Method for managing a process engineering facility - Patent Application 20070122997

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method and a graphical user interface (300) for managing a process engineering facility comprising at least one heat exchanger, each of which is designed as a plate heat exchanger and each of which comprises a plurality of heat exchanger blocks, the method comprising: receiving sensor values from sensors arranged on or in the at least one heat exchanger; determining, based on the received sensor values, parameters characterizing the operation of the at least one heat exchanger, wherein a temperature difference between the heat exchanger blocks of the at least one heat exchanger is determined as the parameter; and processing the sensor values and / or parameters for a graphical representation of the status of the at least one heat exchanger, and processing the at least one heat exchanger based on the determined temperature difference between the heat exchanger blocks of the at least one heat exchanger, determining a lifespan of the at least one heat exchanger as a state and determining a graphical representation of the lifespan of the at least one heat exchanger; outputting the processed sensor values and / or parameters to a graphical user interface (300), wherein the graphical representation of the lifespan of the at least one heat exchanger is output to the graphical user interface (300); and managing the operation of the at least one heat exchanger based on the outputted and processed sensor values and / or parameters in the graphical user interface (300), wherein the lifespan of the at least one heat exchanger is monitored.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for managing a process engineering facility, and a graphical user interface for managing a process engineering facility along with a computing system, a computer program, and a machine-readable storage medium. [Background technology]

[0002] Process engineering equipment is understood to mean equipment for carrying out material changes and / or transformations, typically using a sequence of physical and / or chemical and / or biological and / or nuclear actions on a target. Such changes and transformations typically include material transformations by grinding, sieving, mixing, heat transfer, rectification, crystallization, drying, cooling, packing, and superposition, such as chemical, biological, or nuclear reactions.

[0003] Heat exchangers, such as vacuum-brazed (aluminum) plate-fin heat exchangers (PFHEs) or coil-wound heat exchangers (CWHEs), are often used in process engineering facilities due to their numerous advantages (heat integration, compactness, and cost). For example, such (plate) heat exchangers can comprise multiple separator plates or separating sheets arranged parallel to one another and a structural sheet with multiple thin plates (so-called fins) or thin plates, with one thin plate positioned between each pair of adjacent separator plates, forming multiple parallel channels through which a medium can flow. The thin plates are separated on both sides by so-called side bars, which are soldered to the adjacent plates. The interconnected structural sheets, side bars, separating sheets, and cover sheet form a heat exchanger block as a whole. In this way, the heat exchanger block is formed with multiple parallel heat transfer paths, so that, for example, media can be guided countercurrently through each other to perform indirect heat exchange. A heat exchanger, in particular a plate heat exchanger (PFHE), can comprise a number of such heat exchanger blocks.

[0004] The objective is to be able to manage such process engineering facilities, eg to operate them effectively. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Against this background, a method for managing a process engineering facility and a graphical user interface for managing a process engineering facility are proposed, as well as a computing system, a computer program and a machine-readable storage medium having the features of the independent patent claims. Advantageous embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims and the following description.

[0006] The process engineering facility comprises at least one heat exchanger. Each of these heat exchangers is in each case designed as a plate heat exchanger, for example as a vacuum-brazed (aluminum) plate-fin heat exchanger (PFHE). Furthermore, each of these heat exchangers comprises a plurality of heat exchanger blocks. These individual heat exchangers are provided in the process engineering facility in particular for heating or cooling a particular fluid or fluid stream. In addition to plate heat exchangers, the process engineering facility may comprise other components, for example, other heat exchangers of different designs (for example, coil-wound heat exchangers, CWHE), columns (hollow, thin columns with internal structures), phase separators (vessels with internal structures), vessels for phase separation, etc. For example, the process engineering facility may be a facility for separating and / or liquefying gases, such as an air separation facility, or in general a facility for separating mixtures of substances based on physical properties, such as a natural gas facility, a hydrogen and syngas facility, an adsorption and membrane facility such as a pressure swing adsorption facility, or a cryogenic facility such as a cryogenic facility for cooling superconductors and cold neutron sources, MRI, nuclear fusion and fission applications, or a cryogenic facility in the liquefaction of helium and hydrogen.

[0007] Within the framework of the method, sensor values or measurements or current actual values are received from sensors arranged on or in at least one heat exchanger. These sensors can be installed, for example, on the surface of a particular heat exchanger, or in the heat exchanger, or protruding into the heat exchanger. In particular, the sensor values can characterize the physical / chemical properties of the heat exchanger itself or its operation, for example, its material or the fluid passing through it. The sensor values advantageously describe the current temperature values of individual or all heat exchanger blocks of a particular heat exchanger.

[0008] Based on these received sensor values, parameters (or key figures) are determined that identify or characterize the operation of the at least one heat exchanger. These parameters can, for example, directly describe the current state or current physical condition of the at least one heat exchanger, or at least allow conclusions to be drawn about such a nature. One such parameter can, for example, be a key performance indicator (KPI), which can be used to evaluate, for example, progress or achievement towards a predefined goal.

[0009] As such a parameter, the temperature difference between the heat exchanger blocks of at least one heat exchanger is determined. For example, for this purpose, measured temperature values on the surface of the individual heat exchanger blocks or measured temperature values within the individual heat exchanger blocks can be taken into account. Advantageously, the temperature difference between directly adjacent heat exchanger blocks that are mechanically connected to each other and / or in fluid communication with each other is determined. Advantageously, multiple temperature differences between multiple adjacent heat exchanger blocks can also be determined as parameters. Furthermore, it is advantageous to determine additional parameters from other sensor values.

[0010] The received sensor values and / or determined parameters are processed for a graphical representation of a state of the at least one heat exchanger. In particular, this state may characterize the operation of the at least one heat exchanger, e.g., effectiveness, performance, etc. For example, the state may be a current state, and thus may particularly characterize the current operation of a particular heat exchanger. Furthermore, the state may also be a past state, and may particularly characterize the operation of the at least one heat exchanger in the past. Furthermore, the state may also be a future state, e.g., inferred from the current and / or past states.

