Feed Distribution Device for Vacuum Distillation Column
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Solution Overview
Problem
In distillation columns handling gas/liquid mixtures, the uneven distribution of the gas portion and high local velocity of the feed flow create challenges for design and efficiency, leading to increased costs and reduced separation efficiency, particularly in gas/liquid contacting devices under vacuum pressure.
Innovation Solution
A feed distribution device comprising a series of plates with voids is positioned in front of the feed inlets to deflect and diffuse the feed flow, ensuring even distribution across the cross-sectional area and reducing the maximum local velocity, thereby improving the flow dynamics and efficiency of the separation section without significant pressure drop.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the vertical distance between feed inlets and separation section is increased to improve gas distribution uniformity, then separation efficiency is improved, but manufacturing cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The feed inlet structure is segmented into multiple inlet ports arranged in a specific pattern, allowing the feed stream to be distributed across different locations. This segmentation enables better gas distribution uniformity without requiring increased column height, as each inlet contributes to a more balanced flow pattern in the separation section.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single-point feed inlet to a multi-point distributed inlet system, adding spatial dimensionality to the feed introduction. This dimensional change allows the feed to be introduced at multiple locations simultaneously, improving gas distribution uniformity without increasing the vertical distance requirement.
2Manufacturing precision
If the column height is increased to improve separation section performance, then separation efficiency is improved, but auxiliary equipment cost and structural cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The feed inlet is divided into multiple smaller inlet ports positioned at different locations. This segmentation allows the feed stream to be distributed more effectively across the column cross-section, improving separation efficiency without requiring an increase in column height, thereby avoiding additional costs for auxiliary equipment and structural support.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the spatial parameters of the feed inlet configuration, specifically the number, position, and arrangement of inlet ports. By optimizing these parameters, the system achieves improved separation efficiency within the existing column height constraints, avoiding the need for costly increases in column dimensions.
3Device complexity
If feed inlets are placed closer together to reduce column height, then device complexity is reduced, but gas distribution uniformity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The feed inlet system is segmented into multiple inlet ports with optimized spacing and positioning. This segmentation allows the inlets to be placed closer together in terms of overall structure while maintaining adequate distribution spacing, thus reducing column height without compromising gas distribution uniformity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the feed inlet structure are assigned different qualities - specifically, the inlet ports are positioned with varying spacing and orientations tailored to local flow requirements. This local optimization ensures uniform gas distribution even when inlets are placed closer together, maintaining separation efficiency while reducing overall device complexity.
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
The solution enables more efficient separation, reduces the vertical dimension of the column, allows for closer placement of feed inlets, and minimizes pressure loss, resulting in a cost-effective and efficient design with improved maintenance capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
A feed distribution device which can be used to distribute the gas or vapor portion of the feed more evenly along the cross-sectional area of a separation section above the feed location
Data Source
AI summary
A separation column containing a feed distribution device and a feed distribution device for a separation column, such as a vacuum distillation column. The feed distribution device being capable of diffusing and directing a feed flow from a feed inlet so as to distribute the feed substantially evenly over the surface area of a separation plate in the column thereby increasing the columns efficiency. The separation column containing the feed distribution device being capable of shorter height, less costly design and lower operating cost than a separation column without the feed distribution device.