Distillation column volume issue
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Hello, dear sea friends: Generally, the volume of the reflux tank in a distillation unit is designed based on a residence time of 5–15 minutes. However, when it comes to the practical aspects, if the volume of the reflux tank is too small, there is insufficient buffering time during production fluctuations, which can lead to problems. On the other hand, if the reflux tank is designed to be too large, it becomes difficult to arrange the equipment properly, and the startup and shutdown times are longer, resulting in more residual material. How to make choices. Please, experienced sea travelers, give me some advice.
A residence time of 5~15 minutes is based on experience. The volume according to this design is quite appropriate. There will be no issues such as insufficient buffer time you mentioned. What exactly do you mean by production fluctuations?
Follow the design specifications and take into account your site conditions; if there is enough space, make it as large as possible. The liquid level in the return tank is relatively easy to control, so there’s no need to worry too much about it
I think your design standards are practical and the result of balancing two considerations.
As for situations with special instability factors, etc., considering an appropriate increase in the residence time may be advisable.
So the 5-15 minutes of experience value is there to prevent the problems you’re worried about