[0011] The sensor values or parameters are processed in such a way that relevant (operational) information about conditions that are important, in particular, for the operation of a particular heat exchanger and also for the operation of the entire installation, can be extracted or recognized in an easy and clear manner. The display of a condition may be an audiovisual display, in particular a graphical or visual and / or acoustic display, of a particular condition. For example, the display may comprise a visual display, e.g., as an image file, or as an interactive, editable graphic, in a two-dimensional or multi-dimensional graph of individual sensor values and / or parameters. Furthermore, the display may comprise an acoustic display, e.g., using an audio file, e.g., an acoustic output of individual sensor values or parameters, an output of an alarm sound, etc.

[0012] Based on the determined temperature difference between the heat exchanger blocks of the at least one heat exchanger, at least one lifespan or remaining lifespan is determined as a condition of the at least one heat exchanger. Furthermore, a graphical representation of this lifespan of the at least one heat exchanger is determined. For example, the lifespan can be determined or estimated from sensor values or parameters using analytical, numerical, or statistical methods, such as using theoretical simulations.

[0013] Temperature differences between heat exchanger blocks can have a direct, immediate, but also indirect, effect on the lifespan of a particular heat exchanger. Large temperature differences between individual heat exchanger blocks can lead to high loads, especially high mechanical stresses, on the block's material. For example, large temperature differences can impose high loads on the connecting pipes or connecting elements between the individual heat exchanger blocks. Such high loads can lead to deformation, wear, fatigue, and weakening of the block's material. Consistently high and frequently changing temperature differences can further increase such loads. Thus, large or changing temperature differences between the heat exchanger blocks of a particular heat exchanger can have a negative effect on the heat exchanger's lifespan.

[0014] To determine the service life, for example, the original service life determined, estimated, or assessed after the heat exchanger was first manufactured or put into operation can be taken into account, along with the operating time that has already elapsed since the heat exchanger was first put into operation. Based on the current temperature difference between the heat exchanger blocks, for example, the corresponding mechanical stresses and loads on the heat exchanger materials can be determined, and the corresponding impact on or reduction in service life can be inferred, estimated, or calculated. For example, analytical, numerical, or statistical calculations and / or simulations can be performed for this purpose. In this way, the current remaining service life of the heat exchanger can be determined as a specific heat exchanger condition, advantageously based on the original service life, based on the total operating time to date, and based on the impact of the temperature difference.

[0015] The determined lifespan can be advantageously processed for graphical display in such a way that the remaining lifespan can be extracted or recognized in an easy and traceable manner. For example, in addition to the current determined lifespan, the lifespan history can also be displayed. It is therefore easy to track, in particular, how the estimated remaining lifespan has evolved or changed during previous operations. In this way, it is easy to track, in particular, which events, operating conditions, and temperature differences significantly affect the remaining lifespan.

[0016] This graphical display of life can provide, for example, a life tracker or life monitor, which allows for an indication of life consumption based on the operating conditions of the equipment, a prediction of remaining life, and also, for example, a histogram display of thermal and / or mechanical cycles and thermal fatigue of individual heat exchangers. For example, such a life monitor can be used to make recommendations for maintenance and / or replacement measures, taking into account, for example, delivery times for components to be replaced or installed.

[0017] The processed sensor values and / or parameters are output or displayed on a graphical user interface. In the process, a graphical representation of the life of the at least one heat exchanger is output on the graphical user interface. This graphical user interface represents in particular a human-machine interface, an input / output interface, a user interface, or an (information management) dashboard. In particular, this user interface is a software tool for interacting with the equipment in order to output information related to the operation and management of the equipment and also to be able to influence the operation of the equipment.

[0018] For example, a graphical user interface can be output by a computing unit, e.g., a PC, laptop, tablet, control unit, etc. A graphical user interface is particularly advantageous as a central, standardized interface. The graphical user interface, or the software underlying the graphical user interface, is particularly advantageously executed by a central computing unit or central computing system, e.g., by a server or computing system in the course of so-called "cloud computing." Thus, the underlying software does not advantageously have to be executed on the computing unit itself that displays or outputs the graphical user interface, but can instead be executed centrally by a remote computing unit. Thus, a graphical user interface can be displayed uniformly and independently of one another on multiple different computing units. For example, a graphical user interface can be streamed from a central computing unit by a specific computing unit or displayed in a browser-based form, e.g., as a (web) dashboard.

[0019] Based on these output and processed sensor values and / or parameters, the operation of at least one heat exchanger is managed, monitored, or controlled in a graphical user interface. Relevant information characterizing the operation of a particular heat exchanger can be read in the user interface, and based on this information, current operation can be monitored and changes can be developed and implemented to improve operation.

[0020] During this management, the determined (particularly remaining) lifespan of at least one heat exchanger is monitored or analyzed. A graphical representation of the lifespan output in a graphical user interface allows for advantageous recognition and monitoring of influences or changes in the lifespan. A recognized, particularly non-linear (e.g., exponential) reduction in lifespan, for example based on a high temperature difference between heat exchanger blocks, can be advantageously countered, for example, by adjusting the operating parameters or operating point of the heat exchanger or the entire installation. For example, the lifespan consumption of a heat exchanger during past operating conditions can be tracked in the graphical user interface, and operational improvements can be developed to increase the remaining lifespan.

[0021] The present invention also relates to a corresponding graphical user interface, and advantages and advantageous embodiments of this graphical user interface according to the invention and of the method according to the invention are derived from this description in a corresponding manner. The graphical user interface comprises at least one display surface configured to output processed sensor values and / or parameters received or determined according to the method. The display surface is configured to output a graphical representation of the service life of at least one heat exchanger. These display surfaces or display panels make it possible to display information related to the operation of a particular heat exchanger in an intuitive and clear manner. For example, one or more such display surfaces can be provided for each heat exchanger in each case. Alternatively or additionally, for example, one or more such display surfaces can be provided in each case for all processed sensor values and / or parameters in each case.

