OPTIMIZATION OF CHEMICAL
PROCESSES (CHE1011)
Dr. Dharmendra Kumar Bal
Assistant Professor (Sr.)
School of Chemical Engineering
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Problem Statement
Given a design vector , X= [x1, x2, ……xn]T
An objective function, f(X)
A set of inequality constraints, g( X ) 0
A set of equality constraints, h( X ) 0
The general problem statement, minx f(X)
subject to g( X ) 0
h( X ) 0
LB X UB
The optimization problem is to “ find values of decision variables
that minimize or maximize the objective function while satisfying the
constraints”.
2
Equivalent problem statement
The general problem statement,
Maxx -f(X)
subject to
g( X ) 0
h( X ) 0
LB X UB
Introduction 3
Classification of Optimization Methods
Classification based on presence/absence of constraints:
Constrained optimization problems: which are subjected to one or more
constraints
Unconstrained optimization problems: in which no constraint exists.
Classification based on nature of equations involved:
Linear programming (LP), Non-linear programming (NLP), Quadratic
programming (QP).
Classification based on nature of decision variables:
Continuous optimization, integer programming, Mixed integer linear
programming, MINLP 4
Classification of Optimization Methods
Classification based on search space:
Local search method, global search method
Classification based on number of objective functions:
Single objective optimization, multi objective optimization.
Another classification:
Deterministic optimization, stochastic optimization.
Introduction 5
Applications of optimization in engineering
Theory of optimization finds application in all branches of engineering.
The areas of applications may be divided as follow:
1. Design of system component or entire system
2. Planning and analysis of existing operations
3. Engineering analysis and data reduction
4. Control of dynamic systems: optimal control or dynamic
optimization
Introduction 6
Optimal design of a can
Design one cane which will hold at least 500 ml of liquid.
Height =[ 7 12 ] cm, Radius = [ 3 7] cm.
What dimension for the cylindrical cane will use the least of
material?
We can minimize the material by minimizing the area, A
Objective function: A 2r 2 2rh
Constraints: V r 2 h 500ml
Bounds:
3 r 7
7 h 12
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Distillation column
1. Determination of optimal feed location and
2. Determination of optimal reflux ratio are the important optimization parameters.
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The optimal insulation thickness
Economic criterion:
The addition of insulation should save money
through reduced heat losses.
But the insulation material can be expensive.
The optimal amount of insulation needed can be
determined by an optimization technique.
Plot: cost vs insulation thickness
Cost of lost energy, cost of insulation, total cost
curve