Minimum Reflux Ratio
The reflux ratio R, relates the compositions of two streams passing each other. The following equation can be used to calculate the reflux ratio:
Ln is the reflux flow rate
D is the distillate flow rate
The minimum reflux ratio Rm is the reflux ratio that will require an infinite number of trays for a desired separation.
xD= mole fraction of desired component in distillate
y'=mole fraction in vapor where the operating lines touch the equilibrium line
x'= mole fraction in liquid where both operating lines touch the equilibrium line