[0022] The present invention provides a way to visualize the operation of individual heat exchangers in process engineering facilities and to monitor and manage them online. For this purpose, a graphical user interface provides a central, standardized interface for displaying information about the operation or properties of the heat exchangers and, based on this information, influencing the facility and its operation, in particular to improve its operation or effectiveness or performance, or to reduce wear on the facility. Furthermore, based on the displayed information, maintenance actions, such as repairs, cleaning, component replacement, etc., can be recommended and optimal maintenance actions can be predicted ("predictive maintenance"). Particularly advantageously, the present invention makes it possible to monitor the remaining service life, in particular to increase it, or at least to avoid unnecessary reduction of it, or to counter potential reductions in service life.

[0023] The graphical user interface allows for combining, integrating, or synthesizing hardware installed in the facility, particularly in the form of sensors or measuring devices, with management, analysis, simulation, and / or control software.

[0024] Advantageously, the corresponding operation-related information can be made available in a graphical user interface as a central (web) dashboard to individuals or all parties involved in the operation of the installation, for example, the manufacturer, the owner, the operator, the plant manager, the monitoring committee, external experts, technical advice experts, etc. Using the user interface and its functions, the installation owner has the opportunity to evaluate and improve, for example, the performance and lifespan of the heat exchanger. For example, the graphical user interface can be used to enable the manufacturer of heat exchangers to offer different product concepts such as leasing contracts, performance guarantee contracts, heat transfer contracts, long-term guaranteed delivery, free trial periods, and data loggers using the heat exchanger as a recording device that automatically transmits data to the manufacturer.

[0025] In particular, a central graphical user interface allows for the provision of operation-related information to widely dispersed parties locally over long distances. For example, certain information can be provided via the user interface to both the operator or owner of a process engineering facility, which may be located at or in the immediate vicinity of the facility itself, and to parties remote from the facility, such as the manufacturer or owner of the facility, which may be located far away from the facility, for example, at a distant company headquarters.

[0026] Corresponding information or data can be transferred or exchanged, for example, between a locally networked unit and a remote unit. For example, sensor values detected by a sensor installed in or on a heat exchanger can be transmitted via a local network within the process engineering facility to a local central computing unit, e.g., to a server of the facility, from which a user interface also runs or which is directly connected to the computing unit running the user interface via the local network. Furthermore, the sensor values of the sensor can also be transmitted to a remote computing unit, e.g., a (corporate) server, or a remote computing system, such as a distributed computing system, e.g., in the course of so-called "cloud computing," on which the user interface itself runs or to which a computing unit running the user interface is then connected. For example, the sensor values can be transmitted directly from the sensor to such a remote computing unit or system, or can be transmitted indirectly, e.g., by first transmitting the values to a local computing unit of the facility, which then transmits the sensor values to the remote computing unit or system. Furthermore, such a local computing unit can also perform calculations, e.g., parameter determination and / or processing of the sensor values or parameters. The corresponding data can then be transmitted from the local computing unit to a cloud system and output by the cloud system to a graphical user interface. In each case, the graphical user interface can then be output and displayed on a screen by one or more computing units connected to the computing unit executing the user interface, for example via a local (facility) network or the Internet.Thus, a centrally executed graphical user interface can be uniformly displayed by multiple different, possibly locally widely distributed, computing units.

[0027] The graphical user interface may be used to visualize and track, for example, the history, particularly the lifetime history, and / or performance of individual heat exchangers of an installation. Furthermore, the operation of individual heat exchangers may be transparently designed and improved. The user interface may, in particular, consolidate all relevant information and history of individual heat exchangers, track their history, and provide easy remote access to the information. Furthermore, for example, predictive maintenance based on information about the lifetime of heat exchangers, risk assessment of further operation based on such lifetime information, and improvement of installation operation may be enabled in order to avoid dangerous (operating) situations that may cause high lifetime consumption, particularly high and frequently changing temperature differences between heat exchanger blocks, and to maximize the performance of the heat exchangers. Automation, for example, of automatic measures, control loops, control loop tuning, installation automation, start-up, restart, load changes, etc., may be implemented. Additionally, the performance of the installation and options for improving performance may be visualized and evaluated.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the state of at least one heat exchanger is further determined as a change in the lifespan of the at least one heat exchanger based on the determined temperature difference between the heat exchanger blocks. Furthermore, a graphical representation of this change in lifespan is determined, and the graphical representation of the change in lifespan is output to a graphical user interface. In particular, correlations can be established and visualized regarding how temperature differences affect the remaining lifespan. For example, for this purpose, mechanical stresses and loads on the heat exchanger materials caused by temperature differences can be determined, and the effect of these stresses and loads on the lifespan can be determined. Furthermore, the graphical representation can graphically show, for example, how past temperature differences have affected and changed a particular remaining lifespan at that time. Advantageously, the graphical user interface can be used to monitor and examine over time how temperature differences between individual heat exchanger blocks affect the remaining lifespan of the heat exchanger. The graphical user interface can be used to develop (operational) strategies, in particular, to avoid temperature differences that reduce lifespan and to increase the lifespan of the heat exchanger or reduce its lifespan as slowly as possible to achieve the best possible lifespan of the heat exchanger.

[0029] According to one embodiment, managing the operation of the at least one heat exchanger further comprises determining maintenance intervals for the at least one heat exchanger and / or maintenance work to be performed on the at least one heat exchanger based on the graphical representation of the lifespan output in the graphical user interface. For example, such maintenance work or repair or replacement of individual components can be scheduled based on lifespan consumption, for example, advantageously in order to increase the remaining lifespan as much as possible. For example, such maintenance intervals and maintenance work can be determined for components of the heat exchanger that are subjected to high loads due to temperature differences between the heat exchanger blocks.

[0030] According to one embodiment, managing the operation of the at least one heat exchanger further includes determining hazards to the operation or lifespan of the at least one heat exchanger based on the graphical representation of the lifespan output in the graphical user interface. For example, by analyzing current and past conditions in the user interface along with the corresponding lifespan consumption, it is possible to recognize which particular operating conditions or temperature differences lead to increased load, wear, and lifespan consumption. Such conditions can then be avoided or countered.

