A Novel Step-by-Step Automated Heat Exchanger Network Retrofit Methodology Considering Different Heat Transfer Equipment

Improving the energy efficiency in heat exchanger networks (HENs) remains a significant industrial problem, specifically energy-intensive operations. A particular method for such an objective is modification of HENs at equipment-use level, where structural changes take place and units within network are moved, replaced and/or removed. This practice usually known as retrofit. The retrofit to maximize recovery using minimum modifications possible cost. Traditional techniques would normally consider one type (based on original network) with no additional design features (i.e., transfer enhancement technologies). expansion alternatives limited by practical use availability theoretical methods. In this context, inclusion high-performance exchangers plate (PHEs) has not been widely explored, even when their operational advantages known. work, new step-by-step automated approach based Pinch Analysis proposed. identify best modification, its location network, cost simultaneously. Moreover, increase savings, work presents strategy that seeks utilize high distinctive feature ability handle different temperatures, given types exchangers, optimization HENs. Three cases studied methodology quantify potential benefits including PHEs HEN retrofits, via analysis Results compared baseline consisting same only Shell-and-Tube-Heat-Exchangers (STHXs) used. addition, results demonstrate flexible enough be applied wide range problems.