Simulation of Multicomponent Separation Processes in Steady and Unsteady State Operations

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Computer aided design (CAD) and simulation of multicomponent separation processes such as distillation and gas absorption have been usually done based on modelling the system using the equilibrium stage concept. The equations for each interior stage of a column are solved simultaneously with those representing the reboiler and/or condenser, with the constraints specified on yield, minimun/maximum permissible temperatures and pressures, vapor and liquid flow rates, etc. The PI plans to increase CAD capability by extending it to include the more realistic situations that exist in industrial facilities by modelling transient conditions as well as including treatment of arbitrarily linked multiple columns. The specific research planned consists of (1) modelling transient multicomponent separation processes based on fundamental mass and energy balances; (2) incorporating tray hydraulics (including weeping and entrainment) in the design considerations; and (3) solving the resulting dynamic equations by numerical methods and comparing the results with published experimental data. The results should help in the development of start-up and control strategies for columns of all kinds including low hold up packed columns which are of special interest to industry.