Université Ottawa Faculté De Génie Département De Génie

Université Dottawa Faculté De Génie Département De Génie Chimiqu

Consider the following system of three continuous stirred tanks, connected in series and filled with water. To study the flow and mixing pattern, salt was dissolved in the first tank to obtain a desired initial salt concentration. Fresh water was then allowed to flow through the system, causing the dissolved salt to pass through all three tanks and eventually exit the system. Each tank's outlet stream is monitored with an on-line thermal conductivity detector to provide instantaneous salt concentration measurements over time. The experimental data records the salt concentrations at various time points for each tank, enabling analysis of how long it takes for all the salt to leave the system and identifying the maximum salt concentrations in each tank during the process.

Numerical modeling involves formulating differential equations describing the change in salt concentrations over time, considering perfect mixing within each tank, known flow rates, and initial concentrations. The differential equations for the three tanks are based on mass balances, accounting for inflow, outflow, and accumulation of salt, with the system expressed as coupled ordinary differential equations (ODEs). Solving these ODEs numerically, specifically using a 2nd order or higher Runge-Kutta method, provides simulated salt concentration profiles over time, which can then be compared with the experimental data for validation and further insights.

Paper For Above instruction

The project focuses on modeling the transient behavior of a series of three continuously stirred tanks (CSTs) filled with water, with the first tank initially containing dissolved salt. The primary objective is to simulate the evolution of salt concentrations within each tank over time by solving the system of differential equations that describe the mass balances, using a robust numerical method such as a Runge-Kutta scheme implemented within Excel VBA. This simulation allows for comparison with experimental salt concentration data, providing insights into flow dynamics, mixing efficiencies, and model accuracy.

In the context of engineering thermodynamics and fluid mechanics, the CST system offers a simplified yet powerful framework to study transport phenomena. The differential equations governing the system are derived from mass balances, assuming perfect mixing (uniform concentration within each tank) and constant volumetric flow rates. The initial conditions reflect the salt concentrations in each tank at the start, with the first tank set to 450 g/L, while the subsequent tanks start at zero concentration. The flow rate (·) and tank volumes are critical parameters influencing the system's transient response.

Implementing the numerical solution in Excel VBA requires creating a flexible model that can accommodate parameter variations, such as different flow rates or initial salt concentrations, without extensive reprogramming. The Runge-Kutta method offers superior stability and accuracy for solving stiff ODE systems encountered in chemical engineering processes. The implementation involves coding the iterative solution process, updating the concentration values at each time step, and storing the results for analysis and visualization.

The comparison between numerical and experimental data involves plotting concentration profiles over time. Discrepancies can stem from model assumptions, measurement errors, or unaccounted-for phenomena like salt solubility limits or imperfect mixing. Sensitivity analysis helps identify which parameters significantly influence the system's transient behavior. The validation process enhances confidence in the numerical model and clarifies its applicability and limitations.

Beyond validation, the model can be extended to incorporate non-ideal effects such as variable flow rates, nonsymmetric tank geometries, or reactive salt solutions. Incorporating temperature effects or nonlinear kinetics can further broaden its relevance. From an educational perspective, this project provides valuable experience in applying numerical methods to solve real-world engineering problems, reinforces understanding of mass transfer processes, and highlights the importance of robust computational tools in chemical engineering analysis.

In conclusion, solving the system of differential equations for the series of stirred tanks using VBA in Excel demonstrates an effective approach to modeling dynamic chemical process systems. The methodology enhances comprehension of transport phenomena, aids in designing and optimizing chemical reactors or separation units, and exemplifies the integration of theoretical and experimental analyses in engineering practice.

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