[Kunisch]

Im currently tasked (as part of a project during my education) to design a distillation column for distilling ethanol/water. Currently I am to choose between a tray or a bubble cap system. So what would be the way to argue for each choice? (pros cons?) any help regarding general procedures for me to make the right choice will be usable.

[eugenedakin]

Hello Kunisch,

Either system will work well as long as they are correctly designed (sized, flowthrough rates, etc).

Some of the arguments depend on loading, available reaction surface area, footprint, contamination, fouling, etc. These are just immediate aspects which come-to-mind.

I hope this helps.

Sincerely,

Eugene

[jules]

hi kunisch,

bublecaps are tedious to clean

but because you are not dealing with "dirty" products, no much maintenance of the trays can be expected

probably the cost will be determining the right choice. bubblecaps are more expensive but you'll probably need less as of trays (this last statement is a pure guts feeling)

cheers