Course content

The course conveys a strategy for design of integrated production systems with focus on efficient use of energy. In addition, systematic methods will be established for analysis and design of thermally driven separation systems (distillation and evaporation), heat exchanger networks and utility systems (consumption and production of thermal and mechanical energy. Based on new insight about the energy flow in such systems, simple rules for correct integration are established. The course presents Pinch Analysis for analysis and design of industrial process plants based on thermodynamic insight. A large industrial case study is used to demonstrate the use of these systematic methods in real life situations. The course handles both grassroot (new) design and modifications (retrofit) to existing plants. The course will have a focus on environmental consequences for power stations and industrial production systems. The course may be given in English if needed.

Learning outcome

To convey systems thinking and powerful systematic methods for analysis, design and operation of process plants and utility systems with emphasis on efficient use of energy relative to economical criteria and environmental aspects. The course should make the students able to calculate minimum energy requirements in process plants, and to design heat exchanger networks that achieves minimum external heating and cooling.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures and assignments with supervision. Admission to examination requires that 2/3 of the assignments are accepted. The lectures and exercises are in English when students who do not speak Norwegian take the course. If there is a re-sit examination, the examination form may be changed from written to oral.

Compulsory assignments

• Exercises

Recommended previous knowledge

Rather basic knowledge about heat exchangers, distillation columns, evaporators, turbines and thermodynamics is an advantage, but not a requirement.

Course materials

2 alternative text books: (1) R. Smith: Chemical Process Design and Integration, John Wiley & Sons, 2005 (comprehensive) or (2) I.C. Kemp: Pinch Analysis and Process Integration, Elsevier (B/H), 2007 (adequate but more limited). 1 note: T. Gundersen: Basic Concepts for Heat Recovery in Retrofit Design of Continuous Processes, Ch. 6 in A Process Integration Primer, IEA 2000.

Credit reductions