Abstract: Xylene rectification column is the key equipment for aromatics separation with high energy consumption. Aspen Plus process simulation software was used to model the xylene rectification column of PetriChina Jilin Petrochemical Company Refinery. The accuracy of the model was verified by comparing the calculated values with the actual values. By the optimization and the sensitivity function of the software, the influence of operating conditions on the separation efficiency and the thermal load at the bottom of the xylene rectification column was studied. According to the analysis results, the energy-saving optimization of xylene rectification column was carried out by reducing the reflux rate in practical production. On the basis of ensuring product quality, the operation cost was reduced.

Key words: Aspen Plus, xylene rectification column, energy-saving optimization