Feasible Separation Regions for Distillation with Ternary Systems: An Algorithm

Synthesizing
distillation processes requires the identification
of feasible separations. For this purpose, an algorithm for determining
feasible separation regions for a ternary system is proposed in this
paper. An analysis of feasible separation regions revealed that these
regions are the union of two product composition sets. One of these
sets is bounded by a generalized distillation limit and a product
composition multitude. Conversely, the border of the second set is
determined by the feed distillation line and a product composition
multitude. These two product composition sets either overlap or one
set includes the other. Each of these sets can be separately determined
by implementing the same algorithm with appropriate limiting curves.
The algorithm accounts for the type of column internal (trays or packing),
type of condenser and reboiler, and feed quality. Applying the algorithm
to a benzene–cyclohexane–acetone mixture can help realize
a novel promising distillation system.