An Automatic Precipitation Reactor for ternary NCM (Nickel-Cobalt-Manganese) precursor synthesis is a high-precision Continuously Stirred Tank Reactor (CSTR). This system is the "mechanical heart" of cathode production, designed to control the co-precipitation of metal hydroxides (NixCoyMnz(OH)2) with near-atomic precision. 

A modern NCM precursor reactor (e.g., from Cathode Solution or Nano-Mag) is a multi-modular system integrated via a central PLC (Programmable Logic Controller). (1) Jacketed Reaction Vessel: Usually made of 316L Stainless Steel or Borosilicate Glass. The "double-jacket" allows for precise temperature control (±0.1 °C) via an external circulating thermostatic bath. (2) High-Shear Stirring System: Equipped with a servo motor and specialized impellers (e.g., pitched blade or Rushton turbines). The Inverter-driven stirring (10–1000 RPM) is standard to ensure homogenous mixing without breaking the delicate growing particles. (3) Precision Metering Pumps: High-accuracy peristaltic or diaphragm pumps deliver the "Salt" (N-C-M sulfates), "Alkali" (NaOH), and "Ammonia" (NH4OH) solutions in strict ratios. (4) Automated pH Control System: The most critical module. It uses online glass electrodes to monitor the pH (typically around 11.0) and automatically adjusts the alkali feed to maintain a deviation of less than 0.01 pH.

References:

S. Lee, et al., Co-precipitation of high‑nickel NCM precursor using Taylor-Couette reactor and its characteristics in lithium-ion battery, Solid State Ionics, 2022, 386, 116042

J. Wang, et al., Co-Precipitation of Ni-Rich Me(OH)2 Precursors for High Performance LiNixMnyCo1-x-yO2 Cathodes: A Review, Energy Environmental Material,  2025, 8, e70078