Synthesis and Optimization of Separation Section of MTBE Process

Methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) is known as a promising substitute for tetra ethyl lead (TEL) in order to increase the octane number of gasoline. MTBE process, as many other processes, has two distinguished section, namely reaction section and separation section. In this paper we focus only on synthesis and optimization of separation section of this process. In order to achieve this objective, many possible flowsheets have been considered, among which, two alternatives are pointed out as optimum candidates. The second step involves determination of dominant design variables and their range of variation. Both selected flowsheets have been cost analyzed in their corresponding ranges of dominant design variables to determine plots of total annual cost (TAC). Knowing feed specifications at the entrance of separation section, the designer will be able to choose appropriate flowsheet and optimum conditions using the plots presented in this paper.