A Guide to Process Optimization

Kynerd, Shannon LeeAnn (2015) A Guide to Process Optimization. Undergraduate thesis, under the direction of John O'Haver from Chemical Engineering, The University of Mississippi.

Text Thesis Shannon Kynerd.pdf Restricted to Repository staff only until 31 May 2021. Download (7MB)

Abstract

Optimization is improving upon an existing process. Generally, the motivation behind optimization is economical. Companies are always looking for ways to improve their process in order to maximize their profit. There are several key steps and strategies that need to be followed in order to guarantee an optimized process and ultimately the maximum profit. An analysis of the base case is essential to optimization. If the starting point is not fully known, then the amount of progress is not known. The top-down and bottom-up strategies determine the overall procedure for optimization. Top-down begins with the big picture while bottom-up starts with the more specific details. By using both topological optimization and parametric optimization, the layout and the operations of the equipment will be optimized. Optimization takes time and effort. An in-depth analysis of all changes needs to be performed in order to determine if it is truly beneficial to the base case. In conclusion, as long as the base case has improved, then optimization has occurred.

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