Patent ID: 8650013

Claim:
A method of designing or optimizing a column for a separation process, comprising the computer implemented steps of: a) in a digital processor, providing vapor-side and liquid-side mass transfer coefficient expressions and a mass transfer area expression relevant for a subject column, the vapor-side and liquid-side mass transfer coefficient expressions and the mass transfer area expression having been derived from defining a column average height equivalent to a theoretical plate ( HETP ) as a mathematical relationship in which HETP : i) is proportional to a vapor flow rate; ii) is inversely proportional to effective packing area participating in mass transfer; iii) has a first correction factor with respect to liquid-side mass transfer; and iv) has a second correction factor with respect to vapor-side mass transfer; resulting in a defined HETP and from reducing error of curve fitting HETP empirical data of various columns by using the defined HETP to obtain expressions for the vapor-side and liquid-side mass transfer coefficients and mass transfer area; b) using the expressions resulting from step a) to determine column height and column width configurations of the subject column; and c) outputting the column height and column width configurations of the subject column.