Device Selection and Basic Concepts

Background:

Key steps involved in Tower Design – An Overview

1. Define the key separations: Yield & Purity of the pdt being produced
2. Obtain the appropriate VLE and Enthalpy data method: Use of inappropriate data method will
lead to off-spec products or inoperable design.
3. Calc. the theoretical trays reqd. at diff. reflux rates: by changing no of plate and reflux rates, the
shapes of theo tray vs. reflux ratio curve can be determined. This will assist in determining
economical tower height and diameter combination.
4. Estimate Tray efficiency:
5. Define the max and min feed rates that the tower must handle: In general, a turndown ratio of
2/1 is adequate for most services.
6. Selecting the best tower internal: For most trayed columns, sieve or valve trays will be the first
choice whereas for packed towers a dumped packing of the 2 in. (50 mm) size will normally
sufficient.
7. Tower Sizing and tray hydraulic calculations:
8. Process Control:

Types of contacting devices available: