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Problem Statement: How can I restore the default palette window layout? | Solution: It?s an easy fix!
Launch the software, then go immediately to Tools ? Options ? Preferences.
In the General Tab, make sure that there is NO CHECK MARK in the field called ?save windows states?.
Uncheck ?save windows states?, then exit out of the software. When you run the software the next time, the palettes will be back in the places where they should be.
Keywords: palette, window, layout, palettes
References: None |
Problem Statement: How can I find out if the Aspen Economic Evaluation patches were installed on my machine? | Solution: After installing the patches, backup files will be generated. In the following path you can look for the backup files:
C:\Program Files (x86)\AspenTech\Economic Evaluation V7.3.2\Program\Sys (for Windows 7)
C:\Program Files\AspenTech\Economic Evaluation V7.3.2\Program\Sys (for Windows XP)
If you don't see these files do the installation one more time. Make sure you have administrator rights before doing the install and close all Economic Evaluation products. If you still face problems with the installation contact Aspen Tech support center.
Keywords: Patches, backup
References: None |
Problem Statement: How can I create my own custom reports for the Aspen Icarus software? | Solution: For v12.2.2003, v2004, and v2004.2
The location for the the Icarus_User.mdb file is to be placed is into the c:\Program Files\Aspentech\Aspen Icarus x.x\ic_cache\Reporter\database folder.
Please find the attached presentation for the Houston User Group Meeting (Aspen Icarus Results Data.zip). This is a Power Point Presentation.
The other 3 zip files are to be used with the examples explained in the Presentation. (Icarus_User.zip and UserTemplates.zip, and Icarus_Userv2004.zip).
Note:
Please use Icarus_User12_2.zip if using 12.2.2003 of the Aspen Icarus software.
Please use Icarus_User_2004.zip if using v2004 or newer of the Aspen Icarus software.
For v2006 and newer
Please note that the directory location has CHANGED for the the Icarus_User.mdb file. The NEW location for this file to be placed is into the c:\Program Files\Aspentech\Aspen Icarus 2006\Data\Reporter\database folder.
For v2006.5
Please note that the directory location has CHANGED for the the Icarus_User.mdb file. The NEW location for this file to be placed is into the C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Documents\AspenTech\Shared Aspen Icarus 2006.5 Files\Reporter\Database folder.
Keywords: presentation
custom
reports
reporting
Icarus
Icarus_User.mdb
References: None |
Problem Statement: When running a project level estimate on a project, you encounter an error message: UpdateIcsFromD0exe.exe. | Solution: The reason that this message comes up, is because there are % symbols located in the item description for one or more items in the project.
Remove the % symbol, save the project, and then run the estimate, and the error will no longer happen.
Keywords: UpdateIcsFromDOexe.exe
UpdateIcsFromD0exe.exe
estimate
percent
%
References: None |
Problem Statement: What are the default pile spacings for pile types in Icarus? | Solution: HP (Steel H-pile) : 4 feet (1.2 M)
FRNK and AUGR: 6 FEET [1.8M]
others (CAST, POUR, PIPE, WOOD) : 3 FEET [0.9 M]
Keywords: pile, spacing, type
References: None |
Problem Statement: When the InfoPlus.21 Audit trail feature is enabled, the following error dialog is displayed:
Feature 523: Unable to write file | Solution: The reSolution involves editing the registry.
Check the registry key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE | Software | AspenTech | AFW
On some systems, this key will contain a String Value named, asp_lmhost - on other systems this String Value will not be present at all. If the value is not present, create it as a new String Value, using the name: asp_lmhost
In the new (or existing) String Value, set the Value data field using the following syntax:
@machine_name
Where machine_name is the name of the computer where the Aspen License Manager is installed and running.
Keywords: Feature 523
References: None |
Problem Statement: This knowledge base article provides an explanation and re | Solution: for the following message which can appear in the Windows event log.
Event Type:
Error
Event Source:
ATAlarmAndEventQueue
Event Category:
None
Event ID:
4107
Date:
4/5/2005
Time:
11:21:44 AM
User:
N/A
Computer:
YOURCOMPUTERNAME
Description:
The description for Event ID ( 4107 ) in Source (ATAlarmAndEventQueue ) cannot be found. The local computer may not have the necessary registry information or message DLL files to display messages from a remote computer. The following information is part of the event:
D:\AspenTech\AlarmAndEvent\Queue\overflow.queue, 2.
