Numerical simulation of the heat transfer process of separation column in thermal cycling absorption process

Abstract

Thermal cycling absorption process with a typical structure composed of separation column and plug flow reverser is an efficient method for hydrogen isotope separation. The temperature variation on separation column is the driving force for the isotope separation process, and the distribution of temperature gradient in the separation column affects the efficiency of the separation. Considering the actual heat transfer process by the equipment, there is an axial temperature gradient on the separation column, which can affect the separation efficiency. Numerical simulations can make a great help in the analysis and optimization of the temperature distribution in the separation column. In this work, a simplified two-dimensional axisymmetric model of the oil bath structure has been built, and the heat transfer process between the heat conduction oil, structural materials and packing materials in separation column has been calculated, coupling with the fluid field. The simulation results show the detailed temperature distribution on the separation column and indicates that the temperature gradient is affected by the flow rate of the heat conducting oil. The minimum flow rate under different cooling efficiency and temperature uniformity requirements are derived from the simulation. Furthermore, the specific temperature gradient distribution on the separation column can provide design guidance to optimize the separation process.