Georgios Theocharous
MSc Study
Chemical & Petroleum Engineering
University
Technical University of Denmark (DTU)
Company
Kalundborg Refinery
Project title
Energy optimization - pinch study of the crude distillation preheat train
Project Describtion
With the world facing a major climate problem and energy crisis the industry is constantly seeking for energy optimization. Kalundborg refinery has an ambition to contribute to the green transition.
The efficiency in the preheating of the crude oil is essential to reduce energy. A project from 2018-2022 resulted in an energy saving of more than 3,5 MW in one of the crude distillation furnaces, that corresponds to a CO2 emission saving at 7100 tons per year. The present project is a continuation of the previous project, directed onto further optimization of the energy usage at the refinery.
Update process data for the pinch analysis using data from Kalundborg Refinery process and laboratory databases and update the preheat train simulation in AVEVA Pro II simulation tool.
Update the pinch model in UNISIM Exchangernet and/or AVEVA HEXTRAN and analysis of the preheat train for pinch violations. Analysis of the already proposed suggestions and suggest changes.
What was your motivation for becoming a Helix Lab Fellow?
I wanted to combine my thesis project with the industry, so I can obtain experience in solving real-life problems.
What is the most exciting part of being a Helix Lab Fellow?
The most exciting part of being a fellow at Helix Lab is the opportunity to collaborate with brilliant minds from diverse backgrounds and make new friends.
What perspectives do you see for your future after being a Helix Lab Fellow?
After my fellowship at Helix Lab, I envision myself well-prepared to transition into the industry with a strong foundation of practical skills and a deep understanding of interdisciplinary collaboration.