Standard Engineering Technology (SET) has extensive experience serving the chemical industry, supporting a wide spectrum of applications ranging from specialty and fine chemicals to agrochemicals, intermediates and performance materials. Working in close collaboration with chemical producers, SET has developed a strong understanding of processes involving highly corrosive media, elevated temperatures and pressures, multi-step reactions and intensive solvent usage. This experience allows SET to engineer robust, long-life equipment designed to operate safely and reliably in demanding chemical environments.

SET’s strength in the chemical sector lies in its ability to deliver process-critical equipment across the entire production lifecycle. The product offering includes glass-lined reactors for corrosion resistance and product purity, stainless steel and alloy reactors and vessels, ANFDs, rotary cone vacuum dryers, heat exchangers, distillation and solvent recovery systems, and customised storage and handling solutions. By supplying multiple unit operations from a single source, SET helps chemical manufacturers reduce interface risk, improve process integration and maintain consistent engineering standards across their plants.

In addition to equipment supply, SET brings significant value through custom engineering and application-specific design. Chemical processes often require non-standard configurations, specialised materials of construction, and tailored agitation, heat transfer or containment solutions. SET’s engineering teams work closely with clients to adapt designs to specific chemistries, throughput targets and regulatory requirements, ensuring optimal performance, safety and maintainability. This consultative approach has made SET a trusted partner for both new chemical facilities and upgrades to existing plants.

Quality, safety and compliance remain central to SET’s engagement with the chemical industry. Equipment is manufactured under rigorous quality systems, with full material traceability, inspection and testing protocols aligned with international standards. Combined with the group’s broad manufacturing capabilities and long-term service mindset, SET supports chemical producers in achieving efficient, sustainable and scalable operations — from pilot scale through to full commercial production.

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FAQs

What is the difference between AE and CE Glass Lined Reactors?

The difference between AE and CE glass lined reactors lies primarily in the design standard and pressure rating of the vessel. AE (Atmospheric Equipment) glass lined reactors are designed for low-pressure or near-atmospheric applications and are typically used where vacuum or minimal internal pressure is involved. CE glass lined reactors, by contrast, are engineered to comply with recognised pressure vessel directives and are suitable for higher operating pressures and more demanding process conditions. CE reactors therefore incorporate additional structural design considerations, testing, and certification to ensure safe operation under pressure, making them appropriate for a wider range of industrial and regulatory-driven applications.

What is the main advantage of Glass Lined Heat Exchangers?

The main advantage of glass lined heat exchangers is their outstanding resistance to corrosion while maintaining efficient heat transfer. The glass lining creates an inert, non-reactive barrier that protects the steel substrate from aggressive chemicals, acids, and solvents, significantly extending equipment life and reducing maintenance requirements. At the same time, the smooth glass surface minimises fouling and product build-up, helping to maintain consistent thermal performance and ensure product purity. This makes glass lined heat exchangers especially valuable in applications where corrosive media, high cleanliness standards, and long-term reliability are critical.

What is a Glass Lined Reactor?

A glass lined reactor is a specialised process vessel used in chemical, pharmaceutical, and industrial manufacturing to safely carry out reactions involving corrosive, abrasive, or high-purity materials. It consists of a steel vessel whose internal surfaces are coated with a chemically resistant glass enamel. This glass lining combines the mechanical strength and pressure resistance of steel with the exceptional corrosion resistance, smoothness, and inertness of glass. As a result, glass lined reactors are ideal for processes requiring precise temperature control, contamination-free conditions, and long equipment life when handling aggressive chemicals, acids, solvents, and sensitive products.