Batch Processing: Staying Alive

As it is with all chemical processors, the current economic climate is forcing batch processors to produce more saleable product at a better profit margin from the same assets. Increasing flexibility, reliability and visibility while decreasing batch cycle times via integrated automation systems can help increase throughput and the chance of survival. Staying afloat Figure 1.  Many batch automation vendors are enabling batch functionality at the controller level Honeywell Undoubtedly it’s difficult to get more product from a process, especially in the wake of staff reductions and facility shutdowns. However it is possible to improve batches in an effort to ensure longevity even during an economic crisis. To do so, experts recommend the following: Increase reliability. Since the product from many batch processes is immensely valuable and any loss of a batch due to failure will result in a large financial setback, ensuring reliability is especially important during the current economic downturn Reduce batch cycle time. Like other chemical processors, batch processors need to get more from less. Getting a batch cycle down from 12 h to 11 h and 45 min translates into additional revenue from the same assets,…