Nitin Dutt Chaturvedi

Minimization of storage requirement in a batch process using pinch analysis

Abstract In this paper an algebraic algorithm, based on the concepts of pinch analysis, is proposed to determine the minimum storage requirement for a batch process, while satisfying the minimum resource requirement. The proposed algorithm can be applied to any fixed flow rate and fixed scheduled batch process involving single quality. The proposed algorithm is proved for optimality on basis of rigorous mathematical arguments and also provides physical insight to the problem.

Minimizing energy consumption via multiple installations aggregate production planning

As most of the energy in today’s scenario is still relied on fossil fuels and it causes a negative impact on the environment, hence energy saving should be considered as an important element of production planning. However, energy-efficient production planning should also be cost-efficient. There are technologies that are expected to become affordable in due time frame. Such affordability and expected technology advancements can be included in production planning using multiple installations of production facilities. In this paper, an insight-based graphical method is proposed for multiple installations aggregate production planning that minimizes energy consumption of production facilities. The methodology is capable of accounting capital cost affordability as well. Application of the proposed methodology on illustrative examples demonstrates that significant energy reduction can be achieved by multiple installations production planning.

A Linear Mathematical Model to Determine the Minimum Utility Targets for a Batch Process

This paper presents a mathematical model to determine the minimum utility targets for a batch process. The model was developed based on the source-demand classification of process streams where each stream was simultaneously treated as a source at its shifted supply temperature and as a demand at its shifted target temperature. The proposed model was formulated as a linear programming model (LP) and hence, guarantees the global optimal solution. The mathematical model can be used to calculate the utility targets for any fixed-schedule batch process. As the formulation is linear solutions, it can be guaranteed to be globally optimal. Applications of the proposed mathematical formulation on two illustrative examples demonstrate significant energy saving potential. Potential reductions of 52 % in hot utility and 48 % in cold utility have been estimated for the first example. Similarly, reductions of 71 % in hot utility and 65 % in cold utility can be potentially achieved for the second example.