[0031] According to one embodiment, managing the operation of the at least one heat exchanger further comprises determining control values or operating conditions or parameters of the at least one heat exchanger based on the graphical representation of the lifespan output in the graphical user interface in order to avoid dangerous situations that lead to a shortened lifespan. By monitoring and analyzing the conditions, lifespan, etc. displayed in the user interface, it is possible to develop the best possible control values, for example, to operate the heat exchanger in the best possible operating conditions so that the maximum possible lifespan can be achieved.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the state of at least one heat exchanger is further determined as the performance or current performance of the at least one heat exchanger and / or the history or temporal profile of the at least one heat exchanger. The current performance of a particular heat exchanger can be analytically or numerically determined from sensor values and / or parameters, for example, using physical equations. Alternatively or additionally, the parameters can already directly characterize the current performance. The corresponding sensor values and / or parameters can be processed in such a way that the current performance can be displayed visually and / or audibly in an intuitive and clear manner. The history of the at least one heat exchanger can include, inter alia, the sensor values and / or parameters and / or the history or temporal profile of the performance. Using the graphical user interface, for example, it is possible to flexibly switch between or compare current and past values. For example, the graphical user interface can include a start or overview page where the performance, lifetime, and history, or corresponding sensor values and / or parameters, are displayed and / or can be selected for display. For example, this overview page may include lists or buttons to quickly display relevant information about the heat exchanger operation and to track or visualize the history of the heat exchanger.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the sensors arranged on or in the at least one heat exchanger are each designed as a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, a flow sensor, a sound or acoustic sensor, and / or a vibration sensor. The measurements detected by these sensors relate, in particular, to the physical properties of the heat exchanger material and / or the fluid flow passing through it. Temperature sensors can be used, for example, to measure the temperature of the fluid flow and the heat exchanger wall. Pressure and flow sensors can be used, for example, to detect the pressure and flow rate of the individual fluid flows. Sound and vibration sensors can be used, in particular, to monitor the vibrations of the heat exchanger wall. Furthermore, the sensors and their sensor values can be used to directly detect or indirectly derive mechanical stresses in the heat exchanger. Further advantageous sensors, for example optical sensors such as cameras, can also be used.

[0034] According to one embodiment, one or more of the following parameters are also determined: a temperature difference within at least one heat exchanger; a temperature difference between the fluid streams of at least one heat exchanger; a temperature difference between the fluid streams of at least one heat exchanger and the heat exchanger block; a rate of the cooling and / or warming process of at least one heat exchanger ("cool-down" rate / "warm-up" rate); a local temperature profile within at least one heat exchanger; a temporal temperature profile within at least one heat exchanger; a mechanical stress level of at least one heat exchanger; and / or a thermal stress level of at least one heat exchanger. In particular, such parameters can be determined from temperature sensor values detected at different points within the heat exchanger. Such parameters can be used to describe, in particular, the temperature profile of the heat exchanger, which allows conclusions to be drawn regarding the operation and effectiveness of the heat exchanger and also characterizes the load acting on the heat exchanger during its operation, which in turn allows conclusions to be drawn regarding the remaining life or life consumption.

[0035] Alternatively or additionally, deviations of operation of at least one heat exchanger from predefined (safety) guidelines for operation of the at least one heat exchanger and / or deviations from (safety) specifications for the at least one heat exchanger are determined as parameters according to one embodiment. For example, such deviations may include sensor values and / or parameters leaving predefined tolerance ranges or reaching, exceeding, or falling below predefined tolerance limits or thresholds. The occurrence of such deviations from (safety) guidelines or specifications may often trigger the output of an alarm message. For example, such alarm messages may also be considered as parameters, e.g., the frequency or specific time points at which such alarm messages are output.

[0036] According to one embodiment, processing the sensor values and / or parameters further includes determining a graphical representation of the temporal profile of each sensor value and / or each parameter based on the time at which a particular sensor value was determined. In particular, changes or trends in each sensor value or parameter can be tracked during operation of the heat exchanger. For example, processing can include visualization of related time series data, such as process-related data or data related to the properties of the heat exchanger. Furthermore, processing can include, for example, determining correlations of data or trends, as well as, for example, determining correlation matrices, indices of fluctuation and outliers, etc.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the processing of the sensor values and / or parameters further includes determining a graphical representation of a local profile of individual sensor values and / or individual parameters within the at least one heat exchanger based on the location within the at least one heat exchanger where the particular sensor value was determined. In particular, the processing includes visualization of the local profile of the particular data, particularly of predefined, intended, or specified operating conditions. This, in particular, allows for a comparison between actual operation and predefined operating conditions. For example, if the current operation is outside the specified operating conditions, it can be explicitly indicated. For example, the processing or visualization can include providing a slider function. For example, the processing can include determining a temperature range representation, e.g., visualization of the local temperature profile of the individual heat exchanger and the predefined operating conditions.

[0038] According to one embodiment, processing the sensor values and / or parameters further includes determining a graphical representation of a multidimensional profile of each sensor value and / or parameter based on the time at which the particular sensor value was determined and the location within the at least one heat exchanger at which the particular sensor value was determined. In particular, the temporal and local profiles of each sensor value or parameter are visualized as a three-dimensional plot based on time and location. For example, the temperature profile and temperature gradient of a particular heat exchanger can be visualized as a three-dimensional plot over time along the length of the heat exchanger. For example, such a plot can track the mechanical and / or thermal stress levels or mechanical and / or thermal loads during operation of the heat exchanger. Furthermore, deviations from predefined or recommended guidelines or specifications, e.g., guidelines according to an operating manual or according to predefined standards, can be visualized in these multidimensional graphs. Such multidimensional graphs can be used to evaluate and improve heat exchanger operation, e.g., with respect to lifespan and performance. Furthermore, reporting functionality can be enabled, e.g., for retrospective evaluation over a determined period of time.

[0039] According to one embodiment, the processing of the sensor values and / or parameters further comprises determining a graphical representation of the performance of at least one heat exchanger. For example, individual parameters characterizing the current performance and operation of the individual heat exchangers can be displayed, in particular together with any output alarm messages, to allow quick recognition of (operationally) relevant information. For example, for this purpose, parameters describing heat transfer properties (e.g., based on heat transfer coefficients, on the surfaces where heat exchange takes place, and on thermal conductivity) can be processed and displayed, along with, for example, contamination, pressure drops, temperature bottlenecks, options for improving performance, etc.

