METHOD OF OPTIMISING THE OPERATION OF A XYLENE SEPARATION UNIT USING SIMULATED COUNTERCURRENT

摘要

The invention relates to a method of optimising the operation of a unit used to separate components of a charge (xylenes) using simulated countercurrent in hybrid operation mode. The inventive method can be used to minimise the solvent content and to maximise the capacity of the separation unit while retaining the specifications in relation to the constant products such as purity and yield. Having verified that said two objectives cannot be achieved simultaneously, it is recommended to operate with a minimum solvent content while guaranteeing a high capacity which is compatible with a stable operation of the separation unit. The aforementioned optimisation objectives are achieved while maintaining good stability around the optimal point as defined, using a known operation control method such as that outlined in patent EP 875.268 for example.