Heat Exchanger Modeling in Process Simulation

Heat exchanger design and operability play a major role in the energy use, yield, and profitability of most chemical process industries (CPI) plants. Process simulation allows the engineer to explore the tradeoffs among achieving the optimal process yield, conserving the most energy, and selecting and operating heat exchangers that minimize capital expenditure and maximize operational reliability. Rigorous heat exchanger models can significantly increase the fidelity and accuracy of the process model which provides benefit for both design and operations: In design, more alternatives can be considered more quickly; in operations, operational risks and maintenance issues can be identified. This article outlines the steps an engineer can take to realize the advantage of these powerful tools.