Formula Used:
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Definition: The External Reflux Flowrate to Distillation Column is the number of moles of condensed top product flowing back into the column as reflux per unit time.
Purpose: It helps in determining the amount of liquid that needs to be returned to the distillation column to achieve the desired separation efficiency.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The external reflux flowrate is calculated by multiplying the external reflux ratio by the distillate flowrate.
Details: Proper reflux flowrate estimation is crucial for maintaining the mass balance in distillation columns and achieving the desired product purity.
Tips: Enter the external reflux ratio (typically between 1.0 and 10.0) and the distillate flowrate in mol/s. All values must be > 0.
Q1: What is a typical reflux ratio value?
A: The reflux ratio typically ranges from 1.0 to 10.0 depending on the separation difficulty and desired product purity.
Q2: How is distillate flowrate determined?
A: Distillate flowrate is usually set based on production requirements and column capacity.
Q3: What units should be used for this calculation?
A: The calculator uses mol/s for flowrates, but the same formula works with any consistent units.
Q4: What's the difference between internal and external reflux ratio?
A: External reflux ratio is based on the liquid returned to the column, while internal reflux ratio accounts for vapor condensation inside the column.
Q5: How does reflux ratio affect column operation?
A: Higher reflux ratios generally improve separation but increase energy consumption and column size requirements.