F2293 Process Synthesis

Prerequisites

3-year BSc Engineering or equivalent

Course Objectives

Get a survey of systematic methods of optimization of process plants.  Be able to use these methods to calculate minimum energy, equipment area, equipment volume and total cost.

Learning Methods

Lectures and exercises (some of which apply computer programs)

Course Description

Systematic methods for the generation of process flowsheets (selection of unit operations, their interconnection, operating parameters and design parameters) for new processes and the modification of existing plants.  For this purpose, the process simulation tool HYSYS is used.  Subtopics include the structure of separator systems, heat recovery and the design of heat exchanger networks, optimal utility systems, heat pumps, power production, economic trade-offs (such as investment cost versus operating cost), operability, controllability and flexibility.  Emphasis is given to a thermodynamic analysis method called Pinch Technology, but use of heuristic rules in design is also described.

Assessment Methods

60% of mandatory exercises must be approved; individual, written final examination counts 100%. No study aids permitted.