Term (also countercurrent distillation) for a thermal separation process that represents the extension of distillation or a series connection of many distillation steps. This allows a plant to be operated continuously. Compared to distillation, the separation effect is many times higher, as the vapour in countercurrent is in contact with the liquid several times in succession. This is done, for example, in the production of brandies such as the French Armagnac. The rectification column is a process engineering apparatus for the thermal separation of mixtures. This is done, for example, in the production of RCGM (rectified grape must concentrate). See also under Spinning Cone Column.
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