Development of Distillation Column Model for MLNG Depropanizer Column - Incorporating Redlich-Kwong Equation of State

The growing importance of propane as an alternative fuel and refrigerant has intensified the need to optimize the production of propane from the MLNG depropanizer column. In order to achieve on-line optimization for the depropanizer column using Advanced Process Control Teclmiques (APC), an accur...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Chai , Ai Ling
Format: Final Year Project
Language:English
Published: Universiti Teknologi Petronas 2005
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Online Access:http://utpedia.utp.edu.my/9046/1/2005%20-%20Development%20of%20Distillation%20Column%20Model%20for%20MLNG%20Depropanizer%20Column-Incorporationg%20Redli.pdf
http://utpedia.utp.edu.my/9046/
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Summary:The growing importance of propane as an alternative fuel and refrigerant has intensified the need to optimize the production of propane from the MLNG depropanizer column. In order to achieve on-line optimization for the depropanizer column using Advanced Process Control Teclmiques (APC), an accurate distillation column model is essential. This report presents the preliminary work in developing an accurate distillation column model for the depropanizer column. The depropanizer column modeled is a 47-stage column processing feed which contains Propane, i- and n- Butane, i- and n- Pentane and n- Hexane. The model was developed based on MESH equations, using MA TLAB programming tool, as required by MLNG. The depropanizer column model was developed to account for the non-ideality of the mixture by incorporating RedlichKwong equation of state in the enthalpy balances. The outputs obtained from the model include vapor and liquid flow profiles, composition profiles and temperature profile of the depropanizer column. The model developed in the study was able to predict the flow profiles, plate composition and temperature to good accuracy. In the depropanizer column, vapor and liquid flow rates, and column temperature decrease from the bottom tray up to top tray. The composition of the desired product (propane.) -increases ascending the column. The inverse trends occur for other heavier components. "WhatIf' analysis, which can be used for optimization study, was also carried out on feed flow rate and reflux ratio. Conclusively, a functional model of the MLNG depropanizer column was successfully built.