System analysis

System analysis in process engineering provides a structured methodological framework to evaluate and optimize complex industrial processes, especially when considering interactions between multiple units, operational dynamics, and broader regional and geographical contexts.

Component interaction analysis focuses on material and energy integration across reactors, heat exchangers, separation units, and utilities, ensuring efficiency and stability of the overall system. Dynamic operation analysis extends this view by modelling non-steady-state conditions such as load fluctuations, renewable energy and feedstock intermittency, or scheduled and unplanned shutdowns, using tools like dynamic simulation and process control models, e.g., control loops, model predictive methods, etc., to predict and purposefully control system responses.

Furthermore, techno-economic assessments are crucial to evaluate the cost-effectiveness and competitiveness of the investigated processes and systems (capital investment, operational expenditure, production costs of goods manufactured) under different economic scenarios. Finally, geospatial analysis utilizing geographic information systems (GIS) enriches the assessment by mapping regional factors (e.g., feedstock distribution, energy infrastructure, transport networks, etc.) allowing for location-specific optimization and feasibility studies. Through the combination of all described methodological building blocks, system analyses enable robust and decision-oriented evaluations on the component, plant and system level as well as within in regional and national assessment frameworks.