Code
CHEN3003
Credits
25
Graduate Attributes
Introduction
So far in your course, you would likely have encountered the simulation of process flowsheets—by hand in Mass and Energy Balances and on a PC using a spreadsheet and a simulator in Process Simulation and Data Analytics. Essentially, it's solving this problem: given feed stream specifications, a flowsheet and knowledge of equipment performance, find the flowrates, temperatures, pressures and compositions of the intermediate and product streams. On the other hand, in other units, like Process Heat Transfer and Process Mass Transfer, you would have encountered equipment-level design. For example, given stream X that needs to be heated from T1 to T2 using stream Y, what size (area) of heat exchanger is needed? Or, how many trays are needed to separate a feed containing a mixture of species A and B to some desired level of purity in a distillation column? What hasn't been talked about much so far is how flowsheets are actually devised. Why do you conduct this reaction in this reactor? Why do you use that sequence of distillation columns and not some other sequence, or some other separation process entirely? How do you come up with that particular collection of heat exchangers? This is the area of Process Synthesis—coming up with the flowsheet: the type and sequence of unit operations, and their connectivity. When we proceed further to consider the actual stream conditions and equipment details, it morphs into Process Design. There are a variety of concepts and methods that are used. Perhaps the most famous process synthesis method you might have heard of is Pinch Technology, which deals with synthesis of heat exchanger networks. As you learn about process synthesis, you'll also enhance your skills in process simulation and process design.
Lecture
2 x 2 Hours Weekly
Computer Laboratory
1 x 1 Hours Weekly
Unit Learning Outcomes
- 1 apply algorithmic, heuristic and simulation-based methods for the synthesis and design of process flowsheets, GC1
- 2 simulate, analyse and optimise process flowsheets using suitable software packages, GC1
- 3 critically assess computer-based solutions to process synthesis and design problems, GC1
- 4 apply engineering problem-solving and systems thinking skills to the development of process flowsheets, GC1, GC2
- 5 use teamwork and communication skills to solve engineering problems and report on the solutions, GC3, GC6
Course Learning Outcomes
- 2 Solve complex chemical engineering problems of industrial and societal significance through the application of discipline-specific and integrated bodies of knowledge, design and sustainability principles
- 4 Apply systems thinking for innovative solutions to global chemical engineering challenges, discern knowledge and undertake applied research in a discipline of chemical engineering,
- 5 Select and use current and emerging technologies to develop and communicate effective and innovative engineering solutions to complex problems
Assessment Breakdown
Recent Unit Changes & Response to Student Feedback
Students are encouraged to provide feedback through student surveys (such as Insight and the annual Student Experience Survey) and interactions with teaching staff. Listed below are some recent changes to the unit as a result of student feedback. Minor updates, improvements and corrections to the course materials as needed. Due to a recent change in the course structure, most of the material on plantwide process control has been moved to another unit and is now covered only briefly in this unit in Week 11. Process intensification has been moved from Week 11 to Week 12, along with a new lecture on plant utility systems.