Process engineering design

The process engineer also develops tests and interprets

data and information from the research pilot plant. He
aids in scaling-up the research type flow cycle to one of
commercial feasibility.
The process engineer must understand the interrelationship
between the various research, engineering, purchasing,
expediting, construction and operational functions
of a project. He must appreciate that each function
may and often does affect or influence the process design
decisions. For example, it is foolish to waste time designing
or calculating in detail, when the basic components of
the design cannot be economically fabricated, or if capable
of being fabricated, cannot possibly be delivered by
the construction schedule for the project. Some specific
phases of a project that require process understanding
include plant layout, materials of construction for corrosion
as well as strength, start-up operations, trouble-shooting,
maintenance, performance testing and the like.