A discrete time formulation for batch processes with storage capacity and storage time limitations

This paper extends the conventional discrete time mixed integer linear programming (MILP) formulation for scheduling multiproduct/multipurpose batch processes by introducing storage capacity and storage time limitations. For this purpose, storage vessels are explicitly modeled on which material flows are defined, and storage capacity and storage time constraints are expressed. The approach is shown to be effective in modeling the scheduling problem in a variety of storage configurations such as single/multiple dedicated and multipurpose storage vessels. In a numerical study, cases where storage capacity and storage time limitations have significant impacts on scheduling production and storage operations are highlighted. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved