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HEURISTICS CONFLICTS/LIMITATIONS

1. When we use heuristics to sequence the separation columns,

there are cases where the heuristics conflict with each other.
2. In such situation, total cost for separation is another factor that
can be used to select a good sequence.
3. The vapor flow rate up the column is a good measure of both
capital and operating costs.
4. There is a clear relationship between the heat duty required to
run the distillation and the vapor rate, since the latent heat
relates these two parameters.
ALTERNATIVELY, USE VAPOR RATE

1. Hence look at link between vapor rate and capital cost:

 Higher vapor rate leads to a larger diameter column.
 High vapor rate also requires large reboilers and condensers.
2. Thus, vapor rate is a good measure for both capital and
operating costs on individual columns.
3. Sequences with a lower total vapor load would be preferred than
those with a high total vapor load.
HOW ?
EXAMPLE
• Table 1 gives the data for a ternary separation of benzene, toluene, and ethyl
benzene.
• Using Porter & Momoh Method, determine whether the direct or indirect sequence
should be used.
• Assume a ratio of actual to minimum reflux of 1.1.
Table 1. Data for ternary mixture of aromatics to be separated by distillation

Component Flow rate Relative volatility

(kmol/h)
Benzene (A) 269 1.96
Toluene (B) 282 1.80
Ethyl Benzene (C) 57 1.0
CALCULATION
LEAST MOLAR FLOW
SUMMARY

1. There is no one best method to perform the sequencing of

separation trains.
2. The screening of sequences should be focus on the best few
sequences rather than exclusively on the single best sequence.

Reference:

Robin Smith, Chemical Process Design, Chapter 5,

McGraw-Hill, 1995