🧪 Distillation Column — McCabe-Thiele Calculator
Design a binary distillation column using VLE, reflux ratio, q-line, Fenske minimum stages, minimum reflux, and McCabe-Thiele stepping.
🏭 Distillation Column Schematic
📝 Configuration
Key Equations:
VLE: y = αx/[1+(α−1)x]
Fenske: Nmin = ln[(xD/(1−xD))((1−xB)/xB)] / ln(α)
Rectifying line: y = R/(R+1)x + xD/(R+1)
q-line: y = q/(q−1)x − zF/(q−1)
VLE: y = αx/[1+(α−1)x]
Fenske: Nmin = ln[(xD/(1−xD))((1−xB)/xB)] / ln(α)
Rectifying line: y = R/(R+1)x + xD/(R+1)
q-line: y = q/(q−1)x − zF/(q−1)
📊 Results & Visualization
Configure inputs and click Calculate to view results.
📘 Calculation Methodology
Mathematical Model
Binary VLE is approximated with constant relative volatility. Minimum reflux is obtained from the pinch point at the q-line/equilibrium intersection, and stages are stepped graphically between the operating lines and VLE curve.
Worked Example
For a benzene/toluene-like split with α=2.45, xD=0.95, xB=0.05, zF=0.45 and q=1, the engine estimates Rmin, applies R/Rmin, then steps off stages and locates the feed plate where the operating line switches.
Assumptions
- Binary system with constant relative volatility.
- Constant molar overflow.
- Total condenser and equilibrium reboiler convention.
- No Murphree efficiency or pressure drop included.