REACTOR VESSEL DESIGN FOR TETRADECENE PR

This report explores the production of tetradecane, also known as drying oil, derived from acetylated castor oil using a thermal cracking process. The objective is to design a reactor vessel capable of efficiently producing tetradecane along with acetic acid as the desired product and gum (1-octacosene) as an undesired byproduct. The methodology involves applying the total continuity equation and component continuity equation to calculate critical parameters such as concentration and temperature profiles, and the volume of the reactor. Energy balances are conducted at the reactor and jacket to optimize conditions for maximum yield. Various design parameters were iterated using Euler's method to ensure accuracy in temperature adjustments. The results indicate an optimal design for the reactor vessel that balances efficiency and product yield, while minimizing undesirable byproducts. The design summary includes detailed calculations and considerations, reinforcing the practicality and application of the theoretical principles outlined. This research contributes to the field of chemical engineering by providing a comprehensive methodology for the design and simulation of reactor systems in industrial applications.