A methodology for the synthesis of heat exchanger networks having large numbers of uncertain parameters. (1st December 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Novak Pintarič, Zorka; Kravanja, Zdravko
• Is Part Of: Energy. Volume 92:Part 3(2015)
• Page Start: 373
• Page End: 382
• Publication Date: 2015-12-01
• Subjects: Heat exchanger network -- Design -- Synthesis -- Uncertain parameters -- Flexibility; Power resources -- Periodicals; Power (Mechanics) -- Periodicals; Energy consumption -- Periodicals; 333.7905
• DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2015.02.106
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0360-5442

Abstract

Abstract: This paper presents a robust computational methodology for the synthesis and design of flexible HEN (Heat Exchanger Networks) having large numbers of uncertain parameters. This methodology combines several heuristic methods which progressively lead to a flexible HEN design at a specific level of confidence. During the first step, a HEN topology is generated under nominal conditions followed by determining those points critical for flexibility. A significantly reduced multi-scenario model for flexible HEN design is formulated at the nominal point with the flexibility constraints at the critical points. The optimal design obtained is tested by stochastic Monte Carlo optimization and the flexibility index through solving one-scenario problems within a loop. This presented methodology is novel regarding the enormous reduction of scenarios in HEN design problems, and computational effort. Despite several simplifications, the capability of designing flexible HENs with large numbers of uncertain parameters, which are typical throughout industry, is not compromised. An illustrative case study is presented for flexible HEN synthesis comprising 42 uncertain parameters. Highlights: Methodology for HEN (Heat Exchanger Network) design under uncertainty is presented. The main benefit is solving HENs having large numbers of uncertain parameters. Drastically reduced multi-scenario HEN design problem is formulated through several steps. Flexibility of HEN is guaranteed at a specific level of confidence.