How do you compare different biodiesel PFDs using simulation software?

1 Choose a simulation software

When selecting a simulation software, there are many options available, such as Aspen Plus, ChemCAD, HYSYS, PRO/II, and SuperPro Designer. Consider the availability and cost of the software license and support, the user interface and ease of use of the software, the accuracy and reliability of the thermodynamic models and data, the compatibility and integration with other software and tools, as well as the flexibility and customization of the software. These aspects will help you choose a simulation software that suits your needs and preferences.

2 Define the process parameters

The next step is to define the process parameters that you want to compare among different biodiesel PFDs. These include the feedstock type and composition, the reaction conditions and catalysts, the separation methods and equipment, the product quality and specifications, and the energy and mass balances. You should also define the performance indicators that you want to evaluate, such as the biodiesel yield and purity, the process efficiency and profitability, the environmental impact and sustainability, and the safety and operability. You should use realistic and consistent data and assumptions for each parameter, and consult the literature and industry standards for reference.

3 Create the biodiesel PFDs

The third step is to create the biodiesel PFDs using the simulation software. You should begin by selecting the appropriate units and streams from the software library or creating your own, then connecting them according to the process flow. Additionally, you must specify the input and output variables and constraints for each unit and stream. After running the simulation and checking the results for errors and convergence, you may need to adjust the parameters and settings as needed to improve the simulation. It is recommended to create multiple biodiesel PFDs to compare, varying the process parameters according to your objectives and scenarios. Lastly, make sure to label and document each PFD clearly and properly.

4 Compare the biodiesel PFDs

The fourth step is to compare the biodiesel PFDs using the simulation software. You should leverage the software tools and features that allow you to compare and analyze the results of different PFDs, such as generating reports and tables that summarize the key variables and indicators for each PFD, plotting graphs and charts to visualize trends and relationships, performing sensitivity and parametric analysis to show how the results change with different input values, optimizing to find the optimal or best values for the input variables, and performing economic and environmental analysis to estimate costs, revenues, and impacts of each PFD. It is important to compare the biodiesel PFDs based on the criteria and goals that were defined in the previous step in order to identify strengths and weaknesses of each option.

5 Select the best biodiesel PFD

The final step is to select the best biodiesel PFD based on the comparison and analysis that you performed in the previous step. You should consider the trade-offs and compromises that each option entails, and weigh them against your priorities and constraints. You should also consider the uncertainty and variability that may affect the results, and perform sensitivity and risk analysis to evaluate the robustness and reliability of each option. You should select the biodiesel PFD that meets your requirements and expectations, and that provides the best balance among the different aspects of the process.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?