Distillation Column Simulation by Orthogonal Collocation: Efficient Solution Strategy

Abstract

A reduced-order collocation method (using Jacobi or Hahn polynomials) is used for the simulation of distillation columns. A new solution strategy which uses the overall balances and equilibrium relations to eliminate the need to include the vapour flows approximating profiles from the solution algorithm is presented. Furthermore the material balance equations are included in the enthalpy balance equations to improve convergence. The proposed strategy is compared against a formerly published basic strategy and is shown to offer a considerable saving in computer time.