OVERVIEW

Key Learning Objectives

• Factors that are considered in site selection and plant layout

• Environmental legislation that governs chemical plant operations

• Waste minimization methods that can be used to reduce the environmental impact of a chemical plant

14.1. INTRODUCTION

In the discussion of process and equipment design given in the previous chapters, no reference was made to the plant site. A suitable site must be found for a new project, and the site and equipment layout planned. Provision must be made for the ancillary buildings and services needed for plant operation, and for the environmentally acceptable disposal of effluent. These subjects are discussed briefly in this chapter.

14.2. PLANT LOCATION AND SITE SELECTION

The location of the plant can have a crucial effect on the profitability of a project and the scope for future expansion. Many factors must be considered when selecting a suitable site, and only a brief review of the principal factors will be given in this section. Site selection for chemical process plants is discussed in more detail by Merims (1966) and Mecklenburgh (1985); see also AIChE (2003). The principal factors to consider are

1. Location, with respect to the marketing area;

2. Raw material supply;

3. Transport facilities;

4. Availability of labor;

5. Availability of utilities: water, fuel, power;

6. Availability of suitable land;

7. Environmental impact, including effluent disposal;

8. Local community considerations;

9. Climate;

10. Political and strategic considerations.