How is the maximum amount of utility in process design determined?
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How is the maximum amount of utility in process design determined? All the consumption amounts for circulating water, chilled water, electricity, steam, instrument air, nitrogen, and industrial air have been calculated so far, but how can the maximum consumption amount be determined?
In line with the production plan, the total amount of utility required by the equipment operating simultaneously represents the maximum consumption
Based on the production conditions, each section shall specify the maximum usage level under those conditions along with the reasons for such usage
The figure obtained through general statistics represents the total consumption amount; taking into account start-up, shutdown, and other usage factors, a safety factor of around 30% is sufficient.
Calculate the amount at peak load and when multiple processes are running simultaneously
For continuous operations, it is calculated as the operating load multiplied by a coefficient; for batch operations, the maximum values are added up over different time periods
Additionally, factors such as whether the facility will undergo expansion or upgrades in the future must also be taken into consideration; for utility systems, it is recommended to leave a 50% margin. Of course, you also need to take into account the total investment in the installation, with utility costs kept at a relatively lower level.