Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The construction of an open steam distillation column is a critical process in various industries, particularly in the production of essential oils, perfumes, and herbal extracts. Steam distillation is a widely used method for extracting essential oils from plant materials due to its efficiency and ability to preserve delicate aromatic compounds. In this study, we focus on the design and construction of an open steam distillation column for small to medium-scale production of essential oils. The design process involves selecting appropriate materials for the column, condenser, and heating elements to ensure the efficient distillation of plant materials. The construction of the column includes assembling the components in a way that optimizes the flow of steam and vapor within the system. The column is equipped with a steam inlet, a condenser for cooling and condensing the vapor, and an outlet for collecting the distilled essential oil. The efficiency of the steam distillation process is influenced by various factors, including the temperature of the steam, the flow rate of steam, and the size of the column. By optimizing these parameters, we aim to maximize the yield of essential oil while maintaining its quality and purity. The construction of the distillation column is carried out with precision to ensure that the process is reproducible and reliable. In addition to the construction of the distillation column, safety measures are implemented to prevent accidents and ensure the well-being of operators. Proper ventilation is provided to remove any volatile compounds released during the distillation process, and the system is designed to withstand high temperatures and pressures. Overall, the construction of an open steam distillation column is a complex but rewarding process that requires careful planning and execution. By following the design specifications and implementing safety measures, we can create a reliable system for the production of high-quality essential oils. This research provides valuable insights into the design and construction of steam distillation columns for various industrial applications, contributing to the advancement of essential oil production techniques.

Thesis Overview

1.0 INTRODUCTION

Distillation is a separating technique in which two liquids are separated at essentially the same temperature and pressure. It is also the term used to describe the operation where the vaporization of a liquid mixture yields a vapor phase containing more than one constituents and it is desired to recover one or more of this constituents in a nearly pure state.
It would probably be beneficial to define the terms that describe the process and related properties. Let us begin by describing the process by which a substance transformed from the condensed phase to the gas phase. For liquid, this process is called VAPORIZATION and for a solid it is called SUBMIATIN, both processes requires heat. All substances regardless whether they are liquids or solids are characterized by a vapor pressure. The vapor pressure of a pure substance is the pressure exerted by the substance against the external pressure which is usually atmospheric pressure. Vapor pressure is a measure of the tendency to escape. When the vapor pressure of a liquid substance reaches the external pressure the substance is observed to Boil. If the external pressure is atmospheric pressure, the temperature at which a pure substance boils is called the NORMAL BOILING POINT. Solid substances are not characterized by a similar phenomena called BOILING. They simply vaporize directly into the atmosphere.
Generally speaking, distillation, stripping, absorption, humidification are industrial stage wise operations which involves the contact of two phases in various apparatus. Completion of separation depends upon certain properties of components involved and the arrangement of the distillation process.
The properties involved are:
– Mode of temperature and process control
– The relative volatility between the liquid and vapor phases
– The production capacity of the distiller
– The type of distillation involved
However, the importance of distillation in commercial process is the purification of a large variety of material and petroleum industries. It is applied in the production of hot drinks in chemical industries. Also, applied in oil companies for the separation of petroleum into its various components e.g kerosene, diesel, gasoline, petrol, fuel, oil, lubricating oil, paraffin wax, aliphatic etc. Lastly, it is equally applied in pharmaceutical industries for the production of ethylated spirits and many other medical strubs.