In a typical processing plant, such as a petrochemical plant or oil refinery, there are hundreds and even thousands of control loops. Each control loop is responsible for controlling one part of the process, such as maintaining a temperature, level or flow. If the control loop is not properly designed and tuned, the process runs below its optimum. The process will be more expensive to operate, and equipment will wear out prematurely. For each control loop to run optimally, identification of sensor, valve, and tuning problems is important. It has been well documented that over 35% of control loops typically have problems.
Process plant optimization is the set of adjustments of the various processes in order to optimize some specified set of parameters without violating some constraints. The most common goals are minimizing cost and maximizing throughput and efficiency. When optimizing a process, the goal is to maximize one or more of the process specifications, while keeping all others within their constraints. This can be done by using a process mining tool, discovering the critical activities and bottlenecks, and acting only on them.
Process plant optimization involves evaluating every process and interaction in order to determine the best possible outcome. It includes the optimization of process equipment, operating procedure and control systems. This can result in improved flexibility, modernization and the best use of equipment, improved automation, decreased production time, and increased innovation.
The aim of this course is to provide participants with a complete and up-to-date overview of process plant optimization. Upon the successful completion of this course, participant will gain a satisfactory understanding of the concepts of optimization fundamentals, process plant design optimization, process plant planning optimization, process plant operations optimization, process controls, optimizing reliability, optimizing offsite operations, continuous improvement and integrated supply chain optimization. Actual case studies from around the world will be demonstrated to highlight the topics discussed.