Energy Efficiency and Process Integration

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), and work-heat integration systems (heat engines, heat pumps, and refrigeration). 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. In addition, advanced tools are introduced such as optimization (stochastic, mathematical programming, superstructure, and pareto), commercial tools such as Aspen Energy Analyzer, and exergy theory.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.

Knowledge: The course provides the student with knowledge about: - Thermodynamic methods (Pinch Analysis) for analysis, design and optimization of energy efficient industrial processes. - Qualitative and quantitative methods for so-called Correct Integration related to production and consumption of heat and power, integration of distillation columns, and correct use of heat pumps. - Graphical diagrams and representations for analysis and design of energy efficient processes, such as Composite and Grand Composite Curves, Heat Cascade and Stream Grid (alternative to flowsheets). The course gives the student insight about: - Operation of some central process components such as chemical reactors, distillation columns, heat exchangers, turbines and heat pumps. - Reasons for need for energy (power, heating and cooling) in industrial processes. Skills: The course should enable the student to: - Calculate targets ("best performance") for external heating/cooling with maximum heat integration. - Design of heat exchanger networks with minimum external heating/cooling with the fewest number of units and lowest possible total area in the heat exchangers. - Suggest energy optimal integration solutions for distillation columns, evaporators, heat and power systems (steam turbines with extraction), heat pumps and refrigeration. General competence: The course should give the student insight on: - Systems thinking, the interaction between process equipment units and efficiencies. - Reasons for energy consumption (amounts and motives) in industrial processes. - Operational aspects in process plants. - Structure of typical (generic) industrial processing plants. - Brief introduction to the use of mathematical optimization within process design.

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 the teaching is given in English the Examination papers will be given in English only. Students are free to choose Norwegian or English for written assessments.