BPE-10305 Process Engineering Basics

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Studiepunten 5.00

Language of instruction:

Dutch

Assumed knowledge on:

MAT-15003 Mathematics 3.

Contents:

This course is the first in a series of process engineering courses. It introduces systematic design of production processes based on element, component and energy balances. These balances are used to design various systems, ranging from production of micro-organisms or plants, via equipment for conversion or separation, to a complete factory or agricultural production system. The emphasis in this course is on the analysis of relatively simple design problems; optimization of the design and analysis of more complex problems are taught in later courses. An equilibrium approach will be used to evaluate individual separation processes and an entire process design. The course illustrates how process engineers can contribute to the development of sustainable production processes by analyzing process behaviour.

Learning outcomes:

The student will be able to:
- properly set up element balances, component balances and energy balances for various systems relevant to biotechnology and agrotechnology; this means that the student can formulate mathematical expressions for accumulation, convective transport and (bio)chemical conversion rates required in a balance;
- choose appropriate balances for design problems;
- choose appropriate system boundaries for these balances;
- determine the number of (balance) equations required to solve design questions;
- use phase equilibria in balances for individual separation processes;
- use phase equilibria in balances to evaluate the feasibility of entire process design;
- use given conversion rates or simple kinetic models in balances for conversion processes.

Activities:

- instruction lectures;
- solving of example problems;
- a case-study;
- writing a short design report;
- self study using lecture notes;
- written exam.

Examination:

Individual assessment based on:
- the case-study report (25%);
- written exam (75%).
Both marks must be at least 5.5.

Literature:

Study guide and lecture notes are available on the first day of the course.