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Energy Optimization for a Multistage Crude Oil Distillation Process
Author(s) -
Gu Wugen,
Wang Kan,
Huang Yuqing,
Zhang Bingjian,
Chen Qinglin,
Hui ChiWai
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
chemical engineering and technology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.403
H-Index - 81
eISSN - 1521-4125
pISSN - 0930-7516
DOI - 10.1002/ceat.201400130
Subject(s) - distillation , exergy , process engineering , crude oil , fractionating column , continuous distillation , energy consumption , multiple effect distillation , process (computing) , nonlinear programming , fractional distillation , engineering , chemistry , computer science , nonlinear system , petroleum engineering , chromatography , electrical engineering , physics , quantum mechanics , operating system
Energy optimization is a hot research topic for design and operation of crude oil distillation plants. Optimum energy utilization in a multistage crude oil distillation process is achieved by optimizing the distillation load of each distillation column as well as the yield of the sidestreams of distillation columns. A generalized multistage distillation energy consumption model is proposed, and the optimal distillation load distribution is accomplished by minimizing the total energy consumption. Based on the optimal distillation loads, a nonlinear programming model is then formulated to determine the yields of sidestreams by maximizing the thermal exergy recovery for the crude oil plant. Finally, a four‐stage crude oil distillation plant is investigated to demonstrate the performance of the proposed approach. The results show a decrease in energy consumption and an increase in heat recovery.