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Problem Statement: Can Aspen HYSYS handle modeling of solids? Which are the solid components in the library? How can someone add a solid component? | Solution: HYSYS can model solid handling to limited extent. Aspen HYSYS is basically a VLE (Vapor liquid equilibrium) simulator and doesn't account for solid-liquid-vapor equilibrium. Their vapor pressure information is by defaults set to zero. The existence of solid components is only reflected in the energy and material balance calculations.
View the available solid components
Aspen HYSYS has limited number of solid components in its library which can be found by using the Solids filter.
Users may also add a solid component as a hypothetical solid
To add component to the component list, a hypo solid component can be created.
To add a hypothetical component, do the following:
1. Select the component type as 'Hypothetical Solid'.
2. Click on New Solid
3. Provide a name for the solid.
4. The minimum information that is required is a molecular weight and a density. The remaining properties may be estimated by clicking the Estimate Unknown Props button. Of course, the more information introduced, the better.
5. Double click on the name 'New Solid' and click on 'Edit Properties' to edit more properties.
Handling solids
There are limited number of unit operations for solids handling, including cyclones, hydro cyclones and filters. To have more information on solid operations, Please refer to Aspen HYSYS help menu.
Keywords: Solid components, Aspen HYSYS
References: None |
Problem Statement: This article contains 2 procedures. One for setting up the new Cim-IO server and the other for setting up Cim-IO logical device on the IP.21 servers in the Enterprise Historian. The later one may be also called as setting up Cim-IO clients on the IP.21 servers. | Solution: Part-1 Procedure for setting up a new Cim-IO server for Enterprise IP.21 Historian
Setting up a Cim-IO server for an Enterprise IP.21 Historian is quite similar to setting up a Cim-IO server for a standalone IP.21 server, except the Collaborative.cfg file needs to be configured in case of Enterprise IP.21 Historian.
Steps for setting up a new Cim-IO server for an Enterprise IP.21 Historian
Edit C:\Program Files (x86)\AspenTech\CIM-IO\management\Collaborative.cfg on the new Cim-IO server in Notepad.
List each IP.21 Server in the Enterprise Historian on a separate line as shown below
PrimaryIP21
Non-PrimaryIP21_1
Non_PrimaryIP21_2
Save the file and close Notepad.
Create the required Cim-IO OPC/OPCUA Interfaces using Cim-IO Interface Manager.
Make sure the ports used by Cim-IO Interfaces are open in the firewall.
Part-2 Procedure for creating new Cim-IO logical device on all IP.21 servers in the Enterprise IP.21 Historian
The Cim-IO client-side modules consists of
Cim-IO Logical Device Record
Cim-IO External Task Records
IP.21 External Tasks
Cim-IO logical device file
Figure 1Cim-IO Client side modules
When a new Cim-IO Logical Device is created on a standalone/Primary IP.21 server in an Enterprise Historian, following activities are performed:
A new Cim-IO Logical Device record is created in the IP.21 database.
Four new IOExternalTskDef records are created in the IP.21 database. These records are TSK_M_{CimioLogicalDeviceName}, TSK_A_{CimioLogicalDeviceName}, TSK_U_{CimioLogicalDeviceName}, TSK_H_{CimioLogicalDeviceName}
Three new IP.21 External tasks are created and listed in the IP.21 Manager. These external tasks are TSK_M_{CimioLogicalDeviceName}, TSK_A_{CimioLogicalDeviceName}, and TSK_U_{CimioLogicalDeviceName}
A new Cim-IO Logical Device entry is added in the cimio_logical_devices.def file.
In an Enterprise Historian additional configuration must be manually done on all non-Primary IP.21 servers for setting up the Cim-IO logical device, as below.
The cimio_logical_devices.def file needs to be updated with the new logical device entry.
All new IP.21 records (Cim-IO logical device record and IoExternalTskDef records) that are automatically created by Replication should be reconfigured.
New IP.21 External tasks should be created.
Verification checklist for creating a new Cim-IO logical device
Before creating a new Cim-IO logical device please verify below checkpoints on all IP.21 servers in the Enterprise Historian.
All IP.21 servers have exact same CHECKSUM_RECIDS in the registry (Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\AspenTech\InfoPlus.21\17.0\group200\ CHECKSUM_RECIDS).
CooperativeInfo record reflects the correct status of all IP.21 servers.
Replication and Subscriber records are properly setup.
Replication is working fine on all IP.21 servers.
Steps for creating a new Cim-IO logical device in an Enterprise IP.21 Historian
Launch Cim-IO IP.21 Connection Manager on the primary IP.21 Server and create a new Cim-IO Connection to the new/existing Cim-IO Interface on the Cim-IO Server.
Perform below steps on first non-primary IP.21 server in the Enterprise Historian:
Copy logicaldevice.def from the primary IP.21 server and replace it on the non-Primary IP.21 server at location C:\Program Files (x86)\AspenTech\CIM-IO\etc.
Open IP.21 Administrator and navigate to IoExternalTskDef record in Definition Records.
Select TSK_A_{CimioLogicalDeviceName}, the new newly created Cim-IO logical device record and set the field IO_DEVICE to the name of the Cim-IO logical device.
Verify TSK_A_{CimioLogicalDeviceName} on Primary IP.21 server has same IO_DEVICE field value.
Repeat the above 2 steps for TSK_H_{CimioLogicalDeviceName}, TSK_M_{CimioLogicalDeviceName}, and TSK_U_{CimioLogicalDeviceName} records.
Make all above four records usable.
In IP.21 Administrator, navigate to the new Cim-IO logical device record in CIM-IO and configure this record exactly same as the Primary IP.21 record.
Note: Set IO_DEVICE_PROCESSING field to ON after setting all other fields. Setting IO_DEVICE_PROCESSING field to ON will cause all other field to turn into read-only.
Set the new Cim-IO logical device record to usable.
Open IP.21 Manager.
Select any existing TSK_M_### record and use it to create a new IP.21 External task by the name TSK_M_{CimioLogicalDeviceName}.
Repeat the above steps for TSK_A_{CimioLogicalDeviceName} and TSK_U_{CimioLogicalDeviceName}, i.e., Start all 3 of the Cim-IO Client Tasks.
Verify the registry setting CHECKSUM_RECIDS has same value as the Primary IP.21 Server.
Repeat step number 2 for all other non-primary IP.21 servers in the Enterprise Historian.
Keywords: Add CIM-IO Server
Enterprise IP.21 Historian
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to resolve OPC UA Explorer when connected to Manufacturing Master Data Manager (mMDM) model not showing any hierarchy node? | Solution: OPC UA server interface can be connected to mMDM model to access mMDM definition attributes including hierarchies, class attribute values, and dynamic data attribute values. Configuration steps can be referred from the Aspen mMDM Implementation Guide .
After the configuration, check if the connection is successful and OPC UA clients connect.
If so, but the node representing the hierarchy is not seen.
Here are the steps to resolve the issue:
Check if mMDM hierarchy is configured correctly.
If yes, then in Aspen mMDM Editor, Select Tools | Publish Form
3. Restart AspenTech mMDM OPC UA Server service
4. Open Aspen OPC UA Explorer, and connect to mMDM OPC UA server
On publishing the mMDM configuration in the editor, it should then display the hierarchies correctly in the OPC Explorer tool.
Keywords: OPC UA
mMDM
Hierarchy
Missing
References: None |
Problem Statement: Do the Aspen Multi-Case V12 & V12.1 coexist? | Solution: Aspen Multi-Case V12.1 does not support full coexistence with Aspen Multi-Case V12. As a result, when multiple versions of Aspen Multi-Case are present on a single machine, the multiple versions cannot be used simultaneously. However, limited coexistence is supported.
Multiple versions can be present on the same machine, but only a single version can be used at a time.
When both V12 and V12.1 are installed, your data is transferred to the new V12.1 project structure using the Aspen Multi-Case Database Configuration Wizard initially. However, if you opt not to use this wizard when first launching Aspen Multi-Case, we still offer the option for you to export your V12 data later.
If you do not transfer Aspen Multi-Case V12 data to V12.1 using the Aspen Multi-Case Database Configuration Wizard initially, you can export it later. To do so, you must manually restart the V12 services.
Manually stop the V12.1 services (MultiCaseServer V12.1 and SimService V12.1).
Note: In order to perform this task, you must have a local Administrator account for the computer.
Manually start the V12 services (MultiCaseServer V12 and SimService V12).
In Aspen Multi-Case V12, export the projects containing the desired data.
Manually stop the V12 services (MultiCaseServer V12 and SimService V12).
Manually restart the V12.1 services (MultiCaseServer V12.1 and SimService V12.1).
Import the projects containing the desired data into Aspen Multi-Case V12.1.
Keywords: MultiCaseServer, Coexistence, SimService
References: None |
Problem Statement: Can we import the Aspen Plus Dynamics flowsheet into the Aspen Adsorption? | Solution: To attach a complete Aspen Plus Dynamics simulation to an existing Aspen Adsorption simulation (for example, an Aspen Plus Dynamics-based cryogenic distillation train to an Aspen Adsorption TSA system for air dehumidification):
In Aspen Adsorption, open the Aspen Adsorption simulation.
Check the component lists being used:
Ensure matching component list names between the Aspen Adsorption and Aspen Plus Dynamics simulations. Typically, the Aspen Plus Dynamics version is called Type1. If necessary, you must rename the Aspen Adsorption component list name to match. If the Aspen Adsorption component list name is Default, you cannot rename it through the GUI. Instead, open the input file (.ada extension) within a text editor and search and replace the original component name, to the new component name.
Ensure the same components are actively in use.
Ensure the same properties definition file, .appdf, is in use.
The type of Aspen Plus Dynamics flowsheet that can be imported depends on the type of Aspen Adsorption flowsheet:
For gas-based Aspen Adsorption flowsheets, imported Aspen Plus Dynamics flowsheets must be pressure driven. See Valid Flowsheet Combinations.
For liquid-based Aspen Adsorption flowsheets, imported Aspen Plus Dynamics flowsheets may be either pressure-driven or flow driven. See Valid Flowsheet Combinations.
You must check the Globals table in Aspen Adsorption and set the global parameters GlobalPDriven and GlobalRFlow to match those in the Aspen Plus Dynamics flowsheet to be imported.
In addition, the feeds and products of the Aspen Plus Dynamics flowsheet must have appropriate specifications:
Each feed stream must have two of temperature, pressure, and vapor fraction fixed. In most cases, this should be temperature and pressure since adsorption flowsheets typically operate far from the two-phase region.
Each feed stream must have fixed composition, either fractions or component flow rates. For pressure-driven dynamic flowsheets, if component flow rates are specified, Normalize with Total flow must be checked.
For flow-driven dynamic flowsheets, feed streams must have a fixed total flow rate if their composition is fractions or component flows with Normalize with Total flow checked.
Product streams should have all variables free in flow-driven dynamic flowsheets, and only P fixed in pressure-driven dynamic flowsheets.
From the File menu, click Import Flowsheet. This imports the Aspen Plus Dynamics simulation into Aspen Adsorption.
Notes:
Aspen Adsorption does not support flowsheet hierarchy, so all Aspen Adsorption-based blocks and streams must exist on the main flowsheet.
Repeated blocks, streams, plots, tables, and tasks names are flagged during the flowsheet import. You can rename or delete these repetitions or import the flowsheet into a hierarchy block.
Aspen Adsorption automatically opens the Aspen Plus Dynamics model library during the import.
The Aspen Adsorption simulation flowsheet is updated with the imported Aspen Plus Dynamics simulation flowsheet.
For common global variables, Aspen Adsorption retains the original settings from before the flowsheet was imported.
Repeat steps 2 through 4 until all the required flowsheet sections are present within Aspen Adsorption.
Between each flowsheet section, connect the appropriate Aspen Adsorption or Aspen Plus Dynamics feed and product streams:
For an existing Aspen Adsorption feed or product stream, remove the boundary termination block (unlike Aspen Plus Dynamics, Aspen Adsorption has no concept of using open-ended streams to indicate flowsheet boundaries). Now connect these open-ended Aspen Adsorption streams with their Aspen Plus Dynamics counterparts, using either a Dynamics_Inlet_Connect or a Dynamics_Outlet_Connect from the Utilities folder of the Aspen Adsorption library. (Your choice depends on whether the Aspen Plus Dynamics model is on the inlet or outlet side of the Aspen Adsorption flowsheet.)
Repeat step 6 until the flowsheet is complete.
In the Cycle Organizer, modify the cycle description to account for any cyclic operation of imported Aspen Dynamics blocks, then regenerate the cyclic task.
Keywords: Import flowsheet, Aspen Plus Dynamics, Flow Driven, Pressure Driven
References: None |
Problem Statement: Which are the supported applications in Aspen Model Runner? | Solution: Aspen Model Runner can run Aspen Custom Modeler or Aspen Plus Dynamics simulations that are exported from these products as Aspen Model Runner files.
It does not support simulations from other Aspen Modeler family products such as Aspen Batch Distillation, Aspen Adsorption or Aspen Chromatography.
Keywords: Supported applications, Model Runner
References: None |
Problem Statement: Aspen Custom Modeler V12 unable to open | Solution: This is a known issue that can be addressed by adding a registry key in the installation for V12.
Open Registry Editor on the machine that is having the issue
Go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\AspenTech
Add a new String named “DoNotRegister” and set the data value to 1.
Open again Aspen Custom Modeler you should be able to open it now.
Alternatively, you can first start Aspen Plus, deal with the registration.
Keywords: ACM, DoNotRegister,
References: None |
Problem Statement: Which Aspen product models are capable to run in Aspen Online? | Solution: Aspen OnLine is capable of running steady-state and dynamic process models developed using the following modeling tools:
Aspen Plus (sequential-modular or equation-oriented models)
Aspen Custom Modeler, Aspen Plus Dynamics, Aspen Utilities Planner, and Aspen Model Runner (Aspen Modeler products)
Aspen HYSYS (sequential-modular or equation-oriented models)
Aspen Exchanger Design and Rating
Keywords: Aspen Online, models, EO,
References: None |
Problem Statement: Sometimes data collection for big controllers (more number of Dependent and Independent Controller variables) could not be started in Aspen Watch. | Solution: While trying to start the data collection for some of the controller the user may find that after some time the data collection for the controller stops automatically.
The error could be because of the limitation of database size or at least the command that is estimating the maximum available database memory size will be exceeded for some of controllers (due to more controller variables).
To fix this issue, the user should stop InfoPlus.21 and change the TSK_DBCLOCK size in the command line argument.
For illustration, changing the command line value to 40000000 from its initial value and click update button.
Then restart the IP21 Manager now and start the data collection for the controller. Now the data collection will happen without any issues.
Keywords: Aspen Watch
Controller Data Collection
References: None |
Problem Statement: What is the purpose of DLGP uses interactive process window checkbox in Cim-IO Interface Manager v12.2? | Solution: This knowledge base article will explains the purpose of DLGP uses interactive process window checkbox in Cim-IO Interface Manager v12.2?
In V12.2 Cim-IO Interface Manager, there is a newly added feature - ‘DLGP uses interactive process window’.
The AsyncDlgp.exe in the Cim-IO OPC Interface is an OPC Client process. The AsyncDlgp.exe creates an instance of the OPC Server and uses it for reading and writing process values. The Aspen Cim-IO Manager Windows Service is responsible to start & stop the AsyncDlgp.exe, including all other processes associated with the Cim-IO Interfaces.
In a couple of instances, reported via defects 584815 and 695452, the AsyncDlgp.exe had connection issues with certain OPC Servers, such as Matrikon OPC Tunneller and POWERSCADA.
584815 was reported for Matrikon OPC Tunneller. The issue was that the Com Surrogate, DllHost.exe, hosting the Matrikon OPC Tunneler was not exiting after AsyncDlgp.exe had released the Matrikon OPC Tunneler.
695452 was reported for POWERSCADA. The issue was that AsyncDlgp.exe was unable to instantiate the OPC Server, HResult 0x80080005,Server execution failed.
In our analysis, we found that if AsyncDlgp.exe process is manually launched from Command Prompt, then no connection issues were observed. Technically there are differences when a process is launched interactively from Command Prompt and via another process. When a process is launched interactively, a Windows Station is assigned to the process. The Windows Station plays a role in the COM Server creation (OPC Servers are COM servers). Attached the Microsoft KB article 169321 for the same.
https://www.betaarchive.com/wiki/index.php?title=Microsoft_KB_Archive/169321
The user setting 'DLGP uses interactive process window' for Cim-IO OPC Interface was added to resolve the connectivity issues with these specific OPC Servers which required the Windows Station.
