Optimization of Ammonia Synthesis Reactor using Genetic Algorithm
An industrial fixed bed ammonia synthesis reactor was studied in this paper with the aim of increasing overall production. Applying Genetic Algorithm (GA) as a powerful method for complex problems, a heterogeneous one-dimensional model was developed in order to optimize the reactor performance. Simulation of the reactor was carried out under steady-state condition. Optimal temperature profile along the reactor was studied for two cases: quench temperature and quench flow rates. Optimization of quench temperature showed that 615°K is the best choice whereas changing the quench flows can enhance a 3.3% additional ammonia production.