L.J.

Institute of Engineering & Technology Semester: VIII(2019)

Subject Name: MULTI COMPONENT DISTILLATION

Subject Code:2180505
Subject Faculty: Ms. Khushbu K Bhalodiya

Sr
No
CHAPTER – 1 SELECTION OF KEY Marks

COMPONENT
DESCRIPTIVE QUESTIONS
1 Define following: (May-2017)(Oct-2012) [LJIET] 7
1) Light key component
2) Heavy key component
3) Adjacent key
4) Split key
5) Distributed component
6) Non distributed component
7) Optimum reflux ratio
2 Define and Explain in brief following: (May-2015)[LJIET] 7
1) Light key component
2) Heavy key component
3) Adjacent key
3 Explain Light key component, heavy key component, and adjacent key and split key 7
components. (Nov-2014) [LJIET]
4 Define Light key component, heavy key component, and adjacent key and split key 4
components. (May-2014) [LJIET]
5 Define following terms: (May-2013) [LJIET] 7
Light key component, Heavy key component, Non-key component, Distributed
components, Non distributed component, Adjacent keys & Split keys for multi
component distillation.
6 Define light key component, heavy key component and non key component with 4
example. (May-2012) [LJIET]
7 Write a note on selection of key components in multi-component systems (Oct-2016) 7
[LJIET]
8 Explain : (1) Light key (2) Heavy key (3) Split Key (4) Adjacent key (May-2016) 8
[LJIET]
9 Explain following with suitable example: (1) Light Key (2)Heavy Key (3)Split Key 8
(4) Distributed Component (May-2017-New) [LJIET]
10 Define following: 7
Light key component, Heavy key component, Split key, Adjacent key, Non distributed
component, Non key component and Optimum reflux ratio. (Nov-2017) [LJIET]
11 Explain: (1) Light Key (2) Heavy Key (Nov-2017-New) [LJIET] 4
12 Define: (1) Non-key component (2) Distributed component (3) Non-distributed 3

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 L.J. Institute of Engineering & Technology Semester: VIII(2019)

component. (Nov-2017-New) [LJIET]

13 Define: 1) Light key 2) Heavy key 3) Adjacent key (May-2018-new) [LJIET] 3
14 Define. (1) Adjacent key component (2) Split key components and (3) non distributed 4
components. (4) Azeotropic mixture.(Nov-2018-New) [LJIET]
CHAPTER – 2 SEQUENCING OF DISTILLATION
COLUMN
DESCRIPTIVE QUESTIONS
1 Discuss Sequencing of multi component distillation columns with example. (May- 7
2017)(May-2012) [LJIET]
2 Discuss “Sequencing of multi component distillation columns”. (May-2014) (May- 7
2016)(Nov-2017-New) [LJIET]
3 What is MESH equation? In multicomponent distillation, for C components and N number of 4
equilibrium stages how many MESH equations can be written? (Sep-2013) (Nov-2017-New)
[LJIET]
4 Discuss heuristics for determining favorable sequences in distillation column. (Sep- 7
2013) [LJIET]
5 What is sequencing of distillation column? Explain it with industrial examples. (Nov- 7
2017) [LJIET]
6 Discuss “Sequencing of multi component distillation columns”. (May-2018-new) 4
[LJIET]

7 Write an expression to calculate the number of possible sequences. Calculate the 3

number of possible sequences for 6 components. (Nov-2018-New) [LJIET]

8 What do you mean by sequencing of multicomponent distillation? How it is 7

important? Discuss marginal vapour method to determine the best possible sequence
for multicomponent distillation? (Nov-2018-New) [LJIET]
CHAPTER – 3 SELECTION OF OPERATING PRESSURE
DESCRIPTIVE QUESTIONS
1 Discuss the selection criteria of operating pressure for distillation column. (May- 7
2017) [LJIET]
OR
Explain how operating pressure of distillation column is determined. (Dec-2015)
[LJIET]
OR
Discuss in detail about selection of operating pressure for distillation column. (Sep-
2013) [LJIET]
2 Explain the fixing of operating pressure in distillation column. (Nov-2017) [LJIET] 7
3 What is Vacuum distillation? Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of Vacuum 7
Distillation (Dec-2015) (May-2015) (Oct-2012) (Oct-2016) (May-2017-New) [LJIET]
4 What are the disadvantages of Vacuum distillation? (Nov-2017-New) [LJIET] 3
5 Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of vacuum distillation. (Nov-2014) (May- 7

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 L.J. Institute of Engineering & Technology Semester: VIII(2019)

2013) (May-2012) [LJIET]

6 What are the disadvantages of vacuum distillation? (Sep-2013) [LJIET] 3
7 How VLE data can be determined? (Nov-2017-New) [LJIET] 3
8 Discuss the selection of Operating pressure for various industrial distillation columns 7
with examples. (Oct-2016) (May-2018-new) [LJIET] [LJIET]
9 What is vacuum distillation? Why it is used? State its advantages and disadvantages. 7
(May-2016) [LJIET]
10 Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of Vacuum Distillation. (May-2018-new) 4
[LJIET]

