Distillation Column Design

Distillation Column Design Skill

Trigger Patterns

• "design distillation column"
• "McCabe-Thiele"
• "number of stages"
• "reflux ratio"
• "VLE diagram"

Steps

1. Get VLE data — Use CoolProp or Antoine equation for vapor pressures
2. Calculate relative volatility — α = P_A_sat / P_B_sat
3. Determine feed condition — q-line (subcooled, saturated, superheated)
4. Minimum reflux — Underwood equation or graphical from McCabe-Thiele
5. Operating reflux — Typically 1.2-1.5 × R_min
6. Number of stages — McCabe-Thiele graphical stepping or Fenske equation
7. Feed stage — Locate optimal feed stage from diagram
8. Plot — Generate xy-diagram with operating lines using matplotlib