Keywords: DLGP
interactive process
Cogent.DataHub.1
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to get rid off the following error message BLOCK Absorber IS NOT IN MASS BALANCE in Aspen Plus? | Solution: In order to get rid-off the following error message BLOCK Absorber IS NOT IN MASS BALANCE, you will need to follow up the route to change the convergence setting for Absorber:
Blocks || Absorber || Convergence || Convergence || Advanced || Absorber -> Yes
Keywords: Aspen Plus, Absorber, Mass Balance
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to get rid off the following message Bubble Point flash to determine relieving temperature failed while using Pressure Safety Valve (PSV) in Aspen HYSYS? | Solution: The message Bubble Point flash to determine relieving temperature failed appears when you set the calculation method to Wetted. However, since we are in the supercritical region, the method can't perform the calculations due to the impossibility of finding an actual phase equilibrium point at that pressure.
Changing the calculation method to supercritical would resolve the error message.
Keywords: Aspen HYSYS, Bubble Point, PSV
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to get rid off the following error message MATERIAL AND ENERGY BALANCES FAILED TO CONVERGE: CHECK COL-SPECS OR SUPPLY BETTER TEMPERATURE AND COMPOSITION ESTIMATES in Aspen Plus? | Solution: The message MATERIAL AND ENERGY BALANCES FAILED TO CONVERGE: CHECK COL-SPECS OR SUPPLY BETTER TEMPERATURE AND COMPOSITION ESTIMATES is about supply better estimates. So, seems that for a first run, Aspen Plus is not finding a suitableSolution, but you have some results. You can generate estimates from the available results. This can help to reach aSolution better and faster, even if you change parameters to explore other conditions.
For generate these estimates follow the steps:
1. Once the simulation solved, go to the block Convergence | Estimates | Temperature.
2. Click on Generate Estimates and select Temperature (you can go further and check for mole flows or components) and select All stages for temperature and flows; Feed and product location for compositions. (Here you can explore other options).
3. The table will be populated.
4. Reset and Run the simulation again.
Keywords: Aspen Plus, Temperature, Composition , Estimates
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to get rid off the following error message RADFRAC NOT CONVERGED IN 50 OUTSIDE LOOP ITERATIONS. in Aspen Plus? | Solution: In order to get rid off the following error message RADFRAC NOT CONVERGED IN 50 OUTSIDE LOOP ITERATIONS in Aspen Plus, you may increase the maximum iterations from 50 to 100 from Convergence | Basics | Maximum iterations = 100
Keywords: Aspen Plus, Loop, Iterations
References: None |
Problem Statement: The application path is set up by default to https://FQDN/APM where FQDN is the computer’s fully qualified domain name. You want to change this to a different URL. | Solution: Open C:\Program Files\AspenTech\Aspen Mtell Alert Manager\Frontend\index.html and in line 6 change /APM/ to ./
Save the file in the Desktop and then copy back this file into the Frontend folder. You will need an account with admin rights.
Open IIS Manager and navigate underneath Default Web Site to where you want the new path. A picture of the default path is shown below for reference.
Click the icon under which you will create the new path, then right click, then click Add Application…
In the Alias box, type the new application path name.
Select APMUIPool, in the Application Pool box, click OK.
In the Physical Path box type: C:\Program Files\AspenTech\Aspen Mtell Alert Manager\Frontend\
Click OK.
Select the App created, and in the menu on the right, click Browse *:443 (https). This should take you to Alert Manager.
Re-run the services by re-running the Aspen Mtell Alert Manager Configuration App and accepting all previously entered values.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: This Knowledge base article addresses the following error message, which can be seen in the TSK_DBCLOCK.ERR file after an unsuccessful Aspen InfoPlus.21 database start:
RESTORE : Error from load from memory = -81 | Solution: This error is related to the Aspen InfoPlus.21 System Account not matching the account that starts the Aspen Infoplus.21 Task Service account. Aspen InfoPlus.21 database may not start unless these two accounts match.
Please follow the link to the article that explains how you can synchronize these account: What are the steps to synchronize the Aspen InfoPlus.21 System Account with the user account used for the Aspen InfoPlus.21 Task Service?
Keywords: 125296-2
References: None |
Problem Statement: Note, this | Solution: also answers the question: How do I change the Aspen InfoPlus.21 System Account when it is currently set to an account which no longer exists?
This procedure would be used by System Administrators who need to change the user account used for starting the Aspen InfoPlus.21 Task Service. Generally, this would be done by accessing the system's services.msc (Control Panel | Administrative Tools | Services) and locating the service called Aspen InfoPlus.21 Task Service. Double clicking on the service allows the System Administrator to change the user account used to start up the service.
ThisSolution ensures that the Aspen InfoPlus.21 System Account is synchronized with the Aspen InfoPlus.21 Task Service's user account. This is recommended because it ensures all the processes running under this account bypass the Aspen Framework (AFW) security.Solution
Stop the Aspen InfoPlus.21 Task Service in services.msc
Run regedit.exe (Run as administrator because you need to make changes to the HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE hive)
For 64-bit Aspen InfoPlus.21 database, locate HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\AspenTech\InfoPlus.21\xx.x\group200 (where xx.x refers to the version)
For 32-bit Aspen InfoPlus.21 database, locate HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\AspenTech\InfoPlus.21\xx.x\group200 (where xx.x refers to the version)
Delete the key named INFOPLUS.21_SYSTEM_ACCOUNT
Restart the Aspen InfoPlus.21 Task Service service
After the Aspen InfoPlus.21 Task Service has restarted, the INFOPLUS.21_SYSTEM_ACCOUNT key is recreated with an encrypted value representing the user account used to run the service.
Keywords: locked out
103394-2
110541-2
115615-2
References: None |
Problem Statement: I want to write a .NET C# application (for example one that sends an array to a SQL Plus ProcedureDef). In the latest version of Aspen SQLplus there are a lot of useful methods to use (SQLPlusCommand, etc). What is the program or dll that needs to be referenced in the Microsoft environment to use these methods? Is there a procedure that needs to be followed to get it referenced? | Solution: In order to reference the Aspentech.SQLplus.DataProvider.dll (which resides in the GAC) in a C#/.NET project, you have to do the following steps:
1. Open a DOS Command Prompt
2. Type in the following command: cd C:\Windows\Microsoft.NET\assembly\GAC_MSIL and hit the Enter key
3. Type in the following command: cd AspenTech.SQLplus.DataProvider and hit the Enter key
4. Type in the following command: cd
5. Type the Space key then the Tab key (note that there will be a long weird name shown after the cd you just typed in)
6. Hit the Enter key
7. Type in the following command: dir
8. It will show the dll we need
9. Now you can copy the dll to the folder you prefer, and you have to refer it later in your C#/.NET project
Keywords: 123484-2
References: None |
Problem Statement: OPC UA tag name can be expressed as abbreviated name space or the using the full browse path from /Objects node down to the value; the usage of one syntax or another depends also on the CIM-IO version to to use. This article shows the proper syntax to use for a tag name on a CIM-IO for OPC UA interface, considering changes starting version V9 as well as previous versions. | Solution: Having an OPC UA tag, name can be expressed using just the node Id as abbreviated name or as the full browse path, for example, having a tag like:
An OPC UA simulation server shows the node id as follow:
The yellow box shows the abbreviated name while the dark blue boxes shows the path of the tag. Having the tag name selected on the left tree, it is also possible to see the BrowseName on the right side, other object like Simulation and Objects folder also have their own BrowserName as follow:
Node Objects : BrowseName Objects
Node Simuation : BrowseName 5:Simulation
Node Counter1 : BrowseName 5:Counter1
Having this information, the tag name ca be expressed as:
Abbreviated: ns=5;s=Counter1
Or
Full browse path: /Objects/5:Simulation/5:Counter1
Starting on V9.0 the abbreviated name can be used as a valid tag name for CIM-IO interface; also the whole path name can be used. Version previous to V9.0 can only use the full browse path.
The information to retrieve the full browse path can obtained using any OPC UA client with browser capabilites like the UA Expert or CommServer OPC UA Viewer.
You can test tag name syntax using CIM-IO Test API:
On V9.0 and above:
Abbreviated name:
Full browse name:
Previous to V9.0:
Abbreviated name:
Full browse name:
When using the full browse name, some special characters need to be escaped using “&” character as part of the tag name just before the character to escape. For example:
Having a tag name like:
Abbreviated: ns=5;s=Custom:Tag_1?Value
Full browse name: /Objects/5:Simulation/5:Custom:Tag_1?value
The full browse name should be corrected as:
Corrected full browse name: /Objects/5:Simulation/5:Custom&:Tag_1?value
Notice that:
Escape using “&” is only need on the last part (tag name) of the full browse path. The correction is not necessary for previous node (however, adding the “&” to this nodes doesn’t affect access to the tag).
Full browse name are case sensitive, so words like “Tag” or “values” on previous example should properly capitalized as displayed on the browse node name.
Not all non-alphanumerica characters need to use the “&” as escape. Notice that “_” and “?” on previous name doesn’t use a character to escape.
Using the full browse name without using the escape characters will give you an error message on Windows Event log (under application) which can help you to know which charcters need be escaped:
Note: Even when standard recommended practice is to have a CIM-IO server on the same version as the CIM-IO client (usually IP.21), is also possible to upgrade just the CIM-IO server to V9 or above leaving CIM-IO client on a previous version. This allows the usage of abbreviated tags name for OPC UA instead of create the full browse path. In this cases it is highly recommended to upgrade CIM-IO client as soon as possible too.
Keywords: CIM-IO for OPC UA
Tag name syntax
References: None |
Problem Statement: How can I calculate the activity coefficients of components in a mixture in a User subroutine? | Solution: Following is a user subroutine that you can use to access the activity coefficient for all components. You can use this subroutine in user subroutines for User Kinetics, User Property sets or User Blocks.
To use this subroutine, specify the following call sequence in your original subroutine:
CALL GETAC(T,P,X,Y,N,IDX,NBOPST,KPDIAG,GAMCAL)
You should define the dimension of the variables X, Y, IDX, NBOPST and GAMCAL. The description below has more details to determine the appropriate dimension of these variables.
Attached is an example that uses the GETAC subroutine to calculate the activity coefficient for a user reactive distillation (REAC-DIST) kinetics routine and compares the results with a built-in kinetic model that uses a MOLE-GAMMA basis..
The GETAC subroutine follows:
C Date: October 16, 1996
C
C This subroutine can be called from a User-Kinetics, User Property set or
C another user subroutine.
SUBROUTINE GETAC (T, P, X, Y, N, IDX, NBOPST, KPDIAG, GAMCAL)
C
C VARIABLES IN ARGUMENT LIST
C
C VARIABLE I/O TYPE DIMENSION DESCRIPTION AND RANGE
C T I R -- TEMPERATURE
C P I R -- PRESSURE
C X I R N LIQUID MOLE FRACTION
C Y I R N VAPOR MOLE FRACTION
C N I I -- NO. OF COMPONENTS PRESENT
C IDX I I N COMPONENT INDEX VECTOR
C NBOPST I I 6 PROPERTY OPTION
C KPDIAG I I -- PROPERTY DIAGNOSTIC LEVEL
C
C GAMCAL O R N LOG OF GAMMA
C
C Notes on I/O
C I = input to this subroutine
C O = Output value calculated and returned by subroutine
C
IMPLICIT NONE
#include ppexec_user.cmn
INTEGER I, N, kbase, kphi, kh, ks, kg, kv, ker, kpdiag
REAL*8 t,p, hmx, smx, gmx, vmx, dphi, dhmx, dsmx, dgmx, dvmx
REAL*8 PHI(N), GAMCAL(N),Y(N), X(N)
INTEGER IDX(N), NBOPST(6)
C
C To calculate the activity coefficient of components in a mixture, first
C call the Liquid Mixture Thermodynamic Phase Monitor (LMTHMY)
C
C LMTHMY is documented in User Models, ASPEN PLUS User Models
Keywords: None
References: Manual Chapter 3
C
C Set fugacity calculation code
C to 1 to calculate the minimum required to update the activity coefficients C
C
KBASE=1
KPHI=1
KH=0
KS=0
KG=0
KV=0
C
CALL PPMON_LMTHMY(T,P,X,Y,N,IDX,NBOPST,KPDIAG,KBASE,KPHI,KH,KS,KG,
2 KV,PHI,HMX,SMX,GMX,VMX,DPHI,DHMX,DSMX,DGMX,DVMX,KER)
C
C Get activity coefficient (GAMMA) from GMACAL (an ASPEN PLUS internal
C subroutine) and convert from natural logarithm
CALL PPMON_GMACAL(N,KPDIAG,IDX,NBOPST,T,P,PHI,GAMCAL)
C
DO 100 I = 1, N
GAMCAL(I) = DEXP(GAMCAL(I))
100 CONTINUE
C
999 RETURN
END |
Problem Statement: This article mentioned a couple of tips that can be useful when dealing with IIS log files storage. The most common type of problem related to this kind of files is memory shortage. However, these files could be not significant for Web or Online applications as PCWS or the DMC controllers. | Solution: As many other application IIS has the capability of generate logs for further troubleshooting on some applications related. However, problems as memory consumption and hard drive consumption could be consequence of constant increase of these files.
On a normal situation, these files would not be harmful on Web applications as PCWS, or Applications as DMC controllers. However, as the logging would consume memory it could be a process that may create issues on AspenWatch server and in edge cases the resources consumption could create problem on some AspenTech Services.
Additionally, delete these log files would not create problem on Web applications. (most likely it is fine for any APC server)
These files are normally stored on the following path:
C:inetpub/logs/logfiles/W3SVC1 (this path may require Admin right to access)
And the recommended process to delete these files is:
1) Launch a command prompt using Run as administrator.
2) Stop IIS with below command:
iisreset /stop
3) Browse to C:\inetpub\logs\Logfiles\W3SVC1 folder in Windows Explorer.
4) Delete the log files.
5) Start IIS with below command.
iisreset /start
Note: after the iisreset/start command is performed make sure that Web Data provider Service, RTE service and/or Performance Monitor Service started successfully.
Additionally, further information on how these files can be manage can be found on the following Microsoft KB
https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/iis/manage/provisioning-and-managing-iis/managing-iis-log-file-storage
Keywords: PCWS, IIS, Log files
References: None |
Problem Statement: This article talks about a way to fix the error A script error has occurred on this display. Please contact your administrator..., which could happen after CP1 installation for V12.1. This Error could cause display problems or may cause the context menus and aspenwatch menú ítems to stop working and return Error 1. | Solution: This problem is mainly reported on Internet Explorer Web Browsers. As mentioned in the description the problem may cause display problems on the Web Server showing Error 1 for some items, and “A script error has occurred on this display. Please contact your administrator...” in other cases.
TheSolution to this problem is to Turn Off Compatibility Mode on the Web Server (this can be applied to Client machines that use IE as the main Web browser).
To perform this action following the next steps:
1.- Open IE Web Browser and click on the Tools Icon
2.- From the Drop-Down list select Compatibility View settings
3.- Uncheck the boxes for Display intranet sites in compatibility view and Use the Microsoft compatibility list
4.- Then close and open again the Web Browser and try accessing PCWS and features again.
Note: On the workaround, the previous steps apply only on Web Server machines and desktop clients (not consoles)
Keywords: PCWS, Internet Explorer
References: None |
Problem Statement: This article talks briefly on the differences that may exist on the identification results between DMC+ model and DMC3 Builder. | Solution: The short answer to the question is Yes, there could be numerical differences on the Identification results between both applications. Most likely these differences can be noticed on the identified Gain results. Lets take the following example of an ID case in DMC+ Model:
This is a 1MV vs 1CV Sub Space ID Case with the following parameters [T=60 L=30 SR=1 FT=180 PP=DT]
As result the gain value is: -0.2912202979542998
If we export the same dataset and case and import it on DMC3 Builder (same case meaning same ID parameters and slices) we obtained:
The result gain value is: -0.291220297954376
For this specific example the Dataset and Slices, along with the Case parameters are the same.
So why both applications are showing different results?
