Correlation Of Equilibrium Data For Multicomponent Distillation Design

ABSTRACT

The most pertinent problem which must be solved in the design of multicomponent distillation process is the evaluation of the vapour-liquid equilibrium (VLE) ratio and enthalpy (liquid and vapour) values of each component in each of the stages. Good experimental data are not easily obtained but require considerable experimental skill, experience and patience. It is therefore of economical necessity to consider techniques for estimating vapour-liquid equilibrium and enthalpies data for multicomponent mixtures. This research work aims at searching and studying the existing VLE data and correlation of some petroleum compounds and analyzing their suitability in their present form and developing new analytical expressions suitable for computer-aided design

Several different approaches, such as the convergence pressure concept, equation of state and the application of the principle of corresponding states, have been tried for the correlation of VLE data of hydrocarbons for years. All the resulting correlations, though in wide use, cannot satisfy the need for generality in their present form. They are restricted by variables such as temperature range, pressure range, type of system and polarity of systems.

The comparison of some of the correlations in the literature with experimental data showed that Peng-Robinson (PR) and Soave-Redlich-Kwong (SRK) correlations can be used in the pressure range, 1000