The large dimensionality of the system of algebraic (and differential) equations of the models for packed distillation columns makes their solution difficult to be achieved. Aiming the solution of this problem, a reduced order model was developed for steady state packed separation processes. The model was developed transforming the differential equations of the rigorous model into algebraic equations through the use of the orthogonal collocation technique. The heat and mass transfer rates through the vapor-liquid interface were rigorously computed. The performance of this reduced order model was assessed comparing its results with those obtained with a rigorous rate based model. The results of the reduced order model were in good agreement with those from the rigorous model. Furthermore, the solution of the new model was the easiest to be obtained due to the robustness of the reduced order model.
Modeling; distillation; packed columns; reduced model