11 Explain the theoretical method to determine VLE data for ideal & non-ideal system. 3
(May-2018-new) [LJIET]
12 Write a short note. "Selection criteria for the operating pressure in multicomponent 7
distillation column. (Nov-2018-New) [LJIET]
13 How to determine vapour liquid equilibrium data? (Nov-2018-New) [LJIET] 7
14 List out disadvantages of Vacuum distillation? (Nov-2018-New) [LJIET] 3
NUMERICALS
1 1000 kg of feed containing 30 % by mass ethylene glycol & remaining water is 7
charged to a batch still. Simple batch distillation is carried out at 30.4 kPa absolute
pressure to get the residue must contain 95 % by mass ethylene glycol. Find the
amount of residue (final product). (May-2013) [LJIET]
VLE data of ethylene glycol- water system at 30.4 kPa are as follow. Data of ethylene
glycol- water system at 30.4 kPa are as follow.
Temperature (0C) X y
69.5 1.00 1.000
76.1 0.77 0.998
78.9 0.69 0.997
83.1 0.60 0.990
89.6 0.46 0.980
103.1 0.27 0.940
118.4 0.15 0.870
128.0 0.10 0.780
134.7 0.07 0.700
145.0 0.03 0.530
160.7 0.00 0.530

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 L.J. Institute of Engineering & Technology Semester: VIII(2019)

2 Feed mixture to a distillation column contains 30 % n-hexane, 32 % n-propane, 20 % 10

n-butane and 18 % n-pentane (by mole). Total flow rate of the feed is 100 kmol/h. If
butane & pentane are selected as light key & heavy key components, respectively then
find the product compositions. Operating pressure at the top of the column is 1600
kPa. Pressure drop in the column is 30 kPa. At dew point temperature 72 0C KPr =
1.55, KBu = 0.6, KPe = 0.25, KHe = 0.11. At bubble point temperature of residue 180
0C KBu = 2.5, KPe = 1.3, KHe = 0.79, KPr = 4.25. (May-2013) [LJIET]

CHAPTER – 4 METHODS FOR FINDING THEORETICAL

STAGES
DESCRIPTIVE QUESTIONS
1 State the algorithm or steps for Lewis Matheson method to calculate theoretical 7
stages in rectification section & also state feed tray identification. (May-2017) (Dec-
2015) (May-2013) [LJIET]
2 Discuss FUG method to determine theoretical stages for multicomponent distillation. 7
(May-2017) (Oct-2012) (Dec-2015) (May-2015) (Nov-2014) [LJIET]
3 State the steps for Theile Geddes method for calculation of theoretical stages in 7
stripping section. (Dec-2015)(May-2013)(May-2017-New) [LJIET]
OR
Explain the stepwise procedure of Thiele Geddes method for Multi component
distillation (May-2015) (Nov-2014)(May-2012)(Oct-2016) [LJIET]
4 Explain Theile- Geddes method in detail (Nov-2017) (Nov-2017-New) [LJIET] 7
5 Explain in detail the equation tearing procedure for multi component distillation. 14,10
(May-2015) (Nov-2014) (May-2012)(May-2016) [LJIET]
6 Discuss Lewis-Matheson method for multicomponent distillation. Also explain about 14
how to start the second trial calculation and arrive on final solution. (May-2014) (Oct-
2016) [LJIET]
7 Discuss Equation-Tearing Procedure using Tridiagonal matrix algorithm for 7,10
multicomponent distillation. (May-2014) (Nov-2017) [LJIET]
8 List out the variables that are to be specified as input data for Thiele- Geddes method. 10
Explain the stepwise procedure of Thiele Geddes method for stripping section of
Multicomponent distillation. (Sep-2013) [LJIET]
9 How will you identify feed tray location in Lewis –Matheson method of 4
Multicomponent distillation? (Sep-2013) (Nov-2017-New) [LJIET]
10 Write down Hegstebeck and Geddes equation for approximate distribution of non key 2
components in top product and bottom product. (Sep-2013) [LJIET]
11 Write short note on FUG method. (May-2016) [LJIET] 7
12 Write short note on Optimum reflux ratio. (May-2016) (Nov-2017-New) [LJIET] 4
OR
Explain optimum reflux ratio. (May-2017-New)[LJIET]
13 Explain the stepwise procedure of Thiele Geddes method for Multi component 7

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 L.J. Institute of Engineering & Technology Semester: VIII(2019)

distillation. (May-2016) [LJIET]

14 Discuss stepwise procedure of Lewis-Matheson method for finding number of 7,14
theoretical stages required for desired separation. (May-2017-New)[LJIET]
OR
Write down stepwise procedure for Lewis-Matheson method to determine theoretical
stages in rectification section. (Nov-2017-New) [LJIET]
15 Explain Lewis Matheson method in detail. (Nov-2017) [LJIET] 7
16 Describe determination of optimum reflux ratio.(Nov-2017) [LJIET] 7
17 Explain : (1) distribution co-efficient (2) Selectivity (Nov-2017-New) [LJIET] 4
18 What is the application of hegstebeck and gedded equation? Discuss the equation. 3
(May-2018-new) [LJIET]
19 List out the variables that are to be specified as input data for Thiele-Geddes method. 7
Explain the stepwise procedure of Thiele Geddes method for stripping section of
Multicomponent distillation. (May-2018-new) [LJIET]

20 Discuss the equation tearing procedure, MESH equation with matrix algorithm for 7
multi component distillation. (May-2018-new) [LJIET]

