Pinch Point Analysis

The essential merit of pinch-point analysis is that makes possible the identification of key targets for energy saving with minimum information about the performance of heat-exchange equipment The key results of are  

Identification of opportunities for combined heat and power production. 

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Figure 2.14 illustrates the overall approach by pinch-point analysis. The first step is extraction of stream data from the process synthesis. This step involves the simulation of the material-balance envelope by using appropriate models for the accurate computation of enthalpy. On this basis composite curves are obtained by plotting the temperature T against the cumulative enthalpy H of streams selected for analysis, hot and cold, respectively. Two aspects should be taken into account ... 

Figu re 2.14 Overal approach by pinch-point analysis. 

Energy-use reduction. Wide-range implementation of Pinch Point Analysis and Total Site integration are the most important factors in energy saving. 

After solving the material balance problem, the next step is the energy integration. Here we can apply a powerful systematic methodology. Pinch Point Analysis, which will be the object of Chapters 10 and 11. Integration of controllability and operability will form the object of Chapters 12 and 13. Integrating other elements of design, may... 

Pinch Point Analysis (PPA) is an extension of the second principle of Thermodynamics to the energy management of the whole plant. PPA deals with the optimal structure of the heat exchange between the process streams, as well as the optimal use of utilities. Among benefits we mention ... 

Pinch Point Analysis starts with the input of data. The first step is the extraction of stream data from a flowsheet simulation, which describes typically the material balance envelope (Reactors and Separators). Proper selection and treatment of streams by segmentation is a key factor for efficient heat integration. The next step is the selection of utilities. Additional information regards the partial heat transfer coefficients of the different streams and segments of streams, and of utilities, as well as the cost of utilities and the cost laws for heat exchangers. 

Figure 10.5 Overall approach in designing a Heat Exchanger Network by Pinch Point Analysis...

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