Rate-based column simulation

feed -> distillate + bottoms (tray efficiency)

Governing equations

The exact equations the solver works for a rate-based column — the same math shown in the app's "Theory" panel, not a black box.

$E_o$

overall column efficiency [0..1] — real trays are worse than equilibrium stages, and this is how much worse

$\mu_L$

liquid viscosity [cP] — a more viscous liquid transfers mass more slowly

$\alpha$

relative volatility of the key pair — an easy split tolerates poor trays

$N_{actual}$

physical trays you build

$N_{theo}$

equilibrium stages they are worth (what the MESH solver then sees)

$K_i$

equilibrium ratio y/x for component i

Parameters

same params as distillation, plus stage_efficiency [0..1 Murphree, optional — else O'Connell from feed relative volatility] and liquid_viscosity_cp [cP, ~0.2]; N actual trays behave as N*E_o equilibrium stages (nonequilibrium)

Example flowsheets that use it