21 Explain Lewis Matheson method for rectification section along with feed tray 4
identification. (May-2018-new) [LJIET]

22 Write a Kirk Bride equation with detail specifications for finding the feed stage 3
location in multicomponent distillation column. (Nov-2018-New) [LJIET]
23 List out various methods used for calculating the number of theoretical stages for 4
multicomponent distillation. (Nov-2018-New) [LJIET]
24 What do you mean by optimum reflux ratio. (Nov-2018-New) [LJIET] 4
25 Write an equation to determine the minimum reflux ratio for multicomponent 3
distillation. (Nov-2018-New) [LJIET]
26 Explain in detail. "Steps for Theile- Geddes method for finding theoretical stages of 7
multicomponent distillation column. (Nov-2018-New) [LJIET]
27 State the algorithm or steps for Lewis Matheson method to calculate theoretical 7
stages in rectification section & also state feed tray identification. (Nov-2018-New)
[LJIET]
28 How will you identify feed tray location in Lewis Matheson method in 4
Multicomponent distillation? (Nov-2018-New) [LJIET]
NUMERICALS
1 Determine the minimum reflux ratio for the binary distillation at standard 10, 14
atmospheric pressure based on the following data. (May-2017) (May-2013) [LJIET]
Feed = 100 kmol/h
Feed mixture: benzene – toluene
Mole fraction of benzene in feed = 0.4
Condition of feed = at 30 0C
Mole fraction of benzene in distillate required = 0.99
Mole fraction of benzene in residue required = 0.02

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 L.J. Institute of Engineering & Technology Semester: VIII(2019)

Average relative volatility = 2.25

ln pvB = 15.9008 – 2788.51/(T–52.36) for benzene in torr
ln pvT = 16.0137 – 3096.52/(T–53.67) for toluene in torr
Normal boiling point of benzene = 80.1 0C
Normal boiling point of toluene = 110.6 0C
Property data of benzene & toluene :
Component CL at 62.65 0C, kJ/(kmol. 0C) λ at 95.3 0C, kJ/kmol
Benzene 146.96 29391.3
Toluene 173.33 34666.7
OR
Determine the minimum reflux ratio for the binary distillation at standard atmospheric
pressure based on the following data. (Dec-2015) [LJIET]
Feed = 100 kmol/h
Feed mixture: benzene – toluene
Mole fraction of benzene in feed = 0.4
Condition of feed = at 30 0C
Mole fraction of benzene in distillate required = 0.99
Mole fraction of benzene in residue required = 0.02
Average relative volatility = 2.25
ln pvB = 15.9008 – 2788.51/(T–52.36) for benzene in torr
ln pvT = 16.0137 – 3096.52/(T–53.67) for toluene in torr
Normal boiling point of benzene = 80.1 0C
Normal boiling point of toluene = 110.6 0C
Property data of benzene & toluene
Component CL at 62.65 0C, kJ/(kmol. 0C) λ at 95.3 0C, kJ/kmol
Benzene 146.96 29391.3
Toluene 173.33 34666.7

2 Find the distribution (or mol/h) of n-Butane in distillate and in residue by Thiele – 14
Geddes method based on the following data. (May-2017) (May-2014) [LJIET]
Table : Feed Composition
(i) Component mole %
n–Butane 37
i–Pentane 32
n–Pentane 21
n–Hexane 10
n–Butane is light key component and i– Pentane is heay key component.
(ii) Feed flow rate F = 4750 mol/h. Feed is saturated liquivd at its bubble point.
(iii) Reflux ratio, R = 3
(iv) D = 1250 mol/h, W = 3500 mol/h
(v) Operating pressure, p = 2 atm a
(vi) Assume constant molal overflow. Total condenser is used.

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 L.J. Institute of Engineering & Technology Semester: VIII(2019)

Equilibrium Constants Data for n-Butane

Tray number Temperature, oC KC4
1 22 1.086
2 24 1.156
3 28 1.308
4 32 1.474
5 41 1.904
Reboiler 48 2.303

3 A saturated liquid, consisting of phenol and cresols with some xylenols, is fractioned 7,14
to give a top product of 95.3 mole % phenol. Metacresol is heavy key and phenol is
light key component. Total condenser is used. The compositions of the top product
and of the phenols in the bottoms are given. (Dec-2015) (Nov-2014) (Oct-2012)
[LJIET]

Component αav Feed, mole % Top product, Bottom

mole % product, mole
%
Phenol 1.98 35 95.3 5.24
o – Cresol 1.59 15 4.55 -
m – Cresol 1.00 30 0.15 -
Xylenols 0.59 20 - -
100 100

(1) Compute the material balance over the still for a feed rate of 100 kmol/h.
(2) Calculate the minimum reflux ratio by Underwood’s method.
OR
A saturated liquid, consisting of phenol and cresols with some xylenols, is fractioned
to give a top product of 95.3 mole % phenol. Metacresol is heavy key and phenol is
light key component. Total condenser is used. The compositions of the top product
and of the phenols in the bottoms are given. (Nov-2017)[LJIET]

Component αav Feed, mole % Top product, Bottom

mole % product, mole
%
Phenol 1.98 35 95.3 5.24
o – Cresol 1.59 15 4.55 -
m – Cresol 1.00 30 0.15 -
Xylenols 0.59 20 - -
100 100

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 L.J. Institute of Engineering & Technology Semester: VIII(2019)

(1) Compute the material balance over the still for a feed rate of 1000 kmol/h.
(2) Calculate the minimum reflux ratio by Underwood’s method.