Note: This message is sometimes followed by the following message:
BHIAspen (5128) 05/13/2004 17:10:07.812 AtQueue::Get - QueueGet: The system cannot find the path specified. BHIAspen (5128)
Solution
The secondary.queue file has an entry for an overflow.queue file. The message refers to the AtAlarmAndEventQueue.dll not being able to find the .queue files (including the overflow).
TheSolution is to shutdown the Alarm & Event server as well as the event generating applications, move the primary and secondary queue files to another folder then start the server and event generating applications. New primary and secondary queue files will automatically be recreated.
Note
It is possible to have other Alarm & Event related messages in the Windows event log which also contain the text listed below. This article is not meant to be a general reSolution guide for every Alarm & Event message which contains the following sentences.
The local computer may not have the necessary registry information or message DLL files to display messages from a remote computer. The following information is part of the event:
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: I have all my project files on my ICARUS 2000 NT system and I need to know how to get all my projects from UNIX into Aspen Kbase. How is this done? | Solution: There is a batch import utility in the Aspen Kbase 12.1 and 12.2 systems that make it easy to import all your projects from your ICARUS 2000 NT system right into Kbase!
Launch Aspen Kbase 12.1 or 12.2. Do not open a project.
From the menu, select TOOLS | BATCH IMPORT.
The Aspen Kbase software will look on your hard drive for the location of your \IC2000\Projects directory, and display it in the first dialog box after lauching the BATCH IMPORT tool. If this is not the correct directory, use the BROWSE button to select the location of where your ICARUS 2000 projects and proj.list are stored.
There will be CHECK MARKS next to all the Project folders (P folders) that are in your \IC2000\Projects directory. If you wish to import all the projects selected, keep all the check marks there. If you don't wish to import certain projects, just uncheck the ones you don't wish to import.
Once you have selected/unselected the projects you wish to import, click the NEXT button.
The next dialog box (step 2 of 3) shows the project archive location to save the import. Provide a project name for the import. Then click the NEXT button.
The next dialog box (step 3 of 3) shows all the projects that will be imported into Aspen Kbase. Click the FINISH button to begin the import.
The next dialog box (Batch Import Status) provides the status of each project being imported. BE PATIENT!!! This process can take some time depending on how many projects are imported as well as how large each of the projects are being imported into Aspen Kbase.
NOTE: If you have MANY projects to import, it is suggested that you run this BATCH IMPORT before leaving the office for the day, as the process can take anywhere from just a few minutes to a couple of hours to complete.
That's all there is to it!
If you have questions, please e-mail [email protected], or call 888-996-7100 for technical support assistance.
Keywords: ICARUS 2000
ICARUS 2000 NT
projects
P folder
import
batch import
References: None |
Problem Statement: When trying to create an event, error is displayed:
failed call to send error number 80040501
log event failed
When trying to view events, error is displayed:
Query error: Exception while invoking Aspen Audit & Compliance Manager OpenConnection | Solution: One work-around for this is to turn off Windows Integrated Authentication for the Audit & Compliance website. This will require the user to provide credentials every time the website is visited.
However if Windows Authentication is desired for the Audit and Compliance web page, the AspenAppPool in IIS must run as a user with permissions to lookup users' domain group memberships. Specifically, it must run with permissions to lookup the memberships of the account that is entered when a user creates an event or comments on an existing event. The account used for the AspenAppPool does not need to belong to an AFW security role; only the lookup privilege is required.
If this does not resolve the issue, see KB 129964 for further troubleshooting advice.
Keywords: AACM
Failure
denial
References: None |
Problem Statement: This knowledge base article describes how to merge two Aspen Audit And Compliance Manager databases. | Solution: This procedure involves backing up the data from one Aspen Audit And Compliance Manager database then restoring this backup to a different Aspen Audit And Compliance Manager database.
Data from one Aspen Audit And Compliance Manager database can be backed up through the backup functionality in the Aspen Audit And Compliance Administrator. To do this go to server A:
1. In the Aspen Audit And Compliance Administrator right click on the Server node, select Stop Queue Processing
2. Select Database...
3. For the Task select Backup
Once this backup has been made it can be restored into a different Aspen Audit And Compliance Manager database which already contains data. To do this go to server B:
1. In the Aspen Audit And Compliance Administrator right click on the Server node, select Stop Queue Processing
2. Select Database...
3. For the Task select Restore. Restore the file which was generated from the backup procedure on server A.
A backup from one database can be restored to another database because, by definition, each event will have a unique event ID. If, for any reason, a duplicate event is seen as being inserted into the new database the event will not be discarded. Rather, a log file will be generated which indicates which event was duplicated and what data is different between the duplicated events.
