Purge Stream in a System with Recycle: ConcepTest and Example Problem
Try to answer this ConcepTest and solve the example problem before using this module. Studies show that trying to answer the questions before studying material improves learning and retention. We suggest that you write down the reasons for your answers. By the end of this module, you should be able to answer these on your own. Answers will be given at the end of this module.
Example Problem 1
A reactor system with a separator, recycle, and a purge is used is used to form NH3 from a feed stream that is 74.775 mol/s of H2, 24.925 mol/s of N2, and 0.30 mol/s of Ar. The reactor converts 40% of the N2 feed into NH3. The separator, located immediately after the reactor, removes all the NH3 but does not remove any H2, N2, or Ar. A purge stream then removes 1.00% of the H2, N2, Ar stream before it is recycled back to the reactor feed. How much NH3 is made per second?