A model of process steam network in a steel plant with identification of parameters by a genetic algorithm

This paper proposes a mathematical model of a process steam distribution network, with parameters set through a genetic algorithm, with the purpose of maximizing the energy utilization in a steel plant. The model is based on thermodynamics principles, including the balance of mass and energy. To determine the model parameters, due the dependencies between the equations, a genetic algorithm was applied. Once the control systems are not usually interconnected, steam pressure oscillations may occur in the Coke Plant side or in the Utilities Sector resulting in a large amount of wasted steam through independent relief systems. On a steel plant, steam can be used for some specific equipments or processes. In general, steam is considered a power source, applied on heating and power plants for electricity generation. Avoiding the steam waste is possible to improve the energy utilization figures resulting in both financial and environmental gains.