An optimization-based approach for the operability analysis of continuously stirred tank reactors

A generalized methodology for examining the inherent operability characteri stics of chemical reactors is presented. This approach is developed by exte nding the operability framework proposed by Vinson and Georgakis (In DYCOPS -5, 5th IFAC Symposium on Dynamics and Control of Process Systems; Pergamon Press, 1998 and J. Process Control 2000, 10, 185-194) and Uzturk and Georg akis (Ind. Eng. Chem. Res. 2001, manuscript submitted) to nonsquare systems . This extension is motivated by the fact that operability problems with mo re control variables than set-point-controlled outputs are more common. In this formulation, both the steady-state and dynamic operability analyses re quire the solution of families of optimization problems. The proposed metho dology is employed to investigate the integration of the design and control of systems of a single CSTR and two CSTRs in series. Results obtained show that (i) reactors operating at higher temperatures are inherently faster t han reactors operating at lower temperatures, (ii) systems with two reactor s in series are faster than a single reactor operating at the same temperat ure, and (iii) two reactors in series designed to have the same heat remova l load respond much faster than all other systems studied.