An example message from the log file which was generated when a duplicate event was intentionally restored to an Aspen Audit And Compliance Manager database is shown below.
Restore AspenAE.EVENT_HEADER
Event Changed: fe15a2df-9e85-46ec-a30c-68fcb749aa3d
Time Stamp Usecs
Database: 325001
File: 325000
Processed 169
Restored 0
Duplicates 169
Keywords: copy
migrate
move
server
References: None |
Problem Statement: We need to install our Aspen Icarus 2004 software. However, we are receiving only one copy of the DVD's....is there a possibility to extract just the necessary Aspen Icarus files out of the DVD set to put on our server for our other sites to install? We don't want to have to copy over other products that we do not use. | Solution: Installation of the aspenONE software requires Administrative privileges to install.
Full rights and permissions are required to both the hard drive and the registry.
1. All the Aspen Icarus software is located on DVD #6.
The files and folders required are the following:
x:\ (root of DVD #6)
all files are required
x:\aes2004cd1\
Aspen Icarus 2004.msi
Aspen SLM Client Tools.msi
x:\aes2004cd1\Aspen Icarus 2004
entire folder
x:\browser
entire folder
2. The SLM tools are located on the Administration DVD.
You need all the files and folders on this DVD.
After copying the files needed, make sure that your users actually run setup.exe, not the Aspen ICARUS 2004.msi file.
Keywords: install, files, installation, core, setup, 2004, minimum
References: None |
Problem Statement: I have an area which has a steel structure that has a vertical vessel hung in it. How do I do this? | Solution: First, you will need to create a steel structure with a User Tag Number, then use the vessel's Structure Tag to 'attach' the vessel to the steel structure.
To do so:
1. Create an area and define desired area Type.
2. Add an Open Steel Structure component (Plant Bulks - Steel), define relevant dimensions, and enter a User Tag Number. ex: SS1
3. Then, add a vertical vessel, define accordingly, and enter the above User Tag Number into the Structure tag field. Set Skirt Height = 0.0.
(If you wish to hang an Air Cooler, follow the same steps above, but make sure that your height specification on the air cooler remains the default 0.0, as this means it will be rack mounted.
Note: If the vessel's Structure Tag Number is not referenced correctly, Aspen Icarus will treat the vessel as a separate component in the area (instead of being hung on the steel structure) and the relevant civil cost will be generated according to the Area type.
Keywords: hang, vessel, open steel structure, foundation, air cooler, user tag, structure tag
References: None |
Problem Statement: How does Aspen Capital Cost Estimator calculate stress relieving and Non-Destructive Examination (NDE)? | Solution: Stress Relieving is only calculated for those materials that require it, according to the ASME Code. Stress Relieving is based on Hours per weld, and varies based on the pipe diameter and the schedule number for the pipe.
For NDE (Non-Destructive Examination), we calculate for x-rays only. These calculations are also based on hours per weld and varies by pipe diameter and schedule number for the pipe. By default, only 20 percent of the welds are x-rayed. The x-ray field is a user changeable field.
Keywords: area testing, piping bulks, pipe, stress, x-ray, NDE
References: None |
Problem Statement: How can I get an in-line spare pump to go with my main process pump? If I specify two pumps, will the system automatically make the second pump an in-line spare? | Solution: You need to choose SPAR under Mat'l/Man-hour % Adj, for your second pump, to get the reduced bulks for an in-line spare.
If you choose 2 identical items, they both will be identical, with the same piping and other volumetric sizing information.
To get an in-line spare, you need to have a second component, and for that component, go to:
Options | Mat'l/Man-hour % Adj
Then under for Installation option choose SPAR
This will get you an in-line spare with reduced piping.
Keywords: spare, in-line
References: None |
Problem Statement: What is the Custom Pipe Spec Limitation for v2004.0, v2004.1 and v2004.2? | Solution: The Custom Pipe Spec Limitation for v2004.0 and v2004.1 is 100 custom pipe specs.
For v2004.2 the Custom Pipe Spec Limitation is 200 custom pipe specs.
Please also seeSolution 116394 if you encounter errors with your custom pipe specs file:
http://support.aspentech.com/webteamcgi/SolutionDisplay_view.cgi?key=116394.
