Parallelization Opportunities in Distillation Calculations

Modern desktop computers are now equipped with multi core CPU's which allow for parallel processing of program instructions.  This provides a great opportunity to increase the speed of process simulation calculations.  Distillation calculations are uniquely suited to take advantage of parallel computing.  This presentation outlines the opportunities for parallel calculations in distillation algorithms.  Typical speed increases for dual and quad core CPU's for different distillation algorithms are presented.

Parallelization strategies for Bubble Point, Sum Rates and Newton Raphson algorithms will be presented. As expected, thermodynamic calculations take up a large portion of calculation time during distillation calculations. However, thermodynamic property calculations of enthalpy and fugacity on each stage are independent of the other stages, and hence they are perfect candidates for parallelization.

Results will be presented comparing calculation times for serial and parallel distillation algorithm implementations using rigorous thermodynamic calculations.