Project Abstract

Abstract
This research project focuses on the construction of an open steam distillation column, a crucial piece of equipment widely used in various industries for the separation and purification of liquids. The distillation column is designed to operate under atmospheric pressure, making it suitable for applications where high temperatures are not required. The primary objective of this study is to provide a detailed overview of the construction process, including the selection of materials, dimensions, and operating parameters. The construction of the steam distillation column involves several key steps. First, the appropriate materials need to be selected based on their compatibility with the substances being processed and their resistance to high temperatures and corrosive environments. Common materials used in the construction of distillation columns include stainless steel, glass, and various types of plastics. Next, the dimensions of the column need to be determined based on the desired throughput and separation efficiency. Factors such as column diameter, height, and packing material play a critical role in the performance of the distillation process. Proper design and sizing of the column are essential to ensure optimal separation of the components. The construction process also involves the installation of various components such as the condenser, reboiler, and reflux drum. These components work together to create a continuous distillation process by providing the necessary heat input and cooling to facilitate the separation of components based on their boiling points. In addition to the physical construction of the distillation column, this project also addresses the selection of operating parameters such as temperature, pressure, and flow rates. These parameters are crucial in determining the efficiency and effectiveness of the distillation process. Proper control and monitoring of these parameters are essential to ensure the desired product quality and purity. Overall, the construction of an open steam distillation column requires careful planning, attention to detail, and adherence to safety protocols. By following the guidelines outlined in this research project, engineers and researchers can construct a reliable and efficient distillation column for various industrial applications. The knowledge gained from this study can contribute to advancements in the field of separation processes and help optimize the production of high-quality products.

Project 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.