Distillation modelling

gPROMS overcomes the limitations of typical commercial approaches

The modelling of separation processes remains relatively unsophisticated, and is not well catered for by current simulation software.

Most current separation process modelling assumes equilibrium between phases. However this is a poor assumption in the many cases where mass and heat transfer considerations limit the rate of separation.
Virtually all modelling is steady-state. There is little attempt to model transient behaviour such as start-up, shut down and product transition, which is where most distillation operating problems occur.
Many processes involve complex mixtures, or unusual configurations such as reactive distillation and absorption, dephlegmators and heat-integrated columns. These are difficult or impossible to model using traditional tools.
Almost all column design ‘optimisation’ – for example, to determine feed and draw tray location or optimal reflux ratio – is done by repeated simulation. There is little attempt to directly optimise interdependent design variables simultaneously.

PSE's gPROMS technology, model libraries and ModelCare services overcome these limitations to provide a step-change in the capabilities available to process engineers and researchers in the area.