Production and reflux ratio settings
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There has always been a concern regarding the setting of the distillation column’s product withdrawal rate and reflux ratio (I usually set it to withdraw from the top of the column). . . I’d like to know how everyone determines this – whether it’s by adjusting the intake and return amounts according to the specified criteria, or by using approximate calculations, so please join the discussion. . .
We usually start by doing the calculations manually, determining the yield based on the separation tasks and requirements; once the theoretical plates and reflux ratio are determined, we use Aspen for verification.
Generally, the amount extracted is calculated manually, similar to a method of clear segmentation, but it’s not a very precise manual calculation either – it’s just an approximate estimate.
For a simple distillation column, the pressure is generally determined based on the required cooling temperature. The gas-liquid equilibrium for the entire tower is then fixed. Then adjust the reflux ratio according to the extraction requirements. The yield is an approximate estimate. It can be adjusted based on material balance.