The simulated moving-bed process (SMB) (Fig. 1) is used for continuoous chromatographic separation in chemical engineering and biotechnology. The plant consists of a number of chromatographic columns which are interconnected circularly. The input and withdrawal ports are moved one column ahead at fixed time intervals. This way, a counter-current between the adsorbent and the fluid to be separated is 'simulated'. With well chosen process parameters, concentration move cyclically along the columns. At the withdrawal ports for extract and raffinate, solvent with the separated feek components can be withdrawn continuously. The functional principle of SMB processes is described in more detail in the litrature [1-4].
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