Optimum design of conventional and complex distillation columns

A method is proposed for achieving the optimum design, in the sense of minimum plates, for conventional and complex distillation columns for any set of specifications directly dependent on product purity which might be imposed by the designer. The method uses the calculational procedure of Theiele and Geddes, the θ-method of convergence, and sequential-search procedures. Illustrative examples chosen from a large number of design problems solved by this method are presented.