INTEGRATED MODELING OF MATERIAL FLOWS AND ENERGY-SYSTEMS (MIMES)

A comprehensive nonlinear programming model, MIMES, for the optimizati on of linked material and energy flow systems is presented. The model is generic, intended for systems that can be described by materials an d energy balances but where the details of phase transitions and chemi cal reactions can be omitted. It fills a niche between energy systems engineering and process flowsheeting models. Issues suitable for analy sis by the model range from energy conservation in industrial plants, specific industries or industrial subsectors to municipal waste manage ment and fuels a id materials life cycle analysis. MIMES is implemente d on PC (386/486). The mod is demonstrated tor a paper production line in a paper mill. This example shows how the model can be used for joi nt analysis of energy and water conservation, substitution of energy c arriers, and utilization of waste heat outside the system.