Keywords: custom, pipe, pipe specs, limit, limitation
References: None |
Problem Statement: Area level indexing is not being used by the project, only project level indexing is being used. Why is that? | Solution: In Aspen Capital Cost Estimator you can provide area specs but in Aspen Process Economic Analyzer and in Aspen In-Plant Cost Estimator you can not provide area level specs. Normally when you provide the area level specs it will override the project level specs. Suppose that you have both an area level indexing applied and a specific area level index applied. Typically you would expect the area level indexing to be used for the area. If it is not, check in the general project data in project basis to see if the M has been selected (see below). This option will suppress default equipment/area/project bulks. When you choose this option Aspen Capital Cost Estimator will work like Aspen In-Plant Cost Estimator. Since Aspen In-Plant Cost Estimator does not allow area level indexing, any area level indexing that has been done will be ignored. No standard Aspen Capital Cost Estimator report will be generated.
Keywords: area, specs,level, indexing.
References: None |
Problem Statement: When I tried to evaluate my Electric Plant Bulk component - Electrical Control Cable runs (LV), I get this error message:
ERROR> ELC- 1 INCORRECT CABLE SIZE
This error is generated when using 1.5mm, 2.5mm or 4mm for the cable size. | Solution: The problem is that when you first created the project, you selected a US country base, with METRIC units of measure.
When the first dialog box comes up called Input Units of Measure Specifications, you MUST click on Special Units, and click the MODIFY button.
The Wire size units input field MUST be set to M.
This specification can only be set at the beginning of the project, and cannot be changed after the Input Units of Measure Specifications dialog box is closed.
Keywords: ELC- 1, INCORRECT, CABLE SIZE
References: None |
Problem Statement: Have you ever begun to prepare an estimate and not know where to begin? This is a question many estimators face when they don't know much about the client they are preparing the estimate for.
Below are some essential questions that you should answer before beginning your estimate. | Solution: 1. Who is the estimate for? A Vice President, plant manager, R&D, ....?
2. Why is the estimate required?
Screening, funding, investment, legal, insurance, bidding, verification, ....
3. What is the required level of detail: scope definition, results?
4. When are the results required?
5. Resources?
What do you need in order to produce the estimate?
How do you get the data?
Who will/will not provide the data?
When do you need the data?
What will you do if sources do not supply data?
Do you have resources available to prepare the estimate?
6. Layout the facility. If a layout is not available, then create one. Imagine a walk-through starting at the road leading to the plant. Drive through the gate to the administration building. Imagine a tour guide is showing you layout of the plant's main sections. What would the layout look like? Sketch it out.
Plant and all operating areas must be accessible from at least 2 directions for fire protection. Elevated areas must have at least one stairway.
Separate process units that handle flammables from others to minimize spread of fires
Locate flammable storage vessels with substantial inventory on grade
Store flammables in diked areas away from process units and other active areas such as control rooms, change areas, etc.
Locate explosion-prone equipment away from occupied buildings and areas
Areas with deluge systems and sprinklers must be contained and have rapid drainage to large remote reservoirs
Equipment should be accessible by crane or lift truck
Allow space around compressors for maintenance and dismantling
Allow space for heat exchange bundle removal
Allow sufficient suction head for pumps handling hot fluids
7. Have you considered everything?
A. Review requirements for packaged units. Get quotations early:
breakout of purchase cost
delivery time
freight
installation requirements - setting, foundations/structures, piping electrical, instrumentation hook-ups
B. Review all input/output streams, their sources, supply routing, pumping and storage for:
fuel for on-site power generation
utility fluids: steam, low, medium high pressure/condensate, potable water, demineralized water,
storage tanks, pumps
lined pipe
treated water for boiler feed, storage tanks, pumps
lined pipe
cooling water/return, cooling tower, pumps, treatment equipment
hot oil system: supply/expansion tank, pumps to return oil to furnace, furnace, piping
fire water: supply line, pumps (diesel and fuel tank), pump house, storage tank, feeder lines, loops, laterals, hydrants, monitors, fire engines
plant/instrument air: compressor, drier, filter, piping
inert gas/gases supply, piping, shed
fuel gas/oil/coal storage, pumps/conveyors, piping
relief lines, flare headers, flare stack(s), tank, pump, piping
utility stations
support structures for utility lines (pipe racks, concrete or steel sleepers/supports)
power supply and distribution, building for MCCs
process control system, control room
loading/unloading stations
C. Review site preparation work:
clearing the site, grading, leveling, test borings
dewatering
temporary, permanent roads
waterfront requirements
piling and soil conditions
parking
storm water systems: catch basins, pipe, ...
