Design-Operation Interface in Chemical Engineering: Some Implications for Education

Some important aspects of the design–operational interface in chemical engineering practice are identified and expressed as a series of principles. Key aspects of the interface include an understanding by designers of operating personnel and the operational environment of plants, as well as the need for designers to communicate clearly to operators their design intent. Awareness of the importance of the design–operation interface in chemical engineering starts at University with undergraduate education, especially in design. Key areas in design education are safety assessments, development of piping and instrumentation diagrams, plant layout development, and estimation of operating costs. More effort by Universities, industries and professional societies must be made to ensure the student has adequate awareness of the plant operating environment and the role of operations and maintenance personnel. This awareness is promoted both by increased work experience and visits to industry as well as using emerging communications technology to bring the plant environment into the student's class and private learning experience.