(245s) Deriving Value from Integrating Operations Control and Optimization into Engineering Design

The engineering design of an asset is typically executed via the front end engineering design (FEED) or front-end loading (FEL) process. FEED/FEL is a useful engineering design approach for thoroughly planning, estimating, and controlling project schedules and expenses to meet the specified technical requirements, before a project is even considered for construction. Process simulators are extremely effective in determining the viability of a project, executing a new design, or revamping existing operations. Simulators can be used to evaluate alternate scenarios—plant configurations, operating conditions, energy usage, etc. A process engineer can easily run sensitivity analyses, planning studies, operational execution runs, and on-demand decision support with the highest level of confidence and rigor.

However, to realize the true value technology provides, operations and automation systems must be built into, or on top of, detailed engineering design models. This paper will look at plant operations in a holistic view, presenting a single software solution that is able to consider safety, control, and training during the design phase. This forward thinking approach to modeling requires more work up front, but the economic benefits are enormous. Several customer applications will show the value and success of this implementation.