Optimization of operating conditions using design expert methodology with dynamic simulation of reactive distillation column

This study is on the simulation of methyl acetate production as a result of the reaction of methanol and acetic acid in a reactive distillation column. Model design of methyl acetate production process was made with reactive distillation column in Chemcad. The steady-state and dynamic studies were conducted with the experimental simulation data obtained as a result of the model design. Then, using experimental design package program, studies were carried out for the most efficient production of methyl acetate under different operating conditions, via response surface methodology (RSM) technique based on the central compozit design (CCD) optimization method. In the studies, optimum operating conditions were determined for the variables affecting the product yield such as feed rate, reflux ratio and feed temperature. Relationships between variables of experiment simulation, which are significant in experimental design, were determined, examined with the help of three-dimensional graphics, and inferences were made about the process.