Optimization of the sulfolane extraction plant based on modeling and simulation

An optimization system, based on modeling and simulation, was developed for a sulfolane extraction plant. The primary objective of the operation of this plant is to increase benzene composition, which is mostly affected by the recycle streams in the plant. In this work the optimal recycle streams were identified and resulting product compositions were evaluated In the optimization, suitable parametric models for each process unit were obtained first from the steady-state rigorous modeling and simulation of the sulfolane extraction plant The parametric models were then employed to develop the optimization system based on the SQP scheme. Results of simulations show promise for further economic improvements over present operation states.