The mains reason of these changes is related to the dll use for the identification purposes. Both uses AtIdentification.dll. However, the number of changes and improvements done for this file are essentially different. So, even thought that both applications use the same technology the differences on fixes and enhancement is different (is worth to mentioned that most of these improvements has been apply on DMC3). So, it would be an expected behavior to have different numerical results as consequence of this changes in the dll file.
Moreover, other segments of DMC3 use for the Identification as Data preparation, slicing numerical accuracy, data loading, etc., has gone under some changes as well so it is highly possible that this numerical difference could be carried as results of these multiple fixes and enhancements, resulting on the final gain ID.
So, what application results should I trust??
We can argue that due all fixes and enhancements DMC3 results could be a bit more accurate that the ones identify by DMCplus (among other possible problems related to ID). However, as we could notice on the example, the results turn to be pretty much the same (around less than .0001% difference) it is expected that in any case both ID may work for the deployed controller as the will lead to small or significant changes on the MV (maybe small enough to be physically impossible to take place in the controller). So, even thought that the numerical results are different, they won’t be completely different (unless the ID and Case condition are different). So, the best suggestion would be to stick to the technology that you are working with and use that difference to verify the results in case is necessary but have the confidence that both are going to be showing pretty similar numerical results, trending and dynamic behaviors.
Keywords: DMC3, DMCplus, Identification
References: None |
Problem Statement: When running a PIMS-AO model, we noticed the warning message that “Variable QABCXXX at bound 0 with DJ -1.897 for SMNNXXX = 0.0409358” in execution log.
We put ABC MIN= -5 in T.SCALE, but warning still shows ABC bound at min 0. Even we tried to add it in T.SCALE with the same min/max, it does not solve the warning.
In this situation, how could we address this warning message from PIMS-AO execution log? | Solution: For the issue with putting the properties in SCALE, the user has the option on in the XNLP Settings > Advanced tab to Use Tighter Bounds on Qualities. Generally, it is not recommended to use this setting. In this case, the pool-specific bounds take precedence over the wide bounds coming from table SCALE.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: Is VMWare ESXi Version 7 virtual machine supported to host APC V12.1 products? | Solution: Yes, it is supported for APC V12.1 CP1. As of late June 2022, testing was completed for APC V12.1 CP1 software products using VMWare ESXi version 7.0 environment and no specific issues were observed.
The rest of the supported platforms can be found in the Platform Support specifications: https://www.aspentech.com/en/platform-support
V12.1 CP1 can be downloaded from here: https://esupport.aspentech.com/apex/S_SoftwareDeliveryDetail?id=a0e4P00000RnTOkQAN
Keywords: vmware, esxi, v7, 7.0, virtual, machine, support, apc
References: None |
Problem Statement: By default, security authorizations travel on port (80), which is the default web http port. In some configurations, it is desirable to change to a different port. An example would be when the Security Server is behind a firewall. | Solution: This process consists of two steps, configuring the server, and configuring the client(s).
Step 1: Configuring the server.
Open Internet Information Services (IIS) Manager:
If you are using Windows Server 2012 or Windows Server 2012 R2:
On the taskbar, click Server Manager, click Tools, and then click Internet Information Services (IIS) Manager.
If you are using Windows 8 or Windows 8.1:
Hold down the Windows key, press the letter X, and then click Control Panel.
Click Administrative Tools, and then double-click Internet Information Services (IIS) Manager.
If you are using Windows Server 2008 or Windows Server 2008 R2:
On the taskbar, click Start, point to Administrative Tools, and then click Internet Information Services (IIS) Manager.
If you are using Windows Vista or Windows 7:
On the taskbar, click Start, and then click Control Panel.
Double-click Administrative Tools, and then double-click Internet Information Services (IIS) Manager.
More information on binding can be found here
2. In the Connections pane, navigate to the web site that houses the AspenTech Virtual Application (This is normally the 'default web site').
3. Click on bindings in the Actions pane on the right.
4. In the Site Bindings dialog box, click Add…
5. In the Add Site Binding dialog box add the binding information and then click OK. (change the default port 80 to new port number e.g., 14000)
6. In the Actions pane under Manage Website, on the right click Stop and Start then close the IIS manager.
If there are any Security Server clients (e.g. InfoPlus.21) on the same machine, you will have to perform Step 2 as well.
Step 2: Configuring the client(s). (Necessary for all clients who connect to this server.)
Run c:\program files\aspentech\bpe\AFWTools.exe. On the Client Registry Entries tab, double-click on the 'URL' entry. On the ensuing dialog, modify the Data to include the port number selected in Step 1. See the example below. Click OK twice.
e.g. (Before)
http://myserver/aspentech/afw/security/pfwauthz.asp
(after, with 14000 as the new port)
http://myserver:14000/aspentech/afw/security/pfwauthz.asp
Keywords: firewall
security
References: None |
Problem Statement: Procedure to migrate Aspen Watch Applications for applications which have a changed name or type. | Solution: Procedure to migrate Aspen Watch Applications (Changing Name or Type)
AW_MigrateApp is an Aspen Watch utility that allows you to:
· Rename an Aspen Watch application (when you rename the Online app)
· Change the Application type (e.g. From DMCplus to APC/DMC3)
· Change the Online Host Name (when you move the online server)
...without losing history.
Function reference:
AW_MigrateApp(AppName, NewAppName, ToType, IODevice, NewHost)
Usage examples:
AW_MigrateApp('APPNAME','NEWAPPNAME'); -- Renames the application
AW_MigrateApp('APPNAME','',6); -- Converts app type from DMCplus (0) to APC (6)
AW_MigrateApp('APPNAME','',6,'','NEWONLINE'); -- Converts app type from DMCplus to APC along with a new RTE Online host name
AW_MigrateApp('APPNAME',,,,'NEWONLINE'); -- Just change the Online Host machine name
AW_MigrateApp('APPNAME','',0,'IODMCP'); -- Convert from APC to DMC (requires an IODEVICE name)
Installation Instructions:
NOTE: for versions later than V11 CP1, this procedure is already a standard part of the database, so you can SKIP THIS SECTION and the tool is already enabled for you to use.
To use this tool, place the AWMigrateApp.rld file in a temporary folder on your Aspen Watch Server.
1. Start InfoPlus.21 Manager.
2. Open the InfoPlus.21 Utilities (Press Ctrl-U or choose Actions -> Utilities).
3. Save a snapshot of your database using the Snapshot tab (just in case).
4. Choose the Records tab. Select the “Load” option and select “Use first free record id”.
5. Click the Browse button and select the AWMigrateApp.rld file from your temporary folder.
6. Click the “Execute” button to load the utility and supporting record into your Aspen Watch database. See the image below for an example of how this should look when it runs successfully.
(NOTE: If there is a problem, you can always revert to your saved snapshot from step 3.)
Step-by-step procedures
IMPORTANT: If you are migrating an application from ACO to RTE, then you should STOP the Aspen APC Performance Monitor Data Service BEFORE you run this utility. Then, after successfully running it, START the service. This will help prevent two instances of the application showing in the AW_AVAILABLE_APPS record in InfoPlus.21 Administrator and causing the collection status from showing as “Initial”.
Change the Name of a DMCplus Controller and Retain Aspen Watch History
o Save the DMCplus CCF configuration file in APC Manage
o Stop Collection in Aspen Watch Maker for the controller that you want to change the name of.
o Close Aspen Watch Maker
o Stop the controller in APC Manage
o Unload the controller in APC Manage
o Delete the controller in APC Manage
o Rename the DMCplus CCF configuration file and save it into a folder with the same name as the name of the controller under the app folder
o Load the controller into APC Manage
o Start the controller in APC Manage
o Open Aspen SQLplus. Type the following query line to rename the DMC application:
AW_MigrateApp('APPNAME','NEWAPPNAME');
Replace the text APPNAME with the name of your current controller application, and replace the text NEWAPPNAME with the new name you would like your application to be called.
Then press the Execute [!] button.
o Open Aspen Watch Maker and restart data collection for the renamed application
o Close and Reopen PCWS
o Verify that Aspen Watch history has been successfully transferred
Change the Name of an APC Controller and Retain Aspen Watch History
o On the APC Online server In the APC Builder Online Applications tab, press the Get a Snapshot button for the APC Builder application that you wish to change the name of.
o In the Get Application Snapshot dialog box rename the application in the Destination Application text box to save the application with the new name
o Drag the application you took a snapshot of from the navigation pane into the APC Workspace
o On the Aspen Watch server stop collection in Aspen Watch Maker for the APC Controller you want to change the name of
o Back on the APC Online server stop the current APC Application
o Delete the current APC Application
o From the APC Builder workspace deploy the APC application with the new name
o Start the APC Application with the new name
o Open Aspen SQLplus. Type the following query to rename the APC application:
AW_MigrateApp('APPNAME','NEWAPPNAME');
Replace the text APPNAME with the name of your current controller application, and replace the text NEWAPPNAME with the new name you would like your application to be called.
Then press the Execute [!] button.
o Open Aspen Watch Maker and restart data collection for the renamed application
o Close and Reopen PCWS
o Verify that Aspen Watch history has been successfully transferred
Convert DMCplus application to APC Builder application and Retain Aspen Watch History
o Save the DMCplus CCF configuration file in APC Manage
o Import the CCF file into APC Builder
o Stop Collection in Aspen Watch Maker for the DMCplus controller that you want to convert to APC Builder
o Close Aspen Watch Maker
o Stop the controller in APC Manage
o Unload the controller in APC Manage
o Delete the controller in APC Manage
o From the APC Builder workspace deploy the APC application
o Start the APC Application
o Open Aspen SQLplus. Type the following query to convert the DMC application to APC:
AW_MigrateApp('APPNAME','',6);
Replace the text APPNAME with the name of your current controller application.
Then press the Execute [!] button.
o Open Aspen Watch Maker and restart data collection for the converted application
o Close and Reopen PCWS
o Verify that Aspen Watch history has been successfully transferred
Convert DMCplus application to APC Builder application with new Name and Retain Aspen Watch History
You can change a DMCplus application to an APC Application while changing the name by calling both of the following query lines and making the appropriate changes.
Rename the application:
AW_MigrateApp('APPNAME','NEWAPPNAME');
Convert the renamed DMC application to APC:
AW_MigrateApp('NEWAPPNAME','',6);
Refer to instructions in the previous sections for detailed procedure steps.
Possible Problems andSolutions
Problem:
After running AW_MigrateApp, when clicking on Names of MV, FF, and CVs in PCWS the Detail page pops up automatically but you cannot view the menu that lists Detail, Control Obj., History Plot, Inspector, KPI Plot, Modeling, Event Log, and Message Log.Solution
Close the current browser session of the PCWS and reopen PCWS. You will now be able to view the menu.
Problem:
After running AW_MigrateApp, Aspen Watch Maker doesn’t list the new name for my controller, it still lists the old name. The Path listed in Aspen Watch Maker is the new path, but the CCF name shown is the old CCF file.Solution
Close Aspen Watch Maker and reopen in. The Name in Aspen Watch Maker will change to the new name, but the CCF file will remain the old name.
Start collecting data for the controller and the CCF name will change to the new CCF name.
Problem:
After deploying my APC Builder Controller with the new name both my old APC Builder controller and my New APC Builder controller appear in Aspen Watch Maker.Solution
Continue the procedure of changing the name of the APC Controller while retaining Aspen Watch History. Run the AW_MigrateApp prcedure in SQLplus and the Aspen Watch History associated with your old controller will be moved to the new controller. After running SQLplus script only the APC Controller name with the new name will appear in Aspen Watch Maker.
Keywords: DMC3, Aspen watch, migrate, upgrade, name, change, type
References: None |
Problem Statement: It is required to install and use a named instance of SQL express (Microsoft SQL Express 2014 SP2) if you want to run Aspen OnLine as a Local System. | Solution: The installer for SQL Express 2014 64-bit is included in the:
\3rd Party Redistributables\Microsoft SQL Express 2014 SP2 subfolder.
Follow these steps to install and configure a named instance of SQL Express.
Double click SQLEXPR_x64_ENU.exe to start the installation.
Click New SQL Server stand-alone installation or add features to an existing installation. The installation setup window will appear.
Click Next until you get to the Installation Type page.
Select Perform a new installation of SQL Server 2014, and click Next.
Accept the license terms and click Next.
Leave the default feature selection, and click Next.
On the Instance Configuration page, select Named instance: and provide a name for the server instance. Click Next.
Note: Do not use the Default Instance name. Create a unique instance name when installing SQL Express.
Leave the default server configuration settings, and click Next.
On the Database Engine Configuration page, select Mixed Mode. Specify a password for the system administrator (sa) account. Add system administrators as needed using the Add… button. The Add Current User button will add the account that is currently logged in. Make sure that all users that need access to be able to change the database are added to the system administrator list.
Click Next. The installation will begin.
Once the installation is complete, click Close.
Open Command Prompt as administrator (right click and select Run as administrator).
Enter the following command to navigate to the Aspen Online system folder according to the appropriate version:
For V12.1:cd C:\ProgramData\AspenTech\AOLV121\system
For V12: cd C:\ProgramData\AspenTech\AOLV12\system
For V11: cd C:\ProgramData\AspenTech\AspenOnLineV11.0\system
Run the SelectInstance batch file (type SelectInstance.bat into command prompt and press Enter).
A list of all valid SQL instances will be displayed. Type the corresponding number for the named instance and press Enter. A message stating that the SQL instance was selected and setup successfully will appear.
You can now run Aspen Online as a Local System.
Related knowledge articles:
Aspen Online Service V12/V12.1 is not able to start when using Local System Account
Running the Aspen OnLine Service as Local System
When starting to use Aspen Online, nothing happens for a while, and then it says No connection could be made because the target machine actively refused it
Keywords: AOL, configuration, install
References: None |
Problem Statement: What is Real-Time Optimization (RTO)? | Solution: Aspen OnLine enables rigorous process models to be used with validated real-time plant historian data to drive excellence in plant operations by helping achieve maximum profitability and reduce operating costs. This can be accomplished in real-time and within process constraints. In addition, plant issues can be identified faster, difficult-to-measure KPIs can be tracked, and more reliable plant operations can be run. Aspen OnLine is now capable of connecting to nearly all AspenTech rigorous engineering models including Aspen Plus, Aspen HYSYS, Aspen Custom Modeler, Aspen Utilities, and Aspen EDR.
Models can be used online to:
• Provide comprehensive performance monitoring
• Automate running the model multiple times per day
• Use model results for inferential sensing
• Update APC targets in real-time to e.g., maximize profit.
• “Real-Time Optimization” (RTO)
• Determine optimal operating conditions subject to constraints.
Benefits:
• 24/7 Increase the production of high valued product streams
• 24/7 Reduce product losses and the consumption of utilities
• 24/7 Gain a better understanding of your plant and track KPIs
The main functions of Aspen Online for RTO applications are:
• Steady state detection
• Process data collection and conditioning
• Calibrate the model before optimizing
• Optimize external APC targets
o Find the best economic operating point
• Write setpoints to APC system
• Wait until plant lines-out, reaches new steady state
o Execution frequency 1 to 12 hr
o Computation time 10 to 60 min
Common use cases:
• Ethylene Plants
• Crude Units
• Aromatics
• Ammonia
• Alkylation
• Reformer
• Ethylene Oxide
• VAM
• VCM
Key Words:
Real Time Optimization (RTO), Aspen Online, optimization, real-time
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: Is it possible to collect logging information for Aspen SQLplus applications and TSK_SQL_SERVER? | Solution: Download the attached SQLplusLoggingAdmin.zip file and extract to yield SQLplusLoggingAdmin.exe file.
Transfer the file to the Aspen InfoPlus.21 (IP.21) server.
Open IP.21 Manager and stop TSK_SQL_SERVER task.
Run the SQLplusLoggingAdmin.exe file
Select the desired Application to log information on using the drop down menu.
Select the desired log types.
Click the Apply button to save the changes.
Settings for the SqlPlusLoggingAdmin are recorded in an XML file is which is located in:
C:\ProgramData\AspenTech\InfoPlus.21\db21\sql\Ip21SqlPlus.config
Restart the TSK_SQL_SERVER service in the IP.21 Manager.
Open the application that uses the TSK_SQL_SERVER port that is currently having problems (ie SQLplus Query Writer, Tag Browser).
