Effect of the Phase State of the Feed on the Efficiency of Using Dividing-Wall Columns for the Fractionation of Hydrocarbon Mixtures

Abstract

The use of dividing-wall columns for separating the C₄₊ pyrolysis fraction is considered. The influence of the phase state of the feed flow on the energy consumption in column reboilers is investigated. It is shown for the first time that the use of dividing-wall columns is more efficient when using the feed stream with a high vapor fraction of 80–100%. The largest energy-saving effect of the dividing-wall column is provided by using the feed in the vapor phase. In this case, the energy savings can reach 30%. In addition, it is shown that the use of dividing-wall columns reduces capital costs by 18–21%.