| Abstract: | This work deals with the problem of finding the optimum operating conditions of a process for which a large amount of experimental data has been obtained from a pilot plant. A computer simulation model based on direct linear interpolation on the experimental data was developed and incorporated in an optimization routine able to deal with constraints. A sensitivity analysis around the maximum and a brief analysis of the effects of increasing the capacity of the main pieces of equipment were carried out. The results show that a substantial increment in the production can be achieved when operating at the optimum conditions and that good control of some variables should be observed to prevent deviations from that maximum. |
