provides
Refinery Conceptual Design Services

Conceptual designs are usually the simplest of the different design projects. Their normal purpose is to define a working case answering basic questions about a proposed project. Among these questions are:

·        Is the project reasonable or practical from a technical standpoint?
·        Will the project achieve the different processing requirements?
·        Is a specific type of technology more appropriate than others in a given situation?

Conceptual designs are often the precursor to Feasibility and Economic Studies

What separates conceptual designs from feasibility studies is the relatively narrow focus of the former. The objective of feasibility and economic studies is to determine what is the best decision under a given set of circumstances. These studies also address the sensitivity of the result to the various assumptions made. Consequently, feasibility and economic studies are comprehensive and variable in scope.

The narrow focus of conceptual designs may seem to make them trivial in comparison but they are very important first steps in project development. For a relatively small investment the client can determine if a proposed project has merit. If the conceptual design uncovers some aspect that is a "fatal flaw" the client saves most of the cost that would be associated with a more detailed feasibility or economic study.

The investment in the conceptual design carries over to the feasibility and economic study, especially if both come from the same source. The conceptual design will put in place most of the base case assumptions required for the feasibility and economic study. These will include the client's objectives as well as various constraints. It may also include most of the marketplace assumptions, though these will most likely need further refinement.

To summarize, conceptual design is a first-screening of a project done at minimal investment, quickly, yet accurately. The client can then decide from a position of knowledge whether to proceed as planned or to refocus resources.

Dixon Refinery Consulting is well suited to provide conceptual studies. Our proprietary modeling and optimization software allow us to conduct conceptual design studies with great efficiency. That translates into savings of both time and money to our clients. Our software also provides an advantage to us and our clients should the project grow into a feasibility and economic study.