Process:

We started the process by developing a piping and instrumentation diagram (P&ID) for a fluid transport system that would accomplish our goal of connecting the many instruments and processes which the research plant had been developing over the past years. Then, after taking inventory of existing components and receiving parts that were still needed from suppliers, we began construction of the system. The construction process involved unprecedented challenges with hardware locations and the logistics of the system’s position outside the plant, but swift and effective problem-solving allowed us to make progress with efficiency. This project was one that required more time for completion than I spent at this internship, but was nevertheless an important experience.

Results & Discussion:

Although the entire system was not complete when I left my internship, it was successfully completed shortly thereafter, and the company has used it in their bio-chemical synthesis processes. This project gave me important experience seeing an idea through from paper to fruition, and along the way I developed skills for the design and construction of fluid transport systems. I also got to use a four-foot pipe wrench, which was pretty fun.

The fully constructed system is pictured below. (credit: westbiofuels.com)