Few-Step Iterative Methods for Distillation Process Design Using the Trajectory Bundle Theory: Algorithm Structure

A new method is suggested for distillation design. The method is based on a theory that predicts the arrangement of distillation trajectory bundles in the concentration simplex. At a preset excess reflux factor, it enables one to determine the possible compositions in the feed cross section and to construct, tray-by-tray, the distillation trajectories for column sections, proceeding from the feed cross section to the column ends. Calculating the necessary number of trays by this method requires few, if any, iterations.