Techno-economic assessment and optimization of simple and complex distillation column sequences of the olefin recovery plant using an automatic approach

The synthesis of multicomponent distillation column sequences is complex due to the numerous possible scenarios. Therefore, employing a systematic and automated approach can be highly advantageous. This study analyzes and evaluates both simple and complex distillation column sequences suitable for the cold end of olefin plants to enhance olefin's production performance. A matrix-based algorithm is used to generate possible configurations, which are then rigorously simulated and optimized using genetic algorithm. These steps are executed systematically and automatically within an integrated development environment. Sequences are evaluated based on energy consumption, exergy losses, and economic aspects. The impact of the hydrogenation reactor's location on distillation sequence performance is also examined. In the two case studies, the symmetrical sequence demonstrated the best economic performance, achieving a total annual cost (TAC) 11.21% lower than that of conventional sequences for the given feed.