Author: HWS Mainz Laboratory Engineering Team
Published by HWS Mainz – Experts in Custom Glass Reactor Systems for Research and Industry

Introduction: Why Bench-Scale Glass Reactors Are the Heart of the Laboratory

Bench-scale glass reactors are essential tools in research and development laboratories. These compact, high-performance systems allow scientists to replicate chemical processes under controlled conditions, enabling precise experimentation, process optimization, and scale-up validation.

Whether used for chemical synthesis, pharmaceutical research, materials testing, or pilot plant studies, glass reactors offer exceptional transparency, chemical resistance, and configurability. Moreover, when paired with customization services like those offered by HWS Mainz, they become tailored instruments that reflect the unique demands of each user’s work.

In this article, we explore the key reactor types available, explain the benefits of glass as a reactor material, and demonstrate how HWS’s extensive customization options empower laboratories to maximize efficiency, safety, and innovation.

Common Types of Bench-Scale Glass Reactors

Laboratories require different reactor types depending on the application. Below are some of the most common configurations:

1. Jacketed Reactors (Double-Walled Vessels)

• Feature a secondary glass layer for thermal fluid circulation
• Enable precise temperature control during reactions
• Ideal for exothermic/endothermic processes, crystallization, and distillation

2. Unjacketed Reactors

• Simpler single-walled vessels
• Suitable for non-thermal-sensitive reactions
• Cost-effective and easy to clean

3. Filter Reactors

• Integrate a filter base or bottom filter system
• Allow in-situ solid-liquid separation post-reaction
• Common in precipitation, crystallization, and catalyst recovery workflows

4. Pressure-Rated Reactors

• Made from reinforced glass or glass-metal combinations
• Designed for reactions under positive or vacuum pressure
• Used in polymer synthesis, gas-liquid reactions, and high-pressure studies

Why Glass? Key Advantages of Glass Reactors

Glass remains a preferred material in laboratory reactor design for several reasons:

• Chemical Inertness: Resistant to most acids, solvents, and bases
• Thermal Stability: Borosilicate glass handles high and changing temperatures well
• Visibility: Transparent design allows easy observation of mixing, color changes, or phase separations
• Cleanability: Smooth surfaces allow fast and effective cleaning between experiments

When you add the customization capability of borosilicate glass into the mix, it becomes the most adaptable material for precision-scale research.

Customization as a Competitive Advantage

Every lab has unique needs. Off-the-shelf glass reactors may not always accommodate specific workflows, space limitations, or integration requirements. That’s why custom glass reactor manufacturing is becoming a preferred solution.

At HWS Mainz, our custom-built bench reactors are engineered to precise user specifications. This includes:

1. Flange & Connection Systems

• HWS standard, Schott lab/pilot flanges, spherical joints
• SVL, olive, GL threads, Rotulex, and fully bespoke solutions

2. Reactor Dimensions

• DN 35 to DN 300 available
• Standard and non-standard shapes and volumes

3. Jacket & Joint Options

• Flat flange or threaded connections for jackets
• Inlets/outlets available in GL, DN, or custom forms

4. Bottom Outlet Valves

• PTFE dead-volume-free valves
• Pneumatic, magnetic, or manual valves with customizable bore sizes

5. Specialty Configurations

• Triple-walled vessels
• Graduated, silver-plated, or coated glass
• Round or flat bottoms
• Lateral overflows, additional bottom outlets
• Material options: stainless steel, PTFE, Halar coatings

All reactors are manufactured using Type I, Class A borosilicate glass from Schott, and undergo meticulous quality control, including serial tracking for service and repairs.

Real-World Applications of Customized Reactors

• Pharmaceutical Synthesis: Configured with jacketed walls and integrated filters for multi-step reactions and product isolation
• Polymer Research: Built with pressure resistance and advanced outlet control to handle viscous, reactive media
• Process Development: Multi-port tops and lateral outlets simplify sampling, gas dosing, and intermediate handling
• Education & Demonstration: Transparent systems allow students to visually follow processes in real time

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a custom reactor be integrated into our existing lab system?

Yes. HWS offers full compatibility with standard and proprietary fittings, pumps, heaters, and automation tools.

What is the lead time for customized reactors?

Depending on complexity, most single-unit builds are completed within 4–6 weeks. Urgent projects can be prioritized.

Are repairs and replacements traceable?

Absolutely. Every reactor is marked with a burned-in serial number and manufacturing date to support long-term tracking and service.

Can I request a single unit or small series?

Yes. HWS specializes in both single-item prototypes and small-series production.

Conclusion: Tailored Precision for Research Excellence

Bench-scale glass reactors are the cornerstone of reliable, high-quality laboratory chemistry. But not all systems are created equal. The ability to customize your reactor system—from flange size to valve type—can drastically improve process efficiency, reduce risk, and enable new experimental possibilities.

At HWS Mainz, we don’t just manufacture lab glass. We design research tools. Built with German precision, engineered for flexibility, and customized for your exact needs.

Let us help you bring your next idea to life—in glass.