Abstract Pervaporation membrane reactors (PVMR) can improve conversion of equilibrium reactions like esterification. However, it is important to select proper operating conditions for reaching a high conversion. Here, a systematic approach for studying the performance of a PVMR is presented. Three different tools, based on thermodynamic analysis, residue curves and design charts, were used to analyze the maximum conversion, the axial component concentration profile and the effect of selectivity and permeance on conversion in a PVMR for the esterification of lactic acid with ethanol to produce ethyl lactate. An operating window has been found and high conversions can be reached for the range −5 < log (P e) < 4 and log (D aR) > 3. However, there is a strong dependence of selectivity on the operating window. Conversion increases with temperature in a PVMR; however, the optimal operating temperature differs from where the highest conversion is reached.