Chemical Equipment and Supplies Key Terms

Learn chemical equipment and supplies key terms to make the right purchases

By Shannon Tani

When working with chemicals, there are a number of equipment pieces that are necessary for carrying out experiments or for creating new products. Understanding what types of equipment you need and when is helpful for planning your budget. Large equipment, such as a chemical mixer or a chemical heat exchanger can be costly, but are usually a one-time purchase. Smaller equipment, such as poly-coated glass bottles are also necessary for your work, but may require more frequent replacements. Learn the following key terms to get started.

Chemical mixer or agitator

Chemical mixers, sometimes called agitators are large vats that you can use for mixing two or more chemicals together. Inside, there are blades that spin around, mixing the chemicals.
Try: See examples of chemical mixers at Dynamix Agitators. Scroll down to see that blades that are used for mixing.

Single and double drum dryers

Single and double drum dryers are used to turn liquid substances into solids. A single drum dryer can turn viscous liquids into a dry powder. Double drum dryers are primarily used for foods, chemicals and pharmaceuticals. The double drum dryer is more commonly used.
Try: Visit Bufflovak to see images of a single drum dryer and a double drum dryer and to learn more about their uses.

Poly-coated glass bottles

Glass bottles are often used with chemical and scientific companies, as they are easy and washable. However, glass bottles may shatter and break. Poly-coated glass bottles are the solution. They have a special coating that makes them stronger, resulting in less breaks.
Try: See the many different types of poly-coated glass bottles at VWR International.

Magnetic mixers

Magnetic mixers use the power of magnets to power the blades that mix chemicals. They are ideal for companies that are concerned about contamination when mixing the chemicals, as they help to prevent contamination.
Try: See pictures and learn more about magnetic mixers at Dyna/Mag Magnetic Mixers.

Chemical storage tanks

Chemical storage tanks are used to store chemical solutions when they are not being used. While some companies can make do with a small gallon jug, others need large storage capabilities. Chemical storage tanks work well for these companies.
Try: Bailiff Enterprises explains their chemical storage tanks.

Heat exchanger

Heat exchangers are primarily used for sterilization. They work by moving the heat from one place to another.
Try: Learn more about how heat exchangers work from a report at Rensslear Polytechnic Institute.