Integrated and Networked Systems and Processes—A Perspective for Digital Transformation in Thermal Process Engineering

摘要

Separation technology as a sub-discipline of thermal process engineering is one of the mostcritical steps in the production of chemicals, essential for the quality of intermediate and end products.The discipline comprises the construction of facilities that convert raw materials into value-addedproducts along the value chain. Conversions typically take place in repeated reaction and separationsteps—either in batch or continuous processes. The end products are the result of several productionand separation steps that are not only sequentially linked, but also include the treatment of unusedraw materials, by-products and wastes. Production processes in the process industry are particularlysusceptible to fluctuations in raw materials and other influences affecting product quality. This isa challenge, despite increasing fluctuations, to deliver targeted quality and simultaneously meetthe increasing dynamics of the market, at least for high value fine chemicals. In order to survivesuccessfully in a changed environment, chemical companies must tread new paths. This includesthe potential of digital technologies. The full integration and intelligent networking of systems andprocesses is progressing hesitantly. This contribution aims to encourage a more holistic approachto the digitalization in thermal process engineering by introduction of integrated and networkedsystems and processes.