Chemical Process Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

The amount of steam required for different chemicals is determined by their heat of vaporization and the desired process temperature.

• Calculate the heat of vaporization for the chemical

• Determine the desired process temperature

• Use steam tables to find the amount of steam required

• Consider any heat losses in the system

• Adjust for any safety factors

Simple distillation separates two liquids with different boiling points, while fractional distillation separates multiple components of a mixture.

• Simple distillation is used when the boiling points of the two liquids are significantly different.

• Fractional distillation is used when the boiling points of the components are closer together.

• Fractional distillation uses a fractionating column to separate the components based on their boiling points.

• Simple distillation is a one-ste...read more

Pump characteristic curves show the relationship between flow rate, head, and power consumption.

• Pump curves are used to select the appropriate pump for a given application.

• The shape of the curve depends on the type of pump and impeller design.

• The point where the pump curve intersects the system curve determines the operating point.

• Operating a pump away from its best efficiency point can result in increased energy consumption and reduced pump life.

• Pump curves can also be used ...read more

Hazard and Operability Study (HAZOP) is a systematic approach to identify and evaluate potential hazards and operability issues in a process.

• HAZOP is a team-based approach that involves brainstorming sessions to identify potential hazards and operability issues.

• The team identifies deviations from the intended design and evaluates their potential consequences.

• The study results in recommendations for mitigating or eliminating identified hazards and improving operability.

• HAZOP i...read more