Distillation design techniques

A design method for binary distillation systems is presented that minimizes the required rigorous calculations. A computer program is developed that finds the number of theoretical stages, and feed stage for a specified separation and reboiler vapor rate. Results for three binary systems are presented. The design method and computer program are extended to the multicomponent case at the condition of total reflux. Results for one ternary system are presented. The possibility of using the method at other than total reflux is discussed. Usage of the method to search for multicomponent azeotropes and results are also presented. Analytic equations are developed for a non-linear two stage system, and multicomponent distillation with constant KV/L values. The effect of small, linear change in the KV/L values are also investigated. The computer programs used for the stage calculations are listed and their structure and usage are explained. Convergence methods for the rigorous calculation techniques are presented