Simulation and optimization of a horizontal ammonia synthesis reactor using genetic algorithm

摘要: The synthesis of ammonia from nitrogen and hydrogen is one the most important processes in petrochemical industry. In this study simulation optimization a horizontal reactor presented two cases: first, an intercooled Khorasan plant, second, with quench flows. one-dimensional heterogeneous mathematical model consists point boundary value differential equations for catalyst pellets which were used simulations. Also, effectiveness factor was calculated by both empirical relation considering diffusion-reaction equations. initial problems are solved combination Runge–Kutta method improved shooting method. done cases. first case converter, second converter Good agreement achieved between simulated results, i.e., outlet component mole fraction temperature, industrial data (Khorasan plant SRI report). Then effect parameters like inlet total feed flow rate, operating pressure on production studied. Finally, optimum solutions maximum mass rate determined using genetic algorithm (GA). adjustable pressure. results show that flux 52 433 kg h−1 73 979 produced cases, respectively, were, 524 °C, 217 005 167 atm 437 354 986 237 one.