Dividing Wall Column for Olefin-Solvent Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing separation methods for mixtures resulting from ethylene oligomerization, which include solvents and C4 or higher linear alpha olefins, are economically inefficient due to high energy consumption and the need for multiple distillation columns, leading to complex equipment and unstable product quality.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a dividing wall column to separate a mixture of solvents and C4 or higher linear alpha olefins into solvents, C6 or lower linear alpha olefins, and C8 or higher linear alpha olefins in a single treatment, employing a solvent with a boiling point between C6 and C8 as the distillation medium.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple distillation columns are used to separate the mixture, then the separation completeness is improved, but the device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple distillation functions into a single dividing wall distillation column. The column is divided into multiple sections by vertical partitions, allowing simultaneous separation of the mixture into three distinct fractions (C4-C6 linear alpha olefins, C8 linear alpha olefins, and C10 or higher linear alpha olefins) in one unit, thereby reducing equipment complexity while maintaining separation effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The distillation column is segmented into multiple independent sections by dividing walls, with each section handling a specific separation task. This segmentation allows the system to achieve the separation power of multiple columns while using a single integrated structure, reducing overall device complexity
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple distillation columns are used to separate the mixture, then the separation completeness is improved, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple distillation operations into a single dividing wall column, the patent eliminates redundant heating and cooling cycles that would occur in separate columns. The integrated design allows heat integration between sections, reducing overall energy consumption while achieving complete separation
Solution Approach 2:
The dividing wall column enables continuous separation of all components in a single pass through the column, eliminating the need for sequential processing through multiple columns. This continuous operation reduces energy losses associated with intermediate cooling, heating, and material transfer between separate units
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple distillation columns are used, then the separation effectiveness is improved, but the operational costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple distillation functions into one dividing wall column, reducing operational costs by eliminating the need to operate, maintain, and monitor multiple separate columns. The single integrated unit requires fewer operators, less maintenance, and simplified control systems while achieving the same separation effectiveness
4Manufacturing precision
If multiple distillation columns are used, then the separation capability is improved, but the equipment investment costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functionality of multiple distillation columns into a single dividing wall column, significantly reducing equipment investment costs. The integrated design requires less material, less installation work, and occupies less space while providing the same or better separation capability
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach significantly reduces energy consumption, simplifies equipment, and lowers operational costs while maintaining product quality, thereby improving the stability and efficiency of the separation process.
Implementation Method 1
distilling a mixture comprising a solvent having a boiling point higher than C6 linear alpha olefin and lower than C8 linear alpha olefin, C6 or lower linear alpha olefin, and C8 or higher linear alpha olefin in a dividing wall column
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a separation method for a mixture comprising a solvent and C4 or higher linear alpha olefins, and method and device for preparing ethylene oligomer utilizing the separation method, and more specifically, a method capable of separating a mixture, which was generated after oligomerization reaction of ethylene and comprises a solvent and C4 or higher linear alpha olefins, into the solvent, C6 or lower linear alpha olefin, and C8 or higher linear alpha olefin even by one-time treatment, and a method and a device for preparing ethylene oligomer utilizing the separation method.