Technical paper
Comparison of Ideal Stage and Mass Transfer Models for Separation Processes With and Without Chemical Reactions
The design and optimization of separation processes is carried out using process simulators which utilize various calculation approaches. Two techniques which are widely used for modeling distillation are the ideal stage model and the mass transfer model. The ideal stage model is relatively simple, but requires an overall efficiency for trays or a height equivalent of a theoretical stage for packing. The mass transfer model is significantly more computationally intensive and relies heavily on empirical equations for properties such as diffusivity, mass transfer coefficients and interfacial area. The primary emphasis of this paper will be on the application and comparison of the ideal stage and mass transfer models to systems with and without chemical reactions such as amine treating, glycol dehydration, reactive distillation and hydrocarbon separation columns. The advantages and disadvantages of each method will be discussed along with recommended guidelines for their application and use.
The design and optimization of separation processes is carried out using process simulators which utilize various calculation approaches. Two techniques which are widely used for modeling distillation are the ideal stage model and the mass transfer model. The ideal stage model is relatively simple, but requires an overall efficiency for trays or a height equivalent of a theoretical stage for packing. The mass transfer model is significantly more computationally intensive and relies heavily on empirical equations for properties such as diffusivity, mass transfer coefficients and interfacial area. The primary emphasis of this paper will be on the application and comparison of the ideal stage and mass transfer models to systems with and without chemical reactions such as amine treating, glycol dehydration, reactive distillation and hydrocarbon separation columns. The advantages and disadvantages of each method will be discussed along with recommended guidelines for their application and use.