Estimation of maximum steam pressure by a mathematical linear technique

This paper presents a method for estimating the maximum pressure of steam which can be generated in recovering heat from individual processes, by partial linearization of the grand-composite curve. The technique is based on the pinch-analysis method by using a grand-composite curve (GCC), which can be approximated by using a mathematical function. The mathematical linear technique is composed of two steps:• First step – Analyzing the possibility of additionally-available heat flow rate integration from different processes into one basic process• Second step – Estimating the maximum possible steam-pressure to be generated.This linear technique was applied in an existing silver and oxide formalin process, resulting in generation of more steam with higher steam-pressure, thus producing an additional profit of 183900 EUR/a.

► The mathematical technique can determine the real mass flow rate for steam production. ► The mathematical technique can be easily and quickly selected for the best pressure steam generation. ► This method is applicable for new or retrofitted designs. ► With this method was modified the existing process.