ISBN 9783843920674

978-3-8439-2067-4, Reihe Verfahrenstechnik

Daniel Sudhoff
Design, Analysis and Investigation of Rotating Packed Beds for Distillation

273 Seiten, Dissertation Technische Universität Dortmund (2015), Softcover, A5

Zusammenfassung / Abstract

Separation processes in centrifugal fields of rotating packed beds (RPBs) are promising technologies in process intensification and have been investigated for three decades. However, the chemical industry has not taken full advantage of the potential of the high gravity technology (HiGee) such as for distillation and absorption. Therefore, the aim of this work is to build a bridge for this technology from academic research to industrial utilisation by three major steps.

First, a reliable computer aided tool for conceptual process design to calculate and analyse important design and operating variables of RPBs for distillation has been developed. For this purpose a general model describing the fundamentals (mass transfer, hydrodynamics) of RPBs was created and embedded into a design method. Initial design and operating variables as well as costs, space and energy demands can be calculated simultaneously.

Second, this tool was used to identify potential fields of application of RPBs and to evaluate its operating window for distillation. The implementation of RPBs as mobile distillation processes on floating vessels, for modular systems in container plants and for modular retrofit options has been analysed. Additionally, flexibility by operation and by design of RPBs has been investigated. The use of the rotational speed to adjust the separation efficiency and to compensate fluctuations in feed composition as well as the utilisation of the compact design for high pressure distillation have been analysed.

Third, new experience in design and constructional details of RPBs in general and for distillation in particular was gained. A novel design concept comprising three rotors with multiple feed positions within a single RPB has been developed and manufactured, a pilot plant was built for distillation and absorption and the hydrodynamic and mass transfer behaviour have been investigated. Finally, the feasibility of high viscosity processing in RPBs has experimentally been shown.