Approach to Creating Process Models
I have extensive experience in creating, optimizing, and using process models in Excel and Aspen. This often starts with focused communicating with the process experts to learn what they know and assume. I normally use a non-linear systems optimization approach instead of the traditional linear-sequential optimization of unit operations.
This abstract approach has repeatedly resulted in far superior process improvements to the “linear” approach. Several examples comparing my process results to my peers results are shown in the posts under Extraordinary Results category on the right.
Process Models in Aspen and Excel are often very complex. Many engineers have not learned how to see the forest through the Aspen trees. Very few engineers know how to step back, ignore most numbers, and visualize the process separation thermodynamic or reaction constraints and how they affect cost. I also visualize the process equipment in steel at the correct scale to catch and correct errors in common sense.
Examples of Past Modeling and Related Services Included:
-Modeled an entire biodiesel plant operation in Excel
-Set up solvent selection criteria and modeled combined extraction and distillation processes in Aspen
-Scaled up models for Biobutanol process in Aspen
-Created Aspen models for fluoroinert distillations
-Interpreted Aspen models for distillations and extractions of several fluorochemicals to optimize equipment designs
-Cut capital cost for distillation design by 26% by optimizing entire system in Aspen instead of individual unit operations
-Created Cash Flow analysis comparison for two multi-step process technologies to make a product line in Excel
-Created and used numerous excel models for heat transfer, pipeline pressure drops, and several calculations
Bloomdahl Engineering 