Detail engineering, also known as detailed engineering or detailed design, is a phase in the engineering design process where the preliminary design concepts are further developed into detailed and comprehensive plans, drawings, and specifications. It involves specifying the exact dimensions, materials, and components required for the construction, installation, and operation of process systems and equipment.
In the context of process and equipment design, detail engineering focuses on the specific design and engineering of process systems, equipment, and related infrastructure. This phase follows the conceptual design and feasibility study phases, where the overall layout and general specifications are established.
The key aspects of detail engineering - process and equipment include:
Process Design: This involves defining the detailed process parameters, such as flow rates, temperatures, pressures, and material properties. Process calculations and simulations are performed to optimize the performance and efficiency of the system. Piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs) are developed to illustrate the process flow and equipment connections.
Equipment Selection and Specification: Based on the process requirements, suitable equipment is selected, including pumps, compressors, heat exchangers, reactors, separators, and other units. Equipment datasheets are prepared, specifying the technical details, performance criteria, and operational requirements. Equipment sizing, materials of construction, and standards compliance are taken into account.
Mechanical and Structural Design: Detailed mechanical and structural engineering is carried out to ensure the proper design and integrity of equipment and supporting structures. This includes determining the mechanical loads, designing foundations, supports, and platforms, and selecting appropriate materials. Stress analysis, equipment layout, and safety considerations are addressed
during this stage.
Instrumentation and Control Systems: Detailed design of instrumentation and control systems is performed to ensure accurate measurement, control, and monitoring of the process variables. Instrument datasheets, control narratives, and control system architecture are developed. This includes specifying instruments, sensors, controllers, and communication protocols.
Electrical Design: Electrical engineering aspects related to the process and equipment are considered during the detail engineering phase. This includes designing power distribution systems, motor control centers, lighting systems, and grounding. Electrical load calculations, equipment specifications, and safety regulations are taken into account.
Safety and Environmental Considerations: Detailed engineering incorporates safety measures and environmental considerations. Hazard identification, risk assessment, and safety systems design are carried out. Compliance with applicable regulations and standards, such as process safety management, is ensured.
Documentation and Drawings: Detailed engineering produces a wide range of technical documents, including equipment datasheets, specifications, material requisitions, and construction drawings. These documents serve as a guide for procurement, fabrication, construction, and installation activities.
The detail engineering phase requires close collaboration among various disciplines, including process, mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, and civil engineering. It aims to provide a comprehensive and detailed plan for the successful implementation of the design, ensuring that the process systems and equipment are designed to meet the desired performance, safety, and regulatory requirements.