[0040] According to one embodiment, processing the sensor values and / or parameters further includes determining a graphical representation of a hazard analysis of at least one heat exchanger. For example, such a hazard analysis (HAZAN) can be performed to minimize risks to thermal conditions of the heat exchanger. Risk minimization measures, such as alarms, control loops, etc., are advantageously provided within the installation. The graphical representation of the hazard analysis can, for example, provide a HAZAN summary dashboard that summarizes alarm messages and measures implemented within the installation to minimize risks from thermal loads, and can also enable reporting functions, for example, for retrospective evaluation of determined periods of time.

[0041] According to one embodiment, processing the sensor values and / or parameters also includes determining a graphical representation of the cooling process ("cool down") and / or warming process ("warm up", "start up") of at least one heat exchanger. In this way, an overview dashboard for the cooling and warming process can be provided in the graphical user interface. For example, such a graphical representation can provide a comprehensive overview of individual heat exchangers so that cooling and cooling rates can be easily tracked. This graphical representation can be used, for example, to improve the operation of the heat exchangers, create reporting functions for retrospective evaluation of the cooling process, and further enable adding information about start-up procedures to an operating manual.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the processing of the sensor values and / or parameters further comprises determining a graphical representation of the thermal expansion of the heat exchanger blocks of at least one heat exchanger. For example, a local or spatial profile of the temperature gradient of a particular block can be displayed along three spatial directions. Thus, in particular, an overview of the block expansion and thermal status can be displayed in the graphical user interface. For example, live view and video functions can be enabled.

[0043] According to one embodiment, managing the operation of the at least one heat exchanger further includes monitoring or analyzing the current state and / or future state and / or past state of the at least one heat exchanger. For example, the state displayed in the graphical user interface, its displayed history, and the displayed projected state can be compared to predefined safety or operational guidelines. Thus, the graphical user interface can be used to assess whether the operation of an individual heat exchanger meets acceptable specifications or whether there is potential for improvement.

[0044] According to one embodiment, managing the operation of the at least one heat exchanger further comprises determining control values or operating conditions or parameters of the at least one heat exchanger to improve performance of the at least one heat exchanger. By monitoring and analyzing the status, lifespan, etc. displayed in the user interface, it is possible to develop the best possible control values to operate the heat exchanger in the best possible operating condition, for example, so that maximum performance and effectiveness can be achieved.

[0045] According to one embodiment, inputs are received at a user interface, and at least one heat exchanger is controlled based on the received inputs. According to one embodiment, the graphical user interface comprises at least one control surface or at least one control panel configured to receive inputs for this purpose. The graphical user interface is configured to control the at least one heat exchanger based on these received inputs. In particular, the inputs may be manual inputs made by an installation operator or installation owner. Thus, the user interface provides an option to make manual inputs and directly affect the heat exchanger. For example, control values or target values can be entered via the control surface and then transferred from the user interface to a controller, which, for example, translates these control values or target values and controls the heat exchanger accordingly. For example, the user interface can include the ability to visualize and track the impact of made inputs or corresponding changes to control values on the status, effectiveness, and / or lifespan of a particular heat exchanger.

[0046] According to one embodiment, each heat exchanger block comprises interconnected structural sheets and / or side bars and / or separator sheets and / or cover sheets. For example, such a heat exchanger block can comprise a plurality of separator sheets or separator plates arranged parallel to one another and a plurality of structural sheets with thin plates (so-called fins), the structural sheets being arranged between each two adjacent separator sheets, so that a plurality of parallel channels are formed between the adjacent sheets, through which a medium can flow. On both sides, the thin plates are separated by side bars soldered to the adjacent plates. The heat exchanger block is formed as a whole through the interconnected structural sheets, side bars, separator sheets, and cover sheets.

[0047] A computing system according to the invention, for example a server of a process engineering facility or a remote distributed computing system in the course of so-called "cloud computing", is configured, in particular with regard to program technology, to carry out the method according to the invention, and for this purpose the computing system in particular has a graphical user interface according to the invention, in particular centrally and uniformly.

[0048] Furthermore, implementing the method according to the invention in the form of a computer program or computer program product having program code for executing all process steps is also advantageous because it results in particularly low costs, especially when the executing control unit is also used for other tasks and is therefore present anyway. Finally, a machine-readable storage medium stores the computer program as described above. Suitable storage media or data carriers for providing the computer program are, in particular, magnetic, optical, and electrical storage units, such as hard drives, flash memories, EEPROMs, DVDs, etc. Downloading the program via a computer network (Internet, intranet, etc.) is also possible. Such downloading can be performed via a wired or cable-based connection or wirelessly (e.g., via a WLAN network, a 3G, 4G, 5G, or 6G connection, etc.).

[0049] Further advantages and embodiments of the invention arise from the description and the accompanying drawings.

[0050] The invention is illustrated diagrammatically in the drawings using exemplary embodiments and will be explained below with reference to the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0051] [Figure 1] 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a heat exchanger for a process engineering facility that can be managed according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] 1 illustrates schematically a process engineering facility that can be managed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 1 illustrates schematically a graphical user interface according to an embodiment of the present invention; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0052] In FIG. 1, a heat exchanger is shown schematically and labeled 100 that may be used in a process engineering facility that may be managed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] The heat exchanger 100 shown in Figure 1 is an aluminum brazed plate-fin heat exchanger (PFHE) (name in the German and English versions of ISO 15547-2:3005) that can be used in a multitude of installations at widely differing pressures and temperatures. For example, they are used in cryogenic air separation, natural gas liquefaction, and ethylene production plants. It should be understood that "aluminum" can also refer to aluminum alloys.

