OPTIMIZATION OF A PETROLEUM FRACTIONAL DISTILLATION COLUMN USING DISTOP CALIBRATION AND STATISTICAL METHODS

Distillation columns are important separation equipment that comprise most of the investment needed in a petroleum refining plant. Utilities and energy demands, though, concerning factor current economic environmental scenario. The present work proposes methodology to optimize consumption crude oil distillation column using Distop Calibration technique allows faster convergence than Tray-to-Tray method. presented involves process simulation, sensitivity analysis, factorial design, use response surface methodology. Results show it is possible achieve significant gains by changing feed temperature rectifying vapor flow, causing relevant reduction consumption. Hence, can be used as an optimization tool increase energetic efficiency.