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Calcimator

Distillation Reflux Ratio Calculator

Shortcut distillation design using Fenske-Underwood-Gilliland method. Calculate minimum stages, minimum reflux ratio, actual trays, and column material balance.

Inputs

%
%
%
%

Results

Minimum stages (Fenske)

6.43

Minimum reflux ratio R_min

1.1

Actual trays required

21

Actual reflux ratio R1.43
Theoretical stages (Gilliland)14.42
Distillate rate (kmol/hr)50
Bottoms rate (kmol/hr)50
Condenser duty estimate (kW)1,012.5
Reboiler Duty KW1,054.17
How to Use This Calculator
  1. Enter Feed composition, light key (mol%), Distillate purity, light key (mol%), and Bottoms composition, light key (mol%).
  2. Set Relative volatility α, Reflux multiplier (R/R_min), and Feed rate (kmol/hr).
  3. Adjust Overall tray efficiency (%) as needed.
  4. Review Minimum stages (Fenske), Minimum reflux ratio R_min, and Actual trays required.
  5. Use Actual reflux ratio R and Theoretical stages (Gilliland) to inform your decision.
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