OR
A saturated liquid, consisting of phenol and cresols with some xylenols, is fractioned
to give a top product of 95.3 mole % phenol. Metacresol is heavy key and phenol is
light key component. Total condenser is used. The compositions of the top product
and of the phenols in the bottoms are given. (May-2015)(May-2013) [LJIET]

Component αav Feed, mole % Top product, Bottom

mole % product, mole
%
Phenol 1.98 35 95.3 5.24
o – Cresol 1.59 15 4.55 -
m – Cresol 1.00 30 0.15 -
Xylenols 0.59 20 - -
100 100

(1) Compute the material balance over the still for a feed rate of 100 kmol/h.
(2) Calculate the minimum reflux ratio by Underwood’s method
(3) For R=3Rm, calculate the composition of apour entering to the top most tray by
Lewis-Matheson method.
OR
A saturated liquid consisting of phenol and cresols with some xylenols is fractionated
to give a top product of 95.3 mol% phenol. Meta cresol is heavy key component and
phenol is light key component. Total condenser is used. The composition of the top
product and of the phenol is in the bottom are given. (Nov-2018-New) [LJIET]
(a) Complete the material balance over the still for a feed rate of 100 kmol / hr.
(b) Calculate the minimum reflux ratio by Underwood’s method.
Component αav Feed, mole % Top product, Bottom
mole % product, mole
%
Phenol 1.98 35 95.3 5.24
o – Cresol 1.59 15 4.55 ?
m – Cresol 1.00 30 0.15 ?
Xylenols 0.59 20 - ?
100 100

4 A saturated liquid, consisting of phenol and cresols with some xylenols, is fractioned 14
to give a top product of 95.3 mole % phenol. Metacresol is heavy key and phenol is
light key component. Total condenser is used. The compositions of the top product
and of the phenols in the bottoms are given (Sep-2013) [LJIET]

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 L.J. Institute of Engineering & Technology Semester: VIII(2019)

Component αav Feed, mole % Top product, Bottom

mole % product, mole
%
Phenol 1.98 35 95.3 5.24
o – Cresol 1.59 15 4.55 -
m – Cresol 1.00 30 0.15 -
Xylenols 0.59 20 - -
100 100

(a) Compute the material balance over the still for a feed rate of 100
kmol/h.
(b) If R=3Rm, calculate the composition of vapour entering to the top
most tray by Lewis –Matheson method. Assume Rm= 1.67.
5 200 kmol/h of feed, containing 50% benzene, 25% toluene and 25% o-xylene, is to be 14
separated in batch distillation with a rectification column. Top product must contain
99% benzene. All compositions are mole%. Composition of distillate should remain
constant throughout the batch distillation. Distillation is to be continued until the
moles of benzene are reduced to 10 kmol in residue. Average relative volatility for
benzene, toluene and o-xylene is 2.497,1 and 0.3459 respectively. Determine the
Reflux ratio Vs. Time data. (Dec-2015) (May-2015) (Nov-2014) (Oct-2012) (May-
2018-New) [LJIET]
6 A distillation column is to separate 4750 mol/h of feed composed of 37% n-butane, 7
32% iso-pentane, 21% n-pentane and 10% n-hexane. The column operates at an
average pressure of 2 atm a and will produce a distillate product containing 95% n-
butane and 5% iso-pentane. The bottom product is allowed to contain no more than
570 mol/h of n-butane. Feed is 25% (by mole) vapour. Assume ideal apour-liquid
equilibrium. All compositions are mole%. Complete material balance over distillation
column. if reflux ratio is 3, determine the number of theoretical stages required for
desired separation. (Nov-2017-New) [LJIET]
7 A distillation column is to separate 4750 mol/h of feed composed of 37% n-butane, 3,4
32% iso-pentane, 21% n-pentane and 10% n-hexane. The column operates at an
average pressure of 2 atm a and will produce a distillate product containing 95% n-
butane and 5% iso-pentane. The bottom product is allowed to contain no more than
570 mol/h of n-butane. Feed is 25% (by mole) vapour. Assume ideal apour-liquid
equilibrium. All compositions are mole%. Complete material balance over distillation
column. (Nov-2017-New) [LJIET]
For case given above,
If if average relative volatility for nbutane, iso-pentane, n-pentane and n-hexane is
2.567,1,0.762 and 0.236 respectively, determine the minimum reflux for the required
separation. (Nov-2017-New) [LJIET]
8 A distillation column is to separate 4750 mol/h of feed composed of 37% n-butane, 3

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 L.J. Institute of Engineering & Technology Semester: VIII(2019)

32% iso-pentane, 21% n-pentane and 10% n-hexane. The column operates at an
average pressure of 2 atm a and will produce a distillate product containing 95% n-
butane and 5% iso-pentane. The bottom product is allowed to contain no more than
570 mol/h of n-butane. Feed is 25% (by mole) vapour. Assume ideal apour-liquid
equilibrium. All compositions are mole%. Complete material balance over distillation
column. (Nov-2017-New) [LJIET]
9 A distillation column is to separate 4750 mol/h of feed composed of 37% n-butane, 14
32% iso-pentane, 21% n-pentane and 10% n-hexane. The column operates at an
average pressure of 2 atm a and will produce a distillate product containing 95% n-
butane and 5% iso-pentane. The bottom product is allowed to contain no more than
570 mol/h of n-butane. Use Underwood’s method to determine the minimum reflux
for the required separation. Feed is 25% (by mole) apour. Assume ideal apour-
liquid equilibrium. All compositions are mole%. (May-2015) [LJIET]
Component αav
n-butane (LK) 2.567
Iso-pentane (HK) 1
n-pentane 0.762
n-hexane 0.236

