Regular and inverted batch process structures for pressure swing distillation: a case study

Abstract

AbstractThe main focus of this paper is on the comparison of the inverted and the regular pressure swing batch distillation processes for the separation of a homogenous azeotropic mixture. On the basis of a successful, experimentally validated rigorous model, a simulation study to identify the differences between the two processes and the influences of different structures on them is carried out. This identification of influences helps in finding out a heuristic base of the most suitable batch structure for a given separation problem. Especially the influence of the feed flow rate on the processes and the differences between the results on operation with different pressures will be addressed. Furthermore advantages, disadvantages and the limitations of both processes will be shown. In the end the best way of operating the pressure swing batch distillation will be presented depending on the product purity and the feed concentration for a given example. Copyright © 2009 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.