MSc Process Systems Engineering

Nowadays, the design, planning and operations management relay on mathematical models the complexity of which depends on the detail of models and complexity of the problem they represent. In process industry these design and operation planning functions are particularly complex and a wide range of optimisation processes and methodologies are used to minimise risks and/or improve quality in making concomitant decisions. Consequently, the module intends to introduce to students the formulation of the decision making problems and application of optimisation techniques to support decisions with real-life worked examples.

This module provides students with a systematic framework of building, solving and applying mathematical models of process systems in a variety of contexts related to chemical engineering and the wider engineering disciplines. Students will acquire the knowledge of the main concepts, methods, and tools of process modelling and simulation, including state-of-the-art process simulation software. Apart from teaching the methods of mathematical modelling, the module develops general problem-solving and algorithmic skills applicable in many areas of employment.

Automatic control is an essential technology to maintain safe, economic and environmentally benign operation of manufacturing processes. Process control is increasingly needed and challenging because modern plants have become more difficult to operate as the result of complex and highly integrated processes. This module aims to provide an introduction to process control, balancing theoretical and practical aspects. The module will review basic concept in control, including dynamics, feedback and stability, based on which more advanced and modern techniques will be introduced. It will integrate computer experiments, which closely simulate the operation of process plants, to enhance the understanding of process control principles.

Designers and managers in technology-intensive industries continually encounter complex, novel problems that demand robust, evidence-based solutions. Research is therefore an integral part of their professional practice, undertaken routinely to inform decision-making, innovation and strategic development. One of the most effective ways to understand these challenges is through first-hand insights from experts who have successfully addressed them in industrial and research settings.This module introduces the core principles and practices of planning, conducting and communicating research in engineering and the physical sciences. It covers the research process from problem definition, literature review, sources of research support through experimental design, error analysis, uncertainty quantification and ethical considerations, to effective written and oral communication of results. The module also addresses intellectual property and patent searching, as well as the protection and commercial exploitation of research, including the fundamentals of establishing a technology-based company. A series of seminars by academics and industrial practitioners from sectors such as chemicals, oil and gas, information systems and renewable energy technologies will provide case-based perspectives on contemporary research and innovation challenges.

The chemical industry can be divided into commodity chemical production, where the volume of production is high and the commercial margins are low and speciality chemicals production, where the volume of production is low but the commercial margins are high. The oil and gas industry and petrochemicals production can be regarded as being in the former category whereas pharmaceutical production falls into the latter. The purpose of this module is to provide students with the information that will prepare them for work in the speciality sector (hence the lectures) and then to give them an opportunity to use their total chemical engineering knowledge in project work related to several examples from the speciality chemicals industries. This can involve products that are made for only small groups of people to use and as such may require a consumer related approach.

Process integration is an efficient paradigm, which enables the reduction of capital investment and energy consumption according to the principles of sustainable development applicable for new and retrofit process design. Computer-aided process engineering tools together with mathematical programming enable systematic and simultaneous handling of process integration problems. This module equips students with the knowledge and skills required to maximise the energy efficiency of existing and new industrial processes while improving process economics and minimising its environmental impact. It introduces a wide range of methods of heat integration of processes within a production site and for total site energy integration. The design of heat exchanger networks (HEN), utility selection, integration of units such as heat engines, heat pumps, and placement of reactors and separators will be addressed. Sequential and simultaneous approaches will be explored utilizing graphical, empirical and mathematical modelling tools. Students will also continue to develop their problem-solving skills and digital capabilities by using state-of-the-art process simulation software.

This module addresses the design principles and methods for process systems comprising reaction and separation (including water utilisation) sections.

Global competition has seen a shift from between individual companies to that between supply chains. This module will introduce the concept of supply chain and its management, including both qualitative and quantitative analysis. It will equip the students with the knowledge of fundamental supply chain processes, as well as the major components such as distribution, demand forecasting, planning, inventory, transportation, sourcing and coordination. Conceptual modelling of supply chain events toward sustainable and profitable supply chains will also be discussed. In this module, students will acquire in depth understanding of supply chain management and corresponding analysis tools that are used to achieve optimal supply chain performance whilst satisfying customers' need.

Knowledge is the most critical part of any decision making process, being it the process of design, management or general business. Last several decades have witnessed numerous attempts to present knowledge in the form processable by computers, starting with descriptive logic, through the production rules and ending with ontologies as the last and the latest form known today, the process known as artificial intelligence. The module will help students in consolidating all of these technologies and using them in supporting decision making in the area of student’ interest, primarily in the process of design for processing industry.

A teaching and learning module that covers all aspects of safety and reliability in the design and operation of process plant and equipment. Although generally applicable to the full range of business operations, the main focus is on offshore oil and gas platforms, refinery and petrochemical operations where knowledge and understanding will be gained in maintaining the highest standards of process safety and operations integrity.

Energy use and the systems put in place to supply it are responsible for the majority of the world’s emissions of carbon dioxide and hence much climate change policy is directed towards the energy sector. Energy is also central to economic development and social welfare and thus energy security and cost minimisation are high on national policy agendas. Energy markets throughout the world are also evolving rapidly, with privatisation, competition, market structure and regulation remaining prominent issues in the UK, Europe and internationally. The range of challenges for energy policy is diverse and exciting. This Module focuses on the transitions needed from the current situations in energy use, supply, markets and policy to those required as part of a long term, sustainable, low carbon energy system. The sessions will introduce the range of low carbon energy options including energy efficiency, energy storge, renewables, nuclear and carbon capture and storage. The module will explore different low-carbon scenarios and policies and how these could fit with the Sustainable Development Goals, and what barriers maybe encountered along the route to a just transition, in both the global North and South.

The research dissertation is a report on the individual project carried out by students to demonstrate research potential and ability to use existing and to acquire new knowledge and apply them in specific situation. A number of dissertations are carried out in collaboration with industry and upon successful completion of the module, the students will be able to approach an open-ended topic to research new ideas and experiment with new technologies.