fencing (perimeter, area, switch yards,...), gates, gate house
sidewalks, curbs/kerbs
paving/gravel
storage tank area berms/dikes, containment
railroad siding
contaminated water treatment
C. Review commonly forgotten items (not obvious from plot plan or equipment list):
heat tracing
weather protection
fireproofing on racks, structures, vessel skirts
process piping on pipe racks
battery limits valve platforms
steelwork modifications in revamp situations
tie-ins/hook-ups to existing facilities
area lighting
C. Look for equipment not listed in the process equipment list:
analyzers, chromatographs, flowmeters
cooling towers, refrigeration/heating units
compressor intercoolers
catalyst loading and handling equipment
DCS programming
C. Review building requirements:
administration
process control, MCC
pump/compressor sheds/buildings
process buildings - specialty/additive processing
warehousing
prayer room
smoking shed
first aid
maintenance/shop, hoists/cranes
cafeteria
change room
guard house
fire engine house
field pipe shop
C. Review spares requirements: pumps: motor/turbine/gas engine 1 @ 100% spare 2 @ 50% + 1spare @ 50% vessels
D. Review environmental requirements:
settling, treatment, clarification tanks, pumps, piping
ponds
containment
fire suppressors
scrubbers
I. Review project overheads
freight
permits
taxes
royalties
8. Prepare input specs. Review default values, replace with appropriate data for design basis, cost basis, execution plan, reporting:
A. Project specs
B. Area specs
C. Component specs
D. Installation specs
E. Materials of construction
9. Review input specs Take mental walk through the site:
as site would appear before construction - what else is required?
as site would appear after construction - what else is required?
as site would appear during start-up - what else is required?
10. Develop the estimate and review the results
review cost relations - are they reasonable?
review pipe diameter, valve count distributions - are they reasonable?
review contracts, schedule, escalation, ...
show results to in-house experts for their review equipment piping civil and steel instrumentation electrical
11. Adjust the input specs, develop estimate and review the results again
12. Prepare summary of results for client.
Keywords: estimate
prepare
preparing
References: None |
Problem Statement: Excel.exe has been entered in the AUDIT_APPLICATION field of AuditProperties in order to exclude these events from the log file, but the exclusion does not occur and events are still being logged.
What format is required to exclude Aspen Process Data Excel Add-In events from the Aspen Audit and Compliance Manager log files? | Solution: When using the Aspen Process Data Excel Add-in the processing take place on the machine where the Excel application is installed. In most cases this is not the server. As a result a combination of AUDIT_APPLICATION and AUDIT_NODENAME must be used in order to successfully exclude these events from being entered into the log files.
The example following demonstrates 2 formats that can be used to exclude Process Data Excel Add-in events.
Occurrence 1 will exclude all events from a computer that has the nodename MyComputerName.
Occurrence 3 uses the wild card * to exclude events from all computers.
Keywords: Exclusion;
Process Data;
Add-in;
Excel;
excel.exe;
References: None |
Problem Statement: There are two distillation columns in the system which remove the heat in the condensers via generating steam in a BKU TEMA exchanger.
Upon evaluating the project, an error message is generated saying a K shell on an exchanger was only for a reboiler.
Clicking OK allows the evaluation to continue, but no costs are included for the BKU exchangers. | Solution: In order to enter a BKU exchanger into the software, one has to enter it as a U-Tube, Kettle-Type Reboiler.
Rather than go to the TEMA exchangers, and specify the Shell Type as 'K' (which is not a selection for the Shelly type for TEMA Exchangers in the drop down), the Aspen Icarus software has put the 'K' shell-types in their own category under Kettle Type Reboilers.
Select the U-tube Kettle Type Reboiler, review the P&ID to verify, and add any additional valves, nozzles, or fixtures through the Options menu of the component spec form.
Keywords: BKU
TEMA
Kettle
Exchanger
Reboiler
References: None |
Problem Statement: How does Icarus calculate Freight? | Solution: Freight is calculated from material cost only when we do not have weight information for an item (Icarus calculates weight from material cost from our internal algorithm).
For equipment, piping, steel, we have weight information (as reported in the AProjID database file relation (see Icarus
Keywords: freight
References: Manual for details on this A-file a.ka. the Detail Bulk Report) and Icarus uses those weights for freight.
For each contractor, we accumulate weights for all accounts except civil and calculate the freight cost from the total weight for all accounts when freight rates are specified for that contractor.
Freight is calculated for all accounts except civil. |
Problem Statement: Sometimes your operating system may not register all the necessary DLL and OCX files so that you can run the Aspen Kbase P&ID Editor correctly, and you may see this error message: | Solution: Attached is a batch file to register the DLL and OCX files associated with running the Kbase P&ID editor. You can run this batch file, or you can follow the below steps to register the necessary DLL and OCX files on your PC so that the P&ID editor will run correctly.
