A computational tool for guiding retrofit projects of industrial heat recovery systems subject to variation in operating conditions

Heat exchanger networks (HEN) in industrial heat recovery systems often consist of large and complex subsystems. Usually, such HENs are subject to variation operating conditions, as varying inlet conditions or changing capacity flow rates. Additionally, complexities stream splits recycle loops commonly present HENs. Therefore, extensive modelling and/or analytical calculations may be necessary when analyzing different retrofit proposals. Furthermore, opportunities constrained by operability considerations, i.e. actions supposed have little impact possible on the production process maintain quality core product. In this work, a computational analysis tool is proposed for effective screening HEN design proposals at an early stage process. The enables fast evaluation network’s response, temperatures loads, change operational settings manipulated, it applicable wide range structures. practical use demonstrated case study modern Kraft pulp mill.