Operation Cost Optimization of Heat Integrated Distillation Columns

Evaluation and optimization method on the operating cost and its saving in Internal Thermally Coupled Distillation Column (ITCDIC) processes for separating non-ideal mixtures is presented. A novel mathematical optimization model with rigorous tray by tray material and energy balances is derived. The optimization and the related process analysis are further carried out. The results reveal that the ITCDIC process of non-ideal mixture possesses an enormous potential of operating cost saving.