Simulation of a Mixer - Settler Liquid Extraction Column

Abstract

Lagrangian interpolation and the Fibonacci search scheme were used in the steady - state simulation of a Scheibel extraction column on the IBM 7040 computer. The first technique allowed easy representation of graphical data in a form suitable for the digital computer while the second provided a powerful sequential search plan to carry out the trial and error material balance calculation. The features of equilibrium and non-equilibrium models which utilized the above techniques are discussed and compared. The non-equilibrium model was also used to calculate the transient response which was then compared with experimental results. The Runge-Kutta-Gill process was used to integrate the transient equations while Lagrangian interpolation was used to remove the restriction of a linear equilibrium relationship. Steady - state and transient experimental results used in the above calculations were obtained from the Scheibel extraction column in the Operations Laboratory.