The log file will be created in the following directory: (note, that the folder ProgramData is a hidden folder by default)
C:\ProgramData\AspenTech\InfoPlus.21\IP21DiagnosticLogs\IP21SQLPLUS\sqlplus_server.exe.log
Be sure to delete the Ip21SqlPlus.config file to disable this logging when you have finished.
After deleting the Ip21SqlPlus.config file, please restart the task or software that we have collected log. For example, if we collected log for the TSK_SQL_SERVER, then we need to restart the task TSK_SQL_SERVER; if we collected log for the SQL Plus query write, then we need to restart the SQL Plus software.
Keywords: logging
SQLplus
port 10014
debug
investigate
diagnostics
References: None |
Problem Statement: This issue has been seen after an unexpected shutdown of an APC Online Server that is using the Olefins License Scheme. This happens on both DMCPlus (ACO) and DMC3 (RTE) controllers.
Olefins License Scheme can be selected by running APC License Scheme Selector application. When using Olefins scheme, an internal file (AspenTech.APC.OlefinsServiceCharge.info) will be created on the APC Online Server. Sometimes this file gets corrupted usually because a sudden stop of the Online Server when the file is being written.
ACO controllers will stop suddenly after start without any message.
RTE controllers will show an Exception message on the PCWS when started (this message can also be seen in the Event Viewer application log):
Exception caught while running application. System.Runtime.InteropServices.SEHException (0x80004005): External component has thrown an exception. at AspenTech.SSC.Engine.OnlineLicenseManagerAPI.apcolm_Initialize(String logDirectoryPath, String lstDirectoryPath, String productName, String applicationName, UInt32 gracePeriodMinutes, Int32 inDesktopSimulation, Int32 markedDMC3, Int32 requestedMode, Int32 smartstepEnabled, Int32 watchEnabled, Int32 adaptiveModelingEnabled, UInt32 independentVariableCount, UInt32 manipulatedVariableCount, UInt32 dependentVariableCount, UInt32 deepLearningDependentVariableCount, IntPtr& state, Int32& permittedMode, Int32& permittedSmartstepEnabled, Int32& permittedWatchEnabled, Int32& permittedAdaptiveModelingEnabled, IntPtr& permittedFeatures, apcolm_EPermitRationale& permitRationale, IntPtr& licenseStatuses, UInt32& secret) at AspenTech.SSC.Engine.OnlineLicenseManagerAPI.Initialize_internal(String logDirectoryPath, String lstDirectoryPath, String productName, String applicationName, UInt32 gracePeriodMinutes, Int32 inDesktopSimulation, Int32 markedDMC3, Int32 requestedMode, Int32 smartstepEnabled, Int32 watchEnabled, Int32 adaptiveModelingEnabled, UInt32 independentVariableCount, UInt32 manipulatedVariableCount, UInt32 dependentVariableCount, UInt32 deepLearningDependentVariableCount, Int32& permittedMode, Int32& permittedSmartstepEnabled, Int32& permittedWatchEnabled, Int32& permittedAdaptiveModelingEnabled, String[]& permittedFeatures, PermitRationale& permitRationale, LicenseStatus[]& licenseStatuses) at AspenTech.SSC.Engine.OnlineLicenseManagerAPI.Initialize(String logDirectoryPath, String lstDirectoryPath, String productName, String applicationName, UInt32 gracePeriodMinutes, Int32 inDesktopSimulation, Int32 markedDMC3, Int32 requestedMode, Int32 smartstepEnabled, Int32 watchEnabled, Int32 adaptiveModelingEnabled, UInt32 independentVariableCount, UInt32 manipulatedVariableCount, UInt32 dependentVariableCount, UInt32 deepLearningDependentVariableCount, Int32& permittedMode, Int32& permittedSmartstepEnabled, Int32& permittedWatchEnabled, Int32& permittedAdaptiveModelingEnabled, String[]& permittedFeatures, PermitRationale& permitRationale, LicenseStatus[]& licenseStatuses) at AspenTech.SSC.Engine.Scheduler.WhatCanControllerDo() at AspenTech.SSC.Engine.Scheduler.OnExecutionCycleStarted() at AspenTech.ACP.RTE.SchedulerBase.ExecuteApp_runStandardSchedule(DateTime actualCycleStartTime) at AspenTech.ACP.RTE.SchedulerBase.ExecuteApp_private()
The user may also see that if the APC License Scheme is changed from APC (Olefins) to APC, the controllers will work without issues. | Solution: Stop all running controllers on the APC Online server.
Open the program APC License Scheme Selector and verify that the APC (Olefins) license scheme is being used.
Open the AspenTech.APC.OlefinsServiceCharge.info file in a notepad and if it is blank, that verifies that the file has been corrupted. The file can be found in this directory: C:\ProgramData\AspenTech
Rename the corrupted file to AspenTech.APC.OlefinsServiceCharge.info_OLD (removing its extension so it is unusable), or you can just delete the file.
* Then start the controllers. This will create a new AspenTech.APC.OlefinsServiceCharge.info file and the controllers should be able to continue running without issues.
*Note: if this issue occurred after an unexpected shutdown of the APC Online server, sometimes there can be orphan RTE processes hung up due to the RTE Service not being shut down properly. In this case, the following is recommended before completing the last step (*) above:
Stop and delete all of the RTE controllers from DMC3 Builder (make sure you have a snapshot or copy of application available for redeployment later).
Then open Task Manager and go to the details tab to check if any RTEApplication.exe processes are still running. You can add a column for Command Line in task manager to see which controller application is hung up, if desired.
End this orphan process manually in Task Manager.
Close any open sessions of DMC3 Builder, open Services and restart the AspenTech Production Control RTE Service.
Then open the DMC3 Builder project and redeploy the controllers fresh.
Keywords: Olefins, License, stop, running, corrupted, exception
References: None |
Problem Statement: When running calibrate mode, the engine might not be making enough moves on an MV and showing Economics as the step constraint preventing the moves. This article aims to explain what this means and how to prevent the control engine from getting stuck in this situation. | Solution: The MV step constraint of Economics means that the controller could not find a move that would meet the cost objective function based on the Calibrate Ratio. The engine calculates the optimal value of the objective function based on the LP costs, J_opt and then computes the current value of the objective function, J_current and a difference, Delta_J = J_opt - J_current. So when theSolution is outside this Delta_J region and coming back inside, the engine is making moves (behaving almost like in Control mode) to bring the process to a state where it can step again. Thus, it shows the constraint to be Economics.
When using the traditional method, CALIBOPT=0, the root cause of this is the configuration of LP costs. In order to prevent the controller from getting limited by the economics, you can try to scale your costs as described below.
Scaling LP Costs - With Example
If you are converting a DMCplus to DMC3 without Smart Tune, it is important to review the LP Costs and make sure that they are somehow balanced. For each MV, first calculate (Upper Limit – Lower Limit)*LP_Cost:
Variable
Lower Limit (LL)
Upper Limit (UL)
LP_Cost
(UL - LL) *LP_Cost
MV1 2 10 -35 -280
MV2 10 45 0.1 3.5
MV3 10 35 -41 -1025
MV4 15 30 0.1 1.5
MV5 500 2000 0.02 30
Then manually re-adjust the LP costs (using trial and error method described below to determine them) for Calibrate mode in order to have the result of this calculation in the same magnitude and order in relation to one another:
Variable NewLPCost (UL-LL) *NewLPCost
MV1 -1 -8
MV2 0.1 3.5
MV3 -0.5 -12.5
MV4 0.1 1.5
MV5 0.004 6
Trial and error method to determine New LP Cost:
In Excel you want to calculate (UL – LL)*NewLPCost so that it has approximately the same magnitude across the board and so that the order of (UL – LL)*NewLPCost is the same as the order for (UL – LL)*LP_Cost. You have to guess NewLPCost to do this.
The procedure to do this is first calculate (UL – LL)*LP_Cost and then determine the order of that value among the other MVs.
Variable LP_Cost (UL-LL)*LP_Cost Order
MV1 -35 -280 4
MV2 0.1 3.5 2
MV3 -41 -1025 5
MV4 0.1 1.5 3
MV5 0.02 30 1
Now we need to adjust the LP_Cost so that (UL-LL)*Cost are all the same magnitude with the same order as before. The (UL-LL)*Cost range from orders of magnitude of 1, 10, 100, and 1000. So let’s scale the LP costs to make (UL-LL)*Cost smaller while maintaining the same order.
Let’s start with changing the LP Cost of MV1 from -35 to -1, this reduces (UL-LL)*Cost to -8 and still preserves the order for everything.
Variable New LP Cost (UL-LL)*NewLPCost Order
MV1 -1 -8 4
MV2 0.1 3.5 2
MV3 -41 -1025 5
MV4 0.1 1.5 3
MV5 0.02 30 1
Now we want to reduce the LP Cost for MV3 because the magnitude of (UL – LL)*Cost is too high. We want it to be just below -8. So let’s pick -0.5 for the New LP Cost and (UL – LL)*Cost goes to -12.5. That’s good enough and the order is preserved.
Variable New LP Cost (UL-LL)*NewLPCost Order
MV1 -1 -8 4
MV2 0.1 3.5 2
MV3 -0.5 -12.5 5
MV4 0.1 1.5 3
MV5 0.02 30 1
Finally MV5 is a bit high, maybe we don’t need to worry about it but if Calibrate doesn’t behave the way we want we can go ahead and reduce the LP Cost further. Since the order is preserved and MV5 should be number 1 we want to select a New LP Cost so that (UL – LL)*Cost for MV5 is above the value for MV2. We don’t want to go to 0.002 because then it will be 3.0 which is less than 3.5 and changing the order with respect to MV2, so we’ll change the LP Cost to 0.004.
Variable New LP Cost (final) (UL-LL)*NewLPCost Order
MV1 -1 -8 4
MV2 0.1 3.5 2
MV3 -0.5 -12.5 5
MV4 0.1 1.5 3
MV5 0.004 6 1
This will prevent the Delta J (objective function) to be dominated by an MV with a very large LP cost when the Calibration Ratio is changed. Observe that the (UL-LL)*NewLPCost has still the same absolute order as the original (MV3>MV1>MV5>MV2>MV4).
The other approach that helps to avoid this situation is to use Smart Tune. With Smart Tune, the costs are scaled and assigning preferences to variables will more accurately keep a % difference (the CR) away from the optimum.
Finally, the best approach is to use Calibrate 2.0 where you set CALIBOPT = 1. If you use Smart Tune and CALIBOPT = 1, you wouldn't expect to see this as often. In V12.1, when using CALIBOPT=1, there are some new parameters called Target Tolerance (MVTGRNG and CVTGRNG) that are used to determine how far away each variable is allowed to divert from its ideal target. If the step size is limited by this tolerance, the step constraint will say Economics. Please see the Entry Dictionary for more information on MVTGRNG and CVTGRNG. Here is also a KB article for reference (note the name used to be Step Target Range in V12.0 and is now Target Tolerance in V12.1): https://esupport.aspentech.com/S_Article?id=000098170
Keywords: calibrate, economics, step constraint, moves
References: None |
Problem Statement: After installing Aspen ProMV Online V12.0.1 and above an error is displayed when opening the Browser reporting “Internal server error”
After first installing Aspen ProMV V12.0.1 an error can show up displaying Internal server error, additionally when clicking on the bell icon the following errors are reported
Check Service (ContAgentMGR) failed, Status code: 500, Reason : Internal server error
Check Service (BacthAgentMGR) failed, Status code: 500, Reason : Internal server error | Solution: These errors show up when the additional Aspen ProMV patches have not been installed
Open the folder with the Aspen ProMV V12.0.1 installer
Navigate to the patch Folderlocation\Aspen-ProMV-V12.0.1\aspenONEMedia\Patches Where folder location is the location where the installation folder is placed
Execute the Update agent selecting Local updates only
Once installation is completed reboot the server
After reboot the error will no longer be displayed
Keywords: Not loading
Page crashing
IIS error
Services
References: None |
Problem Statement: why is Aspen HYSYS Peng Robinson fluid package predicting different dew point temperature between PT envelope and Stream flashing at low pressure? | Solution: The issue occurs when performing stability test. Avoiding the stability test by using HYSIM flash (Properties ->Fluid Packages -> Stab Test ->Stability Test Parameters ->HYSIM flash) provides the same TP and TV flash results with the HYSYS Package and Peng-Robinson properties.
After performing the above, the dew points in PT envelop and stream flashing results will be the same.
Keywords: Aspen HYSYS, Dew Point, Temperature
References: None |
Problem Statement: Why were TPXX or TXXY data sets with missing points allowed in V10 but not allowed in V11 and V12 when you run Aspen Plus file? | Solution: In Aspen Plus V10, the missing data are allowed as per below:
However, when you open the same file in Aspen Plus V11 or V12, the missing data are not allowed and the form is incomplete as per below:
Starting with V11, Aspen Plus requires LLE data that values for both liquid phases. This requirement ensures that LLE data can be used in data regression effectively. Some of LLE data retrieved from TDE Engine have values only for one liquid phase and become incomplete in Aspen Plus.
There are two workarounds:
1) Enter values for missing liquid phase.
2) Delete dataset(s) that are not complete.
Keywords: Aspen Plus, Data, LLE
References: None |
Problem Statement: Confusion can arise when you are working on APC/DMC projects where you have several different servers that may have different versions or that have different CPs installed, how can files be modified according to the last machine that edited it? | Solution: APC software is designed so its files (such as .ccf, .iqf, .dmc3project, .dmc3application, .apcdataset, etc.) are backwards compatible, meaning that for example you can import into a V12.1 DMC3 Builder machine a .dmc3application that was created on a V11 or V12 machine, but the reverse is not true. For example if you try to import a V12 project folder into a V11 CP1 DMC3 Builder machine, it will show the following error:
Only some files such as .dmc3project or .ccf will give you a warning that the file was last modified by a newer version but that is not the case for all file types, some files like .dmc3application may let you import into an older version but most likely it will cause corruption and information will be missing on the controller.
This is being tackled for V14 and newer releases, but for now when working with APC files that come from a different machine you need to be aware which version of software it was last modified on.
Note that this also applies to cumulative patches, since a CP changes the software version (for example CP1 for V12.1 changes it from V12.1.0 to V12.1.1) you cannot import a V12.1 CP1 file into a V12.1 machine that doesn’t have CP1 installed, it will most likely also result into the errors mentioned above.
Keywords: APC, DMC3, DMCplus, file, compatibility, version, dmc3project, dmc3application
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to suppress a message of an Aspen Process Controller (APC) application. | Solution: To suppress Aspen Process Controller (APC) messages, two files (depending on the message type) should to be created:
apc.user.message.config
rte.user.message.config
These .CONFIG (UTF-8) files must be placed on the APC Online Server in the next paths:
Windows 2003 or earlier - C:\Documents & Settings\All Users\Application Data\AspenTech\RTE\Vx.x\Config
Windows 2008 or later - C:\ProgramData\AspenTech\RTE\Vx.x\Config
NOTE: These files are being read continuously by the AspenTech Production Control RTE Service, there is no need to restart the service to take the changes in consideration. The Aspen APC Web Provider Data Service is not involved in the message logging of the controller.
You CANNOT have the file open in an editor, or RTE will fail to open it with exclusive access. You should exit all editors and then copy the attached file into the respective Config folder an replace the file that is there. Then RTE will see the changed file and load it automatically.
The default files (apc.message.config and rte.message.config) can be used as a template to build up (extract the message code) the customized ones.
DO NOT MODIFY these ones found in:
Windows 2003 or earlier - C:\%\Application Data\AspenTech\APC\Web Server\Products (APC or RTE)
Windows 2008 or later - C:\ProgramData\AspenTech\APC\Web Server\Products (APC or RTE).
For example, use the default DMCplus controller COL5X3 local and convert it into an APC controller.
Suppose that APC messages 12005 and 12006 have to be suppressed (these are generated when turning on and turning off the application).
For these APC messages the syntaxes are:
<?xml version=1.0 encoding=UTF-8?>
<acp.user.product.messages productName=APC>
<messageFormats>
<add name=DMCplus 12005: Controller Turned ON>
<suppress>
<forapp name=* vartype=* varname=*/>
</suppress>
</add>
<add name=DMCplus 12006: Controller Turned OFF at PCS>
<suppress>
<forapp name=* vartype=* varname=*/>
</suppress>
</add>
</messageFormats>
</acp.user.product.messages>
Place the apc.user.message.config in the correct path and re-start the Aspen services. The messages 12005 and 12006 are suppressed (the ID 0 messages indicating the change from Off to On and vice versa confirm it).
