Q: Will the Olefins Plants Optimization solution only work with Experion?A: No. The Olefins Optimization Solution can be applied to other Honeywell DCS and third-party DCS platforms. However, it is only with the Experion Process Knowledge System™ that you gain the complete benefit of a solution tightly integrated with: business objectives via production management tools, people effectiveness tools such as combined alarm and event analysis, and asset effectiveness tools monitoring and reporting the performance of all aspects of the solution—from basic control loops to complete multi-unit optimization strategies.
Q: What experience does Honeywell have in providing this solution?A: Honeywell has implemented Optimization Solutions on over 500 different process units and provided process automation to more than 100 Olefins plants. Honeywell has implemented Profit Suite Optimization solutions on more than 25 ethylene plants.
Q: What do you mean by Dynamic Optimization solution?A: Honeywell’s Dynamic Optimization solution (Profit Optimizer) is based upon our Distributed Quadratic Programming (DQP) technology. Profit Optimizer uses the dynamics already included in the underlying Profit Controller applications and links them together into a global optimization solution that decouples the interactions between multiple controllers while honoring inter-controller dynamic constraints. Profit Optimizer is configured in the same manner as the underlying controllers, using frequent feedback from the process to update predictions, and hence, does not need the plant to be at steady-state. This is unlike traditional real-time optimization (RTO) strategies that usually involve a completely separate optimization model that downloads targets to the underlying MPC only after steady state operation has been established. Profit Optimizer moves more rapidly towards the new optimization solution even as disturbances such as feed quality changes prevent steady state from being detected.
Q: How does Honeywell’s solution handle process non-linearities?A: As the quality and type of feed to each furnace varies, changes in olefin yields to changes in operating severity, vary considerably. Honeywell’s Dynamic Optimization solution (Profit Optimizer) provides a non-linear optimization solution by using a process model (such as KTI’s SPYRO model) to predict how yields of furnace effluents change with key process variables such as coil outlet temperature, steam/oil ratio, throughput, pressure, etc. A Profit Bridge application uses a socket to perturb the SPYRO process model in order to calculate and update model gains in both Profit Optimizer and Profit Controller.
Q: Does Honeywell provide user support?A: Yes. Honeywell provides complete lifecycle support for Olefin Optimization solutions from design, implementation and commissioning, including operator and engineer training. Once operational, Honeywell can provide long-term solution support including technology refresh and training, application enhancement, remote performance monitoring and reporting, migration to new platforms and a 24-hour Technical Assistance Center for remote support in all regions (Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia-Pacific and Americas).
Q: How long does it take to implement this solution?A: The initial layers of the solution can be implemented in just a few weeks, and you can begin to realize the benefits right away. The complete optimization solution across an ethylene plant with 8-10 furnaces, takes approximately 9-12 months to implement.