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McCabe-Thiele Method

Binary Distillation · Underwood · O'Connell

McCabe-Thiele Binary Distillation Calculator
Determines theoretical and actual stages for binary distillation using Underwood minimum reflux, Fenske minimum stages, Gilliland correlation, and O'Connell tray efficiency. Calculations per Industry and Perry's Chemical Engineers' Handbook.

Feed Conditions

mole frac
lbmol/hr
q = liquid fraction in feed

Product Specifications

mole frac
mole frac
-
Note: α = K_light / K_heavy (typically 1.2-4.0)

Operating Parameters

-
psia
cP
VLE Equation:
y = αx / [1 + (α-1)x]

Calculation Methods

Binary distillation design per GPSA Section 19 and Perry's 9th Edition Section 13.

Included Correlations:

  • Fenske: Nmin at total reflux
  • Underwood: Rmin minimum reflux
  • McCabe-Thiele: Stage step-off method
  • Gilliland: N vs R cross-check
  • O'Connell: Tray efficiency (α×μ)

Design Guidelines:

  • Optimal R = 1.2–1.5 × Rmin
  • Add 10–20% margin on actual trays
  • Valid for constant molar overflow