Suppose that all RTE messages related to OperatorLowLimit have to be suppressed.
For this RTE message the syntaxes are:
<?xml version=1.0 encoding=UTF-8?>
<acp.user.product.messages productName=RTE>
<messageFormats>
<add name=AppLogFacility: Entry value changed event message>
<suppress>
<forapp name=COL5X3LOCALAPC vartype=* varname=* entry=OperatorLowLimit/>
<forapp name=STDEMO vartype=DEP varname=* entry=OperatorHighLimit/>
</suppress>
</add>
<add name=Node: User requested entry change>
<suppress>
<forapp name=COL5X3LOCALAPC vartype=* varname=* entry=OperatorLowLimit/>
<forapp name=STDEMO vartype=DEP varname=* entry=OperatorHighLimit/>
</suppress>
</add>
</messageFormats>
</acp.user.product.messages>
GENERAL NOTES:
The file format is UTF-8 and CONFIG.
The messages are suppressed from PCWS, as well as, from the Event Viewer (Applications and Services Log\Aspen RTE).
The forapp is the field where a particular APC controller can be specified.
The vartype is the field where a particular variable type can be specified (ind, dep, gen). The file is case sensitive.
The varname is the field where a particular variable name can be specified.
The entry is the field where a particular entry can be specified.
For example:
<forapp name=COL5X3LOCALAPC vartype=ind varname=FIC-2001 entry=”OperatorLowLimit”/>
Keywords: Aspen Process Controller, APC, RTE, messages, suppression
References: None |
Problem Statement: How is the process in HYSYS to calculate the hydrate formation temperature? | Solution: The reason why the hydrate formation temperature is different when calculated directly taken from HYSYS simulation and when defined at a separate stream considering same compositions and conditions for both the streams caused is based on the two-methods application difference as below:
• Ng & Robinson: This is the default selection. The Ng & Robinson model assumes that aqueous phase components have negligible solubility in other phases.
• CSM: The CSM model uses distinct equations of state for both aqueous and hydrocarbon phases. When a component is partitioned between the aqueous and liquid hydrocarbon phases, we recommend selecting CSM when CO2 is a common component that is often partitioned.
Keywords: Aspen HYSYS, Hydrate, Temperature
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to create a COMThermo Fluid Package in Aspen HYSYS? | Solution: In Aspen HYSYS, you can add fluid packages from a selection of sources: HYSYS, Aspen Properties, or COMThermo. To Add a COMThermo fluid package follow the steps below:
Click Fluid Packages in the Properties Environment navigation pane. The Fluid Packages manager view appears.
Click Add. Choose from the COMThermo.option from the available databank groups.
Use the associated setup forms to match selected component lists with property packages.
Note that for HYSYS or COMThermo packages, the list is limited to HYSYS component lists.
Keywords: COMThermo, Fluid Package
References: None |
Problem Statement: All Aspen Mtell Server and Client components must use the same regional settings. If they are not, you will encounter the following errors while training agents or viewing trends.
When trying to train an agent, you get the following error:
Error Training Agent:
Failed to build expression from (Offline Condition)
Unexpected token ‘,’ at end of expression.
You may also have trouble opening trends for agents, seeing something like the following picture:
The offline condition is throwing an error because the different regional settings recognize different decimal separators (comma vs period). | Solution: First, check your version of Mtell. In older versions of Mtell (before V10.0.4), an offline condition with a decimal could not be used in non-English Operating Systems. See this KB for details.
If you are in a later version of Mtell than V10.0.4, then you likely have Server and Client machines which are not using the same regional settings. All Aspen Mtell Server and Client components must use the same regional settings. Follow the steps below to change the configuration.
Regional settings can be found and changed at the following location
Open the Control Panel
Select Clock and Region
Select Region
The regional settings we are interested in are Format and Additional Settings…
To make sure all Aspen Mtell Server and Client components are using the same Regional Settings:
Decide which region to use
Check the regional settings on the server and client machines to determine your options
If you select different regional settings from the machine where you defined your offline condition, then it will require you to retrain your agents
Navigate to the regional settings as shown above and change the Format on any machines which are not using the chosen region
Alternatively, change the Language Preferences if you are using the Match Windows display language setting
Select Language preferences
Click Add a Language
Select a language, click Next, and click Install
If the language is not automatically set as the Windows display language, select it from the drop down
Check Additional Settings… to confirm that the decimal symbol is correct. It should update when you select a new Format.
If the decimal symbol in the offline condition is different from the chosen region, redefine the offline condition
Open Aspen Mtell Agent Builder, go to the Machine Learning tab, select this Equipment Set, Offline Conditions tab
Click Define…
Replace the old decimal symbol with the new decimal symbol
Click OK
Click Apply
Retrain your affected agents
Keywords: Offline Condition
Cannot train agent
Cannot view trends
Unexpected token
References: None |
Problem Statement: From the Composite log file, the following message has been observed:
CLPSUB - CLPON, IENGCHK, IPEROR CONFAK = 0 393 458 0
What do these IENGCHK and IPEROR parameters mean? | Solution: IENGCHK = 393 is giving this message: LP ECE 1E6 without CVRANK = 9999
This means that the CV has been taken out of the feasibilitySolution by setting Equal Concern Error to 1E6 but this is inconsistent with the Rank because it is not set at 9999. If ECE = 1E6 and Rank <> 9999, this warning message is issued and the rank is internally reset to 9999, to ensure that the CV limit is taken out of theSolution.
This numerical value for IENGCHK is the same as the error ID shown in the message.dat file or dmcplus.message.config file found here on the APC Online Server: C:\ProgramData\AspenTech\APC\Online\cfg
IPEROR would indicate which CV is experiencing this issue so IPEROR = 458 means that this is happening on CV #458
To resolve this warning message, the user should look at both the CV SS Rank and Composite Rank for that CV. When CLP is active, the Composite rank is being used, rather than the CV SS Rank. The message in the log file is referring to the Composite rank (not set to 9999) in this case that may be conflicting with the CV ECE of 1E6. Depending on the desiredSolution, either the Composite rank should be set to 9999 (take CV out of feasibilitySolution) or the ECE should be changed to less than 1E6 (include CV in feasibilitySolution).
Keywords: engchk, iperor, composite, clp, cvrank
References: None |
Problem Statement: When starting to use Aspen Online, nothing happens for a while, and then it says
No connection could be made because the target machine actively refused it | Solution: First, try the following to check if the Aspen OnLine service is not running.
Use this procedure to start the service and set it to start automatically:
1. Using an account with administrative privileges, search for Services and run it.
2. In the Name column, locate and click Aspen OnLine VX.X. Right click on Aspen Online vX.X and select Properties:
3. Change the startup type to 'Automatic (Delayed Start)'
Note: If the service is not set to ‘Automatic’ or ‘Automatic Delayed Start’ it will have be turned on each time the machine is restarted to use Aspen Online.
4. Right Click on the service again and select Start. If successful, it should show the service 'Running'.
If Aspen Online still shows the same issue, follow the steps below:
5. Launch command prompt with admin privileges (right click and run as administrator)
6. Type cd C:\Program Files\AspenTech\Aspen OnLine VX.X and press Enter.
7. Then, type Selectinstance.bat and press Enter.
8. It may say there is no SQLExpress Installed or if it is there, you will get a selection and you need to type a number.
9. If it is there, select the appropriate instance (type the number and hit Enter) and go to step 13.
10. If it is not there, go to the AspenONE ENG Installation package for vX.X and from install Microsoft SQL Express 2014 SP2 available from Aspen-VX.X-ENG | aspenONEMedia | 3rd Party Redistributables
11. During the installation we do not recommend using the default instance name. Create a new Instance of SQL Express called SQLExpressAOL and ensure it is set to Mixed Mode Authentication and set a password.
12. Once the install is complete, run from a fresh command prompt as admin (repeat steps 5-7) and select the named Instance SQLExpressAOL
13. To stop the Aspen Online Service VX.X (repeat steps 1-2), right click on the service and select Stop. Now, right click and select properties and change the log on to Local System and Start the service.
14. Relaunch Aspen Online
These steps may also be helpful if you see similar messages when using Plant Data or AI Training to create First Principle Driven Hybrid Models via Aspen Plus or Aspen HYSYS.
Keywords: Aspen OnLine, Plant Data, AI Training, No connection could be made because the target machine actively refused it
References: None |
Problem Statement: How can I generate Aspen Cim-IO diagnostics? | Solution: For Version 9 and Below
You can do this by going to the CimioProperties, on the machine where the cimio to opc is running.
Go to Program Files / AspenTech / Cimio / Code, and open up Cimio Properties, and go to the Cimio Diagnostics Logging tab. Find Diagnostic Logging and select ON from the dropdown list. Double click Category on the right, then Add/Update, Go to the Application Specific tab, select the ON button, and OPCLOG from the dropdown list. Click Add/Update, then Ok, then Save Configuration and X out of the utility.
You will need to stop and restart the cimio manage and cimio to opc, if the Diagnostic logging was set to ON from Disabled. Turned on from off, simply restart the client application.
This will create a cimio_diag.log file in the cimio/log directory. Once you have run the application long enough to capture the event, you can go to the CimioProperties and set Diagnostic Logging to OFF.
Additional information that is quite useful when troubleshooting cimio issue, is to confirm the version of the cimio.dll on all machines running Aspen cimio, this is found in the AspenTech Shared directory. Also confirm the version of the asyndlgp.exe, found in the cimio\io\cio_opc_api folder of the machine where the cimio to opc is running.
Identification of where these files are running and the operating system are also helpful.
For V10 and Above:
CIMIO Diagnostics logs are now included as a functionality for the CIMIO Interface Manager application. you can enable the logs for every interface created inside of the CIMIO Interface Connection. To do this follow the next steps:
1.- Open CIMIO Interface Manager from Windows Start
2.- Select the CIMIO Interface Node and then Select the Diagnostic Logging tab
3.- At this point, you will see the multiple Turn on and Turn Off functionalities of the logs as long as several filtering options
For further information on the use of the filtering options and logs usage and store please consult the CIMIO Diagnostic logs user guide on the following KB link
https://esupport.aspentech.com/S_Article?id=000051551
Keywords: Aspen Cim-IO, diagnostics, logging
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I link a user variable using Aspen Simulation Workbook? | Solution: User variables can be directly linked to ASW using ASW V10 and higher with Excel version 2016 using Copy/Paste or using the Variable Browser in the Organizer. We recommend upgrading Aspen products to V10 if using earlier releases.
In earlier versions of Aspen HYSYS, a Spreadsheet block needed to be used as a bride. See Knowledge Document 93130 for more information.
Keywords: user variable, ASW
References: None |
Problem Statement: What should I do if I am having issues accessing Aspen AI Model Builder? | Solution: There are two common issues users might face when trying to access AI Model Builder:
Unable to log into AI Model Builder:
First, ensure that an account is created for access to Aspen AI Model Builder and register the account by following the instructions in the registration email. To create an account, please reach out to your Aspen Tech Sales Account Manager.
If the password is lost for any reason, users can reset it on the login page by clicking on ‘Forgot Password’.
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) code is not working
Try to re-enter a new code from Google Authenticator as the code changes frequently and may have expired.
If re-entry does not work, sometimes the internal clock on the phone can cause issues. To force a sync, go to the settings within the Google Authenticator app and select Time correction for code. After this click on Sync now. After this sync is complete, try and login again.
In case you have any other issues, or this does not address your problem, please contact customer support by creating a case or sending an email to [email protected]
Keywords: Aspen AI Model Builder, issues, login, access, account, register, authenticator
References: None |
Problem Statement: How can I use Aspen Simulation Workbook (ASW) to get simulation data for use in Aspen AI Model Builder? | Solution: Please see the attached pdf file for steps on how to use Aspen Simulation Workbook to get simulation data instead of Multicase.
Keywords: Aspen AI Model Builder, Aspen Simulation Workbook (ASW), simulation data, running scenarios without Multicase
References: None |
Problem Statement: What are some of the common issues faced while deploying hybrid models in a simulator (Aspen Plus or Aspen HYSYS) and how can they be addressed? | Solution: This article highlights some of the common issues faced while using Aspen AI Model Builder and possibleSolutions:
Unable to locate exported hybrid model
All hybrid models will be downloaded to your browser's download location. By default, this is the Downloads folder.
Unable to add hybrid model to Aspen Plus V12
In Aspen Plus, navigate to the Customize tab and click on Manage Hybrid Models in the ribbon. Then, click on Browse for available model and navigate to it.
This model can now be added to the flowsheet from the Hybrid Models tab of the model palette
Unable to deploy hybrid model to Aspen Plus V10/V11
USER2 can be used to deploy models to V10/V11. Instructions for deployment can be found in the following article:
https://esupport.aspentech.com/S_Article?id=000097522
SLM license file server must be upgraded to V12 to check out the hybrid model license and for it to work successfully.
Unable to deploy hybrid model to HYSYS V10/V11
User must first install the Hybrid Model extension which is available to download from the link below:
https://esupport.aspentech.com/S_Article?id=000097522
SLM license file server must be upgraded to V12 to check out the hybrid model license and for it to work successfully.
Keywords: Aspen AI Model Builder, hybrid models, deploy, issues, unable to export model
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I replace my large flowsheet with a reduced order equipment model? | Solution: Please see the attached pdf file for steps on how to replace a large flowsheet with a reduced order equipment model.
Keywords: Reduced Order Model, Hybrid Modeling, Aspen AI Model Builder, subflowsheet, hierarchy
References: None |
Problem Statement: What are some of the common issues while using Aspen AI Model Builder and how can they be addressed? | Solution: This article highlights some of the common issues you may see while using Aspen AI Model Builder and possibleSolutions:
Upload data step fails
Currently only .json files exported from Multicase, and .csv files are supported. For .csv files, ensure that the correct format is used according to the template specified in Aspen AI Model Builder. A template example is also attached with this article.
Unable to create model for a case using mole-based feed stream(s)
For simulations using a basis other than mass basis, additional flow variables will need to add the variables as independent variables
Unable to build RO model due to mass imbalance
Ensure all boundary streams of the sub-flowsheet or hierarchy are included.
Create Model step fails
One potential cause for this is that the imported simulation data contains many unconverged cases. If you are using Multicase, the results page for a scenario includes a column highlighting whether the case has converged or not.
Using filter or sort, it is possible to check how many cases failed to converge and then change the bounds or improve the model to increase the number of converged cases.
AI Model Builder fails to create model due to insufficient data points
There is a minimum requirement of 30 clean data points in order to create a hybrid model. Please ensure this condition is satisfied.
Overall reduced order model accuracy is low due to poor fit in one variable
There may not be enough variability in the data for the variable being predicted. It is important to ensure that the variable is not fixed in the underlying simulation model. Increasing the lower/upper bounds of the independent variables in Multicase to generate data over a wider range may fix this issue.
Keywords: Aspen AI Model Builder, common issues, upload data, unable to create model, mass imbalance, low model accuracy
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I build a reduced order model for a Gas Plant? | Solution: Create a Reduced Order model using the Aspen HYSYS file to speed up the simulation of this process. Advantages include:
• Run more scenarios, faster
• Optimize the process very quickly
• Create a larger scope model connecting multiple ROM models for an entire site
• Deploy the ROM model on-line
Please see the attached PDF for steps on how to create the model.
Key Words:
Reduced Order Model, Gas Plant, Hybrid modeling, Aspen Hybrid Models
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to create a new account and assign permissions for Aspen AI Model Builder/Event Analytics? | Solution: Please see the attached video for relevant steps.
Key Words:
New account, permissions, Aspen AI Model Builder, Hybrid Modeling, Hybrid Models
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to add product permissions for users of Aspen AI Model Builder? | Solution: Please see the attached video for relevant steps.
Key Words:
Product permissions, Add, Aspen AI Model Builder, Hybrid Modeling, Hybrid Models
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to remove product permissions for users of Aspen AI Model Builder? | Solution: Please see the attached video for relevant steps.
Key Words:
Product permissions, Remove, Aspen AI Model Builder, Hybrid Modeling, Hybrid Models
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I build an Aspen Hybrid Model for an LDPE polymerization process? | Solution: Create a Reduced Order model using the Aspen Plus file to speed up the simulation of this column. Use plant and lab data to create an AI Driven sensor model for predicting a key property: melt flow index.
