Patent ID: 6453698
Filing Date: 2002-09-24
Classification: F25J

Abstract:
A process for recovering relatively less volatile components from a multi-component feed gas, while rejecting relatively more volatile components as a residue gas via a cryogenic distillation column wherein the reflux to said cryogenic distillation column is generated by steps comprising:i) Obtaining a side draw from said cryogenic distillation column wherein said side draw is selected from the group consisting of: a) a side liquid draw; b) a side vapor draw; ii) Processing said side draw to generate a first vapor stream from further separation of said side draw in one or more mass transfer stages; said first vapor stream is lean in relatively less volatile components to be recovered; and iii) Cooling said first vapor stream and then directing said cooled first vapor stream to the top of said cryogenic distillation column as a lean reflux.