Sensitivity analysis for heat exchanger networks

Abstract

The sensitivity of a heat exchanger network (HEN) refers to the deviations in network temperature as a result of changes in operating parameters such as source temperatures, UA values and flow rates. Generating such information by varying one parameter at a time and solving the HEN all over again is straightforward but time consuming. In this study a new approach is developed which is based on the inherently linear nature of HENs. This approach eliminates the need for repeated matrix inversions and leads to an efficient computational procedure for generating the entire sensitivity information. Illustrative examples are also presented which demonstrate the computational efficiency and indicate that the procedures developed can be applied even when the deviations in operating parameters are large and simultaneous.