An Optimization Model for the Increment in the Yield of Distillation Columns Based on Reverse Engineering in the Petroleum Industry

• Published in: Petroleum science and technology 2010-05, Vol.28 (10), p.1036-1045
• Main Authors: Moghadassi, A. R., Hosseini, S. M., Yasini, B., Joudaki, E., Fazlali, A. R.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Applied sciences; atmospheric column; Crude oil, natural gas and petroleum products; Energy; energy consumption; Exact sciences and technology; Fuels; Petroleum products, gas and fuels. Motor fuels, lubricants and asphalts; process optimization; Processing of crude oil and oils from shales and tar sands. Processes. Equipment. Refinery and treatment units; product quality; simulation; unit distillation
• ISSN: 1091-6466; 1532-2459
• DOI: 10.1080/10916460902967726

Optimization in the chemical and petroleum industry is gaining increased interest because of its importance in maintaining product quality and enhancing production levels while improving profit margins. In this article, simulation of the atmospheric distillation unit of an existing petroleum refinery is carried out. Optimization was performed on the prepared simulation through the use of a sequential quadratic programming approach (SQP). The objective function consisted of energy minimization and production level maximization. The results obtained from optimization were implemented on the real process and it was demonstrated that the suggested changes increased overhead production levels and maintained product quality. Furthermore, a net economical balance between the increment of overhead products and the energy consumption showed an energy savings in the refinery.