****NOTE: Please be advised that the batch file attached reflects the default installation folder for the Aspen Kbase software (C:\ drive). If your Aspen Kbase installation is located on another drive letter OTHER than the C:\ drive, please modify the batch file to reflect the correct drive letter.****
1.) Dlls in the \Program Files\AspenTech\RADPFS 13.3\bin folder:
AESXML2Aosa_13_3.dll
aesxmldom_13_3.dll
pfsctrl-dom133.ocx
pfsicon-rad133.ocx
pfsportmenu133.ocx
pfssymbols133.ocx
radicon133.dll
radmacro133.dll
radpfs133.dll
radpfsRO133.dll
radpfsWrap133.dll
In a command prompt, change directories to \Program Files\AspenTech\RADPFS 13.3\bin. Then copy and paste this into the command prompt window and hit the enter button:
regsvr32 AESXML2Aosa_13_3.dll aesxmldom_13_3.dll pfsctrl-dom133.ocx pfsicon-rad133.ocx pfsportmenu133.ocx pfssymbols133.ocx radicon133.dll radmacro133.dll radpfs133.dll radpfsRO133.dll radpfsWrap133.dll
2.) Dlls in the c:\Program Files\Common Files\AspenTech Shared\Rad2d\bin folder:
AddInMgr.dll
jEditDlg.dll
jEditSym.dll
RADRedir.dll
In a command prompt, change directories to c:\Program Files\Common Files\AspenTech Shared\Rad2d\bin. Then copy and paste this into the command prompt window and hit the enter button:
regsvr32 AddInMgr.dll jEditDlg.dll jEditSym.dll RADRedir.dll
3.) Dlls in the c:\Program Files\Common Files\Intergraph\rad folder:
Mdlnstrg.ocx
ModBag.ocx
ModDep.ocx
I2DCmCtl.ocx
I2DCMsCtl.ocx
I2MnuCtl.ocx
Jcntrls35.ocx
stylebar35.ocx
sptools1.dll
In a command prompt, change directories to \Program Files\Common Files\Intergraph\rad. Then copy and paste this into the command prompt window and hit the enter button:
regsvr32 Mdlnstrg.ocx ModBag.ocx ModDep.ocx I2DCmCtl.ocx I2DMsCtl.ocx I2MnuCtl.ocx Jcntrls35.ocx stylebar35.ocx sptools1.dll
4.) Dlls in the x:\Program Files\AspenTech\Aspen Icarus 2004.2\Program\Sys (where you have 2004.2 installed).
icPID.dll
In a command prompt, change directories to x:\Program Files\AspenTech\Aspen Icarus 2004.2\Program\Sys. Then copy and paste this into the command prompt window and hit the enter button
:
regsvr32 icPID.dll
After you register these files, and to test to make sure that the P&ID editor is installed correctly, please open Windows Explorer to:
\Program Files\AspenTech\RadPFS 13.3\bin and double-click on radpfs133.exe.
You should not receive any error messages.
Keywords: P&ID, editor, draft.exe, PID
References: None |
Problem Statement: After installation of AMS V7.3 components, the ?Aspen Database Wizard? is started to update the Aspen Production Record Manager and Aspen Audit and Compliance Manager databases. At the stage where the wizard invokes the ?Data Link Properties?, it is discovered that ?Oracle Provider for OLE DB? (see screen shot below). | Solution: Aspen Database Wizard is a 32-bit application and 32-bit applications do NOT ?see? 64-bit OLEDB drivers in a 64-bit OS.
A ?32-bit Oracle Data Access Components (ODAC) with Oracle Developer Tools for Visual Studio? from
http://www.oracle.com/technetwork/topics/dotnet/utilsoft-086879.html
must be installed for the Database Wizard to see the driver.
There also is a corresponding installation without the ?Oracle Developer Tools for Visual Studio? the user might want to download instead, although this installation does let the user choose whether to install those tools or not.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: Version 6.0.1 and previous versions of Aspen Audit & Compliance Manager (previously name Aspen Alarm & Event) did not have indexes on the database tables. This caused the backup and purge processes to work very slowly. Newer versions of Aspen Audit & Compliance Manager have indexed tables so they will backup and purge much more quickly. | Solution: The workaround is to backup the database using another backup program then manually delete the data in the database tables.
It is possible to perform a database level backup of the Aspen Audit & Compliance Manager tables from within Oracle or SQL Server. After this is done the following queries can be used to delete all data from the Aspen Audit & Compliance Manager tables. If you need to archive the data please back it up before running these queries.