[0054] An aluminum brazed plate-fin heat exchanger is shown and described in Figure 2 of the above-mentioned ISO 15547-2:3005, as well as on page 5 of the ALPEMA publication "The Standards of the Brazed Aluminum Plate-Fine Heat Exchanger Manufacturers' Association," 3rd Edition, 2010. This Figure 1 substantially corresponds to the illustration in the above-mentioned ISO standard and is described below.

[0055] 1 is shown partially open, is used in the illustrated example for the heat exchange of five different process media A to E. For the heat exchange between the process media A to E, the plate heat exchanger 100 comprises a plurality of separating sheets 4 (in the aforementioned publication, to which the subsequent reference in parentheses also refers, these are called "dividing sheets") arranged parallel to one another, between which heat exchange passages 1 defined by structural sheets with thin plates 3 ("fins") are formed in each case for one of the process media A to E, thereby allowing them to exchange heat with one another.

[0056] As also shown in Figure 1 of ISO 15547-2:3005, the structural sheet with lamellae 3 is typically folded or corrugated, with flow channels formed by each fold or corrugation. The provision of a structural sheet with lamellae 3 offers the advantages of improved heat transfer, more targeted fluid conduction, and increased mechanical (tensile) strength compared to plate heat exchangers without lamellae. In the heat exchange passage 1, the process media A to E flow, separated in particular by the separating sheet 4, but in the case of a perforated structural sheet, they can optionally pass through the separating sheet 4 with lamellae 3.

[0057] The structural sheet with the individual passages 1 or lamellae 3 is surrounded on each side by what are known as side bars 8, which leave free space for the feed and discharge openings 9. The side bars 8 hold the separating sheet 4 at a certain distance and ensure mechanical reinforcement of the pressure chamber. A particularly reinforced cover sheet 5 ("cap sheet") is arranged parallel to the separating sheet 4 and is used in particular to close at least two side surfaces.

[0058] By means of what is known as a header 7, which is equipped with nozzles 6, the process media A-E are supplied and discharged via feed and discharge openings 9. In the inlet region of the passage 1 there are further structural sheets with what are known as distribution fins 2 ("distribution fins"), which ensure a uniform distribution over the entire width of the passage 1. As seen in the direction of flow, further structural sheets with distribution fins 2 may be located at the end of the passage 1, which guide the process media A-E from the passage 1 to the header 7, where they are collected and recovered via the corresponding nozzles 6.

[0059] The heat exchanger block 20, which in this case is a rectangular parallelepiped, is formed as a whole by a structural sheet with lamellae 3, a further structural sheet with distribution lamellae 2, side bars 8, a separating sheet 4 and a cover sheet 5, the term "heat exchanger block" being understood here as the above elements without the interconnected headers 7 and nozzles 6. Although not illustrated in Figure 1, the plate heat exchanger 100 can be formed from a number of corresponding interconnected rectangular parallelepiped heat exchanger blocks 20, particularly for manufacturing reasons.

[0060] The corresponding plate heat exchanger 100 is brazed from aluminum. The individual channels 1, each comprising a structural sheet with lamellae 3, a further structural sheet with distribution lamellae 2, a cover sheet 5 and side bars 8, are then provided with solder, stacked on top of each other or arranged appropriately and heated in an oven. The headers 7 and nozzles 6 are welded to the heat exchanger block 20 thus produced. The headers 7 are produced using semi-cylindrical extruded profiles, which are cut to the required length and then welded onto the heat exchanger block 20.

[0061] FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic diagram of a process engineering facility 200 that can be managed in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] The process engineering facility 200 can be designed, for example, as an air separation facility or a facility for separating mixtures of substances based on physical properties. The process engineering facility 200 includes a plurality of heat exchangers 210, each of which is designed, for example, as an aluminum plate heat exchanger PFHE 100 shown in FIG. 1 , each of which includes a plurality of heat exchanger blocks 20. Furthermore, the facility 200 can include other heat exchangers, for example, each of which can be designed as a coil-wound heat exchanger. The process engineering facility 200 also includes additional components, such as a column 230. For clarity, only one such additional component 230 is shown in FIG. 2 , but it is understood that the facility 200 can include multiple other different components. It is further understood that the facility 200 can include a greater or lesser number of heat exchangers 210.

[0063] A plurality of sensors 220, e.g., temperature sensors, pressure sensors, and flow rate sensors, are disposed in and on each of the individual plate heat exchangers 210 to detect the corresponding physical properties of the particular heat exchanger material and the particular process medium. For clarity, FIG. 2 shows three sensors 220 for each heat exchanger 210. However, it will be understood that each heat exchanger 210 may in each case be equipped with more or fewer sensors 220, and may also in each case be equipped with other types of sensors, e.g., sound sensors, vibration sensors, etc.

[0064] The sensors 220 arranged in and on the heat exchanger 210 are connected to a local network 201 of the installation 200, which is shown by dashed lines in Figure 2. A central controller 240 for controlling and regulating the installation 200 is connected to the individual installation components via the local network 201. The measurements detected by the sensors 220 are transmitted via the network 201 to the controller 240 and stored there. Furthermore, a computer 250 is connected to the network 201, by means of which the installation 200 can be managed by an operator or user who may be located in or in the immediate vicinity of the installation 200.

[0065] Controller 240 and computer 250 are connected to a remote computing system 260 via the Internet 205 in the process of so-called "cloud computing." Furthermore, computer 270 is connected to this cloud 260 via the Internet 205, through which, for example, the manufacturer or owner of equipment 200, who may be located far away from equipment 200, may also manage equipment 200. In each case, such Internet connections are shown as dotted lines in FIG. 2.

[0066] In order to be able to manage the installation using the computers 250, 270, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a graphical user interface is provided, and for this purpose the computing system 260 is adapted, in particular with regard to program techniques, to carry out an embodiment of the method according to the present invention.

[0067] During this process, sensor values detected by sensors 220 and stored in controller 240 are transferred from controller 240 to computing system 260 via internet 205. These sensor values include, for example, temperature values of the fluid flow within the heat exchanger blocks of individual heat exchangers 210 and temperature values of the walls of the heat exchanger blocks of individual heat exchangers 210.

