Dividing Wall Distillation Column for 1-Butene Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for isolating 1-butene from mixed C4 feed streams require at least two distillation processes, which are inefficient and costly, due to the need for separating 1-butene from isobutane and 2-butene, and n-butane, increasing the demand for a more efficient single-column separation process.
Innovation Solution
A distillation column with a center vertical dividing wall is used to separate 1-butene from a feed stream comprising n-butane, isobutane, and 2-butene, allowing for the introduction of reflux streams to optimize separation, reducing the need for multiple columns and associated costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional distillation processes are used to separate 1-butene from mixed C4 feed, then separation can be achieved, but at least two distillation columns are required, increasing device complexity and capital costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate distillation processes into a single integrated distillation column. The column is designed with multiple feed introduction points and side draw outlets that allow simultaneous separation of 1-butene from both lighter (isobutane, n-butane) and heavier (2-butene) components in one unit operation, eliminating the need for two separate columns while maintaining separation efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The distillation column is segmented into multiple functional zones with different feed introduction points and product withdrawal points. The column includes a first feed introduction point for C4 cut stock, a second feed introduction point for raffinate, a first side draw outlet for 1-butene, and a second side draw outlet for 2-butene, creating distinct separation zones that work together to achieve complex separations in a single column
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple distillation columns are used for 1-butene separation, then complete separation can be achieved, but operating costs and capital expenses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple distillation operations into a single column design that achieves the same separation purity as traditional two-column systems. By implementing multiple feed points and side draw outlets at strategically positioned heights, the single column performs the work of two columns, reducing both capital expenses (fewer vessels, less instrumentation) and operating expenses (lower energy consumption, reduced maintenance)
Solution Approach 2:
The distillation column is designed as a multi-functional unit that simultaneously performs multiple separation tasks: separating 1-butene from lighter components, separating 1-butene from heavier components, and providing intermediate product withdrawal points. This universal design replaces the need for multiple specialized columns, reducing overall system cost while maintaining separation purity
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 enables efficient separation of 1-butene from other isomers using a single distillation column, reducing capital and operating costs while improving separation efficiency, allowing for the recovery of 1-butene with reduced capital and operational expenses.
Implementation Method 1
a single distillation column equipped with a dividing wall, the column enabling separation of 1-butene from a mixed C4 feed
Data Source
AI summary
A process is disclosed for recovering 1-butene from a feed steam comprising n-butane, isobutane and butene isomers using a single, divided wall distillation column. The disclosed process includes introducing the feed steam into an inlet of a first side of a distillation column, wherein the distillation column comprises a top, a bottom and a center dividing wall extending between the bottom and the top of the column and dividing the column into the first side and a second side. The process includes taking off an isobutane stream from the top of the second side of column, taking off a 1-butene stream as a bottoms stream from the second side of the column, and taking off a combination 2-butene and n-butane stream as a bottom stream from the first side of column.