Making Use of Pinch: A Contractors Experience

Abstract

The recent turnaround in the chemical industry has meant that contractors are once again competing vigorously for new plant orders. This has meant plant designs have required rapid evaluation and where necessary improvement to make the competitive in the current economic climate. One tool, mainly developed during the lean years, that has been used extensively for this task the Pinch Technology. Kellogg has found this technology invaluable and the correct use of it has led to significant improvements in plant designs. As an example of the benefits that can result from using Pinch Technology, the cold end of an ethylene flowsheet is examined. In this study energy savings are identified. However, the most significant savings come about through reducing heat exchanger surface area requirements.