Design specification

 

1. Chemical engineering design 1a. Design specification

   
   

   Describe and prepare a more detailed PFD for the process section containing the Transalkylation Reactor Pre-heater (for the production of 120000 tones per year of Cumene), including the major plant items, process streams, services and effluents.

   
   

   Specify any input streams, operating conditions and performance targets that were determined in Phase 1.

   
   

   1b. Design

   
   

   Present a detailed chemical engineering design of the major plant item in your process section, supported by relevant calculations. Design methodology should be clearly explained and where necessary referenced, and a full list of assumptions and specifications included.

   
   

   The final design should be summarised in a datasheet, and a concept drawing of the major plant item showing key dimensions must be included.

   
   

   Prepare key mechanical engineering design data, including materials of construction, wall thicknesses of pressure vessels etc.

   
   

   Control and instrumentation

   
   

   Develop an operating and control strategy for the specified process section including control loops, alarms and trips, recognising it is part of the overall plant, and explain its function.

   
   

   Select and describe appropriate instrumentation.

   
   

   Prepare a piping and instrumentation drawing (P & ID) of your process section, showing all equipment items (numbered), process and utility lines (with nominal sizes), control loops, valves, instruments with alarms and trips as appropriate, pressure relief devices if required, etc. A separate legend of symbols should be included.

   
   

   Hazard study

   
   

   Identify potential hazards and risks associated with your specified process section.

   
   

   In your groups, conduct a hazard and operability (HAZOP) study on a single selected node from one of your process sections. The record should include copies of the pre- and post-HAZOP P & IDs, the relevant process conditions at the node, the minutes of the HAZOP, and a brief discussion of important points raised.

   
   

   4. Economic appraisal

   
   

   An economic appraisal of the complete plant is required.

   
   

   Determine approximate capital and annual operating costs and income streams, giving a clear rationale for any estimates and assumptions made and properly referencing all sources of data.

   
   

   Using these cost data, carry out a discounted cash flow (DCF) analysis to assess plant profitability. Again, justify any assumptions and estimates made.

   
   

   Discuss your results and their implications for the economic viability of your design.