Implementation and Analysis of a Digital Twin for Propylene Glycol Production: Dynamic Simulation and Process Statistical Control

Abstract

Purpose: Development of a dynamic simulation and analysis system for Propylene Glycol production through the hydrolysis of Propylene Oxide, utilizing market-available tools including a Digital Twin developed in the Unisim/Honeywell Simulation integrated to the PI System AVEVA/OSIsoft. This system aims to provide a realistic industrial environment for subsequent analysis and statical quality control. Theoretical framework: The manufacturing of Propylene Glycol involves complex reactive systems that require precise control and optimization. The integration of advanced simulation tools and statistical control charts, such as Shewhart Control Charts, is pivotal in monitoring and enhancing the quality of the process. This approach addresses the need for efficient process management in the chemical industry. Method/design/approach: The project employs a decoupled simulation structure, where the reactive system and the statistical control system operate simultaneously, exchanging information through the PI System supervisory software (AVEVA/OSIsoft) and a Python programming environment. The implementation of Shewhart Control Charts within the simulation provides real-time process quality monitoring. Results and conclusion: The outcomes demonstrate the feasibility of using a combination of software tools for daily industrial event simulation, as well as for training and acclimatizing engineers and operators. The analysis of statistical control charts allows for the detection of special cause variations, offering valuable insights for efficient process intervention, thereby enhancing the quality of both the process and the final product. Research implications: This study contributes to a deeper understanding of reactive systems in chemical engineering and the effective integration of simulation and statistical process control techniques. Originality/value: The development of a simulation framework that combines Digital Twin technology with statistical process control for the efficient and reliable production of Propylene Glycol.