Tower optimization feed temperature

Feed Temperature A hotter feed can increase feed vaporization and thus reduce reboiling duty. However, higher temperature feed could cause too much vapor resulting in rectification section flooding. For an existing tower, the optimal feed temperature corresponds to the lowest reboiling duty, while the tower can meet product specifications. 

Extraction of potable water from saline waters by means of immiscible solvents has been shown to be theoretically possible, experimentally feasible, and economically attractive. Data presented show the process to be especially adaptable to the conversion of feed water in the range of 5000 to 10,000 p.p.m. It is adaptable to use of low-quality heat such as hot water from cooling towers or low pressure waste steam. By use of mixed solvent systems, the process can be optimized to take advantage of seasonal changes in temperature and sources of cold feed water and low-level heat sources. The process, in general, is somewhat more economical when a cold source of feed water is available. 

---