Innovative Methods for Energy Savings in Distillation Processes: From Sequence Analysis to Energy Integration

Abstract:

Distillation processes are essential to the chemical engineering industry, particularly in oil and gas, but account for approximately 40 % of total energy consumption in chemical processing. This study introduces a novel framework aimed at significantly improving energy efficiency in distillation processes by integrating advanced sequence analysis and energy optimization techniques. The proposed framework synthesizes Energy-Efficient Distillation Column (EEDC) sequences using the Driving Force method, followed by the application of Thermal Pinch Analysis to develop Energy-Integrated Distillation Columns (EIDC). The EEDC sequences demonstrated a 13.8 % reduction in energy consumption, while further integration through thermal pinch analysis resulted in a total energy saving of 23.4 %. These results highlight the potential for significant energy and cost savings, making distillation processes more sustainable and reducing their environmental impact. The findings offer valuable insights for both academia and industry, providing a pathway to more energy-efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally sustainable distillation practices.

• Periodical: Applied Mechanics and Materials (Volume 929)
• Pages: 143-155
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/p-UQmFo6
• Online since: December 2025
• Authors: Atbar Khan Bibi Norsahilla, Sintia Sarjit Ronna, Yusoff Azudin Nurhazwani, Ibrahim Norazana, Abd Hamid Mohd Kamaruddin*
• Keywords: Distillation Columns, Energy Efficiency, Energy Integration, Sequence Analysis, Thermal Pinch Analysis

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