Question: A distillation column separates a binary mixture of 2 - butanol ( component 1 ) and 2 - propanol ( or isopropyl - alcohol, component

A distillation column separates a binary mixture of 2-butanol (component 1) and 2-propanol
(or isopropyl-alcohol, component 2) into almost pure 2-butanol at the bottom (98 mol% pure) and almost pure 2-propanol in the distillate (98 mol% pure). The feed stream (10 kmol/hr) is a saturated liquid with 45 mol%2-propanol.
(a) Determine the proper fluid package needed to model this distillation problem in Aspen. Estimate the Relative volatility between 2-butanol and 2-propanol using the heuristic formula. Compare the x-y diagram generated based on the CRV assumption and the x-y diagram generated from Aspen simulation.
(b) Using McCabe-Thiele method, determine the minimum number of stages at total reflux, the minimum reflux ratio, the number of equilibrium stages when the column is operated at 20% above the minimum reflux, the feed stage location.
(c) Assuming a tray efficiency of 70% and using all design heuristics, estimate the diameter and height of the column, as well as the pressure drop within the distillation column.
(d) Simulate the distillation process in Aspen HYSYS. Report liquid composition profile within the column, temperature profile within the column, and reboiler and condenser heat duties.

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