Author: HWS Mainz Laboratory Engineering Team
Published by HWS Mainz – Specialists in Custom Modular Glass Reactor Systems for Laboratories and Industry

Introduction: Agility in the Lab Starts with Modular Design

In modern research and development environments, speed and flexibility are everything. As chemical processes grow more complex and timelines shrink, R&D labs must pivot quickly from one experiment to the next—often with limited space and resources.

That’s where modular glass reactor platforms come in. These systems allow labs to rapidly reconfigure their setups by swapping vessels, valves, ports, and accessories without needing to redesign the entire reactor.

At HWS Mainz, our modular reactor systems are engineered specifically to support agile reaction development. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of modular design, the key components that make it work, and how our solutions help labs scale discoveries faster—with lower cost and greater precision.

What Is a Modular Glass Reactor Platform?

A modular glass reactor platform is a laboratory system made up of interchangeable components:

• Reactor vessels of various volumes and wall configurations (single-, double-, or triple-jacketed)
• Flanges and lids with flexible port arrangements
• Outlet valves with varying bore sizes and material compatibility
• Support frames that accommodate different vessel geometries
• Sensor ports, stirrer guides, condensers, and dosing equipment that can be added or removed as needed

Each part can be swapped in or out without disrupting the core system—ideal for fast transitions between experiments.

Why Modularity Matters in Reaction Development

1. Faster Changeover Between Experiments

R&D workflows rarely stick to a single setup. With modular systems, you can:

• Switch vessel sizes in minutes
• Test different outlet valve configurations
• Reposition dosing ports for new reagent strategies
• Adapt to new temperature or pressure requirements without buying a new reactor

2. Lower Long-Term Cost

With a modular platform, you only invest in the components you need—when you need them.

• Replace individual parts, not entire systems
• Minimize downtime between experiments
• Extend system lifespan by upgrading over time

3. Greater Experimental Precision

Customizing your setup for each reaction type leads to:

• Better mixing and heat transfer
• Accurate in-line monitoring with sensors and probes
• Cleaner sampling and product recovery

4. Future-Proofing Your Lab

As research priorities shift, a modular platform grows with you:

• Add automation modules or smart sensor ports
• Integrate inert gas lines or temperature probes
• Expand from benchtop to pilot scale using similar configurations

The HWS Approach to Modular Reactor Design

At HWS Mainz, we’ve spent decades refining a truly modular glass reactor platform. Our systems are built around:

Standardized Flange Systems

• HWS, Schott lab and pilot series
• Spherical, conical, or flat joint configurations
• GL, SVL, and custom threads for universal compatibility

Configurable Vessel Sizes and Shapes

• DN 35 to DN 300 nominal widths
• Cylindrical, round-bottom, or flat-bottom designs
• Jacketed, triple-walled, or coated vessels for extreme conditions

Swappable Bottom Outlet Valves

• Dead-volume-free PTFE spindle valves
• Pneumatic and magnetic valve options
• Threaded or flanged connections with customizable bore sizes

Add-On Functional Modules

• Dosing funnels, reflux condensers, distillation bridges
• Temperature and pressure sensor ports
• Sampling valves and purge ports

All components are fabricated in-house from Type I, Class A borosilicate glass and designed for plug-and-play assembly. We can also adapt to legacy systems or third-party platforms with custom fittings.

Real-World Use Cases

🔬 Pharmaceutical R&D

Rapid prototyping of synthetic pathways often requires:

• Quick swap between 1 L and 5 L vessels
• Interchangeable stirrer geometries
• Real-time pH and temperature monitoring

Our modular reactor systems help pharma teams execute multi-step synthesis with reduced setup time and increased control.

🌱 Catalysis and Process Optimization

Small changes in flow rates, pressure, or media composition can make or break a process. HWS platforms allow:

• Fine-tuned valve adjustments
• Easy integration of gas dosing lines
• Fast vessel changes without interrupting ongoing tests

🧪 Academic and Educational Labs

Teaching multiple reaction types requires systems that are:

• Visually accessible
• Easy to clean and reconfigure
• Safe for new users

Modular reactors are ideal for coursework or student-led research.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I retrofit modular features into my existing HWS reactor?

Yes. Most HWS systems are forward-compatible, and we offer retrofitting services for outlet valves, ports, and stirrer guides.

What if I need a non-standard component?

We specialize in custom one-off components. Just send us a sketch or sample, and we’ll fabricate it to spec.

How long does it take to switch modules?

Most component swaps (vessel, valve, lid) take less than 5 minutes altogether with standard lab tools.

Is everything traceable?

Yes. All parts have a unique burned-in serial number for lifecycle tracking, service, and replacement.

Conclusion: Modular Systems = Faster Science

As labs face growing pressure to innovate, modular reactor platforms offer the adaptability needed to keep pace. Whether you’re exploring new synthesis pathways, scaling reactions, or teaching future chemists, having a system that evolves with your needs is a game-changer.

At HWS Mainz, we don’t just make lab glass—we make tools that empower research. Our modular reactor solutions help you:

• Work faster
• Customize precisely
• Scale with confidence

Ready to upgrade your reaction development workflow? Let’s build the flexible platform your science deserves.

📩 Contact Our Team

Interested in designing your own modular reactor platform? Reach out to the HWS technical team!