Performance enhancement for crystallization unit of a sugar plant using genetic algorithm technique

Abstract

This paper deals with the performance enhancement for crystallization unit of a sugar plant using genetic<br /> algorithm. The crystallization unit of a sugar industry has three main subsystems arranged in series. Considering<br /> exponential distribution for the probable failures and repairs, the mathematical formulation of the problem is done<br /> using probabilistic approach, and differential equations are developed on the basis of Markov birth-death process.<br /> These equations are then solved using normalizing conditions so as to determine the steady-state availability of the<br /> crystallization unit. The performance of each subsystem of crystallization unit in a sugar plant has also been<br /> optimized using genetic algorithm. Thus, the findings of the present paper will be highly useful to the plant<br /> management for the timely execution of proper maintenance decisions and, hence, to enhance the system<br /> performance.