Optimization of a Condensate Fractionation Unit: Parametric Design of Taguchi Method

A Condensate Fractionation Unit (CFU) converts condensate feedstock into a range of refined products such as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), petrochemical naphtha, kerosene and diesel. Due to the emergence of new technologies, more stringent product quality requirements, and new environmental regulations and standards, refineries are increasingly compelled to operate within tighter constraints in a more dynamic way. These scenarios force refinery to optimize its production and unit operations reliability whilst reducing operational losses and conserving energy. This book discusses the utilization of Taguchi method in CFU optimization. Taguchi’s Parametric Design is employed to systematically determine the significant decision variables and their respective optimal levels contributing towards the most profitable operation of CFU. The purpose of this work is to study how fluctuations in the prices of condensate and products affect the choices of decision variables for an effective implementation of an optimization strategy.