Discussion on design experience in process engineering
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A quote from a senior designer shared in a discussion on experience in process engineering design: Chemical processes vary greatly, but the fundamentals such as unit operations remain the same. There seems to be a trend these days of relying on simulation software like Aspen and ProⅡ. I have used these software tools, but ultimately it is still necessary to carry out calculations manually; one should not rely too much on the results produced by such software. Process engineering is different from equipment engineering – the software packages used in equipment engineering are **officially released, and if there are errors in the calculation results (given that the input data is correct), the software manufacturers are held responsible. But no matter how expensive the process engineering software may be, no manufacturer will say, ‘If you make calculation errors using my software, I will take responsibility.’ ”This illustrates the complexity, diversity, and high degree of non-linearity in process engineering (such as reactor design), and it also demonstrates that a competent process engineer must gain experience through engineering design work as well as on-site installation, commissioning, and startup activities. While working at design institutes and engineering companies, I have observed today’s university graduates closely and also trained several apprentices; I found that the key reason why so few of today’s university graduates excel in technical design is \"laziness\"! They’re reluctant to draw piping diagrams, finding it a hassle. It takes 2 or 3 days to calculate a heat exchanger, and even then the results are ridiculous. When it comes to calculating the diameter of an absorption tower (for determining the gas velocity), they claim they can’t find the relevant manuals or formulas. I really want to grab that idiot by the ears and shout, “The manuals are on the shelf, and the formulas are in those manuals!” Do I still need to tell you which page it is? ? ? ”If it comes to that, it’s better for me to do it myself – that’s all there is to it. Of course, I’m not saying there aren’t any good options; people are generally lazy. What I want to say here is that to become a competent (not excellent) professional in process design, one must be diligent! Calculate by yourself, gain practical experience on site, start with basic design work – take piping diagrams for example; how can one become familiar with the manufacturing process without piping diagrams? Piping work accounts for 70% of the design workload in the process engineering field! ! Despite the difficulties, it still has to be done; if you can’t overcome this basic hurdle, how can people trust your skills in product design? Don’t be lazy! To become a project leader or even a project manager, it is almost impossible to do so without 7 or 8 years of hard work. Don’t expect to achieve success overnight; engineering professionals are different from those in other fields, as experience is closely related to one’s level of diligence. I hope that those with experience, who are qualified and excellent designers here will share their thoughts. If 5 out of 10 newcomers here would listen to the advice of the more experienced ones, then the veterans wouldn’t have to work so hard. Incidentally, a word to young process engineers: it is almost impossible for them to work with ease while still earning a high income; without several years of hard work, there is no way to earn a high salary. \5 I. F'
Indeed, I completely agree! ! ! ! Also, be sure to think more and learn more when facing problems in daily life! ! In fact, those working in process development often encounter problems from various fields. If these issues are not addressed in depth, it’s easy to end up in a situation where process engineers know a little about everything but are not proficient in any particular area. The key to distinguishing between skilled and less skilled process engineers lies in their expertise and depth of knowledge; otherwise, it is impossible to establish authority! ! !
1. Although design is a theoretical task, it is closely linked to practice; therefore, it is essential to start from practical considerations, refer to relevant standards, think critically, and avoid making decisions based on guesswork or solely on process simulation software. 2. From the perspective of production operations, in fact, those who are involved in design work should visit the production site more often; it’s important to understand how pipes should be arranged and where valves and instruments should be installed. They shouldn’t be placed at great heights, as this makes operation and maintenance difficult. 3. One must continuously learn theoretical knowledge to enhance one’s own capabilities ； 4. In design, one should be good at drawing conclusions, and able to extract lessons from both successes and failures that can guide one’s work ； 5. Ask others for advice more often and listen to their ideas; you don’t have to follow them all, but it can at least provide you with new insights ； 6. Practice more. Elevate oneself through repeated design and participation. Go to the production sites more often and ask the operators about their working procedures; the requirements of the on-site operators are very important for the design details. Familiarize yourself with three to four detailed process flows, and the rest will be similar. 7. Careful, dedicated, and not ashamed to ask for help.
Top poster! Thank you so much! It made me understand my place!
I am a recent graduate who has secured a design position at an engineering company, and I have always hoped to receive guidance from experienced colleagues, both new and old!