Publication details

Title Systematic optimisation technology for high-level screening and scoping of complex distillation systems
Document Type Conference Paper
Year 1999
Authors Shah, P.B., Kokossis, A.C.
Source Computers and Chemical Engineering, vol.23, no.SUPPL. 1
Abstract Established procedures for complex distillation synthesis employ detailed models that are unable to function for high-level screening. In this article, a new approach is presented in the form of Conceptual Programming for the preliminary screening of complex distillation systems. Conceptual Programming employs a generic super/ask representation that replaces the need of superstructures. Tasks stand for simple distillation columns and hybrids represent complex distillation arrangements. A super/ask accounts for all possible configurations without introducing representation and modelling difficulties. The basic tasks are then modelled using appropriate shortcut or semi-rigorous methods. A mixed integer linear programming (MILP) problem is formulated to obtain the optimum structure and performance targets. The strengths of the approach are highlighted with a light alcohol separation problem. © 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd.
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