A simulation algorithm using a rate-based model is proposed for multicomponent packed column distillation. The packed column sections are divided into small segments for the modeling. For each packing segment, (6c + 7) MERQ equations are set up and solved by an equation-tearing method with two calculation loops. Calculation of the whole column consists of an iterative segment-wise algorithm with the correction of the bulk vapor composition by the overall normalized theta method for acceleration. The numerical characteristics of the proposed algorithm and some remarks on its application are illustrated using numerical examples and experimental data obtained from a pilot-scale plant.