Enthalpy Table Algorithm for design of Heat Exchanger Network as optimal solution in Pinch technology

Abstract

The Heat Process Integration with Pinch technology is divided into two separate parts – targeting with super-targeting and design of a solution. Super-targeting determines the minimal values for heat demand and minimal allowed temperature difference in heat exchangers. The second part is design of Heat Exchanger Network as applicable solution. A number of studies explore methods and techniques for design of Heat Exchanger Networks based on data from Pinch analysis. Some of them use different optimization methods and give complex solutions. This paper presents a modified technique for Heat Exchanger Network design. This technique uses a combination of Problem Table Algorithm (PTA) and Pinch Design Method (PDM). The main idea for this technique is the design of sub-networks of heat exchangers for every enthalpy interval determined by the breaking points on the hot and cold composite curves. All these sub-networks were connected into one Heat Exchanger Network in the same order as enthalpy intervals exist in composite curves' graphs. The created Heat Exchanger Network was simplified with the basic rules for network relaxing in Pinch technology. The results of this technique were Heat Exchanger Networks that have high-energy recovery, and it got the optimal solution, or it was close to it. This technique is easy to apply, but in some cases, the primary Heat Exchanger Network's designs could have a very complex composition.