Optimal programming of ideal and extractive batch distillation: single vessel operations

Abstract

This work addresses the problem of optimal programming of multi-component batch distillation columns with a single vessel (batch rectifier, batch stripper, middle vessel and extractive middle vessel) so as to maximize an annualized profit function. A smooth price function is formulated for product valuation, allowing to release traditional purity constraints. The solution is the optimal batch policy of top/bottom withdrawals. A simplified cascade model is developed for separation calculations, offering several operational patterns. Ideal and non-ideal mixtures can be handled with this model that is proposed as a substitute for traditionally used Fenske–Underwood–Gilliland cascades. Batch separations of ideal quaternary feeds are optimally programmed for the first three operations aforementioned. The extractive middle vessel column was optimally programmed for production of anhydrous ethanol from hydrated, nearly azeotropic, alcohol with ethylene–glycol as entrainer. All applications considered fixed number of stages, heat duty, and, in the extractive system, fixed pump-around rate of entrainer.