Energy & Mass Balance Modelling
The Engineering Foundation of Every Successful Process Plant
Energy & Mass Balance (EMB) modelling is one of the most important engineering activities undertaken during the development of sugar, ethanol or bioenergy projects. Every tonne of cane processed, every kilogram of steam generated, and every litre of ethanol produced must be accounted for through a technically consistent model. Dehrmann BioEnergy develops EMB models that provide clients with confidence that proposed facilities are technically achievable and capable of meeting production objectives.
What is an Energy & Mass Balance?
An EMB is a mathematical representation of a complete industrial process. It quantifies the movement of raw materials, process streams, utilities, steam, power, water and finished products through a facility. By integrating these relationships into a single engineering model, project teams can evaluate alternative configurations, identify bottlenecks and optimise overall plant performance before detailed design begins, and also when evaluating existing operations.
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Supporting Better Decisions
EMB models underpin feasibility studies, conceptual engineering and detailed engineering. They provide the technical basis for equipment sizing, utility design, production forecasting, capital expenditure (CAPEX) estimation and operational planning. Reliable EMB modelling reduces uncertainty and improves the quality of engineering and investment decisions.
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New and Existing Facilities
Whether developing a new facility (greenfield) or expanding an existing operation (brownfield), EMB modelling enables engineers to assess production capacity, energy integration, utility requirements and process performance. The same methodology can be used to evaluate operational improvements, debottlenecking opportunities and future expansion strategies.
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Modelling Tools
Dehrmann BioEnergy develops sophisticated EMB models using the third-party proprietary SUGARS™ modelling environment where appropriate, while also preparing robust Microsoft Excel-based models when they best suit project requirements. The modelling platform is selected to meet the objectives, complexity and reporting needs of each assignment.
Benefits to Clients
- Reduce engineering risk and test production assumptions.
- Improve equipment selection and utility planning.
- Identify opportunities to improve energy efficiency.
- Establish a technical basis for project financing.
Build Your Project on a Sound Technical Basis
Planning a new facility, expanding an existing plant or assessing operational improvements? Discuss how Energy and Mass Balance modelling can support your engineering and investment decisions.