CHEMICAL ENGINEERING

CHML 316: Computer Simulation and Design

This is a required course in the chemical engineering program.

Course description:
The use of a chemical plant simulation program in the solution of process engineering problems. A study of the structure of large scale simulation software, including the physical property data base, unit process simulation, and flow sheet integration. Two lectures plus a two-hour computer laboratory. (3 credits)

Prerequisite(s):
CHML 305, ENGS 116

Corequisite(s):
CHML 306, 321

Textbooks:

1. J. Reynolds, PRO/II: A Process Flowsheet Simulator, ETS International, Inc., Roanoke, VA, 1995

Class schedule:
Two one-hour lectures, one two-hour lab per week

Course learning outcomes:
The student will be able to...

• Become familiar with the use of a flowsheet simulator package such as the type used in industry (SimSci's PRO/II);
• Be able to write programs in a computer language such as Visual or Quick Basic, Fortran, C++, etc.;
• Be able to apply numerical methods (Gauss Elimination, Gauss Siedel, finite differences, Modified Euler, Runge-Kutta) to solve complex equations or systems of equations;
• Be able to apply statistical techniques (e.g., regression analyses using non-polynomial equations, Monte Carlo methods) to chemical engineering problems.

Relationship to program/ABET outcomes	Applicability (NA - 10)
a. An ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering	9
b. An ability to design and/or conduct experiments, as well as to analyze and interpret data	8
c. An ability to design a system, component, or process to meet desired needs	8
d. An ability to function in a multi-disciplinary environment	5
e. An ability to identify, formulate and solve engineering problems	8
f. An understanding of professional and ethical responsibility	7
g. An ability to communicate effectively	7
h. The broad education necessary to understand the impact of engineering solutions in a global and societal context	7
i. A recognition of the need for and ability to engage in life-long learning	7
j. A knowledge of contemporary issues	7
k. An ability to use techniques, skills and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering	8

Topics	# Classes (NA - 10)
1. Use of a simulator to solve process design problems	7
2. Monte Carlo and other statistical methods in equipment design	7
3. Programming concepts and computer graphic techniques	7
4. Numerical methods in chemical engineering design	7
5. Work sessions: students work on design projects during two-hour computer lab sessions	28 hours

Contribution to ABET Criterion 5:

• Computer usage:
  Students complete eight computer projects in lieu of examinations. Five of these involve the use of a commercial process simulator to solve design problems. Fifteen percent of the student's grade in each project is based on experimentation with the process variables. The remaining three projects involve writing computer programs to solve problems employing statistical and numerical techniques.
• Statistics:
  Two of the eight projects involve statistics:
  (1) a programming project on curve-fitting of data using least squares analysis, and
  (2) estimating probabilities of equipment failure using Monte Carlo techniques.
• ABET estimated content:
  • Engineering Science - 1 credits (33%)
  • Engineering Design - 2 credit (67%)
  
  

Course syllabus prepared by Dr. James Patrick Abulencia