Thermodynamic Model for MCB Concentration Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for closed-loop control of the monochlorobenzene (MCB) concentration in the HDI process are hindered by the need for time-consuming laboratory gas chromatography measurements, leading to delayed detection and instability due to varying pressure conditions, making continuous and rapid control challenging.
Innovation Solution
A process and system for thermal separation that uses thermodynamic models to determine MCB concentration based on vapour-liquid equilibrium, temperature, and pressure measurements, allowing for continuous monitoring and control without the need for additional sensors, by calculating the proportions of components in the evaporator and separation apparatus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If laboratory gas chromatography measurements are used to control MCB concentration, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/chemical laboratory gas chromatography measurement system with a computational model-based measurement system. The thermodynamic model calculates MCB concentration from temperature and pressure measurements, eliminating the need for time-consuming laboratory analysis while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the measurement function through mathematical modeling. Instead of physically analyzing samples via gas chromatography, the system uses a thermodynamic model that replicates the concentration determination function, providing rapid results without physical sample handling.
2Measurement precision
If laboratory gas chromatography measurements are used, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the slow mechanical laboratory analysis process with a rapid computational calculation system. The thermodynamic model processes temperature and pressure data instantaneously, dramatically increasing process control speed while preserving the ability to determine MCB concentration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary establishment of the thermodynamic model with pre-determined parameters and relationships. This preliminary action enables rapid real-time calculations during operation, avoiding the need for time-consuming laboratory procedures while maintaining measurement accuracy.
3Device complexity
If conventional control methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability worsens due to instability from varying pressure conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the control parameters from direct concentration measurement to thermodynamic state parameters (temperature and pressure) that are readily measurable and stable. By controlling based on these fundamental parameters through the thermodynamic model, the system achieves greater reliability without increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback control mechanism where the thermodynamic model continuously calculates MCB concentration from measured temperature and pressure, compares it to the target concentration, and adjusts the distillation process accordingly. This closed-loop feedback ensures process stability despite varying operating conditions.
4Measurement precision
If additional sensors are added for continuous monitoring, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses existing temperature and pressure sensors to create a virtual measurement of MCB concentration through the thermodynamic model. This copying approach allows continuous concentration monitoring without adding dedicated concentration sensors, maintaining measurement precision while avoiding increased device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the existing temperature and pressure measurement system multi-functional by using it not only for process monitoring but also for determining MCB concentration through the thermodynamic model. This universal use of existing sensors eliminates the need for additional specialized sensors.
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
Enables reliable and continuous determination of MCB concentration, enabling precise control and rapid correction of perturbations, allowing for operation within novel concentration ranges and improved process stability.
Implementation Method 1
A) evaporating a mixture of the first main component and the second main component in an evaporator by supplying thermal energy to obtain a gaseous mixture of the first main component and the second main component and a bottom product that are in a vapour-liquid equilibrium with one another
Implementation Method 2
B) transferring the gaseous mixture from step A) to a thermal separation apparatus, where the second main component at least partly condenses as bottom product in the separation apparatus
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a process for thermally separating a mixture comprising a first main component and a second main component, where the boiling point of the first main component is lower than the boiling point of the second main components. The invention further relates to a system for thermal separation comprising a computer for control of the thermal separation which is set up to control the process of the invention. By means of predetermined thermodynamic models, pressure and temperature data are used to ascertain the proportions of first and second main component in bottom product streams.