Modeling and optimization of a distillation column using advanced optimization software (ROMeo)

• Type: Article in International Conference Proceedings Book
• Date: 2014

Authors

Quito, C (Author) Other; Bessa, I (Author) FEUP; Pontes, K (Author) Other

Conference proceedings International

Title: ENGOPT 2014 - Engineering Optimization IV

Pages: 799-802

Proceedings of ENGOPT 2014 – 4th International Conference on Engineering Optimization, CRC Press/Balkema, 2015 Taylor & Francis Group, London, UK,

Lisbon, Portugal, 8-11 September 2014

Indexing

Scopus - 0 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00R-CGC

Abstract (EN): The present work aims to optimize the operation of a distillation column responsible for solvent recovery in a process that undergoes frequent operational changes. Solution polymerization processes use significant amounts of solvent, which is usually recycled back to the reactor due to economic and environmental issues. The separation process downstream the reactor, therefore, has a huge impact on the process cost, affording opportunities for process optimization. Furthermore, the flexibility of polymerization processes to produce several polymer grades requires frequent adaptations on the operational conditions of the separation area. Nowadays growing market competition followed by rigorous needs in the products specification has made the optimization techniques valuable strategies in the industrial field. It affords greater process profitability when applied to processes with fast dynamic systems and with many restrictions. The optimization was carried out in ROMeo, commercial software, which is a rigorous equation based steady-state optimizer. The steady-state process model was developed using PRO/IIs simulation mode based on the real process and equipment data. Results indicate that it is possible to actually reduce solvent consumption taking into account each constraint of the process. © 2015 Taylor & Francis Group, London.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific