Abstract:

Steady-state simulation was carried out for the propylene distillation unit in a 1000 kt/a ethylene plant by using Aspen Plus software. The multivariable impact factors for the operation optimization of propylene distillation tower were discussed, and the influence of simulation optimization orders on propylene distillation efficiency was analyzed. More reasonable simulation steps were determined for the operation optimization of propylene distillation, i.e., the determination of initial value of analog input, the scope of optimum tower bottom yield, the determination of optimum mass reflux ratio and the other optimization parameters, and the previous optimum value was used as a new initial value of analog input in the optimization of other parameters. More accurate and reasonable operation parameters can be provided for the actual operation.

Key words: Aspen Plus, ethylene plant, propylene distillation, simulation method