General information
Type: Master project in Industry (abroad)
Period: Spring 2020
Project directors: Prof. François Maréchal (IPESE-EPFL)
Assistants: Ivan Kantor, Alessio Santecchia (IPESE-EPFL)
Project description
The objective of the project is to carry out a total site energy review and to identify and study energy savings opportunities on an industrial site owned by Lenzing in Lenzing, Austria. The Master thesis is carried out within both and industrial and academic context. The student will be immersed in the site during the whole duration of the project (ca. 6 months). The main activities will be the data collection, process modeling and applied research aimed at the complete understanding of the Lenzing viscose fibre production process.
Some possible energy saving opportunities have been already identified by the on-site team, though additional opportunities could also be identified upon a thorough analysis of the processes. The student will therefore analyse and prioritize all opportunities according to indicators such as profitability. The student will be immersed in the site and will have access to all necessary data and information through collaboration with Lenzing’s engineers and operators. The study will be carried out by such techniques as energy integration (pinch analysis) at white box level, indicating the relevant energy and mass balances and thus entering the process details. Optimisation techniques will be used to identify promising solutions.
The student will report regularly with progress updates and will receive feedback and input. Local project leaders and on-site engineers are first lines of contact. Periodic telecons with the Industrial Process and Energy Systems Engineering (IPESE) supervising team will ensure support for the project from the side of EPFL.
Additional information
The Lenzing Group is a world market leader headquartered in Austria, with production sites in all major markets as well as a worldwide network of sales and marketing offices. Lenzing supplies the global textile and nonwovens industry with high-quality, botanic cellulose fibers. Its portfolio ranges from dissolving pulp to standard and specialty cellulose fibers.
How to apply
If interested, please take contact with Ivan Kantor attaching your CV, Cover Letter and transcript of records (Bachelor’s and Master’s).
Practical information
The project refers to a 6 month presence on-site (Lenzing, Austria). The salary is to be determined but should be sufficient to cover the living expenses.