Simultaneous synthesis of heat exchanger networks with operability considerations: Flexibility and controllability

• It is proposed a computational two-stage framework for synthesis of heat exchangers networks considering the operability.
• The synthesis is based on SYNHEAT model.
• Decentralized control strategy during the operation.
• Uncertain process parameters and the control structure selection with promising controllability are addressed at the operating stage.
• Closed-loop dynamic simulations are presented.

In this work a computational framework is proposed for the synthesis of flexible and controllable heat exchanger networks. The synthesis is projected to operate over a specified range of expected variations in the inlet temperatures and flowrates of the process streams using a decentralized control system, such that the total annual cost involving the utility consumption and the investment are optimized simultaneously. The framework is based on a two-stage strategy. A design stage is performed prior to the operability analysis where the design variables are chosen. In the second stage, the control variables are adjusted during operation on the realizations of the uncertain parameters. The framework yields a HEN design, which is guaranteed to operate with the designed control system under varying conditions ensuring stream temperature targets and optimal energy integration. The application of the proposed framework and its computational efficiency are illustrated with some numerical examples.