[0068] Based on these received sensor values, the computing system 260 determines parameters that identify or characterize the operation of the heat exchanger 210. Such parameters may include at least one temperature difference between the heat exchanger blocks of the individual heat exchangers 210. Further parameters may include, for example, temperature differences within the individual heat exchangers 210, temperature differences between fluid streams within the individual heat exchangers 210, temperature differences between the fluid streams and the heat exchanger blocks of the individual heat exchangers 210, rates of cooling and warming processes within the individual heat exchangers 210, local and temporal temperature profiles within the individual heat exchangers 210, and mechanical and thermal stress levels within the individual heat exchangers 210. Further parameters may include, for example, whether the operation of the individual heat exchangers 210 deviates from predefined guidelines.

[0069] The sensor values and parameters are processed graphically by the computing system 260 for display of the condition of the heat exchanger 210. As such, the life of the individual heat exchanger 210 is determined based on the determined temperature difference between the particular heat exchanger blocks of the individual heat exchanger 210. The computing system 260 further determines a graphical representation of this life of the individual heat exchanger 210.

[0070] Additionally, the computing system 260 may determine the change in life or consumption of an individual heat exchanger 210 based on a particular temperature differential as a condition. For example, during processing, a graphical representation of this change in remaining life of an individual heat exchanger 210 may be determined based on the temperature differential of a particular heat exchanger block, and more particularly, based on the operating conditions of the particular heat exchanger 210. This may, for example, constitute a life monitor.

[0071] Additionally, the computing system 260 may determine, as such, the current performance of each individual heat exchanger 210 along with the performance and life history or temporal profile of each individual heat exchanger 210 .

[0072] For example, during this process, a graphical representation of the temporal profile of individual sensor values and parameters can also be determined based on the time points at which particular sensor values were determined. For example, for this purpose, a two-dimensional diagram can be generated in which particular sensor values or particular parameters are plotted against time. For example, a diagram of detected temperature values as sensor values and determined temperature differences as parameters, each plotted against time, can be determined.

[0073] Furthermore, a graphical representation of the local profile of each sensor value and each parameter can be determined during processing based on the location within the particular heat exchanger 210 at which the particular sensor value was determined. For example, for this purpose, a two-dimensional diagram can be generated in which a particular sensor value or a particular parameter is plotted against the length of the particular heat exchanger. For example, such a two-dimensional graph of the detected temperature value and the determined temperature difference can each be plotted against the length of the particular heat exchanger.

[0074] Additionally, multi-dimensional profiles of individual sensor values and parameters can be determined during processing based on the time at which a particular sensor value was determined and based on the location within a particular heat exchanger at which the particular sensor value was determined. For example, a three-dimensional diagram can be generated in which the detected temperature or determined temperature difference is plotted against time and against the length of a particular heat exchanger.

[0075] Additionally, a graphical representation of the performance of the individual heat exchangers 210 may be determined, for example, during processing. For example, current sensor values and parameters characterizing the performance or effectiveness of the individual heat exchangers 210 may be displayed for this purpose.

[0076] Additionally, a graphical representation of the hazard analysis of each individual heat exchanger can be determined during the process, for example, output alarm messages can be displayed along with the circumstances that led to these alarms being sent.

[0077] Additionally, a graphical representation of the cooling process ("cool down") and warming process ("warm up", "start up") of each individual heat exchanger 210 can be determined during the process. For example, the cooling rate of each individual heat exchanger 210 can be displayed during this process.

[0078] Furthermore, a graphical representation of the thermal expansion of individual heat exchanger blocks can be determined during the process. For example, for this purpose, each heat exchanger block can be graphically displayed in its normal idle state, and compared to this idle state, it can be shown how a particular heat exchanger block is thermally deformed during its operation. For example, the local spatial profile of the temperature gradient of a particular heat exchanger block can be displayed along three spatial directions.

[0079] The sensor values and parameters thus processed are output to a graphical user interface by the computing system 260. In the process, at least a graphical representation of the service life of the individual heat exchangers 210 is output to the graphical user interface. For this purpose, the graphical user interface is generated centrally and uniformly by the computing system 260, and the corresponding data is transmitted to the computers 250, 270 via the Internet 205 so that this user interface can be uniformly displayed on the screens of the computers 250, 270.

[0080] In this graphical user interface or user interface, the operation of the individual heat exchangers 210 is managed and at least the lifetime of the individual heat exchangers 210 is monitored. For this purpose, correspondingly processed sensor values and parameters, i.e., the above-mentioned two-dimensional and multi-dimensional diagrams, etc., are output to the user interface. Based on this processed and displayed information, equipment owners and equipment manufacturers can monitor and analyze the individual heat exchangers 210, for example, with regard to their condition, performance, effectiveness, lifetime, etc.

[0081] Based on these analyses, improved operating conditions or control values can be determined, for example, according to which heat exchangers should be operated in the future to improve their lifespan and performance. These new control values, e.g., new target values, can be entered by the equipment owner and equipment manufacturer into a user interface displayed on the particular computer 250, 270. These inputs are transmitted from the user interface or from a computing system 260 running the user interface to the controller 240, which then controls the individual heat exchangers 210 accordingly.

[0082] FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic representation of a graphical user interface or user interface 300 according to one embodiment of the present invention, as may be executed centrally by a computing system 260 and displayed uniformly on computers 250, 270.

[0083] For example, the current status of the equipment 200 may be displayed on a start or overview page 310 of the user interface 300. This overview page 310 may include multiple display surfaces or panels 311, 312, 313, 314 that may display the remaining life of each individual heat exchanger 210, as well as, for example, the current overall status of the equipment 200, the current operating temperature of the equipment 200, temperature differentials over time, and local temperature differentials.

[0084] Additionally, buttons 320 are displayed on the user interface 300. By activating or clicking on the respective button, a further display surface is opened in which, for example, the respective processed sensor value or parameter is displayed.

[0085] For example, a two-dimensional diagram of the detected temperature values and determined temperature differences of the individual heat exchanger blocks can be displayed, each plotted against time, by activating button 321 .

