The experiments were focused on a testing of an in-dividual column operation and the whole SMB unit
operation under different conditions, i.e. various flow
rates, pressures and concentrations of components.
Separations of various model mixtures of saccharides
and admixtures such as sucrose–KCl and sucrose–be-taine were carried out with regard to the possible in-dustrial application (higher utilisation of molasses).
The basic separation characteristic of mixtures su-crose–KCl and sucrose–betaine was measured on a
single column. Parameters of the single column used for
this measurement were the same as those of columns
used in the SMB unit. The influence of flow rate on
separation was observed during separation of mixtures.
An example of the course of the separation of mixtures
sucrose–KCl and sucrose–betaine and calculated purity
of extracts are displayed on Figs. 3 and 4. In given range
of experimental data, the efficiency of separation in-creases with the decreasing flow rate.
Separation properties of the SMB unit were tested
first individually during an operation of single columns.
Solutions of sucrose and KCl were used for the tests. All
columns showed similar separation effect, which is evi-