Simulation and model verification of a batch distillation process

A model to describe the process of binary batch distillation in a packed column was proposed in this study. The model involved heat and material balances and physical and transport property estimation relations for the distillation of an ethanol-water system. For this study, the batch distillation process was examined for the steady state, no reflux and variable reflux modes of operation. The model consisted of algebraic, partial differential (PDEs) and ordinary differential (ODEs) equations. The PDEs were converted into a system of ODEs using the method of lines and the resulting sets of equations were solved using Runge Kutta and Euler methods. The simulation program was found to be robust and predicted the general behavior of the process satisfactorily. Model verification on a pilot plant scale distillation column was hampered due to the lack of on-line instrumentation.