Correlation between Simulations and Experimentation: Simple Approach for Technological Teaching / Correlação Entre Simulação e Experimentação: Abordagem Simples Para o Ensino Tecnológico

Technological education requires high-cost equipment that, in most cases, does not favor a good understanding of the phenomenon occurring during its use. A possible solution is simulation; however, without the corresponding experimentation, it does not contribute for elucidation of real problems when using such equipment. A critical problem for Chemical Engineering and Chemistry is heating of fluids in small dimensions, as occurs in chromatographic columns and distillation tower. Therefore, this work aims the manufacturing of a prototype and corresponding simulation, for such learning process. The obtained product was manufactured with low-cost materials and conventional machining instruments. Simulation used FEMLAB® program and was carried out in 1D. The device is miniaturized and suitable for classroom demonstrations. Moreover, it allows an easy understanding between temperature programming and the corresponding chromatographic peak profile, essential parameter in performance measurement. Thus, simple ways of manufacturing were developed with low costs but accurate equipment.