In this module, we work on the basic principles of heat transfer and their significance for industrial applications. We take a detailed look at the mechanisms of heat conduction, convection and heat radiation as well as the design and operation of various heat exchangers. Using practical examples, we analyse how heat exchange can be efficiently designed in machines and systems in a wide range of industries.

What you will learn:
You will understand the central processes of heat transfer and be able to apply them to a wide range of tasks in industry. You will learn how to calculate heat transfer processes and design suitable equipment. With this knowledge, you will be able to evaluate and specifically optimise energy processes - a key skill for modern mechanical engineering.

Lecturer: Julia Riese

In this module, we look at the basics of thermal separation processes. Based on the concept of the theoretical separation stage, we will work together to develop the processes of rectification, absorption and extraction - and you will learn how they are used in practice. Building on this, we will look at how the relevant separation equipment is dimensioned and which factors need to be taken into account in the design.

What you will take away:

You will understand the physical principles of thermal separation processes, be able to dimension rectification and absorption columns as well as extraction apparatus using established methods and be able to critically evaluate the results - an essential building block for engineering practice in process engineering.

Lecturer: Nicole Lutters

In this module, we look at the fundamentals and design of process engineering equipment and machines. We discuss relevant design aspects, suitable materials, sealing systems and legal guidelines such as CE and ATEX. Using typical process equipment such as heat exchangers, dryers, mixers and centrifuges, we will familiarise ourselves in detail with the design and operating principles. We also look at practical operation, from instrumentation and start-up and shut-down to automation and graphical visualisation of processes. The content is deepened in accompanying practical exercises.

What you will take away with you:
You will learn to differentiate between various process engineering devices and machines and recognise the key elements and how they work. You will be able to critically assess efficiency and areas of application and even work independently on design and calculation tasks. With these skills, you will be able to safely design equipment and optimise its operation in modern process plants.

Lecturer: Harald Reinach

In this module, we take an in-depth look at the dynamics of process engineering processes and their targeted control. We examine the fundamentals of dynamic modelling, explore suitable numerical solution strategies and analyse the behaviour of processes using characteristic methods such as step response analysis. Various control strategies and their tuning are presented as well as practical application examples. In accompanying exercises, we apply this knowledge directly with modern simulation software such as Aspen Custom Modeler and Aspen Dynamics.

What you will take away:
You will understand the fundamental difference between stationary and dynamic models and will be able to independently model and solve typical dynamics problems. With the knowledge you have acquired, you will be able to select and implement suitable control strategies and test their suitability. You will also learn how to analyse and interpret the results of dynamic simulations in order to optimise processes in a targeted manner.

Lecturer: Julia Riese

In this module, we work together on the basics of process engineering modelling and simulation with a focus on thermal separation processes. We deal with different types of models - from short-cut and step models to rate-based approaches - and analyse their structure, numerics and application examples. In practical exercises, we will deepen our knowledge by modelling and designing typical separators using common simulation software such as Aspen Custom Modeler.

What you will take away:
You will learn to analyse different models for describing process engineering equipment and recognise their limitations. You will be able to develop your own models for typical unit operations and implement them in a simulation environment. You will also learn how to interpret and evaluate simulation results in order to make well-founded decisions when designing separation equipment.

Lecturer: Julia Riese

In this module, we learn about the fundamentals and applications of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) in process engineering. We deal with the principles of modelling, discretisation and numerical solution of the flow equations and look at typical areas of application in process engineering. Using practical examples and exercises, we will apply various CFD methods and analyse the results together.

What you will learn:
You will acquire practical knowledge in the use of CFD methods to solve typical process engineering tasks. You will be able to create flow and heat transfer models, select suitable numerical methods and critically analyse the simulation results. This will enable you to assess the potential and limitations of CFD for the design and optimisation of process engineering systems.

Lecturer: Julia Riese

In this module, we build on the knowledge gained in Thermal Process Engineering 1. Together, we will deal with more complex problems such as the separation of azeotropic mixtures, absorption with heat generation and solids extraction. You will also familiarise yourself with hybrid separation processes and develop options for process intensification.

What you will learn:
You will be able to systematically analyse complex separation tasks, evaluate suitable process concepts and assess their design, taking hybrid and intensified processes into account. You will not only understand the physical principles, but will also be able to develop concrete solutions - and thus make a real contribution to more efficient and sustainable industrial processes.

Lecturer: Nicole Lutters

In this module, we deal with the fundamentals of mass transfer and gain a comprehensive overview of the relevant concepts for both binary and multi-component systems. We delve deeper into fundamental laws such as Fick's laws and the Maxwell-Stefan model and analyse diffusion processes in different geometries and porous media. In addition, we deal with transient diffusion processes, reaction-influenced processes, transport coefficients and complex transport across phase boundaries.

What you will learn:
You will learn to apply the fundamentals of mass transfer in a process engineering context and to differentiate between binary and multi-component systems. You will be able to analyse diffusion processes in different media, apply model laws in practice and evaluate the influence of reactions and phase boundaries on mass transfer. You will be ideally equipped to successfully master the challenges of mass transfer in process engineering processes.

Lecturer: Julia Riese

In this module, we look at the networking of different energy sectors and the possibilities of chemical energy storage. We analyse the technical and economic fundamentals of sector coupling and focus on innovative storage technologies such as power-to-gas, power-to-liquid and hydrogen systems. Together, we will analyse the integration of renewable energies into existing infrastructures and discuss current developments and challenges for a sustainable energy future.

What you will take away:
You will understand the most important concepts for coupling the electricity, heating and mobility sectors and gain in-depth insights into chemical storage solutions. You will learn to evaluate the technical possibilities and areas of application of power-to-X technologies and categorise their potential for the energy transition. Finally, you will be able to critically reflect on current challenges in the integration of renewable energies and assess sustainable solutions.

Lecturer: Julia Riese

In courses such as thermal process engineering, mechanical process engineering and heat transfer, individual unit operations are described, dimensioned and applied to specific problems. But how do you decide on a suitable process when only the mixture of substances is given - and how do you interconnect different unit operations in a meaningful way? In the subject area of process design, we deal with precisely this question: how do you turn a successful laboratory experiment into an efficient large-scale industrial process?

What you will learn:

You will learn how to systematically set up complex reaction and separation processes - from the initial idea to the selection of suitable separation sequences and conclusive process integration. You will be able to analyse process flows, make decisions based on costs, energy and sustainability and design an overall process in such a way that it not only works, but also makes economic and ecological sense - a decisive step on the way to becoming an engineering professional in process development.

Lecturer: Nicole Lutters

In this module we deal with modern methods of measurement technology, data evaluation and modelling, especially for fluid process engineering. We explore both classic and innovative measurement methods, including imaging technologies and high-resolution methods. We also take an in-depth look at the use of soft sensors and AI-supported evaluation and modelling concepts. A practical project enables you to apply the knowledge you have acquired directly to a real case study - experimentally or theoretically.

What you will take away with you:
You will learn how to integrate various measurement methods into process engineering processes and understand and apply modern AI-supported evaluation methods. You will also develop a critical understanding of alternative and hybrid modelling approaches and be able to recognise their limitations. Finally, you will be able to confidently interpret and evaluate the results obtained from innovative methods.

Lecturer: Julia Riese