Oil Refinery: Optimization Problem

In summary, the problem involves finding the optimal values of x and y to minimize the cost for connecting a drilling rig 12 miles offshore to a refinery 20 miles down the coast. By using the Pythagorean theorem, the land distance can be expressed as 20-y, and the land pipe cost can be expressed as $30,000(20-y). Similarly, the underwater pipe cost can be expressed as $40,000(x^2 + 12^2)^1/2, where x represents the underwater distance. By combining these expressions, a function of y for the total cost can be obtained.
  • #1
sobek
15
0

Homework Statement



A drilling rig 12 miles off shore is to be connected by a pipe to a refinery onshore, 20 miles down the coast from the rig. If underwater pipe costs $40,000 per mile and land based pipe costs $30,000 per mile what value of x and y would give the least expensive connection?




The Attempt at a Solution



I have no idea on where to start. I know I need to find a relevant equation, differentiate it, then set it to 0, and finally show that it is a relative minimum, but I'm having trouble finding the relevant equation. I recreated the image that was in my textbook, and attached it to this post.
Thanks for your time.
 

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  • #2
First replace x with an expression that has y, using the Pythagorean theorem, so you have to work with just one variable.

The land distance will be 20-y miles and the land pipe costs $30,000 per mile, so the cost for land pipe will be $30,000(20-y). Find another expression like that for the underwater pipe cost, then add the two to get a function of y for the cost.
 

FAQ: Oil Refinery: Optimization Problem

What is an oil refinery and what does it do?

An oil refinery is an industrial facility where crude oil is processed into various useful products such as gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. The process involves separating the different components of crude oil through fractional distillation and other techniques.

What is the optimization problem in an oil refinery?

The optimization problem in an oil refinery is finding the most efficient and cost-effective way to produce the desired products from a given amount of crude oil. This involves balancing the trade-offs between product quality, production rate, and energy consumption.

What are the main factors that affect the optimization of an oil refinery?

The main factors that affect the optimization of an oil refinery include the type and quality of crude oil, the desired products and their specifications, the refinery's equipment and processes, and external factors such as market demand and regulations.

How is optimization achieved in an oil refinery?

Optimization in an oil refinery is achieved through the use of advanced technology and process control systems. This includes sophisticated software that can simulate and optimize refinery operations, as well as real-time monitoring and adjustment of process variables to ensure the most efficient production.

What are the benefits of optimizing an oil refinery?

The benefits of optimizing an oil refinery include increased profitability through lower production costs, improved product quality and consistency, reduced energy consumption and emissions, and better compliance with environmental regulations. It also allows for more flexibility in adapting to changing market conditions and demands.

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