Abstract

 

The main objective of the project was to optimize the heat exchange network for the production of acetone based on the winning models from the two previous projects. In doing so, one modification was made to this "base case" model: the inlet temperature of the separation process was increased from 20° C to 35° C. The "base case" model has two streams that require heating, while only one needs cooling. Through analysis of pinch curves, an optimized network was found. The optimized heat exchange network utilizes process streams as well as reboilers to provide the necessary heat exchanges. The wastewater stream, reactor outlet stream, and a small amount of high-pressure steam are used to heat the inlet stream of the process to 234° C. Using the reboilers from the separation towers in the process as well as small amounts of cooling and refrigerated water the reactor outlet is cooled to a temperature of 35° C. Overall, a saving of $1.6 million in yearly operating costs was found in the optimized case.