More operable fully thermally coupled distribution column configurations for multicomponent distillation

More operable fully thermally coupled distillation column configurations do not have the classical problem of controlling vapour transfers from one column to another. A simple and easy to use procedure is presented to:draw all possible such distillation column configurations for the separation of an n-component feed mixture into n product streams, each enriched in one of the components. All the more operable fully thermally coupled configurations that can be derived from the known sequential and satellite column configurations are illustrated for four and five component feed mixtures. A brief discussion for the distillation of an n-component feed mixture in a single; column shell is also presented.