How do you integrate heat and mass balance data with other engineering disciplines in FEED?

2 Equipment sizing and selection

The second step to integrate heat and mass balance data with other engineering disciplines is to size and select the equipment that will perform the process operations, such as reactors, heat exchangers, pumps, compressors, and separators. Equipment sizing and selection depend on the heat and mass balance data, as well as the process specifications, safety factors, and operational constraints. Equipment sizing and selection also affect the plant layout, structural design, and utility consumption, which require coordination with the mechanical, civil, and electrical engineers.

3 Hydraulic calculations

The third step to integrate heat and mass balance data with other engineering disciplines is to perform hydraulic calculations that determine the pressure drop, flow rate, and velocity of the fluids in the pipes, fittings, and equipment. Hydraulic calculations are important for designing the piping system, selecting the appropriate pipe diameter, material, and insulation, and ensuring adequate pumping power and pressure control. Hydraulic calculations also involve the interaction with the instrumentation and control engineers, who design the flow meters, pressure gauges, and control valves.

4 Heat integration

The fourth step to integrate heat and mass balance data with other engineering disciplines is to apply heat integration techniques that optimize the use of energy in the process plant. Heat integration involves identifying the hot and cold streams in the process, and matching them in a heat exchanger network that minimizes the external heating and cooling requirements. Heat integration can reduce the operating costs, greenhouse gas emissions, and utility consumption of the plant, but it also requires coordination with the heat exchanger design, piping layout, and electrical load.

5 Mass integration

The fifth step to integrate heat and mass balance data with other engineering disciplines is to apply mass integration techniques that optimize the use of materials and minimize the waste generation in the process plant. Mass integration involves identifying the sources and sinks of mass in the process, and finding ways to recycle, reuse, or recover the materials that are otherwise lost or discarded. Mass integration can improve the resource efficiency, environmental performance, and profitability of the plant, but it also requires coordination with the separation design, waste treatment, and material handling.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?