Expert System for the Design of Inherently Safer Processes. 2. Flowsheet Development Stage

In part 1 of this series, we proposed a systematic methodology for inherent safety analysis during the process route selection stage. In this part, we present the methodology for inherent safety analysis during the flowsheet development stage. An expert system, called iSafe, that implements the methodology has also been developed. One key benefit of automation is substantial reduction in the time and effort required to perform safety analysis. The architecture of iSafe is described and illustrated using an acrylic acid process case study.