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8439462 
Journal Article 
Process technology/distillation: Consider dividing wall distillation to separate solvents 
Spencer, G; Plana Ruiz, FJ 
2005 
No 
Hydrocarbon Processing
ISSN: 0887-0284
EISSN: 0018-8190 
84 
7 
90-94 
English 
CEPSA Refinery at Algeciras in Southern Spain operates a solvent distillation unit downstream of a catalytic reforming plant. This unit separates paraffins and isoparaffins via distillation to obtain solvents of various compositions and boiling point ranges. In 2002, following market demand for solvent-free n-hexane, CEPSA considered revamping the conventional distillation column train to produce a new solvent. The refinery applied optimized process simulation models for both conventional distillation sequences and also a sequence using a dividing wall column (DWC). The mechanical installation was achieved on time within the shutdown window and within budget. The new product iso-hexane was produced within specification. The column hydraulic capacity was achieved and overcapacity is available. Hydraulic balance across the dividing wall was achieved. Lower operating costs across are confirmed at ∼ 40% compared to the conventional column arrangement. A discussion covers background for DWC; the original CEPSA process; conventional revamp options; dividing wall option; selecting column internals (trays vs. packing); mechanical aspects; hydraulic design for vapor and liquid distribution; instrumentation; hydraulic operation; and project summary.