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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Simplified distillation column controls

Conference ·
OSTI ID:6031492
A simple, energy efficient method of controlling single or double distillation columns for the production of ethyl alcohol is described. The control system is based on a material balance scheme centered around a thermostat actuated control valve to regulate reflux rate and product purity. Column bottom's levels are automatically regulated by vented suction lines on the pump inlets. Methods of minimizing control input variations are used including column insulation, stillage-to-beer heat exchanger, and a steam pressure regulator.
OSTI ID:
6031492
Report Number(s):
CONF-8406307-
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English