Optimization of multiple effect evaporator using fuzzy logic integrated with Taguchi technique

Multiple effect evaporator used in sugar industry has the biggest and most complex evaporation process which may be met in an industry. The economy of sugar manufacturing depends strongly on the multiple effect evaporator. It is therefore of interest to optimize this process in order to decrease energy consumption as well as to enhance the quality of sugar. Such an optimization can be achieved by applying efficient techniques like the Taguchi Method. This paper discusses the modeling and optimization of a quadruple effect evaporator used in sugar industries. Modeling has been performed in MATLAB and a Simulink file has been prepared with the data collected from Bhogawati Sugar Industry, Kolhapur, MS, India. For optimization of the evaporation process, Taguchi technique integrated with Fuzzy logic has been employed. A Multi Response Performance Index (MRPI) has been calculated for optimization. The evaporation parameters viz. Feed temperature, Feed flow rate and Steam flow rate have been optimized with consideration of multiple performance characteristics.