ABB has partnered with Yunnan Dawei Coking Co., Ltd. (Dawei Coking) to implement Advanced Process Control (APC) in the methanol distillation section of its production facility. This collaboration aims to improve production efficiency, product quality, and energy savings through cutting-edge automation and digital solutions.
Advanced Process Control (APC) for Methanol Production
ABB’s APC system utilizes multivariable model predictive control (MPC) and intelligent control strategies to optimize methanol distillation. Key benefits include:
Reduction in process variability by over 30% through predictive modeling.
Enhanced "edge-of-spec" (EOS) operation, allowing tighter control near optimal production limits.
Lower steam consumption and higher methanol yield, improving overall energy efficiency.
The system builds upon Dawei Coking’s existing Distributed Control System (DCS), which already monitors critical parameters like temperature, pressure, flow, and liquid levels.
Key Project Benefits
The APC implementation is expected to deliver significant operational improvements:
Increased production stability with minimized fluctuations in key process variables.
Reduced manual intervention, lowering operational workload.
Optimized startup shutdown procedures through an automated methanol distillation assist system, cutting downtime and energy waste.
Strengthening Long-Term Collaboration
Dawei Coking and ABB have a strong partnership history, including previous projects such as the DCS deployment and the “Four-Zone Separation” dispatching management platform.
A spokesperson from Dawei Coking stated:
“ABB’s deep understanding of our processes and expertise in automation make them a trusted partner. This APC project will further enhance our methanol plant’s efficiency and sustainability.”
Advancing Sustainable Methanol Production in China
China is the world’s largest methanol producer and consumer, with coke oven gas-to-methanol accounting for ~11% of total capacity in 2023. This method utilizes by-products from coking operations, promoting resource efficiency and reduced emissions.
Fan Xiaopeng, Vice President of ABB China and Head of Energy Industries, commented:
“ABB is committed to helping energy clients achieve digital transformation and energy savings. This project with Dawei Coking will drive smarter, more sustainable methanol production.”
Conclusion
By integrating ABB’s APC technology, Dawei Coking’s methanol plant will achieve higher automation levels, lower production costs, and improved sustainability. This initiative supports China’s circular economy goals while setting a benchmark for intelligent, eco-friendly chemical manufacturing.
