Dividing-Wall Distillation for Isopropyl Alcohol Purification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing isopropyl alcohol purification processes are inefficient, leading to high energy consumption and operating costs due to the need for multiple distillation columns and ineffective separation of by-products.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a first column for separating light by-products and a second column with a dividing wall to separate isopropyl alcohol, water, and heavy by-products, reducing the number of distillation steps and optimizing energy use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple distillation columns are used to separate by-products, then separation effectiveness is improved, but energy consumption and facility costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the distillation process into two functional sections within a single column: a stripping section for removing heavy by-products from the bottom, and a rectifying section for separating light by-products from the top. This segmented approach achieves effective separation of multiple by-products while using only one column, thereby reducing energy consumption and facility costs compared to using multiple separate columns.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple distillation columns are used to separate by-products, then separation effectiveness is improved, but facility costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple distillation columns into a single integrated column. The column simultaneously performs stripping of heavy by-products at the bottom and rectification of light by-products at the top, combining what would traditionally require separate facilities. This merging reduces facility costs and device complexity while maintaining effective separation through the divided internal structure.
3Reliability
If conventional distillation processes are used, then isopropyl alcohol can be obtained, but energy consumption is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by optimizing the operating conditions and internal configuration of the distillation column. By adjusting parameters such as reflux ratios, heating rates, and column pressure, and by implementing the divided column structure with selective discharge points, the process achieves reliable isopropyl alcohol production with reduced energy consumption compared to conventional single-purpose distillation columns.
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 method achieves high-purity isopropyl alcohol production with reduced energy consumption and facility costs by minimizing by-product content and streamlining the distillation process.
Implementation Method 1
separating the first light by-product through an upper discharge stream of the first column
Implementation Method 2
separating the lower discharge stream of the first column into each of an upper discharge stream of the second column including the second light by-product, a first side discharge stream of the second column including a mixture of the isopropyl alcohol and water, a second side discharge stream of the second column including the heavy by-product
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides a method for purifying isopropyl alcohol, the method including: supplying a feed including isopropyl alcohol, water, a first light by-product, a second light by-product, and a heavy by-product to a first column and separating the first light by-product; and supplying a lower discharge stream of the first column to a second column and separating the lower discharge stream of the first column into each of an upper discharge stream of the second column including the second light by-product, a first side discharge stream of the second column including a mixture of the isopropyl alcohol and water, a second side discharge stream of the second column including the heavy by-product, and a lower discharge stream of the second column including the water.