PROBLEM STATEMENT: OPTIMIZATION OF DISTILLATION COLUMN FOR VARIABLE

OVERHEAD PRODUCT PURITY

Problem
The current distillation column for H2O2 purification operation is designed to achieve a fixed overhead product
purity. However, market demands and production requirements necessitate a flexible operation where the
overhead product purity can be adjusted within a specified range. Specifically, the overhead product purity
needs to be optimized to vary between 25% and 60% concentration of H2O2.
Objective
The primary objective of this project is to develop and implement an optimization strategy for the distillation
column that allows the overhead product purity to be adjusted dynamically within the range of 25% to 60%
H2O2. This includes:
1. Process Modelling and Simulation: Develop an accurate model of the distillation column that can
predict the overhead product purity based on varying operational parameters.
2. Optimization Strategy: Identify and implement an optimization strategy that can adjust the
operational parameters (such as reflux ratio, reboiler duty, and feed rate) to achieve the desired
overhead product purity within the specified range.
3. Control System Design: Design and integrate a control system that can maintain the desired overhead
product purity in real-time, accommodating changes in feed composition and throughput.
4. Validation and Testing: Validate the optimized model and control system through simulations and,
if possible, pilot-scale or full-scale experiments to ensure reliability and accuracy.
Constraints and Considerations
• Operational Constraints: The optimization must account for physical and operational constraints of
the distillation column, such as maximum and minimum allowable temperatures, pressures, and flow
rates.
• Energy Efficiency: The optimization should aim to minimize energy consumption, particularly in the
reboiler and condenser, while achieving the desired purity.
• Economic Viability: The solution should be cost-effective, considering both capital and operational
expenditures.
• Safety and Compliance: The optimization strategy must adhere to all relevant safety standards and
regulatory requirements.
Expected Outcomes or Conclusions:
1. A detailed process model of the distillation column.
2. An optimization algorithm capable of adjusting operational parameters to achieve the desired overhead
product purity.
3. A control system design for real-time adjustment of the distillation column operation.
4. A comprehensive report documenting the methodology, results, and recommendations for
implementation.