Simulation of multiple effect evaporators for energy-saving studies in a chemical pulp mill

A methodology for designing energy reduction schemes of an existing MEE system is presented in this paper. These methods include a simulation model built in WinGEMS and an optimization scheme based on energy cascade utilization principles. A working MEE system at Fujian Nanping Paper co., LTD. in China was employed as a case study. The simulation results closely approach actual production data from this MEE system. A redesigned scheme was developed based on analysis of poor operating conditions in the plant. Simulation of the redesigned MEE system with the proposed energy saving mechanism predicts a 30% reduction in energy consumption. The simulation results indicate that the proposed methodology is an effective and efficient way to understand problematic operating conditions and identify energy-saving solutions.