Systematic approach for learning process design calculations

Hi Friends,

It is extremely difficult to develop simplified methodology and procedures to carry out  calculations for complex hydro-metallurgical process involved in continuous production method of calcined alumina. To honor the requests of our friends of alumina fraternity, we initiated actions and took it as a spectacular challenge to complete it progressively in phased manner. We have already published many process design as well as equipment sizing calculations and will continue our efforts to share balance topics in the form of technical papers in future.
Particularly for the benefit of our keenly interested and enthusiastic younger generation, it would be essential to focus the preliminary basic requirements for understanding the complex process, design and engineering calculations as listed below- 

• Awareness about the detailed chemical and mineralogical composition of bauxite,
• Familiarize with the involved process technology and efficiency figures,
• Fair idea about the unit operations and unit processes involved in alumina production,
• Command on various conversion factors frequently used in process, design and engineering calculations,
• Fully aware about the chemical reactions involved in unit processes,
• Assimilation of each and every operational and process control parameters,
• Conversant with process terminology of alumina production process, 
• Must have knowledge of broad specifications of all input materials, utilities and services,
• Data related to characteristics of process streams with respective values of specific gravity, viscosity, thermal conductivity, specific heat, latent heat, specific volume, % solids, hardness, abrasiveness etc. as applicable,
• Interest to learn chemical engineering calculations,
• Ability to understand insights of process particularly with respect to phase changes,
• Capability to read the invisible derivations between the visible lines,
• Seek help from friends immediately to get clarified without piling up the bunch of doubts and
• Understanding the entire content of the technical document before printing  / xeroxing the same.

The methodology elaborated above are purely based on our own experience. In addition to these points, we have also experienced that sharing the knowledge with others always sharpens the knowledge base of individual in developing improved techniques for future. Trust, you will agree with my views. Please put your suggestions / remarks / comments, if any.

Kunwar Rajendra