Indian Journal of Science and Technology

Abstract

Objectives: This paper proposes the design and implementation of an automatic liquid distillation system. The prototype is designed for mainly two functions: liquid distillation and tank level. Methods/Statistical Analysis: Prototype presented involves a process of separating the mixture (Methanol & water) and improves the production by managing the whole system automatically. The prototype designed gives a simple controlling & monitoring i.e. data acquisition of fluid level with the help of PLC S7200. Distillation is the main theme behind this research work that plays a vital role in many industries in dealing with boiling of liquids and liquid levels. Findings: At initial stage the implementation of a robust mechanical design is constructed to sustain excessive temperature; besides this a console panel is made to manually control and indicate the state of actuators. At final stage PLC interfacing and programming with electrical components (level detector circuit, thermocouple, pump, heater, solenoid valve etc.) is done for achieving the efficient and fast automatic process. In the last design was experimented with actual solution, it was found that 90% of the methanol was retrieved in condensation chamber; also temperature linearization was observed during the process. Applications: Error free mechanism and fast actuation makes this model significant for many industries which deal with huge boilers where engineers tackle with controlling & monitoring of liquids i.e. sugar mills, milk factories etc.

Keywords: Analog Module EM235, Liquid Distillation, PLC S7200, STEP 7 Micro-Win, Tank Level Controlling