Course content

- Project basis. Structure of process plants. Equipment for production and utility supply. Basic data needed in design projects.
- Choice of process unit operations. The block flow diagram. Preliminary calculation of mass balances. Identification, analysis and elimination of possible bottlenecks.
- Calculations and solving strategy for mass- and energy balances. Use of flowsheeting software as UNISIM/HYSYS or others. Process flow diagram (PFD). Instrumentation and piping diagram (P&ID).
- Selection and dimensioning of process equipment. Materials of construction. Standards and construction codes.
- Project progression. Strategies for decision-making. Reports and other necessary documents. Plant safety, environmental considerations, loss prevention and life cycle assessment.
- Economic evaluation: Estimation of investment, capital cost and operating costs. Profitability and sensitivity analysis.

Learning outcome

The goal is to introduce how to design a process plant. This includes evaluating different process alternatives, to produce block- and process flow diagrams, to calculate heat and mass balances and finally select and size the main process equipment. On this basis an estimate of investment and operating costs should be done, concluding with a simple investment analysis.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures on the main topics above. Problem solving using examples from processes as production of synthesis gas, ammonia, oil refining or petrochemical production, pulp and paper, fish meal plants. The final marks are given on the basis of a written open book exam (80%) and solved problems (20%). If there is a re-sit examination, the examination form may change from written to oral.

Compulsory assignments

• Exercises

Recommended previous knowledge

Basic knowledge of chemistry and chemical process technology.

Course materials

Coulson & Richardson's Chemical Engineering,Vol. 6 (R.K.Sinnott), 4rd ed. Supplementary handouts.

Credit reductions