Hybrid modelling and simulation of pipeless batch plants

In a pipeless batch plant, mobile reactors are transported between process stations. Typical process steps performed at these stations are filling, measuring, feeding and cooling/heating. In this paper, three hybrid models of a pipeless batch plant for the production of copolymers have been developed. The dynamics of the chemical reactions are modelled in detail by means of mass balances. The time points at which the process steps are applied to the reactor contents are determined by the state of the reaction. The simulation results can be used to determine the quality of the produced products, the throughput and lead time of the plant, and the degree of occupation of the process stations and reactors.