Dividing Wall Column Design for Energy-Efficient Separation of Three-Component Petrochemical Mixtures

Abstract

The separation of multicomponent petrochemical mixtures is an energy-intensive process that significantly influences the operational efficiency and economic performance of chemical processing industries. The present study investigates the design and performance optimization of a dividing wall column for the energy-efficient separation of three-component petrochemical mixtures under industrial operating conditions. The research focuses on evaluating the effects of column configuration, feed location, reflux ratio, vapor–liquid distribution, and thermal integration on separation efficiency, product purity, and energy consumption. Process simulation and thermodynamic analysis demonstrate that dividing wall column technology enables the integration of multiple separation stages within a single column shell, thereby reducing equipment requirements and minimizing heat duty compared with conventional distillation sequences. The influence of internal partition design and operating parameters on mass transfer characteristics and separation performance was systematically analyzed to determine optimal process conditions. Results indicate that appropriate vapor and liquid flow distribution significantly improves component separation while lowering condenser and reboiler energy demands. In addition, the compact configuration of the dividing wall column contributes to reduced capital investment, lower operational costs, and improved process controllability. Comparative evaluation with traditional multi-column distillation systems confirms substantial energy savings and enhanced separation efficiency for ternary petrochemical mixtures.