The calculation of the reflux ratio
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In distillation operations, the ratio of the reflux flow rate L returning to the tower from the top of the distillation column to the product flow rate D at the tower top is given by R = L/D. However, in distillation experiments, there is no reflux ratio regulator; the flow rate of the product at the top of the tower, D, can be measured using a flow meter, but there is no monitoring device for the flow rate of the reflux liquid, L ； How can the flow rate L of the reflux liquid be calculated, so as to determine the reflux ratio?
There are many ways to do it. 1. Determine the evaporation rate by calculating it based on the amount of steam used for heating at the bottom of the tower, or calculate the condensation rate by using the heat transfer capacity of the condenser at the top of the tower; once that is known, L+D can be calculated, and thus the rest can also be determined. 2. Turn off the reflux and production for a short period of time, observe the rising trend of the liquid level in the reflux tank, and check the total amount of L+D. Then it can also be calculated.
Judging from the question, it seems to be a field operator who has just started working in this field. If I’m right, it’s better to give up on this calculation, as it falls within the scope of work for designers. Operating these things is really necessary. Because I’m a practitioner, not a designer; P
No, when conducting experiments, you need to understand the characteristics of distillation columns, calculate the number of theoretical plates under the given conditions, and be aware of the reflux ratio