The calculator is intended for the determination of initial parameters for SMBC separation according to the Equilibrium Theory of Morbidelli and colleagues. For more information, please see the Octave Chromatography System User Manual.

1. Input the values for a single column separation under “Development Column Measurements.” The calculator will determine the void fraction of the adsorbent, Henry constants, and selectivity for your separation.

2. Input the values for the column volume and extra column volume for one column position of the SMBC system under “SMBC System Measurements.” The extra column volume comprises the volume occupied by the Octave valve block (0.1 ml and 0.4 ml for the Octave 10 and Octave 100 Systems, respectively) plus the volume occupied by the inlet and outlet tubing for one column position.

3. In Scenario 1 of the lower worksheet enter test values for flow rates of Feed, Desorbent, and Extract (and, in the case of 4-zone configuration, Recycle), and Switch Time. The tool calculates Raffinate flow rate, internal zone flow rates (Q values), and flow rate ratios (m values). By adjusting the test values, the conditions for separation according to the Equilibrium Theory can be obtained. The conditions are indicated below the table: m1>H2>m3>m2>H1 (>m4, when zone 4 is present). All values are initially replicated in Scenarios 2-4 but can be modified as desired.

4. Once conditions are identified within the desirable range (the values will turn green), Scenarios 2 through 4 can be used to evaluate adjustment and optimization of the parameters established in Scenario 1. Note that the calculator adds a 10% safety margin for the value of m1 relative to H2; therefore, m1 must be greater than 110% of H2 to turn green.

5. Want to save your calculated conditions? Input your email address and the results will appear in your inbox. Addresses are strictly private, and never retained by Semba.