Development of

Dynamic Process
Models
Model:
Model:
• A representation of the Process that was derived by taking for consideration all
possible variables that can affect the process.

Input:
• Disturbances
Process Displaying an
• Manipulated
Output
Variable

Essentials:
• Definition of all process variables and parameters
• Definition of Control Volumes
• Equations Conservation Equations
(Mass, Energy, Momentum Balances)
Phenomenological Models
(Fick’s Law of Diffusion)
Dynamic Process Models

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 Three Main types of Process Models

Model Type Advantages Disadvantages

Theoretical models • Based on process physics and • Expensive and difficult to
chemistry develop
• Extrapolate well • May require unknown
parameters

Empirical Models • Easy to develop • Do not extrapolate well

Semi-empirical models • Incorporate theory • Expensive

• Can be extrapolated better • Set up in the Industry
than empirical models
• Require less development
than theoretical models
 Determine the objective and the end-use of the model (determine the required
level of detail and model accuracy)

Draw a schematic; label process variables

List assumptions (simply to the extent that the modeling objectives are still
met.

Are spatial variations (e.g. concentration and thermal gradients) important?

Modeling
Steps: Write the conservation equations.

Introduce rate, equilibrium, and other algebraic relationships.

Perform DOF analysis.

Simplify and arrange so that outputs are on the LHS of the equations (to
facilitate programming)

Classify inputs as DVs or MVs.

Blending Example Revisited
1.

Notes: Component A is conserved because of

the first assumption. Energy conservation is not
needed because of item 1.
Degree of Freedom Analysis
Degree of Freedom Analysis

1.

2.

3.
DOF of the Blending Process

1.

Note that a physical output, effluent flow rate w, is

classified as a mathematical input, because it can be
specified arbitrarily. Any process variable that can be
specified arbitrarily should be identified as an input.
Blending Example Revisited
1.

Notes: Component A is conserved because of

the first assumption. Energy conservation is not
needed because of item 1.
Blending Example Revisited
Blending Example Revisited
Stirred Tank Heating Process
Conservation of Energy


Stirred Tank Heating Process

1.

2.

3.

4.
Balance Equations