Minimizing loss of Ethanol with non-condensable gases in distilleries

Abstract

In a distillery where concentrated ethanol is manufactured, a large amount of ethanol vapour is lost during distillation. It was hypothesized that reduction of reflux at the fi nal disti llation column where non-condensable gases are vented reduces loss of ethanol vapour. This hypothesis was tested and verified using computer aided process simulation with application to a working distillery in Sri Lanka. It reduced the loss of ethanol vapour at a rate of 6.8 kg/h. The associated net financial saving was Rs. 400 000 per month.