• Run more scenarios, faster
• Create a larger scope model connecting multiple ROM models for an entire site
• Deploy the ROM model on-line
• A non-expert can create and maintain an accurate custom model rapidly – saving time
• Optimizing complete process (including product properties) - increased productivity, reduced costs, improved safety
Please see the attached pdf and files for steps on how to setup this example. The data is generated using Aspen Simulation Workbook.
Key Words
Hybrid model, Reduced Order Model, Aspen Simulation Workbook, Polymer, LDPE
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I create a reduced order model for the FCC unit? | Solution: Create a Reduced Order model using the HYSYS file to deploy directly to PIMS-AO
The model update process can be completed quickly by non-experts
The model is nonlinear and accurately predicts the over cracking peak thus improving the optimization and decreasing the margin gap
Model covers a wide range of scenarios under different operating conditions, making it valid for more time.
Please see the attached PDF for steps on how to create the model.
Key Words:
Reduced Order Model, PIMs-SO, Hybrid modeling, Aspen Hybrid Models, Planning
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I create a Reduced Order model in Aspen Plus for an Methylcyclohexane recovery column? | Solution: Create a Reduced Order model using the Aspen Plus file to speed up the simulation of this process
Run more scenarios, faster
Optimize the process very quickly
Create a larger scope model connecting multiple ROM models for an entire site
Deploy the ROM model on-line
Please see the attached PDF for steps on how to create the model.
Key Words:
Reduced Order Model, Aspen Plus, Hybrid modeling, Aspen Hybrid Models
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I create an AI driven hybrid model in Aspen HYSYS for a membrane? | Solution: Easily create predictive membrane hybrid model using data from the asset and deploy it in Aspen HYSYS to connect to rigorous existing model
– A non-expert can create and maintain an accurate custom model rapidly – saving time
– Optimizing the complete process (including hybrid model) increases productivity, reduces costs, improves safety etc.
Please see the attached PDF for steps on how to create the model.
Key Words:
AI Driven Model, Membrane, Aspen HYSYS, Hybrid modeling, Aspen Hybrid Models
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to share projects on Aspen AI Model Builder? | Solution: 1) Login to Aspen AIMB to view projects list.
2) Select the desired project you wish to share and click on ‘Share’.
3) Provide the email address of the person you wish to share the project with and click on ‘Add’.
4) To revoke access from a user, select the email address and click on ‘Revoke’.
5) Currently, users may only get ‘Read’ access to projects.
Key Words:
Aspen AI Model Builder, Share Projects, Read access, Revoke access
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to deploy a hybrid model (.athm file) to Aspen Plus or Aspen HYSYS? | Solution: Aspen Plus
Import the .athm file into Aspen Plus
1. Open the Aspen Plus case where the hybrid model needs to be added. On the Customize Tab, click Manage Hybrid Models.
2. Click Browse for Available Model and select the .ATHM file.
Notes: Hybrid models can also be used in Aspen Plus V10 and V11 using a USER2 block after installing a package available here. SLM license file server must be upgraded to V12 to check out the hybrid model license and for it to work successfully.
3. Close the window when finished.
Place model on Flowsheet
1. Drag the Hybrid Sensor/Hybrid Equipment model from the model palette to the flowsheet, and connect streams if necessary.
2. Specify a name to the sensor/equipment model as desired.
3. Enter any inputs to the hybrid model.
4. Run the Aspen Plus model.
5. Click on the Results tab of the hybrid model form to view the results.
Aspen HYSYS
Add Aspen Hybrid Model extension to the Flowsheet
The first step is to create the model. The second step is to deploy the model for use.
1. Open the HYSYS file where the hybrid model needs to be deployed.
2. Open the model palette by pressing F4 or by navigating to View tab of the ribbon.
3. Click External Model in the model palette, or type “Hybrid” in the search field.
4. Drag and drop the Hybrid Model unit operation onto the HYSYS flowsheet, or double click.
Notes: Hybrid models can also be used in Aspen HYSYS V10 and V11 using a HYSYS extension after an installing a package available here. SLM license file server must be upgraded to V12 to check out the hybrid model license and for it to work successfully.
Import Aspen Hybrid Model (.ATHM file)
Import the hybrid model downloaded from AI Model Builder into the hybrid model unit operation.
1. Double click on the newly placed hybrid model
2. Click on “Change Directory” and select the folder where your hybrid model is saved. If you just exported from the AI Model Builder, it should be in your downloads folder
3. Select your hybrid model file (.athm) from the Available Models pane and click “Load Model”
4. Once the model is loaded, provide any necessary inputs
5. View results on the results tab or worksheet tabs.
Key Words:
Deploy, Hybrid Model , Aspen HYSYS, Aspen Plus, Aspen AI Model Builder
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I create an AI driven hybrid model in Aspen Plus for a membrane? | Solution: Easily create predictive membrane hybrid model using data from the asset and deploy it in Aspen Plus to connect to rigorous existing model
A non-expert can create and maintain an accurate custom model rapidly – saving time
Optimizing the complete process (including hybrid model) increases productivity, reduces costs, improves safety etc.
Please see the attached PDF for steps on how to create the model.
Key Words:
AI Driven Model, Membrane, Aspen Plus, Hybrid modeling, Aspen Hybrid Models
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: What are the general performance benchmarks for running Aspen ProMV Online and Aspen ProMV Desktop? | Solution: Benchmark for ProMV Online:
Test Case (V12.0.6)
Computer configuration: 16 GB memory (RAM) and 8 virtual processors
Test conditions:
5 big data continuous agents (1000 X-variables, 48 Y-variables)
20 batch agents (254 X-variables)
Ran for four days (10 second calculations)
Results:
No delay in results occurred
No memory issues switching between pages (runtime, diagnosis, home page, links, etc.)
This configuration can support well over 10,000 variables
Benchmark for ProMV Desktop:
Test Case
Computer configuration: 16 GB memory (RAM) and 4 virtual processors
Test conditions:
10 GB file, 60,000 observations, 190 X-variables, 2 Y-variables - (no issues)
17 GB file, 60,000 observations, 190 X-variables, 2 Y-variables - (memory error)
Guidance for ProMV Desktop Workstations:
Windows servers can support using more than 2 concurrent users
Requires activating a Windows Key (requires verification if client has support)
Allow 50 device connections on Windows Server 2019 Remote Desktop Services
Supports 4 concurrent users with the 10GB files
Supports 1 user with a 20GB file
Guidance for online and offline model retention:
Best practice is once a model is finalized, turn off and delete unused preliminary or obsolete models in the environment which are taking up resources. Keep only the final models.
Example customer benchmarks:
One customer runs 30-40 preliminary models per project on laptop with 64GB RAM, 8 processors at 2.5 GHz. Some of the customer’s models are unspecified “big data”
A second customer runs as many as 3 models per unit on 32GB RAM, 2 processors at 2.7 GHz. Data is 43,800 observations for 120 variables.
Keywords: Best practice
ProMV
Guidance
Performance benchmark
References: None |
Problem Statement: This article provides information for configuring DCOM communication, used primarily by Administration tool, in Aspen Basic Engineering. | Solution: DCOM communication is a Microsoft protocol used by the Administration tool in Aspen Basic Engineering (ABE) V11 and V12. Additionally, V11 Cumulative Patch 1 Emergency Patch 17 enables the Drawing Editor to use DCOM communication too.
To verify DCOM communication is enabled, open the Windows Firewall with Advanced Security window on the server machine. In the left navigation pane, select Inbound rule. Then, in the Inbound Rules pane find COM + Network Access (DCOM-IN), right click, and select Enable Rule (if it is not already enabled). DCOM uses TCP Port 135 and dynamically assigns ports from 1024-65535. The server system will need to open this port range to allow for DCOM communication, but you can use Component Services to adjust the TCP port range following the steps below:
1. Open Component Services.
2. Right click My Computer and select Properties.
3. On the Default Protocols tab, click on Properties for Connection-oriented TCP/IP.
4. Use the Add button to set the desired port range. You can choose any port range from 1024-65535.
5. Apply the changes.
6. In Windows Firewall with Advanced Security, verify COM + Network Access (DCOM-IN) is enabled, as described previously.
7. Create an inbound rule for TCP Port 135 if one does not already exist.
8. Create an inbound rule of type Port. Select TCP and specify the same port range you specified in step 4.
9. Repeat step 8 selecting UDP instead of TCP.
10. Restart the server.
The number of ports required is dependent on the the number of workspaces and users working in ABE. It is recommended to leave sufficient ports open to account for both the number of workspaces and number of users.
Keywords: Aspen Basic Engineering, DCOM, Port 135, TCP Dynamic Port Range, Administration, Firewall
References: None |
Problem Statement: Can a COMPR block be used to compress a mixture below its dew point? | Solution: Yes, you can use a COMPR block to compress a mixture below its dew point by specifying 2-phase outlet conditions (to do this, enter Vapor-Liquid for the Valid Phases on the Setup | Convergence sheet). If the outlet stream from a COMPR block is below the dew point of the mixture, the COMPR block issues a warning message, which alerts you of liquid existing at outlet conditions.
* WARNING
FEED STREAM IS BELOW DEW POINT
Please note that if you use Vapor-Only in the COMPR (or MCOMPR) block, the outlet conditions may be incorrect if condensation is encountered as a result of compression. If you suspect that the temperature is too low or that the outlet conditions are incorrect rerun the problem using Vapor-Only (Perform VL Check) for the Valid Phases.
With this specification, the block will check for a liquid phase and issue a warning.
* WARNING
FEED STREAM IS BELOW DEW POINT AND VALID PHASES IS NOT SPECIFIED.
TWO PHASES FLASH IS USED TO DETERMINE FEED STREAM PROPERTIES.
The block still executes using a Vapor-Only flash which is incorrect. The specification should be changed and the block re-run after receiving this warning message.
It is possible to change the message level on the COMPR | Setup | Calculation Options sheet, so that the message is Information rather than a Warning to avoid the Warning Status for the block. It is important to use this option carefully to missing incorrect calculations when a liquid is present and a Vapor-only flash is specified.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How can I migrate Aspen Properties Enterprise Database (APED) from Microsoft SQLLocalDB to SQL Server Express? | Solution: The aspenONE Engineering products use Aspen Properties Enterprise Database (APED) which can be hosted on Microsoft SQL LocalDB or SQL Server.
To migrate from SQLLocalDB to SQL Server Express, please follow these steps:
1. Install a support version of SQL Server Express on the user machine. You can view supported versions of SQL for your version of Aspen here .
SQL Server Express media is usually available in our aspenONE media
Open the aspenONE ENG media
Locate on the media under \3rd Party Redistributables\Microsoft SQL Express 20xx and run SQLEXPR_x64_ENU.exe as administrator.
Please follow standard default settings except for the Authentication Method. Be sure to select mixed mode authentication during installation.
2. Migrate Aspen Properties Enterprise Database (APED) from SQLLocalDB to local SQL Server Express
Open Command Prompt Window as administrator and type the following commands:
Type: cd C:\ProgramData\AspenTech\APED VX.X (Change the X for the version number you are using, for example, 10.0)
Type: DeleteDBInstance.bat This will delete SQLLocalDB and drop all databases for current account.
Launch Database Tester – Aspen Properties VX.X (run as administrator).
Click Start button. This will launch Aspen Properties Database Configuration dialog
Uncheck Use LocalDB. This will switch from SQLLocalDB to the SQL Server instance installed.
For V12 and higher, you will have the option to select For Cloud Deployments. This should be used for virtual machines or a base/master image that will be replicated.
Click OK to restore databases with the SQL Server installed, instead of SQLLocalDB.
Connections should now show successful for SQL Express.
Note: The benefit of using SQL Server or SQL Server Express is that user will not be required to restore Aspen Properties Enterprise Database (APED) every time when a new user login to same machine.
Keywords: SQL Express
APED
Share
Remote Connection
Citrix
Database
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do the different license states impact the functionality of Aspen Mtell V12.0 and higher? | Solution: Starting in version V12.0, Aspen Mtell (Mtell) performs run-time license checks. The outcome of a license check determines the License State, which may impact the functionality of Mtell.
This knowledge base article describes the various License States for Mtell and the impact in functionality for each state.
License Granted: occurs when a license has been granted successfully. In License Granted state:
•Mtell provides complete functionality.
•No licensing messages are displayed.
License Timeout Period: occurs if the license has been granted but Aspen Mtell is no longer able to contact the license server. If contact with the license server is not restored, then the License Timeout period can last for a timeout period specified in the license key.
•Aspen Mtell Agent Service provides complete functionality for a timeout grace period (30 days).
•Aspen Mtell Watch Dog Service will begin alerting after entering the license timeout grace period for 1 day. The e-mail will appear as follows:
•Aspen Mtell System Manager and Aspen Mtell Agent Builder do not have a timeout grace period.
License Denied: occurs when either the license server denies the request checkout or the license server cannot be contacted and the license grace period, if any, has elapsed. In License Denied state:
•Aspen Mtell Agent Service will stop processing live agents.
•Aspen Mtell Watch Dog Service will send a notification e-mail once the 30 day grace licensing has elapsed. The e-mail will appear as follows:
•Aspen Mtell System Manager and Aspen Mtell Agent Builder will display a license error upon opening if a license cannot be retrieved and will not function.
Keywords: License Behavior, License State, Granted, Timeout, Denied
References: None |
Problem Statement: AspenTech is tracking 2 vulnerabilities related to Java Spring Framework and Tomcat Server. Information disclosure from Spring started on March 30, 2022, for these two vulnerabilities:
CVE-2022-22965 - in component spring-core (Remote Code Execution). CVE-2022-22965. This vulnerability only impact is Aspen Collaborative Forecasting (ACF).
CVE-2022-22963 - in component Spring-cloud-function. CVE-2022-22963. This vulnerability is not affecting any AspenTech Products.
More information is provided here: https://spring.io/blog/2022/03/31/spring-framework-rce-early-announcement#am-i-impacted
Vulnerability Scope
JDK vulnerable version are vulnerable: JDK 9 or higher
Tomcat version that are not vulnerable are 10.0.20, 9.0.62, or 8.5.78
Vulnerable versions of Spring Framework versions 5.3.0 to 5.3.17, 5.2.0 to 5.2.19, and older versions. (5.3.18 is the non-vulnerable version) | Solution: AspenTech Patch Updates:
In response to Spring4Shell vulnerability (CVE-2022-22965 and CVE-2022-22963), AspenTech recommends the following patches:
Product: Aspen Collaborative Forecasting (ACF):
V12:
Aspen Collaborative Forecasting V12.0.2.3 Emergency Patch 3 (EP3) - April 2022
V11:
Aspen Collaborative Forecasting V11.0.6.3 Emergency Patch 3 (EP3) - April 2022
Suggested Mitigations
The following mitigations would assist customers addressing this risk, until they receive a patch from AspenTech.
Mitigations already in place if:
If a customer already has Tomcat 9.0.62, they already have the Tomcat mitigation.
If ACF customers V11, the JDK 8.0 version – already mitigates this issue.
Upgrading Tomcat
ACF V12 customers might have started with 9.0.27, which would be vulnerable.
Customer should check what version of Tomcat they have.
To determine your Tomcat version, go to your Tomcat server lib directory and type: “Java -cp Catalina.jar org.apache.catalina.util.ServerInfo”.
From here the server number will be displayed.
Patch Plans
As stated in the Spring.io blog post, the permanentSolution to this vulnerability is to install Spring Framework versions 5.3.18. Patches for Aspen Collaborative Forecasting (ACF) V11 and V12 will be released with this permanent fix.
We will post updated information and patches as they become available.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: When building a custom databank, what is the character limit for “Component ID”, “Component name”, and “Alias”? | Solution: Aspen Plus allows up to:
• 8 characters for “Component ID”
• 32 characters for “Component Name”
• 12 characters for “Alias”
Keywords: Character limit
References: None |
Problem Statement: The ‘Export Data + plotplan results’ option from the Spreadsheet Import/Export window in Aspen Capital Cost Estimator is unavailable. | Solution: To activate this feature, go to the bottom of the Equipment Specs form under Project Basis View, and set the Print equipment coordinates option to Y.
The ‘Export Data + plotplan results’ option in the Spreadsheet Import/Export can now be selected. Note that the Components by Area option needs to be checked in the Select section to correctly create the Excel file.
