Comparison of a reduced order model for packed separation processes and a rigorous nonequilibrium stage model

The large dimensionality of the system of algebraic (and differential) equa tions of the models for packed distillation columns makes their solution di fficult to be achieved. Aiming the solution of this problem, a reduced orde r model was developed for steady state packed separation processes. The mod el was developed transforming the differential equations of the rigorous mo del into algebraic equations through the use of the orthogonal collocation technique. The heal and mass transfer rates through the vapor-liquid interf ace were rigorously computed. The performance of this reduced order model w as assessed comparing its results with those obtained with a rigorous rate based model. The results of the reduced order model were in good agreement with those from the rigorous model. Furthermore, the solution of the new mo del was the easiest to be obtained due to the robustness of the reduced ord er model.