Efficiency Scaleup Equipment Factors

Scaleup from pilot column. The most common scaleup is from a small column (e.g., pilot plant) to a commercial column. No reduction in efficiency on scaleup is expected (24,99) as long as 

Both pilot and commercial columns are operated at the same approach to the flood point (18,134,135). Also, the flood point in the 

In the emulsion regime [high pressure ( 150 psia) and/or h h liquid rates], vapor entrainment through the downcomer (Sec. 6.4.5) is not large enough to affect efficiency. 

Any relevant process factors (Sec. 7.3.6) are allowed for. Also, it is a good policy to pilot-test over several composition ranges engulfing all those expected in the commercial column. A pilot test is never an exact replication of a commercial column, and differences may lead to poor scaleup. 

Pinching is avoided. It has been recommended to pilot-test at total reflux (18). At finite reflux, pinching can convert small measurement errors into major errors in efficiency estimates (130). However, finite reflux testing is useful in supplementing a total reflux test and providing information on pinch-point location. 

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