Keywords: API report, OptiPlant, 3D model, integration, greyed out.
References: None |
Problem Statement: How can I remove all piping drains for a component? | Solution: Drains specifications are available in the Pipe – General Specs form under the Options menu for each project component. These can be removed by setting the Delete all drains field to Y| Delete all drains from all piping lines for this item option.
Keywords: Installation bulks.
References: None |
Problem Statement: When trying to evaluate an item, the evaluation takes a long time and the following message shows up: “Reports are being generated. Please wait for completion and evaluate again”.
Then, when the project is evaluated, another message pops-up: Cannot open database icarus_user120 requested by the login. The login failed.
NOTE: This only happens for one specific scenario, other scenarios run with no problems. | Solution: If these error messages show up for one scenario only, navigate to the scenario folder and delete the *.szp file. The path can be found in the Economics' Properties Pane once the scenario of interest is selected.
However, if the Icarus_User120 message shows up for all scenarios and none can be evaluated, refer toSolution 000098659 to recreate the database file.
Keywords: Aspen Economics Reporter
References: None |
Problem Statement: Some models require working under specific warning messages that are not certainly errors, however, the pop-up warning message is annoying, and users need to manually close them every time they appear. | Solution: Go to File -> Options and select Display errors in trace window this will display the warning messages in the trace window instead of the pop-up messages.
Keywords: Pop-up window, Error message, Transport Properties, Hide warnings, Trace windows
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to set up more than four significant decimal digits in the composition input? | Solution: Go to options>Units of measure>Mole fraction/Mass Fraction>Change the current decimal digits.
Now users can set more accurate compositions.
Keywords: Concentration, Decimal Point, Aspen HYSYS
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to change the Main Flowsheet name? | Solution: To change the Main Flowsheet name, go to the Customize ribbon and then click on Case Name and Tag Properties:
Users are allowed to use a different Case Name and Case Tag.
Keywords: Edit case name, Tag Properties
References: None |
Problem Statement: -
How to understand which unit is impacting the capacity utilization when you have some new debottlenecked capacities for your particular unit that is not running at good capacity. | Solution: –
To understand which unit is impacting the capacity utilization of your newly debottlenecked capacity units we need to check in the fullSolution report under “Capacity utilization summary” which units have reported the positive marginal values that indicates the unit has hot the maximum constraint and is running at fullest capacity (100%) which can be the possible reason for the impact of capacity/throughput on the newly debottlenecked capacities.
We can test this by relaxing the constraints for the units which are running at full capacity (100%) ie: check with the units with positive marginal values.
To show as an example –
We have a model where in we have the Case 1 with new debottlenecked capacities for Alkylation unit (ALKY) and Catalytic Cracker Unit (CCCU) as 15 and 50 MBPD respectively.
Based upon these debottlenecked capacities we will check which units are limiting the throughput to the FCCU and ALKY units.
As discussed above here we will run the model with this scenario and check the fullSolution report as follows:
Here we can see the units with positive marginal values showing it has hot maximum constraints running at full capacities (100%) which might be impacting your new debottlenecked capacities and the Catalytic Cracker unit (CCCU) is running at maximum CAPACITY OF 73.93% which can still run at some good capacity beyond 73.93%.
To check this, we can try relaxing the constraints by setting up the cases and running the model for the units with positive marginal values showing units running with full capacities.
Currently, the maximum constraint for CCCU unit is 46,000, which we will try to relax by increasing the maximum constraint for VT1.
We can relax the maximum capacity constraint for VT1 (Vacuum Tower 1) highlighted in yellow above by setting below case using CASE table and check if any increase in capacity utilization of CCCU unit.
We set the maximum capacity of VT1 to 60,000 with new Case 2 as shown above and run the model and got the belowSolution were we can observe that after relaxing my maximum constraint for VT1 there is increase/improvement in the capacity utilization of CCCU to 77.15 which was 73.93% earlier.
Similarly, we can try relaxing the maximum constraint for the units running at 100% capacity by setting up cases.
Hence, we can say that after checking for all units we got to know that VT1 unit is limiting the throughput to FCCU and ALKY unit.
Key words:
Table CASE
FCCU & ALKY
Capacity
Aspen PIMS
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: –
How to resolve below error message while installing SQL. Below error pops up. | Solution: –
1. Well, it turns out if your don’t have those rights after all so let’s grant them, Windows Key+R > Control admintools {Enter}.
2. Launch ‘Local Security Policy’
3. Navigate to Security Settings >Local Policies > User Rights Assignment > Back up files and directories > Add in the user that’s being denied > Apply > OK.
4. In the same location locate ‘Manage auditing and security log’ > Add in the user that’s being denied > Apply > OK.
5. In the same location locate ‘Debug programs’ > Add in the user that’s being denied > Apply > OK.
6. Now try again, (remember if you added a group, you will need to log off and back on again.)
Keywords: –
SQL,Setup,SQL Server
References: None |
Problem Statement: What are the different options are available for insulation, heat tracing and jacketing on plant and installation bulk piping in ACCE? | Solution: ACCE provides various insulation, heat tracing and jacketing special pipe options on on plant and installation bulk piping.
Option Description in Drop-down Tracing Type Detailed Description
STAND Standard heat or cold insulation None Standard pipe without any tracing or jacket. *Default option*
PPROT
Personnel protection insulation None Personnel protection insulation (COA 815) is estimated.
AC-T Anti-condensation insulation/tube tracer. Steam Anti-condensation insulation, tube tracer, supply/return sub-headers, steam trap is estimated. Tube connection to supply/return sub-headers.
AC-E Anti-condensation insulation/elec tracer. Electrical Anti-condensation insulation, electrical tracing bulks (tracer cable, ambient sensing thermostat, 3-pole contactor, breaker, tracer end-seal kit, power connect kit & junction box, tape, label, strap, power cable) are estimated
FP-T Freeze protection insulation/tube tracer Steam Freeze protection insulation, tube tracer, supply/return sub-headers, steam trap is estimated. Tube connection to supply/return sub-headers
FP-E Freeze protection insulation/elec tracer Electrical Freeze protection insulation, electrical tracing bulks (tracer cable, ambient sensing thermostat, 3-pole contactor, breaker, tracer end-seal kit, power connect kit & junction box, tape, label, strap, power cable) are estimated.
FULL Fully jacketed pipe (see illustration). Jacket Full pipe jacket, jacket interconnections, insulation, supply/return sub-header, supply line, return line, steam traps are estimated.
EXPD Exposed-weld jacketed pipe (see illustration). Jacket Exposed weld jacket, jacket interconnections, insulation, supply/return sub-header, supply line, return line, steam traps are estimated.
T-SP Spiral traced/tube conn./no cement. Steam Spiral tube tracer, insulation, supply/return sub-headers, steam trap are estimated. Tube connection to supply/return sub-headers.
T-SPC Spiral traced/tube conn./heat cement Steam Spiral tube tracer, heat cement, insulation, supply/return sub-headers, steam trap are estimated. Tube connection to supply/return sub-headers.
P-SP Spiral traced/pipe conn./no cement. Steam Spiral tube tracer, insulation, supply/return sub-headers, supply line, return line, steam traps are estimated. Pipe connection to supply/return sub-headers.
P-SPC Spiral traced/pipe conn./heat cement Steam Spiral tube tracer, heat cement, insulation, supply/return sub-headers, supply line, return line, steam traps are estimated. Pipe connection to supply/return sub-headers.
T-LO Longit. traced/tube conn./no cement Steam Longitudinal tube tracer, insulation, supply/return sub-headers, steam trap are estimated. Tube connection to supply/return sub-headers.
T-LOC Longit. traced/tube conn./heat cement Steam Longitudinal tube tracer, heat cement, insulation, supply/return sub-headers, steam trap are estimated. Tube connection to supply/return sub-headers.
P-LO Longit. traced/pipe conn./no cement Steam Longitudinal tube tracer, insulation, supply/return sub-headers, supply line, return line, steam traps are estimated. Pipe connection to supply/return sub-headers.
P-LOC Longit. traced/pipe conn./heat cement Steam Longitudinal tube tracer, heat cement, insulation, supply/return sub-headers, supply line, return line, steam traps are estimated. Pipe connection to supply/return sub-headers.
E-AMB Electrical traced/ambient temp control Electrical Electrical tracing bulks (tracer cable, ambient sensing thermostat, 3-pole contactor, breaker, tracer end-seal kit, power connect kit & junction box, tape, label, strap, power cable), insulation, are estimated.
E-PRO Electrical traced/process temp control Electrical Electrical tracing bulks (tracer cable, ambient sensing thermostat, 3-pole contactor, breaker, tracer end-seal kit, power connect kit & junction box, tape, label, strap, power cable), insulation, are estimated.
Keywords: Insulation, heat tracing and jacketing
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do you create a 3D Plot for RADFRAC profile (for example: Temperature profile, Composition profile) in Aspen Plus Dynamics with number of stage in X axis and time in Y axis? | Solution: The attached example file is used to explained how to create a temperature profile of RADFRAC block with number of stage in X axis and time in Y axis.
1. From the toolbars click the New Form botton, enter the plot name and select Profile Plot, then click OK.
2. Do a RMB click on the plot and select Profile Variables.
3. Do a RMB click on the RADFRAC block, select any forms that contains the variables that you want to plot. In this case since we want to plot the temperature profile, we can find it in the TemperatureProfile table or AllVariables table.
4. Drag and drop the variable of any stages to the below space of the Profile Editor and give it any name (i.e. Temperature), then change the stage number to * if it is not automatically done.
5. Select the variable and click the >>Plot button (this will be the Z axis). The X axis is the number of stage and Y axis is time. Click OK button to show close the Profile Editor window.
6. Perform and dynamic run to obtain the plot.
Keywords: 3D Plot, RADFRAC, Profile.
References: None |
Problem Statement: When upgrading an Aspen Mtell database to V12.0.4 (V12 CP4), I get an Operation error 'Executing Update-480' with Result 'The INSERT statement conflicted with the FOREIGN KEY SAME TABLE constraint FK_FmecaItem_FmecaItem. The conflict occurred in database MtellSuite, table dbo.FmecaItem.'
This error occurs because Mtell is expecting some standard data to already exist in the SQL database. This standard data may not have been inserted if a large number of user-defined problem codes were created in an older version of the database. | Solution: Run the attached script on the MtellSuite database. This will insert all standard data needed. Once this is done, Open the Aspen Mtell System Manager and select the option to continue with updating the database version to (or beyond) version 480.
Keywords: FK_FmecaItem_FmecaItem
dbo.FmecaItem
References: None |
Problem Statement: Aspen InfoPlus.21 does not start and TSK_DBCLOCK.ERR contains the message.
failed to create h21 shared-memory, ret =-1073 | Solution: This error indicates that the config.dat file is corrupted. The file config.dat is located in the default folder below:
C:\ProgramData\AspenTech\InfoPlus.21\c21\h21\dat
You have two options to resolve this error:
1. Replace the corrupted config.dat file with a valid, non-corrupted copy from a backup and start Aspen Infoplus.21
or
2. Delete the corrupted config.dat file. If you start Aspen Infoplus.21 without the file config.dat, Aspen InfoPlus.21 will use the default history repositories and file sets with default parameters. Add your repositories and file sets and restart InfoPlus.21.
Keywords: crash
dbclock
startup
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to resolve AspenUnified PIMS help feature now working/not accessible? | Solution: The above error might appear when we have some missing Help file contents. The AspenUnified PIMS help file directory will not have/missing content files.
To resolve this error follow below steps:
1. Got to below path can check if all the help file contents are present by comparing it with working AUP setup.
Path:
C:\Program Files\AspenTech\Aspen Unified\Web\Content\help
Below help file contents should be present
2. If any of the file is missing in the above path copy the required file/folder from the working setup into the setup having the issue in the same path and make sure all the necessary help files/folders are present now.
3. Once all the necessary help files/folders are now present the help menu should now be accessible without any errors.
Key word:
AspenUnified Help
Help directory
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: In the composite suite, there is a debug level parameter called DEBUGLVL that can be configured as numerical values in the .INI file. What are the different debug levels and what do they do? | Solution: The basic levels for the DEBUGLVL parameters are 2, 3, 4, 5, and 10. Although levels up to 100 are supported for debugging, it is not recommended to go above 10. As this debug level parameter is increased, there will be more details captured in the log files for diagnostics. Level 10 will print out a fairly detailed report each cycle about the steady state optimization inputs, along with gains and gain multiplier information being generated starting at that level. The other levels print out some details about the communications.
Keywords: composite, debuglvl, debug, level
References: None |
Problem Statement: -
The error Error in connecting Aspen Unified Services might be also due to issue in connecting the SQL server which gives error Cannot connect to SQL server as well. | Solution: -
The reason for not being connected to SQL is due the multiple SQL server instances being created leading to clash/confusion while connecting to the correct and existing SQL server.
We need to follow below steps for this:
1. Go to Services
2. Look for SQL server services
3. Check with the correct SQL server currently is in working state and see if the services is running for the correct server.
4. Multiple instances of SQL server might be observed and we need to tun ON the correct and existing SQL server which is working and in running rather then duplicate/multiple instances created.
5. Once the services for correct SQL server will be started the user will be able to connect the SQL server successfully and launch AspenUnfied PIMS
Key words:
AspenUnified
SQL server
Aspennfied services
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: HistoryBackupDef records are used to backup Aspen InfoPlus.21 History Archives and History System Files.
The fixed area of the records defined by HistoryBackupDef contain a field called LOG_FILE
This field points to the file that should be investigated if any problems are encountered.
A typical error that might be seen could be :-
ARCBACKUP ERROR: Error coping arc.dat file. IoError: 3
Note, coping rather than copying! Where the number at the end is very important....
How do you interpret such an error ? | Solution: This kind of error is coming from a call to FILECOPY, therefore the errors are Microsoft Errors
The errors are described in: https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/win32/debug/system-error-codes--0-499-
In this case the number 3 means
ERROR_PATH_NOT_FOUND - The system cannot find the path specified.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to Export Variable Lists from Aspen Simulation Workbook? | Solution: Aspen Simulation Workbook can export an XML file containing a list of the model variables. The variable export file is given the extension “ATMVO” (AspenTech Model Variable Organizer) by default. The ATMVO file lists the simulation file absolute path, variable name, variable path, and description for each item in the variable grid. This list can be re-imported into the same workbook later (as a data recovery mechanism) or imported into a new workbook to rapidly build a new interface.
To export a variable list:
Open the Organizer.
Select the Model Variables view
Select one or more variables from the list of variables.
Put the mouse over the variable grid and right-click to open the pop-up menu; select Export Variables to File.
Specify the name and location of the text file to be exported.
Keywords: Export Variable, ATMVO file.
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I resolve Result Warning 1816 – “unusual value of compressibility, (calculated from vapor data at the dew point), this may affect the accuracy of the calculated results” | Solution: The result warning 1816 - It is meant to alert the users that an unusual value has been calculated based on the input physical properties.
This may occur because the dew point for both streams possibly much higher than the highest temperature of physical properties provided.
To remove such warnings, user can extend the range or number of temperature points on both the sides. User can consider higher number of points with respect to increased temperature range.
Keywords: Result Warning 1816, unusual value of compressibility
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to change default location of the Import and Export definition files to be used when transferring information between Aspen Flare System Analyzer and Access, Excel, or XML files. | Solution: User can specify the name and location of the Import and Export definition files to be used when transferring information between Aspen Flare System Analyzer and Access, Excel or XML files. Entries allow specification of the default definition files and the base definition files to be used for creating new customized import and export definition files.
On the File | Preferences | Import tab, user can change default name and location definition files. In older cases the preferences are saved with the case and will remain the same.
If the Save Import/Export Paths with Model check box is selected, then these locations are stored with the model. This is useful if the definition files have been modified for use with specific models.
Keywords: Definition files, Import/Export Paths
References: None |
Problem Statement: When looking for AW tags through tag browser, the definition records such as 'AW_INDDef', do not show.
