3. Specific distillation assumptions
We assume that distillation operations are adiabatic, except at the ends of the column. In addition to being consistent with reality, this assumption allows us to use simple barycentric relationships on the enthalpy diagram.
Calculations are based on the assumption that the device operates at constant pressure. Obviously, pressures vary in a device due to pressure losses associated with flow; these pressure losses are only significant for operations conducted at pressures well below atmospheric pressure.
Unless otherwise indicated, all calculations are made using mole fractions. Reasoning with mass fractions is either the same, or less general.
For further details, readers are invited to consult the general reference works on...
The Ultimate Scientific and Technical Reference
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Unit operations. Chemical reaction engineering
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Specific distillation assumptions
Single distillation
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The Ultimate Scientific and Technical Reference
