Using Dimensional Analysis to Design Pilot Plant Experimental Programs

Pilot plants are capital intensive and expensive to operate.  The most expensive item of a pilot plant budget is its experimental program.  A poorly designed pilot plant experimental program requires more operating campaigns than originally budgeted.  Thus, such a pilot plant will “go beyond” its budget --- a non-optimal situation.

This presentation discusses using Dimensional Analysis as a method for designing pilot plant experimental programs.  First, Dimensional Analysis helps identify the major parameters impacting the chemical process.  Second, Dimensional Analysis shows how to minimize the experimental program for a given pilot plant, thereby reducing its total operating expense. 

Dimensional Analysis is not new: it has just fell out of favor with chemical engineers.  It is time to rethink its use.