Efficient Approaches for Layout Problems of Large Chemical Plants Based on MILP Model

This paper presents two novel solution approaches for addressing large-scale multi-floor process plant layout problems. Based on the mixed integer linear programming (MILP) model, first approach employs a multi-directional search strategy while second improves efficiency by reducing model size through an iterative framework. Both determine spatial arrangement of equipment considering equipment-floor allocation, non-overlapping constraints, tall penetrating multiple floors, etc. The computational results indicate that proposed achieved potential cost savings four illustrative examples when compared to previous studies. Finally, engineering experience constraints were included represent more complex industrial situation, and their applicability was tested with last example.