Thermodynamic Equivalence Validation of New Fpdwcs with Two Partition Walls

Abstract

Four-product dividing wall columns (FPDWCs) with two partition walls is shown to be energy efficient compared with conventional column sequence for multi component separation. However, its industrial implementation is restricted due to two uncontrollable vapor splits. To handle this obstacle, the vapor-liquid thermal coupling streams between column sections were transferred into liquid-only stream and the derived configuration is thermodynamic equivalent to original ones in minimum vapor flow condition. The main advantage of the synthesized configurations is featured with none vapor splits or with vapor split controlled by means outside the column and is encouraging for industrial use. Moreover, to validate the thermodynamic equivalent feature in practical conditions, sequential optimization method was used for optimal design and rigorous simulations were performed.