Use of advanced composite curves for assessing cost-effective HEN retrofit I: Theory and concepts

This paper presents the theory and concepts of a graphical method for heat exchanger network (HEN) retrofit that gives new insights about the complexity and possible solutions of different retrofit alternatives. The method uses knowledge about the placement of heaters/coolers in the existing HEN to evaluate the potential for cost-effective retrofit. One general result this method predicts is that the closer to the pinch the existing heaters/coolers are located, the higher the potential for cost-effective retrofit. Networks that are badly engineered from a grass-root perspective, prove to be a good basis for cost-effective retrofits.