Modeling, simulation and optimization of a heat exchanger network for Mmximum energy eficiency and minimum cost

Abstract

Heat Exchangers are one of the major items of equipment applied in combination with almost all the unit operations in the process industry. Therefore, optimizing heat exchangers would be an ideal solution for the problem of increasing energy costs in the industry. Pinch analysis can be used to identify minimum energy cost and energy efficient heat exchanger networks through the recognition of pinch point as referred to the temperature profile of the process at which the minimum level of allowable temperature difference is achieved. The pinch analysis first predicts the minimum requirement of external energy, heat exchanger network area and the number of units for the typical process at the pinch point. Then, the heat exchanger network design that satisfies the minimum energy target is synthesized. Finally, it is optimized by comparing the energy cost and the capital cost. Pinch analysis to reduce external utility loads can be performed in special computer software packages for even rigorous heat exchanger networks. The prime objective of this research is to utilize a computer aided modelling and simulation approach to provide a generalized methodology for the optimization of a heat exchanger network through pinch analysis for a typical distillation column.