Abstract
The objective of this work is to control the constant distillate composition of batch distillation column xD. A new correlation developed involved the instant reflux ratio value R with a composition of the remaining mixture in the bottom pot (boiler) xB. Also adding the dynamic time as ahead time (+dt) to the control algorithm to increase the R to anticipate the changes in xD. +dt was calculated using an electroconductive tracer that was injected both in the bottom pot and in the top tray to estimate the upward and the downward dynamic time. The proposed correlation was successfully applied as a control strategy on a glass batch distillation pilot plant that has 5 cm diameter, 1 m long, eight sieve trays, and Methanol–Water mixture as a system. The real-time experimental runs of the suggested control algorithm applied by manipulating the reflux stream that affects the changes that happened in the top composition product to keep it constant. The proposed procedure shows a quick and stable response for distillate product composition during the operating time that minimizes and saves the energy supplied to the boiler. Moreover, the system gives a straight, smooth linear constant distillate product even in case of disturbing the system.
Highlights
Batch Distillation (BD) is one of the oldest separation units, historical development from the first applications more than 5000 years ago in Mesopotamia [1]
The present study, we suggest to adopted relation for the reflux ratio at specific time related within bottom concentration in the pot xB based on material balance, modified by using a new control methodology considering BD dynamics time
A model equation has been written with LabVIEW to run the whole process of batch distillation column at constant distillate composition mode due to its equilibrium at a specific point, these are input as a data signal from temperature sensors where the output signal controls the solenoid valve that involves changes for reflux rate
Summary
Batch Distillation (BD) is one of the oldest separation units, historical development from the first applications more than 5000 years ago in Mesopotamia (today is known as Iraq) [1]. BD is one of the most important unit operations and the most widely used separation process in industrial separation chemicals used in small-scale production. The batch unit requires less capital to separate relatively pure components. The most notable feature of BD is its versatility, so distillation is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry to purify and recover highvalue liquid components. It has better operational flexibility as well as reduces equipment costs when compared to continuous distillation [2, 3]
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