Distillation: Basic Principles

Many of the products we use every day are produced from raw materials. Distillation is a process often used to turn raw materials into finished products. Because distillation is involved in the production of so many products, it’s important plant operators understand how it works. In this interactive, online course we will begin by discussing the basic principles of distillation. We will define terms related to states of matter, heat and temperature, distillation, and pressure. We will also discuss some basic distillation processes, including separation of liquid mixtures, batch processes, and continuous distillation.

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Course Details

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, you will be able to:
  • Define distillation
  • Explain how changes in the state of matter relate to the distillation process
  • Define terms related to heat, including sensible heat, initial boiling point, boiling range, final boiling point, and latent heat
  • Define terms related to pressure, including vapor pressure, external pressure, partial pressure, relative volatility
  • Explain the relationship between vapor pressure and the following: boiling point, temperature, and external pressure
  • Describe the basic operation of batch process systems and continuous distillation systems

Specs

Course Level Intermediate
Languages English
Compatibility Audio, MobileReady

Jim Taube

Author

Jim possesses degrees in Civil & Environmental Engineering from Clarkson University in New York and Electrical Power Technology from Bismarck State College. He has extensive industrial experience with 23 years in the pulp and paper industry and 12 years in institutional and pharmaceutical facility management. His responsibilities have included engineering design, electrical and mechanical maintenance, and power plant utilities management. Areas of expertise include HVAC design, commissioning and qualification, construction administration, and energy cost savings initiatives. Jim's credentials include being registered as a Professional Engineer and the Certified Energy Manager and Auditor certifications. Jim is married and lives in Middletown, OH and has 4 married children.

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