With a diverse range of molecular sieves available, selecting the appropriate type and form is crucial for optimizing industrial processes. At NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD., we guide our clients through this selection process, ensuring they leverage the unique advantages of each molecular sieve. Key considerations include pore size, adsorption capacity, selectivity, and the specific application at hand.

The most common molecular sieves are categorized by their pore openings: 3A, 4A, 5A, and 13X. Each type is tailored for specific separation and purification tasks.

  • 3A Molecular Sieve: With a 3 Angstrom pore size, this sieve is highly selective for water and small molecules, making it ideal for drying unsaturated hydrocarbons, refrigerants, and insulating glass units. It excludes molecules larger than 3Å, such as olefins and paraffins.
  • 4A Molecular Sieve: Featuring a 4 Angstrom pore opening, the 4A sieve can adsorb water, methanol, ethanol, and carbon dioxide. It is a general-purpose drying agent for non-polar liquids and gases and is useful in applications where CO2 and sulfur compound co-adsorption is not a concern.
  • 5A Molecular Sieve: As detailed in our other articles, the 5A sieve has a 5 Angstrom pore size, making it excellent for separating normal and iso-paraffins, dehydrating natural gas, and purifying PSA hydrogen. It adsorbs molecules smaller than 5Å, including larger hydrocarbons and polar compounds.
  • 13X Molecular Sieve: With a larger 10 Angstrom pore opening, the 13X sieve can adsorb larger molecules like branched hydrocarbons, aromatics, and sulfur compounds. It's often used in air separation for removing moisture and CO2, and in natural gas sweetening.

Beyond the type, the physical form of the molecular sieve also matters. They are commonly available as beads or pellets. Beads, often in sizes like 1.6-2.5mm (8x12 mesh) or 3-5mm (4x8 mesh), are versatile. Pellets offer a more uniform bed and can be advantageous in certain dynamic applications. The choice between beads and pellets often depends on the specific design of the adsorption unit, including pressure drop requirements and desired packing density.

When making a purchase decision, consider the primary function: is it drying, separation, or purification? What specific molecules need to be removed or isolated? What are the operating conditions – temperature, pressure, and flow rate? These factors, combined with the sieve's adsorption capacity and crush strength, will guide the selection. NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. provides a comprehensive catalog of molecular sieves, including 5A variants, and offers expert consultation to help clients identify the most effective solution for their industrial needs. Partnering with a knowledgeable molecular sieve supplier like us ensures you get the performance and reliability your applications demand.