Designing process flexibility into plant
15 Jan 2000
David Bogle's group is investigating a more flexible approach to plant design that takes into account the nonlinear behaviour of process reactions. The aim of the work is to identify, by algebraic analysis, the nonlinearities and process structure associated with controllability problems.
'The results should lead to suggestions for more efficient, operating policies,' he tells PE.'We have worked on a fluidised catalytic cracking process and the analysis has led to controllability guidance.'
Other systems studied include fermentation systems with the Silsoe Research Institute and a Roche high pressure vitamin production process, which the company is switching from a batch to a continuous process. He adds: 'There will be novel methodologies for production. Also, we should have recommendations for reactive distillation in two years.'