To delete all of the data the tables need to be cleaned out in this order:
1. delete from AspenAE.VALUES_HEADER;
2. delete from AspenAE.VALUES_SINGLE;
3. delete from AspenAE.VALUES_CHANGEVALUE;
4. delete from AspenAE.VALUES_CHANGEHISTORY;
5. delete from AspenAE.MESSAGE_SINGLE;
6. delete from AspenAE.MESSAGE_CHANGEVALUE;
7. delete from AspenAE.MESSAGE_CHANGEHISTORY;
8. delete from AspenAE.EVENT_REF;
9. delete from AspenAE.EVENT_HEADER;
Keywords: A&E
AACM
References: None |
Problem Statement: What does ''FOB Vendor mean in the Equipment Material Cost? | Solution: Freight on Board (FOB) Vendor means that the item is sold and available on the loading dock of the vendor. It does not include delivery or freight charges. Any freight, transport and handling cost from there to the job site must be added to the estimated cost for the item.
Keywords: Freight on Board, FOB Vendor, Equipment Material Cost
References: None |
Problem Statement: When I evaluate my entire project, I get error messages that says:
ERROR> ' - 0' COULD NOT SELECT BEAM
ERROR> ' - 0' COULD NOT SELECT SUPPORT BEAM
ERROR> ' - 0' COULD NOT DESIGN AREA OPEN-BLDG DUE TO EXCESSIVE WRIGHT. REDUCE LOADING, LEVELS, OR STRUCTURE SELECT HEIGHT/WIDTH.
ERROR> ' - 0' UNABLE TO DESIGN PIPE RACK. | Solution: This error occurs because of the area specs (Right click the area, select modify, then scroll down to Area Specs and select Modify).
Note: Typically, the larger the length and width of the area, the more difficult it will be (if not impossible) to design the area due to the weight of all the components that are included in that particular area.
Suggestions:
1. Make sure that the size of your area is large enough to fit the components you have. A 1M x 1M area will not fit an item with a length and width of 12M x 10M.
If all else fails, go back to default for area specs: 50x50.
2. Make sure that you select the proper Area spec type. By default, it is set to S, but you may need to set it to P or C.
3. If your area is very large, try reducing the length and width, and possibly eliminate the height altogether (if specified), and re-run the project estimate.
4. If an error occurs on a Pipe Truss, try removing the Distributed load, if you entered in your own value.
It may take a combination of the above 4 items to get your estimate to run without errors.
If these suggestions do not help you fix the problem, please log a support call incident by e-mailing [email protected], along with your project file (zip it please!), so that support can determine how to fix the project estimate.
Keywords: beam, column, area, loading, steel, module, width, height, length, beam or column, steel member, truss, bridge
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to close out reports, spec forms, P&ID's, and PFD's generated in Main Window. | Solution: Where an OK or Cancel button is available (component spec form), this is one method.
For reports, and diagrams, simply clicking the 2nd X from the top right (on the menu bar) will close all tabs in the main window (one per click) until only the List menu is left.
If you click the lower X again, it will attempt to close the project, but you will receive a prompt first to prevent accidental closure.
Keywords: window, close, main, exit
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to convert Standard Basis file created within a project to a global library file that can be used in all future projects. | Solution: To perform this operation in version 11.1 and earlier of Aspen Icarus products, copy the STD.d01, STD.d02, STD.d03, STD.d04, and STD.d05 files to the \Data\StdBasis_Kbase (or StdBasis_IPM, StdBasis_IPE, or StdBasis_Questimate) directory.
Now this Standard Basis can be selected as from a library when creating new projects.
To perform this operation for version 11.1.1 or later of Aspen Icarus products, you must first open the project with the desired basis information. When the project is opened, its contents are unpacked into the following directory.
\Program Files\AspenTech\Aspen Icarus 12.2.2003\ic_cache\Projects\<Project Name>
Browse to the folder and find the basis files (STD.d01, STD.d02, STD.d03, STD.d04, and STD.d05). These files can then be copied into the \Program Files\AspenTech\Aspen Icarus 12.2.2003\Data\StdBasis_Kbase\<units> directory for Aspen Kbase (or Data\StdBasis_IPM, Data\StdBasis_IPE, or Data\StdBasis_Questimate for those applications). It is important to note that the files must be placed in the subdirectory corresponding the the correct units set--the Ip folder for Inch-Pound units and the Met folder for metric units.
