Optimization of heat exchange network for 80 000 t/a pentane process

Aspen Plus software was used to simulate the 80 000 t/a raffinate pentane hydrogenation process. The heat exchange network was optimized by heat pump distillation and pinch technology. After optimization, about 8509 kW of energy is recovered. The heat utility is reduced by 54.9%, the cold utility is reduced by 70.6%, and the heat exchange area is reduced by 67.5%, resulting in 35.2% decrease in total investment cost.