Designing such an array would seem impossible until one realizes that different tasks are often done with the same equipment. Thus, the author was able to subdivide the original list into 16 generic categories where similar design principles apply. Since few proposed processes ever actually materialize, and money spent to design the discarded ones is lost, an engineer needs to derive approximate specifications quickly and decide whether or not a detailed design is justified. Special Tables are included to aid in preliminary selection and specification. These creative, effective tables have been enthusiastically applauded by sophisticated users of the text.
Ease of use is appreciated by novices.
In essence, these tables train beginners how to exercise good judgment and wisdom before they have experience. This text goes beyond other design books to include material on the selection of less traditional chemical equipment, that used for solids handling, drying, conveying, grinding, etc. Some have suggested that such is not necessary. They are wrong. With the accelerated movement of chemical engineers into new process technologies, skill in design of non-traditional equipment will become increasingly important.