Design and Mechanical Analysis of a Continuous Stirred Tank Reactor (CSTR) for the Optimum Operation and Production of Propylene Glycol from Propylene Oxide Hydrolysis

Abstract

This study aimed to optimize the production of propylene glycol by designing a continuous stirred tank reactor (CSTR) and analyzing its thickness. The research involved developing a reaction kinetic scheme and mass and energy balance models to determine key reactor functional parameters and account for temperature effects. Simulation results for a yearly production of 400,000 tons of propylene glycol showed a reactor volume, height, diameter, spacetime, space velocity, and heat generation per unit volume at maximum conversion and operating temperature of values 62.08 m³, 6.81 m, 3.41 m, 2,608.70 s, 0.00038 s^-1, and -1.30 J/m³s, respectively. The relationship between fractional conversion, operating temperature, and reactor functional parameters was presented, while the mechanical design of both the CSTR column and stirrer was considered. The study recommended a thickness specification of 23 mm for an ellipsoidal-shaped column head made from stainless steel material type 304 due to its ability to withstand operating conditions. CSTR design and its thickness analysis are crucial for the optimum production of propylene glycol because they ensure the proper mixing of reactants and prevent heat loss during the exothermic reaction. This leads to increased reaction efficiency, higher yields, and improved product quality. Results showed that proper CSTR design and thickness analysis are essential for optimal propylene glycol production for domestic and industrial applications.