Stripping Section Flowrate of Vapor for given Quality of Feed Calculator

Formula Used:

\[ V_m = V_n + (q - 1) \times F \]

Vapor Flowrate in Stripping Section: mol/s

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is Stripping Section Flowrate of Vapor?

Definition: This calculator determines the vapor flowrate in the stripping section of a distillation column based on rectifying section vapor flowrate, feed quality, and feed flowrate.

Purpose: It helps chemical engineers design and analyze distillation columns by calculating the vapor flow in the stripping section.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ V_m = V_n + (q - 1) \times F \]

Where:

\( V_m \) — Vapor flowrate in stripping section (mol/s)
\( V_n \) — Vapor flowrate in rectifying section (mol/s)
\( q \) — Feed quality (dimensionless)
\( F \) — Feed flowrate (mol/s)

Explanation: The formula accounts for how the feed quality affects the vapor flow between the rectifying and stripping sections.

3. Importance of Vapor Flowrate Calculation

Details: Accurate vapor flowrate calculations are essential for proper distillation column design, ensuring efficient separation and energy optimization.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the vapor flowrate in the rectifying section, feed quality (typically between 0 and 2), and feed flowrate. All values must be ≥ 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does feed quality (q) represent?
A: Feed quality indicates the thermal condition of the feed - the fraction of feed that is liquid (q=1 for saturated liquid, q=0 for saturated vapor).

Q2: When would vapor flowrate in stripping section be higher than in rectifying section?
A: When q > 1 (subcooled liquid feed), the stripping section vapor flowrate increases compared to the rectifying section.

Q3: What are typical values for feed quality?
A: Common values range from 0 (saturated vapor) to 1 (saturated liquid), but can be outside this range for superheated vapor or subcooled liquid.

Q4: How does this relate to the McCabe-Thiele method?
A: This formula is part of the material balance equations used in McCabe-Thiele analysis for distillation columns.

Q5: What units should I use?
A: Consistent molar units (typically mol/s) should be used for all flowrates.