10 A distillation column is to separate 4750 mol/h of feed composed of 37 % n-butane, 14

32 % iso-pentane, 21 % n-pentane and 10 % n-hexane. The column operates at an
average pressure of 2 atm and will produce a distillate product containing 95 % n-
butane 5 % iso-pentane. The bottom product is allowed to contain no more than 570
mol/h of n-butane. Compute material balance and use Underwood’s method to
determine the minimum reflux for the required separation. Feed is 25 % (by mole)
vapour. Assume ideal vapour-liquid equilibrium. All compositions are mole%. Also
calculate Nm and actual no. of theoretical stages. T top = 295 K, Tbottom = 320 K
Vapour Pressure top Vapour Pressure bottom
Component
(atm) (atm)
n-butane 2.17 4.478
iso-pentane 0.8 1.842
n-pentane 0.6 1.426
n-hexane 0.173 0.476

N-butane is light key component and iso-pentane is heavy key component (Oct-2016)
[LJIET]
11 By using Lewis-Matheson method, calculate the composition of liquid 14
leaving the second tray from the top of the column for following case. (Nov-
2014)(May-2012) [LJIET]
(b) Distillation column details

Component Feed, Distillate, Residue,

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 L.J. Institute of Engineering & Technology Semester: VIII(2019)

mole% mole % mole %

n-butane 37 95.0 16.3
i-pentane 32 5.0 41.6
n-pentane 21 - 28.5
n-hexane 10 - 13.6

(b) F = 4750 mol/hr, D = 1250 mol/hr and q =1

(C) Operating pressure, Pt = 2 atm a
(d) Reflux ratio = 3
(e) Vapour pressure of Component
ln Pv = A – B / (T +C) , Pv in mm Hg and T in K

Component A B C
n-butane 15.6782 2154.9 -34.42
i-pentane 15.6338 2348.67 -40.05
n-pentane 15.8333 2477.07 -39.34
n-hexane 15.8366 2697.55 -48.78

12 A distillation column is to separate 4750 mol/h of feed composed of 37% nbutane, 14

32% iso-pentane, 21% n-pentane and 10% n-hexane. The column operates at an
average pressure of 2 atm a and will produce a distillate product containing 95% n-
butane and 5% iso- pentane. The bottom product is allowed to contain no more than
570 mol/h of n-butane. If minimum reflux ratio is 1.45, then determine number of
theoretical stages required for separation. (Nov-2014) (Oct-2012) [LJIET]
13 A distillation column is to separate 4750 mol/h of feed composed of 37% n-butane, 14
32% iso-pentane, 21% n-pentane and 10% n-hexane. The column operates at an
average pressure of 2 atm a and will produce a distillate product containing 95% n-
butane and 5% iso-pentane. The bottom product is allowed to contain no more than
570 mol/h of n-butane. Complete material balance.. Feed is 25% (by mole) apour.
Assume ideal apour-liquid equilibrium. All compositions are mole%. Average
relative volatility for n-butane, iso-pentane, n-pentane and n-hexane is 2.567, 1, 0.762
and 0.236 respectively. For reflux ratio R=3, Determine the number of theoretical
stages required for desired separation by FUG method. (May-2016) [LJIET]
OR
A distillation column is to separate 4750 mol/h of feed composed of 37% n-butane,
32% iso-pentane, 21% n-pentane and 10% n-hexane. The column operates at an
average pressure of 2 atm a and will produce a distillate product containing 95% n-
butane and 5% iso-pentane. The bottom product is allowed to contain no more than
570 mol/h of n-butane. The minimum reflux ratio is 1.45. The average relative
volatility of light key component is 2.567.
(a) Complete the material balance over still.
(b) Calculate number of theoretical stages required for desired separation by FUG

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 L.J. Institute of Engineering & Technology Semester: VIII(2019)

method. (Nov-2017) [LJIET]

14 A saturated liquid, consisting of phenol and cresols with some xylenols, is fractioned 14
to give a top product of 95.3 mole% phenol. Metacresol is heavy key and phenol is
light key components. Total condenser is used. (May-2014)(May-2016) [LJIET]
The composition of the top product and of the phenols in the bottoms is given.
(a) Complete the material balance over the column for a feed rate of 100 kmol/h.
(b) Calculate the minimum reflux ratio by Underwood’s method.
(c) For R = 3Rm, calculate the composition of vapour entering to the top most tray by
Lewis–Matheson method.
Distillation Column Data and Relative Volatilities values are given in following
Table.
Component αav Feed, mole % Top product, Bottom
mole % product, mole
%
Phenol 1.98 35 95.3 5.24
o – Cresol 1.59 15 4.55 -
m – Cresol 1.00 30 0.15 -
Xylenols 0.59 20 - -
100 100