[0086] By activating button 322, for example, a two-dimensional diagram of the detected temperature values and determined temperature differences of the individual heat exchanger blocks can be displayed, each plotted against the length of a particular heat exchanger.

[0087] By activating button 323, for example, a three-dimensional diagram of the detected temperatures and determined temperature differences of the individual heat exchanger blocks can be displayed, each plotted against time and against the length of the particular heat exchanger.

[0088] Additionally, actuation of button 324 may, for example, open an input field or input panel in which input may be made that is then passed to controller 240 for controlling installation 200 .

[0089] Thus, the present invention provides a central, unified user interface 300 for online monitoring and management of the operation of individual heat exchangers 210 of a process engineering facility 200, displaying information regarding the operation and characteristics of the individual heat exchangers 210, and, based on this information, influencing the operation of the facility 200 to increase the effectiveness and lifespan of the individual heat exchangers 210.

Claims

1. 1. A method for managing a process engineering facility (200) having at least one heat exchanger (100, 210), each of said heat exchangers (100, 210) being designed as a plate heat exchanger and each comprising a plurality of heat exchanger blocks (20), comprising: receiving a sensor value from a sensor (220) located on or in the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210); determining a parameter characterizing the operation of the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) based on the received sensor values, wherein a temperature difference between heat exchanger blocks (20) of the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) is determined as the parameter; processing the sensor values and / or the parameters for a graphical representation of a status of the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210), wherein based on the determined temperature difference between the heat exchanger blocks (20) of the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210), a lifespan of the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) is determined as the status and a graphical representation of the lifespan of the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) is determined; outputting the processed sensor values and / or parameters to a graphical user interface (300), wherein the graphical representation of the life of the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) is output to the graphical user interface (300); and managing the operation of the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) based on the sensor values and / or parameters output and processed in the graphical user interface (300), wherein the life of the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) is monitored.

2. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising determining a change in the service life of the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) as the state of the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) based on the determined temperature difference between the heat exchanger blocks (20) of the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210), determining a graphical representation of the change in the service life of the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210), and outputting the graphical representation of the change in the service life of the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) to the graphical user interface (300).

3. Managing the operation of the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) comprises: determining a maintenance interval for the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) based on the graphical representation of the life of the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) output on the graphical user interface; determining a maintenance work task to be performed on the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) based on the graphical representation of the lifespan of the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) output on the graphical user interface; determining hazards related to the operation of the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) based on the graphical representation of the life of the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) output on the graphical user interface; 3. The method according to claim 1, further comprising one or more of the steps of: determining a control value for the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) based on the graphical representation of the lifespan of the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) output on the graphical user interface in order to avoid a dangerous condition that leads to a shortened lifespan.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising determining the performance of the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) and / or the history of the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) as the state of the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210).

5. 5. The method according to claim 1, wherein the sensors (220) arranged on or in the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) are each designed as a temperature sensor and / or a pressure sensor and / or a flow sensor and / or a sound sensor and / or a vibration sensor.

6. Furthermore, a temperature difference within said at least one heat exchanger (100, 210); a temperature difference between the fluid streams of said at least one heat exchanger (100, 210); a temperature difference between the fluid flow of the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) and the heat exchanger block (20); the rate of the cooling and / or warming process of said at least one heat exchanger (100, 210); a local temperature profile within said at least one heat exchanger (100, 210); a temporal temperature profile within said at least one heat exchanger (100, 210); the mechanical stress level of said at least one heat exchanger (100, 210); the thermal stress level of said at least one heat exchanger (100, 210); deviation from guidelines for said operation of said at least one heat exchanger (100, 210); The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein one or more of the following variables are determined as parameters: deviation of the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) from specifications.

7. said processing of said sensor values and / or said parameters comprising: determining a graphical representation of the temporal profile of each sensor value and / or each parameter based on the time at which the particular sensor value was determined; determining a graphical representation of a local profile of individual sensor values and / or individual parameters within the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) based on the location within the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) at which the particular sensor value was determined; determining a graphical representation of a multi-dimensional profile of individual sensor values and / or individual parameters based on the time at which the particular sensor values were determined and based on the location within the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) at which the particular sensor values were determined; determining a graphical representation of the performance of the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210); determining a graphical representation of a hazard analysis of said at least one heat exchanger (100, 210); determining a graphical representation of the cooling and / or warming process of said at least one heat exchanger (100, 210); The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising one or more of the steps of: determining a graphical representation of the thermal expansion of a heat exchanger block (20) of said at least one heat exchanger (100, 210).

8. Managing the operation of the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) comprises: monitoring the current state of said at least one heat exchanger (100, 210); monitoring the future state of said at least one heat exchanger (100, 210); monitoring the historical condition of said at least one heat exchanger (100, 210); determining a control value for the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) to improve the performance of the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210).

9. receiving input at the user interface (300); The method of any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising: controlling the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) based on the received input.

10. 10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein each heat exchanger block (20) comprises interconnected structural sheets (2, 3) and / or side bars (8) and / or separating sheets (4) and / or cover sheets (5).

11. 1. A graphical user interface (300) for managing a process engineering facility (200) having at least one heat exchanger (100, 210), each of said heat exchangers (100, 210) being designed as a plate heat exchanger and each comprising a plurality of heat exchanger blocks (20), comprising: the graphical user interface comprises at least one display surface (310) configured to output sensor values received and processed according to the method of any one of claims 1 to 10 and / or parameters determined and processed according to the method of any one of claims 1 to 10, A graphical user interface (300) wherein the display surface (310) is configured to output the graphical representation of the life of the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210).

12. 12. The graphical user interface (300) of claim 11, further comprising at least one control surface configured to receive input, wherein the graphical user interface (300) is configured to control the at least one heat exchanger (100, 210) based on the received input.

13. A computing system (260) configured to perform all the method steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

14. A computing system (260) according to claim 13, comprising a graphical user interface (300) according to claim 11 or 12.

15. A computer program causing a computing system (260), in particular a computing system (260) according to claim 13 or 14, to carry out all the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 10 when said computer program is executed on said computing system (260).

16. A machine-readable storage medium having stored thereon the computer program of claim 15.

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