Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Process Industries A
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
1st Year Director of Studies
SCQF
Level
7
Module
Code
1. Pre-requisites
B at Higher Chemistry and B at Higher Mathematics (or equivalent)
2. Linked Modules
(specify if synoptic)
3. Excluded Modules
B47AB (Synoptic)
4. Replacement Module
Code:
6. Degrees for which this
is a core module
7. Aims
5.
Semester
B47AA
Availability as an
Elective
Yes
1
No
On or OffCampus
ON
Credits
15
X
Date Of Replacement:
All BEng and MEng Chemical Engineering Degrees
This module aims to introduce learners to the characteristics and fundamental techniques employed in the Process Industries and the role Chemical Engineers play
within that industry. Learners should benefit from a revision of simple chemistry, and build on this to develop an understanding of a fundamental tool in chemical
engineering – the mass balance. They should also start to understand the importance of physical properties of materials and simple phase behaviour. Students should
also gain awareness of a significant branch of the industry through a combination of directed reading, a related site visit and quiz. The students are also introduced to
Professional Development Planning, the role of their Professional Body and provided appropriate training in study skills for their transition to Higher Education.
8. Syllabus
Process Industries:
Process Calculations:
Professional Development:
Review of the chemical, biochemical and process industry with examples drawn from the oil/gas, petroleum refining, petrochemical
industries, the fine chemical industry and the biochemical process industry. Visits to local sites.
Chemical reaction calculations. Properties of process materials. Introduction to material balances. Introduction to units and dimensions.
Classes and practical exercises to develop transferable skills including scholarship, report writing, IT, technical drawing communication
and career management skills.
Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Process Industries A
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
1st Year Director of Studies
SCQF
Level
7
Module
Code
B47AA
Semester
1
On or OffCampus
ON
Credits
15
9. Learning Outcomes (HWU Core Skills: Employability and Professional Career Readiness)
Subject Mastery
Understanding, Knowledge and Cognitive Skills
Scholarship, Enquiry and Research (Research-Informed Learning)

Personal Abilities
Understand and apply the mechanisms and mathematical procedures for fundamental process calculations dealing with chemical
reactions, material balances and physical properties.
 Use cognitive skills to solve multi-stage balance problems.
 Understand and apply a fundamental knowledge of the gas laws to process engineering.
 Describe and understand physical and thermodynamic changes that occur during physical processes.
 Formulation of solutions to simple process engineering problems.
Industrial, Commercial & Professional Practice
Autonomy, Accountability & Working with Others Communication, Numeracy & ICT





Understand the role of IChemE in professional conduct and responsibilities.
Gain an understanding of a key industrial sector, its size and scope, the chemical processes involved and products produced.
Begin the process of PDP and understand its importance as a contribution to employability.
Demonstrate good communication skills through contact with other students and staff.
Start to take responsibility for learning.
10. Assessment Methods
Method
Examination
Coursework
11. Re-assessment Methods
Duration of Exam
(if applicable)
2 hrs
Weighting (%)
Synoptic modules?
Method
Duration of Exam
(if applicable)
60%
40%
B47AB
Examination synoptic with
B47AB
Coursework synoptic with
B47AB
3 hrs
12. Date and Version
Date of Proposal
3rd Feb 2008
Date of Approval by
School Committee
Date of
Implementation
Version
Number
1.0