15 A saturated liquid, consisting of phenol and cresols with some xylenols, is fractioned 14
to give a top product of 95.3 mole % phenol. Metacresol is heavy key and phenol is
light key component. Feed rate is 100 kmol/hr. Total condenser is used. For reflux
ratio 5, determine number of theoretical stages for desired separation. The
compositions of the top product and of the phenols in the bottoms are given. (May-
2017-New)[LJIET]
Component αav Feed, mole % Top product, Bottom
mole % product, mole
%
Phenol 1.98 35 95.3 5.24
o – Cresol 1.59 15 4.55 -
m – Cresol 1.00 30 0.15 -
Xylenols 0.59 20 - -
100 100

16 In the production of chloromethanes, a saturated liquid mixture consisting of 60% 14

methyl chloride(CH3Cl), 28% methylene chloride(CH2Cl2), 9% chloroform(CHCl3)
and 3% carbon tetra chloride(CCl4)(by mass), is sent to distillation for separation of
pure products. In first distillation column 99.9% (by mass) pure methyl chloride is
separated as top product and 738 kmol/h pure methyl chloride is present in distillate.
Feed is saturated liquid mixture and flow rate is 1000 kmol/h.

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 L.J. Institute of Engineering & Technology Semester: VIII(2019)

Component Average Relative Volatility

Methyl chloride 6.224
Methylene chloride 1
Chloroform 0.4954
Carbon tetra chloride 0.3126

Determine the following of distillation column:

(a) Do the complete material balance.
(b) Minimum reflux ratio by Underwood’s method
(c) If R= 3Rm, calculate the number of theoretical stages required for
desired separation. (Sep-2013) [LJIET]
17 A fatty acid mixture contains palmitic acid, steric acid and oleic acid. Compositions 14
for feed, distillate and residue is given as follows (Oct-2012) [LJIET]

Average
Distillate Residue
Component Feed Mole % Relative
Mole % Mole %
Volatility
Palmitic acid 11.94 99 1 1.9089
Steric Acid 3.91 0 4 0.7654
Oleic acid 84.15 1 95 1

Molar flow rates of distillate and residue are 3.2 kmol/ h and 0.4 kmol/ h respectively.
If minimum reflux ratio is 9, then find the number of theoretical stages required for
desired separation. Also, determine feed tray location.
18 Determine the minimum reflux ratio, minimum number of theoretical stages required 14
and number of theoretical stages required for the desired separation for the following
system by FUG method. Feed flow rate is 70 kmol/hr and feed is saturated liquid.
Composition of Distillation column streams and average relatives volatilities of all
components of feed are as follows: (May-2012) (May-2018-New) [LJIET]
Component α av Feed, Distillate, Residue,
Mole % mole % mole %
Benzene 8.96 2.2 22.8 0
Toluene 2.8407 7.4 72.2 0.5
Ethyl Benzene 1 43.4 5.0 47.5
Styrene 0.6596 47 0 52.0

Toluene is light key and ethyl benzene is heavy key component

19 A distillation column is to separate 5000 mol/h of feed composed of 40% n-butane, 14
30% iso-pentane, 20% n-pentane and 10% n-hexane. The column operates at an
average pressure of 2 atm a and will produce a distillate product containing 95% n-

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 L.J. Institute of Engineering & Technology Semester: VIII(2019)

butane and 5% iso-pentane. The bottom product is allowed to contain no more than
600 mol/h of n-butane. Feed is 25% (by mole) vapor. Assume ideal vapor-liquid
equilibrium. All compositions are mole%. Average relative volatility for n-butane,
iso-pentane, n-pentane and n-hexane is 2.567,1, 0.762 and 0.236 respectively.
Determine: the number of theoretical stages required for desired separation for reflux
ratio R=2Rm (May-2017-New) [LJIET]
20 A distillation column is to separate 4750 mol/h of feed composed of 37% n-butane, 4
32% iso-pentane, 21% n-pentane and 10% n-hexane. The column operates at an
average pressure of 2 atm a and will produce a distillate product containing 95% n-
butane and 5% iso-pentane. The bottom product is allowed to contain no more than
570 mol/h of n-butane. The minimum reflux ratio is 1.45. The average relative
volatility of light key component is 2.567. Complete the material balance over still.
(May-2018-New) [LJIET]
21 A distillation column for the separation between propane and n-butane is to have 7
the following feeds. Data: R / Rmin =1.39. (Nov-2018-New) [LJIET]
Use Fensky equation to estimate the number
of stages that should be placed between two feeds. (Refer Chart provided)
Upper flow Lower flow
Temperature 170 230
Pressure 245 245

Component flow rate (lb mol/hr)

Ethane 2.5 0.5

Propane 14 6

n-Butane 10 18

n-Pentane 5 30

n-Hexane 0.5 4.5

CHAPTER – 5 AZEOTROPICAND EXTRACTIVE

DISTILLATION
DESCRIPTIVE QUESTIONS
1 Discuss concept and working principle of azeotropic distillation with industrial 7
example. (Dec-2015)(Oct-2012) [LJIET]
2 Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of extractive distillation over azeotropic 7
distillation. (May-2017) (May-2014) [LJIET]
3 Explain azeotropic distillation with industrial example (May-2017)(May-2015) (Oct- 7
2016) [LJIET]
4 Discuss the criteria for selection of solvent for extractive distillation. (Dec-2015) 7
(May-2015) (Nov-2014)(Oct-2012) [LJIET]

