A Linear Mathematical Formulation to Minimize Intermediate Fluid Flow in Batch Heat Exchanger Networks

Abstract

In heat integration of batch process, heat storage plays an important role. In batch processes heat can be transported from a prior time zone to later time zone via heat storage. Transfer of heat in batch process from one time zone to another requires intermediate fluid. The utilization of intermediate fluid involves operating (pumping) and capital cost (heat exchanger area, piping, capital investment and space). Minimizing intermediate fluid flow reduces power required for pumping along with storage requirement. Considering these factors, reducing intermediate fluid requirement becomes important for batch processes. On the other hand minimizing utility targets remains an essential concern. In this paper a linear mathematical model is proposed to minimize intermediate fluid requirement while satisfying minimum utility requirement. Developed model is linear hence solution can be guaranteed to be globally optimal. An example is solved via developed mathematical formulation in order to illustrate the proposed method. Proposed formulation can also be used to trade-off between intermediate fluid flow requirement and utility requirements.