Evaluation of Distillation Efficiency in a Laboratory Setup with Three Sizes of Glass Bead Packing

In this study, the performance of a distillation system packed with glass beads of three different sizes was investigated to evaluate the impact of packing size on mass transfer efficiency and pressure drop during the distillation process. Experimental tests were conducted using laboratory-scale packed columns, and the system's behavior was analyzed under consistent operating conditions. The results demonstrated that smaller packing sizes significantly enhanced mass transfer efficiency but also led to higher pressure drops. In contrast, larger beads reduced pressure drop but compromised separation performance. Numerical simulations were also employed to complement the experimental data, offering deeper insights into flow dynamics and mass transfer mechanisms within the packed beds. Overall, an optimal balance between separation efficiency and energy consumption was identified, providing valuable guidelines for designing and optimizing packed-bed distillation systems in chemical and mineral industries.

Keywords:

Distillation , Glass bead packing , Mass transfer efficiency , Pressure drop , Packed column