Development of operator training simulator for isopropyl alcohol producing plant

Abstract

In this study, an operator training simulator was developed for an isopropyl-alcohol producing plant. The main product of this plant is isopropyl alcohol — water azeotrope, by-product is diisopropyl ether which are formed by direct hydrolyzation of propylene via strong acid cation exchange resins. Firstly, the steady-state simulator of the plant was developed. The next step was to develop the dynamic simulator and the control system of the process. Reference data – main parameters of the equipments and streams – for this simulator was provided by the stationary simulator. The simulator contains the preheater and the reaction subsystems. Finally, an operator screen was developed and connected to the dynamic simulator via UniSim Excel Interface Tool.This operator training simulator can be used for analysis and optimization of the process. The OTS, which was tested by students, can be applied by chemical engineering students in different tasks – analysis, optimization and scenario – hence it can be used in education. By the use of this OTS the students may acquire adequate knowledge to control, optimize a process and handle malfunctions. This knowledge will be useful for them to operate the control system of a chemical plant.Honeywell’s UniSim® Design was used in the present simulation and further studies.