VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.
Process Simulation and Flowsheeting
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:35:31
Abstract
This course encompasses the theoretical principles of chemical process simulation, as well as its practical application in process analysis and optimization. The techniques for simulating stationary and dynamic processes are presented, and illustrated with case studies. Commercial software packages are presented as a key engineering tool for solving process flowsheeting and simulation problems.
Objective
This course aims to develop the competency of chemical engineers in process flowsheeting and simulation. Specifically, students will develop the following skills: - Deep understanding of chemical engineering fundamentals: the acquisition of new concepts and the application of previous knowledge in the area of chemical process systems and their mechanisms are crucial to intelligently simulate and evaluate processes. - Modeling of general chemical processes and systems: students have to be able to identify the boundaries of the system to be studied and develop the set of relevant mathematical relations, which describe the process behavior. - Mathematical reasoning and computational skills: the familiarization with mathematical algorithms and computational tools is essential to be capable of achieving rapid and reliable solutions to simulation and optimization problems. Hence, students will learn the mathematical principles necessary for process simulation and optimization, as well as the structure and application of process simulation software. Thus, they will be able develop criteria to correctly use commercial software packages and critically evaluate their results.
Content
Overview of process simulation and flowsheeting - Definition and fundamentals - Fields of application - Case studies Process simulation - Modeling strategies of process systems - Mass and energy balances and degrees of freedom of process units and process systems Process flowsheeting - Flowsheet partitioning and tearing - Solution methods for process flowsheeting - Simultaneous methods - Sequential methods Process optimization and analysis - Classification of optimization problems - Linear programming - Non-linear programming - Optimization methods in process flowsheeting Commercial software for simulation: Aspen Plus - Thermodynamic property methods - Reaction and reactors - Separation / columns - Convergence, optimisation & debugging
Resources
Literature
An exemplary literature list is provided below: - Biegler, L.T., Grossmann I.E., Westerberg A.W., 1997, systematic methods of chemical process design. Prentice Hall, Upper Saddle River, US. - Boyadjiev, C., 2010, Theoretical chemical engineering: modeling and simulation. Springer Verlag, Berlin, Germany. - Ingham, J., Dunn, I.J., Heinzle, E., Prenosil, J.E., Snape, J.B., 2007, Chemical engineering dynamics: an introduction to modelling and computer simulation. John Wiley & Sons, United States. - Reklaitis, G.V., 1983, Introduction to material and energy balances. John Wiley & Sons, United States.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- written 180 minutes
- Aids
- All learning material (books, lecture notes, personal notes etc.) and calculation means (calculators, scientific calculators, personal laptops etc.)
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise |
Process Simulation and Flowsheeting
Wednesdays, 2-6 pm (two shifts), are used for exercises in the process simulation software Aspen Plus. The participation in these exercises is considered critical for understanding and practicing the content of the course, and, therefore, for preparing for the written exams. Every student is asked to hand a report for these exercises. The reports are corrected and graded to provide the necessary feedback to the students.
|
|
3 h weekly |
Offered In
-
-
-
-
-
Electives (These courses are particularly recommended, other ETH-courses from the field of Energy Science and Technology at large may be chosen in accordance with your tutor.)
-