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 L.J. Institute of Engineering & Technology Semester: VIII(2019)

5 Explain the working principle of Azeotropic Distillation with flow sheet of one 7
industrial application. (Nov-2014) (May-2014) (Nov-2017) [LJIET]
OR
Explain working principle of Azeotropic distillation with neat sketch. (Nov-2017-
New) [LJIET]
6 Discuss selection criteria of solvent for successful extractive distillation sequence. 5
(Sep-2013) [LJIET]
7 Explain concept and working principle of azeotropic distillation with industrial 9
example . (Sep-2013) [LJIET]
8 Distinguish between azeotropic distillation & extractive distillation with suitable 5
examples. (May-2013) [LJIET]
9 Define following terms: (May-2013) [LJIET] 4
Homogeneous Maximum Boiling Azeotrope,
Heterogeneous Minimum Boiling Azeotrope,
Pressure Swing Distillation,
Entrainer
10 Explain the Azeotropic distillation with the suitable example. (May-2012) 7
11 Discuss Extractive distillation with industrial examples. (Oct-2016) [LJIET] 7
12 Discuss residue curve maps in azeotropic distillation and state properties of entrainer 7
(Oct-2016) [LJIET]
13 What is azeotrope? Explain azeotropic distillation with suitable example (May-2017- 7
New) [LJIET]
14 Compare Azeotropic distillation and extractive distillation. (Nov-2017-New) [LJIET] 7
15 States the advantages and disadvantages of extractive distillation over azeotropic 4
distillation.(May-2018-new) [LJIET]
16 Explain azeotropic distillation with industrial example. .(May-2018-new) [LJIET] 4

17 Differentiate between Azeotropic distillation and extractive distillation. (Nov-2018- 7

New) [LJIET]
NUMERICALS
1 Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) forms a minimum boiling azeotrope with water at 80.40C 7
and 101.325 kPa, having composition of 31.47 mole% water. A feed consisting of 23
mole%. IPA under saturated liquid conditions is to be distilled to give 67.5 mole%
IPA as distillate and 0.1 mole% IPA in bottoms. Find the number of theoretical stages
required for the separation at 1 atm. Reflux ratio is 3. VLE data for IPA-water at 1 atm
are as follows: (Oct-2012) [LJIET]
are as follows:

x 0 0.02 0.05 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.6853 0.8 0.9 1
*
y 0 0.25 0.4 0.49 0.537 0.55 0.57 0.6 0.64 0.6853 0.77 0.87 1

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 L.J. Institute of Engineering & Technology Semester: VIII(2019)

CHAPTER – 6 TOWER DIAMETER AND PRESSURE

DROP
DESCRIPTIVE QUESTIONS
1 Define: Jet flooding, Down comer flooding, Liquid entrainment, Weeping. (May- 4
2017) (May-2013) [LJIET]
2 Discuss the criteria of selection among various types of trays. (May-2017) [LJIET] 7
OR
Discuss the selection criteria for different types of trays used in tray tower. (Nov-
2014) (May-2012)(Oct-2016)
OR
What are the parameters on the basis of which various types of trays selected explain
in detail? (Nov-2017) [LJIET]
3 List various types of trays (Nov-2017-New) [LJIET] 3
4 Explain the method of determining tower diameter in sieve tray tower. (May-2017) 7
(Sep-2013)(Dec-2015)(Nov-2017-New) [LJIET]
5 Discuss criteria for selection between tray tower and packed tower with industrial 7,6
examples. (Dec-2015) (May-2015) (Oct-2012) (May-2012) (Oct-2016) (May-2016)
(May-2017-New) (Nov-2017-New) [LJIET]
6 Discuss various factors that must be considered for the selection of tray type in tray 7
tower. (Sep-2013) [LJIET]
7 Write short note on selection of equipment for distillation (May-2013) [LJIET] 4
8 Write method to find out tower diameter & pressure drop in distillation column. 8
(May-2013) [LJIET]
9 Discuss the parameter for selection of tray in distillation column. (May-2013) 6
[LJIET]
10 Discuss the criteria of selection among various types of plates. (Oct-2012) (May- 7
2016) (May-2017-New) [LJIET]
11 Compare tray tower and packed tower (May-2016) [LJIET] 7
12 Discuss the criteria of selection among various types of packings. (May-2017-New) 7
[LJIET]
13 List various types of packings. (Nov-2017-New) [LJIET] 3
14 What are the selection criteria between packed column and tray column? (Nov-2017) 7
[LJIET]
15 Explain Jet flooding, Down comer flooding in detail (Nov-2017) [LJIET] 7
16 Explain: (1)Jet flooding (2) Down comer flooding. (Nov-2017-New) [LJIET] 4
17 Explain the stepwise procedure to determine tower diameter and pressure drop 7
calculation for sieve tray tower. (May-2018-new) [LJIET]

18 Explain jet flooding and downcomer flooding. (May-2018-new) [LJIET] 3

19 Explain tray efficiency and also explain one of the method. (May-2018-new) [LJIET] 7

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 L.J. Institute of Engineering & Technology Semester: VIII(2019)

