TITLE:
Comparative Analysis: Trays versus Packed Columns in Pressure-Swing Distillation for the Separation of Tetrahydrofuran, Water and Ethanol Azeotropic Mixture
AUTHORS:
Samuel Oluwaseun Ogunrinde, Tolulope Daniel Adekoya, Thomas A. Orhadahwe
KEYWORDS:
Azetrope, Tetrahydrofuran, Ethanol, Pressure-Swing, Distillation, Simulation
JOURNAL NAME:
World Journal of Engineering and Technology,
Vol.12 No.3,
August
28,
2024
ABSTRACT: This paper delves into the comparative study of tray and packed column pressure swing distillation systems, focusing on the separation of a ternary mixture containing ethanol, tetrahydrofuran (THF), and water. The study particularly emphasizes the production of 99.5 w/w% tetrahydrofuran from the downstream product of 1,4-butanediol synthesis via diethyl maleate. Pro/II simulation software is utilized to explore various system configurations, including sieve trays, valve trays, and packed columns. Material and energy balances are performed to ascertain stream compositions and energy demands. The investigation encompasses the effects of column operating pressure on condenser and reboiler temperatures, as well as the implications of utility streams. A rigorous distillation model is employed to compare valve tray, sieve tray, and random packing (utilizing Norton Super Intalox) column designs by varying the number of trays, reflux ratio, and second distillation column pressure. Heat exchangers are integrated into the model, and their areas and utility flow rates are computed and integrated into the economic assessment. Economic analysis, guided by Net Present Value (NPV) calculations over a 20-year span, drives the selection of the most cost-effective design. Results demonstrate that while all designs are energy-efficient, the packed column system emerges as the most economical choice, offering a comprehensive framework for the separation process. Furthermore, optimal design configurations and operating conditions for both tray and packed column systems are outlined, providing valuable insights for industrial applications.