, where it interacts with the plant material, dissolving the cannabinoids, including CBD. The solvent and cannabinoid mixture circulate within the closed loop system, allowing for efficient extraction.

After the extraction is complete, the solvent and CBD extract are separated, often through methods like evaporation or vacuum purging. The recovered solvent can be collected for reuse in subsequent extraction cycles, reducing waste and operational costs.

It’s important to note that CBD extraction using a closed loop extractor should be conducted in compliance with local regulations and safety guidelines. Proper training, knowledge of extraction techniques, and adherence to safety protocols are essential to ensure a safe and effective extraction process.

The yield of a closed loop extractor can vary depending on several factors, including the extraction method, the quality and type of plant material, the extraction parameters, and the skill and experience of the operator. It’s important to note that yield is influenced by many variables, and there is no fixed or guaranteed yield for a closed loop extractor.

That being said, closed loop extractors are generally designed to maximize yield and efficiency compared to other extraction methods. With proper optimization and control over extraction parameters, a closed loop extractor can achieve high extraction yields.

Factors that can impact the yield include:

1. Plant Material Quality: The quality and cannabinoid content of the plant material being extracted play a significant role in determining the yield. High-quality plant material with a higher concentration of cannabinoids will generally yield more extract.
2. Extraction Method: The choice of extraction method within the closed loop extractor can affect the yield. Different methods, such as hydrocarbon extraction or CO2 extraction, may yield varying amounts of extract due to differences in solubility and selectivity.
3. Extraction Parameters: Parameters such as temperature, pressure, and solvent-to-material ratio can influence the yield. Optimization of these parameters is crucial to achieve the desired extraction efficiency and yield.
4. Extraction Efficiency: The efficiency of the extraction process itself, including the contact time between the solvent and the plant material, the agitation or mixing method, and the filtration process, can impact the yield. Efficient extraction techniques can maximize the yield by ensuring thorough extraction of the target compounds.

The duration of the extraction process using a closed loop extractor can vary depending on several factors, including the extraction method, the type of plant material, the extraction parameters, and the desired outcome. Here are some factors that can influence the extraction time:

1. Extraction Method: Different extraction methods have varying extraction times. For example, hydrocarbon extraction methods using solvents like butane or propane typically have faster extraction times compared to CO2 extraction, which may require longer extraction durations.
2. Plant Material: The type and condition of the plant material being extracted can affect the extraction time. Factors such as the moisture content, density, and cannabinoid content of the plant material can impact the extraction rate. Generally, plant material that is finely ground or has a larger surface area can be extracted more efficiently and faster.
3. Extraction Parameters: The parameters set for the extraction process, including temperature, pressure, solvent-to-material ratio, and agitation, can influence the extraction time. Higher temperatures and pressures, along with optimized parameters, can potentially shorten the extraction time.
4. Desired Outcome: The desired outcome of the extraction can also impact the extraction time. If a quick and initial extraction is required, a shorter extraction time might be sufficient. However, if a more thorough extraction or higher yield is desired, longer extraction times may be necessary.

A closed loop extractor typically consists of several main components that work together to facilitate the extraction process. While there can be variations in design and specific equipment, here are the fundamental components commonly found in a closed loop extractor:

