MEng Chemical Engineering

Year of entry: 2024

Course unit details:
Batch Processing

Course unit fact file
Unit code CHEN30321
Credit rating 10
Unit level Level 3
Teaching period(s) Semester 1
Available as a free choice unit? No

Overview

Batch operation is required for production of highly regulated materials, such as pharmaceuticals, and more recently with the emerging field of bioengineering. There are differences between continuous and batch processes, which need incorporating into a plant design in order for it to be fit for purpose. One of the main factors is the change of conditions with time, resulting in non-steady state conditions.

 By the end of this module, students will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the design, operation, sequencing, scheduling and optimisation of batch operations.

 

Pre/co-requisites

Unit title Unit code Requirement type Description
Process Engineering Fundamentals CHEN10041 Pre-Requisite Compulsory
Chemical Reactor Design CHEN20141 Pre-Requisite Compulsory
Chemical Engineering Optimisation CHEN20051 Pre-Requisite Compulsory

Aims

The unit aims to:

Explain the difference between batch and continuous processes, and understand their characteristics in relation to applications.

Allow students to quantitatively design a range batch processes.

Provide students with knowledge on how to optimise batch processes.

Detail how to schedule batch processes effectively to improve system efficiency.

 

Learning outcomes

Students will be able to: 

ILO 1: Describe and evaluate the use and synthesis of different batch processes. 

ILO 2: Design batch reactors and analyse factors that impact reactor performance. 

ILO 3: Compare different operation modes (relating to condensers and reboilers) of batch distillation columns. 

ILO 4: Produce and analyse schedules for batch processes and quantify production rates. 

ILO 5: Produce and evaluate control schedules for batch processes.

Teaching and learning methods

Fundamental aspects supporting the critical learning of the module will be delivered as pre-recorded asynchronous short videos via our virtual learning environment. These will be supported by synchronous sessions with master lecture content, Q&A, and problem-solving sessions where you can apply the new concepts.

Surgery hours are also available for drop-in support.

Students are expected to expand the concepts presented in the session and online by additional reading (suggested in the Online Reading List) in order to consolidate their learning process and further stimulate their interest to the module.

Assessment methods

Method Weight
Other 30%
Written exam 70%

Continuous Assessment

Feedback methods

Feedback on problems and examples, feedback on coursework and exams, and support will also be provided through the virtual learning environment. A discussion board provides an opportunity to discuss topics related to the material presented in the module.

Recommended reading

Reading lists are accessible through the Blackboard system linked to the library catalogue.

 

Study hours

Scheduled activity hours
Assessment written exam 32
Lectures 24
Independent study hours
Independent study 44

Teaching staff

Staff member Role
Emily Cooksey Unit coordinator

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