20 Discuss the criteria of selection among various types of plates. (May-2018-new) 3

[LJIET]
21 Discuss the concept of HETP. (May-2018-new) [LJIET] 3
22 Explain in brief. "Jet flooding: (Nov-2018-New) [LJIET] 3
23 Explain in brief. "Downcomer flooding" (Nov-2018-New) [LJIET] 3
24 What do you mean by tray efficiency. List out the methods to determine the tray 4
efficiency. (Nov-2018-New) [LJIET]
25 Explain the selection criteria among various types of trays. (Nov-2018-New) [LJIET] 4
26 Explain the selection criteria among various types of packings. (Nov-2018-New) 4
[LJIET]
NUMERICALS
1 Nitric acid water mixture forms maximum boiling azeotrope at 1atm a and at 122°C, 14
with a composition of 64.1% by mass of HNO3. Distillate contains 99.9% HNO3 (by
mass) and residue contains 1% HNO3 ( by mole). Separation is achieved from the
azeotropic mixture by extractive distillation using concentrated sulphuric acid (99%
by mass) as solvent. Residue of this extractive distillation column is 80% by mass
H2SO4 and remaining water. Extractive distillation is carried out in glass packed tower
type distillation column at 180 Torr a pressure. Glass Raschig rings are used as a
packing material. Determine height of packing required for the desired separation in
this extractive distillation column.Average relative volatility of nitric acid-water
mixture in presence of large amount of sulphuric acid is 95.Assuming that feed is
saturated liquid. (May-2014) [LJIET]
CHAPTER – 7 MULTICOMPONENT BATCH
DISTILLATION
DESCRIPTIVE QUESTIONS
1 Discuss the step wise procedure for the process design of multicomponent batch 14
distillation with rectification. (May-2017) (May-2012) (May-2016) [LJIET]
2 Discuss the stepwise procedure for process design of multicomponent batch 14
distillation with rectification and with constant overhead composition. (May-2014)
(Oct-2016) [LJIET]
3 Explain the step wise procedure for the process design of multicomponent batch 12
distillation with rectification. (Sep-2013) [LJIET]
4 Discuss batch distillation with rectification. (May-2013) (May-2017-New) (Nov- 7
2017) (N0v-2017-New) [LJIET]
5 Enlist the steps involved in designing a distillation column (Oct-2016) [LJIET] 7
6 Discuss the batch distillation with rectification. (Nov-2018-New) [LJIET] 3
CHAPTER – 8 ENERGY SAVING IN DISTILLATION
DESCRIPTIVE QUESTIONS
1 Discuss about heat integration & optimum design of distillation column. (May-2017) 7
(May-2013) [LJIET]

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 L.J. Institute of Engineering & Technology Semester: VIII(2019)

2 Discuss the use of heat pump with auxiliary heat transfer medium for saving the 7
energy consumption of distillation column. (May-2017) [LJIET]
3 Explain the concept of heat integration in distillation column. (Dec-2015) [LJIET] 7
4 List out the various design options for energy conservation in distillation column. 7
Also discuss the energy saving in distillation column by direct vapour compressor.
(Dec-2015) [LJIET]
5 List various design options to decrease the energy consumption of distillation. (Nov- 3
2017-New) [LJIET]
6 Discuss the use of heat pump with refrigerant in distillation column for energy saving. 14,10,7
(May-2015) (May-2012) (Oct-2016) (May-2017-New) [LJIET]
7 Discuss the use of heat pump with auxiliary heat transfer medium (or use of Vapour 7
Compression Refrigeration Cycle) for saving the energy consumption of distillation
column. (May-2014) [LJIET]
8 Discuss Thermally coupled distillation columns. (May-2014)(May-2012) (May-2016) 7
[LJIET]
9 List out the various design options for energy conservation in distillation column. 9
Also discuss the energy saving in distillation column by direct vapour compressor.
(Sep-2013) [LJIET]
10 Explain the concept of heat integration in distillation column. (Sep-2013) [LJIET] 5,4
OR
Explain the concept of Heat integration for energy conservation in Distillation
column. (May-2012) (Nov-2017-New) [LJIET]
11 Write short note on thermally coupled distillation column with diagram. (May-2013) 5
[LJIET]
12 Write short note on heat pump. (May-2013) (Nov-2017-New) [LJIET] 3
13 Discuss Thermally Coupled Distillation. (Oct-2012) [LJIET] 7
14 Write a note on energy conservation methods in Distillation column and discuss 7
thermally coupled distillation in detail (Oct-2016) [LJIET]
15 Explain thermally coupled distillation with the suitable example. (May-2017-New) 7
[LJIET]
16 Write the steps for distillation column design. (Nov-2017) [LJIET] 7
17 Explain energy saving in thermally coupled distillation column. (Nov-2017) [LJIET] 7
18 Discuss energy saving in distillation column by heat integration (Nov-2017) [LJIET] 7
19 Explain the thermally coupled distillation column in detail (May-2018-New) 7
[LJIET]
20 Discuss energy saving in distillation column by heat pumps. (May-2018-New) 7
[LJIET]
21 Discuss the applications of heat pumps in distillation column. (Nov-2018-New) 4
[LJIET]
22 Write an expression Bogart equation with all terms. (Nov-2018-New) [LJIET] 3
23 Discuss energy saving in distillation column by thermally coupled distillation.. (Nov- 7
2018-New) [LJIET]

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L.J. Institute of Engineering & Technology Semester: VIII(2019)

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