A thermodynamic methodology for process synthesis and its application to dual-purpose desalination plants. Extraction vs. back pressure turbines

A set of thermodynamically non-ideal optimal solutions is obtained for each amount of investment determined by the items used (heat transfer areas, turbines efficiencies and capacities, etc.) when either a back pressure and a condensation turbine or an extraction-condensation turbine coupled to a desalination process is analysed. The procedure to obtain optimal structures and operating conditions is based on the synthesis theory presented in previous papers 2,3 . The solutions obtained form a basis for the selection of those alternatives which satisfy economical optimum and process functional criteria