Optimizing the Design of an Internally Heat Integrated Distillation Column

Distillation columns that utilize internal heat integration (HIDiCs) were found to offer potential for minimization of energy requirement, which is of particular importance for close boiling separations. Conceptual design and proof-of-operability of these new column configurations have been demonstrated and there are already a considerable number of publications around addressing mainly experimental studies, performance simulation, process dynamics and control aspects. In this work, design insights are provided as well as an effective design tool, incorporating pinch analysis principles, that has been built into a commercial software package to enable a rigorous approach to design and analysis of HIDiCs. This allows detailed insight into performance characteristics and optimization of the basic design of HIDiCs. The usability of this tool is demonstrated; indicating that incorporating a flash drum in the given case can lead to both energy and cost more efficient design of a HIDiC.