Undergraduate design of experiment laboratory on analysis and optimization of distillation column

A two-level full factorial design and/or a central composite design are used to optimize the operation of a distillation column by manipulating three variables: the feed flow rate, the reflux ratio and the steam flow to the reboiler. The response variable of interest is a profit function where the objective of this experiment is to examine the effect of each of the three factors and their interactions on this profit function. This is accomplished in a sieve tray type continuous distillation column operated at ambient pressure to separate a methanol–isopropanol mixture. Students were asked to determine the significant variables and the optimal operating conditions for steam rate, reflux ratio and feed rate such that the profit is maximized. As a result, this experiment not only exposes students to an industrially relevant unit operation but it also helps complement the classroom teaching on design of experiment concepts.

► A full factorial design and/or a central composite design are used to optimize distillation column operations.
► Students learn the use of statistics in a quasi-industrial setting.
► The objective is to maximize a profit function by manipulating steam flow, feed flow and reflux ratio.
► MATLAB is used as software to do all process calculations.
► Students found the distillation laboratory to be an excellent hands-on tutorial on design of experiments.