Control of a reactive distillation process: MTBE synthesis
by Amiya K. Jana
International Journal of Automation and Control (IJAAC), Vol. 5, No. 1, 2011

Abstract: This paper explores the closed-loop control performance of a heterogeneously catalysed reactive distillation process for the synthesis of methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE). Two fresh reactant feed streams, namely methanol (MeOH) and mixed butenes, are introduced in the column. Distillate containing mostly n-butene (NB) and bottoms enriched with MTBE are collected from the process. Obviously, the stoichiometric amounts of fresh feeds are desired. The proposed control algorithm uses a composition analyser in the reactive section of the column to detect the inventory of MeOH so that fresh MeOH feed rate can be adjusted to satisfy the reaction stoichiometry. In addition, the closed-loop configuration includes two product compositions, two liquid levels, column pressure and fresh mixed butenes rate control loops. The developed control strategy provides tight control of MTBE product composition in presence of large disturbance and measurement lag.

Online publication date: Fri, 17-Apr-2015

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