After the conceptual design phase, the project progresses to the Front-End Engineering Design (FEED)/Basic Engineeering stage. This pivotal stage acts as a bridge between the initial concept and the subsequent detailed design. During the FEED stage, the process design undergoes refinement and expansion, focusing on optimizing process flow, equipment selection, and overall plant layout.
Objectives:
Develop a comprehensive project plan
Optimize process flow for efficiency
Identify and assess risks
Lay the foundation for the detailed engineering stage
Common deliverables:
Process flow diagram (PFD) with a high accuracy
Preliminary P&ID
More accurate equipment list
Equipment and instrument datasheets
More accurate cost estimate
Cost Accuracy:
Budget variance of approximately ±10-30% compared to the estimated budget
Flexibility to Modifications:
Still relatively high flexibility, but less than the conceptual design stage
Overall, the FEED and basic engineering stages establish the groundwork for a successful project outcome. Thorough planning, analysis, and documentation during these stages ensure a clear understanding of project goals and constraints, minimizing the risk of delays, cost overruns, and technical complications in later phases.