(88a) Dividing Wall Column Revamp Optimizes Xylene Production

The successful revamp of a Xylene Distillation Column is described. The column was a conventional tray column (3800 mm / 4300 mm diameter) taking a xylene sidestream from reformate to feed an aromatics plant to make higher value products. Changing the column configuration to a Dividing Wall Column(DWC) resulted in greater recovery, product purity and significant energy savings. The project cycle is detailed including process design, hydraulic design, mechanical design, manufacture, testing and site work. Economic benefits are outlined and the lessons learned discussed.