The tags are visible under the IP21 administrator. | Solution: Run the following query through Aspen SQLplus in the AW server to resolve this issue (it updates the default map record for each Aspen Watch definition record). The change takes effect immediately.
update definitiondef set map_record = 'AW_ONSTS_M' where name = 'AW_CTLDef';
update definitiondef set map_record = 'AW_DEP_M' where name = 'AW_DEPDef';
update definitiondef set map_record = 'AW_VIND_M' where name = 'AW_INDDef';
update definitiondef set map_record = 'AW_SONSTS_M' where name = 'AW_SUBDef';
update definitiondef set map_record = 'AW_PV_M' where name = 'AW_PIDDef';
update definitiondef set map_record = 'AW_ETCV_M' where name = 'AW_ETCVDef';
update definitiondef set map_record = 'AW_ETMV_M' where name = 'AW_ETMVDef';
update definitiondef set map_record = 'AW_GMULT_M' where name = 'AW_GMULTDef';
update definitiondef set map_record = 'AW_VALUE_M' where name = 'AW_MSCDef';
update definitiondef set map_record = 'AW_CKPI_M' where name = 'AW_CKPIInfoDef';
update definitiondef set map_record = 'AW_RTOVALUE_M' where name = 'AW_RTOTagDef';
Fixed in
…V10 CP2 EP2, V11 EP2, V12
Keywords: …Tag Browser, Aspen Watch, IP21 Administrator
References: None |
Problem Statement: This Knowledge Base article illustrate how to resolve the issue of Unable to obtain license for Aspen Transition Manager | Solution: Many customers reported that they are unable to obtain license for Aspen Transition Manager
And they get the following error:
To resolve this issue:
Verify that IP.21 has a License Status Granted.
While IP21 is running, open IP21 administrator, right click on the server's name and o properties.
Then go to license status and check the license state.
Stop and delete any Process Sequencer package. Close any Process Recipe session.
Stop the Aspen Transition Manager Server service.
kill manually any remaining ATM_ process (via Windows Task Manager).
Start the Aspen Transition Manager Server service.
Re-open Process Recipe and try again.
In addition to the above, rebooting the server may resolve this miscommunication issue.
Moreover, check that at least 4 Token are available for SLM_APC_APS, Because the number of tokens might limit the usage,
the suggestion is:
not to use Process Recipe desktop to start/stop the application but to use PCWS for that.
Before starting a Transition, check the number of available Tokens.
Do not open Process Recipe desktop at that time, so SLM_APC_Buidler is not checked.
Keywords: Invalid License, PCWS, Aspen Transition Manager, Process Sequencer, Transition
References: None |
Problem Statement: When trying to open the Production Control Web Server interface http://<servername>/atcontrol, it shows the error:
Server Error in ‘/ATControl’ Application.
Could not load type ‘System.ServiceModel.Activation.HttpModule’ from assembly ‘System.ServiceModel, Version=3.0.0.0, Culture=neutral, PublicKeyToken=b77a5c561934e089’.
Another symptom of this issue is when trying to open the Aspen APC web page http://<servername>/aspenapc, it results in the following error message:
Http failure response for http://<server>/AspenAPCService/Configuration/GetUserProfile: 500 Internal Server Error | Solution: This can occur when you have the Microsoft .NET Frameworks 3.X and 4.X installed on the same machine. APC software V12 & V12.1 requires the .NET Framework 4.X, therefore having a .NET Framework 3.X installed too on the web server can cause an error on the configuration for hosting web applications.
On the screenshot above, you can see that the page is trying to load using the ServiceModel 3.0.0.0, but since the APC Web Interface is a .NET 4.X application, it is not possible to load it.
To solve this, you need to open the Internet Information Services (IIS) Manager, go to Server Name > Sites > Default Web Site and click on “Modules”.
Once you are here, you need to remove ServiceModel (with no suffix) and just keep the ServiceModel-4.0 as this is the one used by the APC Web applications.
There is no need to restart any services or IIS. You can reconnect to the web page on the browser and the issue should be resolved.
Keywords: PCWS, APC Web Interface, ServiceModel, .NET Framework, ATControl
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to select cost risk analysis and quantity risk analysis options under the Risk Analysis. | Solution: The Risk Analysis feature allowed you to conduct cost risk analysis using Monte Carlo simulation and estimate contingency for your estimates. You could specify the uncertainty for material costs, labor hours, wage rates and indirect costs, however, in previous versions you could not specify uncertainty for the quantities (i.e. scope) of the estimate.
In V12, you can now develop risk analysis with quantities and unit costs. Both the cost risk analysis (i.e. V11/V11.1 risk analysis) and quantity risk analysis are available in V12.
In Preferences | General under the Risk Analysis option, you will be able to select the desired risk analysis method. Cost and quantity risk analysis or Cost risk analysis may be selected. The default is set to Cost risk analysis.
Cost Risk Analysis input file: CostRiskReport.xlsm
Cost and Quantity Risk Analysis input file: QtyRiskReport.xlsm
The quantity risk analysis input file contains “items' quantities and unit material cost” that the cost based file doesn't have.
Risk analysis input files from older versions in the Project will be renamed to CostRiskReport.xlsm, and you will be able to use them if “Cost risk analysis” is selected in Preferences. You will have to create a risk analysis input file if you want to use the “Cost and quantity risk analysis” option.
Keywords: Risk analysis, Cost risk analysis, Quantity risk analysis
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to Display Flanges in Model. | Solution: Flanges are displayed for the battery or header lines that terminate on pipe-racks and rack volumes.
To display flanges:
Go to View | Show/Hide | Flanges option
This item will be toggled on indicating the flanges will be visible for all battery lines every time the pipes will be inserted into the 3D model, until this option is turned off or if the OptiPlant session is ended:
See the image below to see how the flanges are displayed for battery lines in the OptiPlant 3D model:
To turn off the display of flanges, you can go to the same option and toggle it off by selecting the flange menu again.
Key Words:
Display Flange.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: Sometimes one needs to limit the rate of change of a variable, for example the flowrate of a stream that is manipulated by the user or a PID incr controller. How can we do that in Aspen Plus Dynamics or Aspen Custom Modeler. | Solution: First, let's mention it is possible to apply a ramp on fixed variables. Just do a right mouse click and you can specify the target value and the duration of the ramp. Tasks can be used in any version to specify ramps.
For the more general case of a variable such as the output of a controller, we need to filter the change. It is easier to implement this if you have a custom modeling license, as you can then create a new model.
Model RateLimit
Input_ as input control_signal (fixed, description:Input signal, UseUOMof:Output_)
;
Output_ as output control_signal (description:Output signal, UseUOMof:Input_,
initial, 0);
MaxRate as realvariable (fixed, description:Maximum rate change per unit of time,
UseUOMof:Input_);
MaxRate_ as realvariable (description:- Maximum rate change per unit of time,
UseUOMof:Input_);
factor as realvariable (fixed, description:adjustement factor, 100);
rate as realvariable;
rateClipped as realvariable (description:clipped rate);
rate = factor*(Input_ - Output_);
// clip rate
MaxRate_ = -MaxRate;
call (rateClipped) = pLimit (rate, MaxRate_, MaxRate);
// apply change
$Output_ = rateClipped;
End
If you don't have a custom modeling license, you can add the same equations as flowsheet constraints after removing the UseUOMof in variables declarations.
The principle is that we want to have Output_ to track Input_, but with a limited rate of change. A linear ramp is applied, for which the rate of change is specified by the user. The same value is used for increasing and decreasing ramps, but a simple modification in the model would allow these values to be different.
There is one trick in this model to avoid oscillations or chattering when the Output_ is reaching the value of Input_. When the Output_ is very close to Input_, it moves with an first order lag. The value of factor can be adjusted (if you decrease it, the first order lag will start sooner).
The attached file shows how such a model could be written. Compared to the code above, a few improvements have been added:
- parameter to turn on/off the ramp limit
- use of rateinitial instead of initial condition
- handling of simulation time units
The simulation can be used for Aspen Plus Dynamics V11 and higher.
Keywords: rate, limit, controller
References: None |
Problem Statement: When opening up Aspen Mtell System Manager or Aspen Mtell Agent Builder, you may get the following error message:
(Default Exception Handler) Application Exception:
Could not load file or assembly 'AspenTech.HtmlHelp.StrongNameInvoke, Version=37.0.0.1, Culture=neutral, PublicKeyToken=b05689b39deefbcd' or one of its dependencies. The system cannot find the file specified.
When trying to open the View Trend or Probability Trend windows, you may get the following error:
(Default Exception Handler) Application Exception:
Object reference not set to an instance of an object. | Solution: In order to get Mtell Agent Builder to work, the customer had to copy and paste the file ”AspenTech.HtmlHelp.StrongNameInvoke.dll” Version 37.0 into the following folders:
C:\Program Files\AspenTech\Aspen Mtell\Suite\Tools\System Manager
C:\Program Files\AspenTech\Aspen Mtell\Suite\Tools\Agent Builder
You can find the .dll file at the following path on a machine where Aspen V11 products were installed before Aspen V12 products:
C:\Windows\Microsoft.NET\assembly\GAC_64\AspenTech.HtmlHelp.StrongNameInvoke\v4.0_37.0.0.1__b05689b39deefbcd
Keywords: Aspen Tech Help dll
References: None |
Problem Statement: If Process Recipe server and MS SQL Server are in different servers, there might be error:
Cannot open backup device C:\ProgramData\AspenTech\ProcessRecipe\Backup\<db_name>_<Version>_<Timestamp>.bak. Operation system error 3(The system cannot find the path specified.). | Solution: There’re two workarounds to fix this upgrading issue. Depends on how many database you have to upgrade, you can use the first one to auto upgrade, or the second one to manual upgrade:
Wordaround A:
At the MS SQL Server, create folder C:\Program Files (x86)\Common Files\AspenTech Shared\Recipe\DBScripts\SQLServer\ and copy the file Migrate_APR.sql in same folder of Recipe server to here.
Create the folder “C:\ProgramData\AspenTech\ProcessRecipe\Backups” at SQL Server, and assign the Recipe user has full control permission.
Invoke Recipe Explorer and follow the upgrade process.
Wordaround B:
Manual backup the database at the SQL Server.
Run the Migrate_APR.sql for this database in SQL Management Studio to upgrade it.
Invoke Recipe Explorer to connect this database.
Keywords: Process Recipe, SQL Server, upgrade
References: None |
Problem Statement: The Calculator block does not wait for the Excel macro to be executed before loading the export values. How can I set the macro to be executed first? | Solution: Please find attached an example that illustrates how to do this. Basically you need to create an event-handling macro with the code you want to implement. The event in the example triggers the code when the worksheet sheet1 is modified. This ensures that the macro is executed after the values of the import variables are written, but before the export variables are retrieved by the calculator.
Â
Keywords: VBA Macros, Execution order, Calculator block.
References: None |
Problem Statement: When you open Aspen Mtell System Manager, you get an error message that looks like this.
Connection to MIS Web Service [http://servername/AspenTech/AspenMtell/InteropServer/MIMOSA/OSAEAIManagement.asmx] failed.
[Error: The remote server returned an error: (500) Internal Server Error.]
The same error occurs if you go to Configuration -> Settings -> General and click Test next to the Server Name.
If Mtell View is giving an error as well, click here and try the steps in the linked KB article. If Mtell View is working, you may be experiencing HTTP Error 500.24.
The rest of this article will cover HTTP Error 500.24. To confirm this is the error you are experiencing:
Go to the following URL in a browser. Replace servername with the name of your server. http://servername/AspenTech/AspenMtell/InteropServer/MIMOSA
For HTTP Error 500.24, you will see a page like the below picture. | Solution: Click on your Start/Windows button and type in IIS Manager to open Internet Information Services (IIS) Manager
Navigate to Default Website as shown in the screenshot below. Double click on Authentication.
Make sure ASP.NET Impersonation is set to Disabled.
If you made any changes, confirm this fixed the problem by opening System Manager.
Navigate to Configuration -> Settings -> General
Click Test next to the Server Name
You should see a success message
Keywords: MIS Web Service Error
Internal Server Error
IIS Error
500
500.24
References: None |
Problem Statement: After a domain name change on the Mtell server, Agent Service and Training Service will no longer start. When using the Find Service button, Mtell does not find an instance of either service on this machine. If you check Windows Services, Aspen Mtell Agent Service and Aspen Mtell Training Service are not running. Upon trying to start either service, it gives this error.
Windows could not start the Aspen Mtell Agent Service service on Local Computer.
Error 1604: An exception occurred in the service when handling the control request. | Solution: Note: Using the Registry Editor incorrectly can cause serious, system-wide problems that may require you to re-install Windows to correct them. Modifying the Windows Registry should only be performed by experienced Administrators.
If neither Agent Service nor Training Service will start, you will need to complete these steps for both.
Launch Registry Editor as Administrator: Click start -> Type regedit and right click on Registry Editor and select Run as administrator.
Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE -> SOFTWARE -> AspenTech -> Aspen Mtell -> Agent Service/Training Service -> Configuration
Right click on DataSource and select Modify
Clear the entry under Value data: and click OK
Launch the Services app: Click start -> Type services and right click on Services and select Run as administrator.
Right click on Aspen Mtell Agent Service or Aspen Mtell Training Service and select Start.
The service should start without any error.
If you already have an Agent or Training Service registered in Mtell on this server:
Open Aspen Mtell System Manager.
Go to Configuration -> Settings -> Agent Services
Select the service and select Update Registration
If it does not start automatically, select Start Processing
If the service still does not process, select Delete Service and follow steps 13-19 below
Repeat steps 8-11 for Aspen Mtell Training Service
If you do not already have an Agent or Training Service registered:
Open Aspen Mtell System Manager.
Go to Configuration -> Settings -> Agent Services
Select Find Services
The service running on this machine should appear. Select it and click Add.
Select Update Registration.
If it does not start automatically, select Start Processing.
Repeat steps 13-18 for Aspen Mtell Training Service.
Keywords: Agent Service will not start
Training Service will not start
Domain change
References: None |
Problem Statement: This knowledge base | Solution: describes how Aspen Mtell displays timestamps when the data, Aspen Mtell server, and/or end users are located in different time zones.
Solution
Aspen Mtell stores dates in the database in UTC. These dates are converted to the client's local time zone in the Aspen Mtell System Manager, Aspen Mtell Agent Builder, and Aspen Mtell View.
Keywords: timezone
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to resolve “ATData.xla cannot be accessed. The file may be corrupted, located on a server that is not responding or read-only” problem with Legacy Process Data Add-in? | Solution: This problem was noticed with the legacy XLA / XLAM Process Data Add-In not loading on new build computers having MS Office version such as Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2016.
Few things that can be checked to resolve the issue-
Please check if the ‘AspenTech folder’ has been added to the Trusted locations in Excel
Please also ensure the files are not blocked by right-clicking to the AtData.xla / AtData.xlam files -> Properties and check they're not blocked - if there's an Unblock checkbox on the file properties, click it and try again.
In this case, we identified that the issue was caused by the Microsoft Defender for Endpoints (the commercial version of MS Defender). In particular, the Attack Surface Reduction feature was blocking access to the .xla / .xlam files when they are hosted in the default AT install location.
TheSolution was to Remove/Disable the feature/ rules and the old add-ins load fine.
Equally, copy the .xla/.xlam files to the default Office add-in location (e.g. C:\Program Files (x86) \Microsoft Office\Office16\Library) – and it should work fine.
Note- More information can also be found on this subject from - https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/security/defender-endpoint/attack-surface-reduction-rules-reference?view=o365-worldwide
Keywords: Process Data Add-in
Legacy Add-in
MES Excel Add-in
Defender
Office
Excel
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to resolve Process Explorer license error received as follows- | Solution: Steps-
For this particular case, we noticed that the license problem was being encountered by several users trying to access Process Explorer. So we first investigated the IP21 Database to check the license status.
The IP21 Database was showing the License Denied state as follows -
3. On checking the SLM Configuration from the SLM Manager on the IP21 server, we noticed 2 license servers added and one of them was obsolete.
4. So we first stopped the IP21 Database and then from the SLM Manager > SLM Configuration Wizard> We removed both the license servers and applied changes.
5. Once done, we added the valid license server and reinitialized the license server by clicking on apply changes button from the dialog box.
6. Once reinitialized, at the end of the wizard, by clicking 'show details' we could see the list of licenses getting initialized.
7. We then restarted the IP21 Database and could see the License granted status.
8. On the client machines, we relaunched Aspen Process Explorer and were able to retrieve licenses successfully and able to trend data as well.
If these steps still don't resolve the license issue, please reach out to AspenTech Support Team to help investigate further.
Keywords: SLM_RN_PME_IP64_PRDSRV license, denied, process explorer, license issue
References: None |
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