What is Cascade Operating Mode?
A: You charge all 3 vessels to start the process. Depending on micron size (200 micron is recommended for maximum extraction efficiency), the vessels can hold the following amounts;
- CannabisSFE 3×1 = 400-454 grams
- CannabisSFE 3×5 = 2000-2200 grams
You begin CO2 flow through vessel #1 into vessel #2 and then into the collection vessel. After about 30 minutes, vessel #1 is fully extracted and vessel #2 is one half extracted.
Next, you switch the system to flow CO2 through vessel #2 into vessel #3, and then into the collection vessel. In about 30 minutes, vessel #2 is fully extracted and vessel #3 is one half extracted.
While in this step, you unload processed feedstock from vessel #1 and reload a fresh charge into vessel #1. At completion of the vessel #2 extraction and the reloading of vessel #1 you switch CO2 flow to go through vessel #3 into vessel #1 and then into the collection vessel.
Repeat the process. You are now operating in cascade mode, which is significantly more efficient than any other extraction mode.
Look at attached P&ID (Piping and Instrumentation Design) to better visualize the valve and flow path for this operation mode.