Dynamic Design Optimization for Flexible Process Equipment

Recent developments
have led to increasing demand for flexible
process equipment in several fields of chemical engineering. The design
of such equipment is still a very challenging task because feasibility
must be assured not only at the steady state but also during dynamic
transitions. We present a model-based approach that exploits dynamic
optimization for the design of flexible process equipment. The approach
is based on a general formulation of the operating window, allowing
the operating window to become part of the optimization problem. Furthermore,
the approach includes dynamics such that feasible steady-state and
dynamic operation is assured. Due to its general formulation, the
design approach is applicable for different types of process equipment.
We perform the approach on two case studies with backgrounds in demand-side
management. In these case studies, we successfully demonstrate the
versatility and applicability of the developed approach. Results indicate
the impact of different parameters on the equipment flexibility.