A Mixed-Integer Linear Programming Scheduling Optimization Model for Refinery Production

• Main Authors: Z.K. Zheng, H.J. Zhang
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: AIDIC Servizi S.r.l. 2016-08-01
• Series: Chemical Engineering Transactions
• Online Access: https://www.cetjournal.it/index.php/cet/article/view/4016

This paper addresses the problem of production planning and scheduling in an oil refinery process. In the process crude oil is transformed to bitumen and naphthenic special oils. The aim of the scheduling optimization is to decide which mode of operation to use in each processing unit at each point in time, in order to satisfy the demand while minimizing the production cost and taking inventory capacities into account. A mixed-integer optimization model is developed for the scheduling problem. The model can be regarded as a generalized lot-sizing problem, where inventory capacities are considered and more than one product is obtained for some modes of operation. It is shown how the optimization model can be used as a viable tool for supporting production planning and scheduling at the refinery, and that it is possible to analyze scheduling scenarios of realistic sizes.