Dynamic optimization of integrated electricity and steam network

Cost reduction and energy efficiency have been priorities for most industrial plants in recent years. A cost-effective way of achieving these efficiency improvements is the application of advanced process control (APC) technology. Although application of this technology has traditionally been focused on production units, the industry is now exploiting this technology on utilities, boilers, power generation and other ancillary systems. APC software consistently delivers more efficient process operation by providing a consistent and tenacious optimizer, or “cruise control,” for the control room operator. The Santos Ltd.-operated Moomba gas plant (Fig. 1) in South Australia has been progressiv