A hybrid genetic algorithm to optimize simple distillation column sequences

Based on the principles of Genetic Algorithms (GAs), a hybrid genetic algorithm used to optimize simple distillation column sequences was established. A new data structure, a novel arithmetic crossover operator and a dynamic mutation operator were proposed. Together with the feasibility test of distillation columns, they are capable to obtain the optimum simple column sequence at one time without the limitation of the number of mixture components, ideal or non-ideal mixtures and sloppy or sharp splits. Compared with conventional algorithms, this hybrid genetic algorithm avoids solving complicated nonlinear equations and demands less derivative information and computation time. Result comparison between this genetic algorithm and Underwood method and Doherty method shows that this hybrid genetic algorithm is reliable.