1. Extraction Vessel: The extraction vessel is where the plant material is loaded for extraction. It is a sealed container that can withstand the pressure and temperature required for the extraction process. The vessel is designed to allow solvent contact with the plant material while preventing leaks.
2. Solvent Delivery System: This system includes a solvent tank or reservoir, valves, and tubing that deliver the solvent to the extraction vessel. The solvent is typically stored in a separate tank and controlled by valves to regulate the flow and pressure during the extraction process.
3. Recovery Tank: The recovery tank is responsible for collecting the solvent after it has passed through the extraction vessel and extracted the desired compounds. The recovered solvent can be reused in subsequent extraction cycles, reducing waste and operational costs.
4. Filtration System: The filtration system is used to remove solid particles, plant material debris, and impurities from the extracted solution. It typically consists of screens, filter plates, or other filtration media that trap unwanted materials while allowing the solvent and extracted compounds to pass through.
5. Pump: A pump is employed to circulate the solvent and extracted solution through the closed loop system. The pump maintains a continuous flow and ensures thorough contact between the solvent and the plant material, enhancing the extraction efficiency.
6. Pressure and Temperature Control: Closed loop extractors often incorporate mechanisms for controlling and adjusting the pressure and temperature during the extraction process. This can include pressure gauges, temperature sensors, and control systems that allow operators to fine-tune the extraction parameters.
7. Safety Features: Closed loop extractors prioritize safety and may include various safety features. These can include pressure relief valves, rupture disks, sight glasses, and other safety mechanisms to prevent excessive pressure build-up, detect leaks, or provide visual monitoring of the extraction process.
8. Collection Chamber: The collection chamber is where the extracted solution, which contains the desired compounds, is collected. It is typically separate from the recovery tank and allows for easy retrieval of the extract for further processing or refinement.

In a closed loop extractor, the choice of solvent depends on various factors such as the extraction method, target compounds, regulatory requirements, and safety considerations. Here are some common solvents used in closed loop extraction:

1. Hydrocarbons: Hydrocarbon solvents like butane, propane, and blends of these gases are commonly used in closed loop extractors. These solvents have low boiling points, making them effective for extracting cannabinoids, terpenes, and other desirable compounds from plant material. Hydrocarbon extraction methods are known for their efficiency and ability to produce high-quality extracts. However, it’s important to handle hydrocarbon solvents with caution due to their flammability and potential safety risks.
2. Supercritical Carbon Dioxide (CO2): CO2 extraction is another popular method used in closed loop extractors. In this method, carbon dioxide is pressurized and heated to a supercritical state, where it exhibits properties of both a liquid and a gas. Supercritical CO2 acts as a solvent to extract cannabinoids and other compounds from the plant material. CO2 extraction is considered safe, environmentally friendly, and versatile, allowing for selective extraction of specific compounds. However, it typically requires higher equipment costs compared to hydrocarbon extraction.
3. Ethanol: Ethanol is a commonly used solvent in various extraction methods, including closed loop extraction. Ethanol extraction is known for its ability to extract a wide range of compounds, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. It is considered relatively safe, readily available, and cost-effective. Ethanol can be used at different temperatures and concentrations to optimize the extraction process.
4. Other Solvents: Depending on the specific requirements and regulations, other solvents such as isopropyl alcohol (IPA), hexane, or acetone may be used in closed loop extractors. However, it’s important to consider the safety, purity, and potential residues associated with these solvents.

Yes, closed loop extractors are widely used in the cannabis industry for the extraction of various compounds from cannabis plants. The cannabis industry relies on closed loop extraction systems for the production of extracts such as CBD oil, THC oil, terpene concentrates, and other cannabis-derived products.

Closed loop extractors offer several advantages for cannabis extraction:

1. Efficiency: Closed loop extractors are designed to maximize extraction efficiency, allowing for the extraction of a high percentage of target compounds from the plant material. This helps optimize yield and reduce waste.
2. Control: Closed loop extractors provide precise control over parameters such as temperature, pressure, and solvent flow, allowing operators to fine-tune the extraction process. This control helps optimize the extraction conditions and ensure consistent product quality.
3. Safety: Closed loop extractors prioritize safety by providing a closed and controlled environment for the extraction process. They incorporate safety features such as pressure relief valves, rupture disks, and monitoring systems to minimize the risk of accidents and maintain operator safety.
4. Scalability: Closed loop extractors are available in various sizes and configurations, making them suitable for both small-scale and large-scale extraction operations. They can be adapted to different production volumes and accommodate the needs of cannabis businesses of varying sizes.
5. Compliance: The use of closed loop extractors can help cannabis businesses comply with regulatory requirements. These extractors are designed to meet safety standards and facilitate the production of high-quality extracts that meet regulatory guidelines.