These five basis files can also be renamed. The key is that all five files (.d01, .d02, .d03, .d04, and .d05) must have the same name. For example, to create a new standard basis library item called PROJ1, the files in the \Data\StdBasis_Kbase\<Units> directory would be renamed as follows.
PROJ1.d01
PROJ1.d02
PROJ1.d03
PROJ1.d04
PROJ1.d05
To see the new standard basis, simply refresh the view in Aspen Kbase. To refresh the view, right-click on any folder or item in the Libraries tab of the Palette View and select Refresh from menu.
Keywords: Standard
Basis
STD
References: None |
Problem Statement: My company uses a different unit of measure for custom pipe specs, than what my project is started in (custom pipe specs is inches and my project is Metric).
My problem is that specifying a metric job, and using my Inch-Pound (I-P) custom pipe specs file, I can not modify the pipe diameter field to accept inches. Is there a way to do this or do I need to change my project back to an unadjusted metric base? | Solution: The only way to get this to work properly, is to make sure that when you start your new project, that you make sure to make the Special Units change when the Input Units of Measure Specifications dialog box appears.
Select Special Units - and make the change for the Pipe Diameter units of input from mm to inch.
Here's the rules.....
If your:
1. Custom pipe spec file = mm
Must have special units set to mm. Either have a Metric project and leave special units alone, OR if you have an I-P project, set the special units to mm.
2. Custom pipe spec file = I-P
Must have special units set to inch. Either have an I-P project and leave special units alone, OR if you have a Metric project, set the special units to inch.
Keywords: custom pipe specs, custom, piping
References: None |
Problem Statement: After installing Cumulative Patch 6 (CP6) for the Aspen Icarus software, I can no longer run run my Aspen software. | Solution: In some cases, after the installation, the computer finds new hardware the SLM dongle. Let the computer find the new hardware, install the necessary file and reboot your computer.
If after the reboot, you still cannot run your Aspentech software, it will be necessary to manually re-register the dongle driver file again with the operating system.
How to Register the Aspentech dongle driver file (STRGXI2.dll)
1. Open a command line or a DOS Prompt to the 'c:\program files\Common Files\Hyprotech\Shared? folder, and register the file STRGXI2.dll:
Click on Start | Run , then type in cmd and click <OK>.
2. At the DOS command line, type in: c:\ and hit <ENTER>.
3. Then type in: cd program files\common files\hyprotech\Shared and hit <ENTER>.
4. Then type in: regsvr32 strgxi2.dll and hit <ENTER>.
5. The confirmation message DllRegisterServer in STRGXI2.dll succeeded should appear.
6. Then go back through the SLM Configuration Wizard to re-set the registry entries.
Keywords: CP6, 2004.0.6, cannot run,tThe following items were not updated correctly, updater
References: None |
Problem Statement: Why is it not allowed to have identical Area Names in different Report Groups? | Solution: The reason it is not allowed to have identical Area Names in different Report Groups is because of the internal calculations that the cost engine has to perform. The cost engine gets confused when attempting to place the output into reports, so we require users to have unique area names throughout the project.
Keywords: area, report group
References: None |
Problem Statement: When trying to run the Excel reports, I get this error message:
ERROR #35600 Index out of bounds
How do I fix this? | Solution: TheSolution is to go into the registry and delete the data in the key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\AspenTech\Aspen Icarus Products\12.2.2003\Settings\Reporter\Excel Reports.
Note a similar fix might be necessary if the problem is triggered by standard reports.
In this case the key to blank is: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\AspenTech\Aspen Icarus Products\12.2.2003\Settings\Reporter\Standard Reports
Keywords: 35600, out of bounds, index, excel, reporter, reports, excel reports
References: None |
Problem Statement: I'm looking at the Piping and Instrumentation Drawing (P&ID) in the Piping and Instrumentation documentation for the Reactor Vessel - Batch - Drawing #74 - 74D, however, I can't find the equipment item associated with it, nor a graphical P&ID to use with the Aspen Kbase P&ID editor.
Do you know which equipment component uses this P&ID? | Solution: The components to choose in the Icarus software so that it uses Internal Drawing #74 are:
Agitated Tank - Enclosed
Agitated Tank - Open Top
Agitated Tank - Enclosed, Jacketed
You MUST change the Application Symbol to BATCH to get drawing 74.
However, this is one P&ID that you can't pick for use with the P&ID editor, because the drawing is too complex for a graphical P&ID. (Thus the reason why you see P&ID #74 span over 4 pages in the Piping and Instrumentation documentation: drawings 74A - 74D).
Drawing #74 is what we call an internal drawing, and will be shown in the detail line item for the Reactor that you select.
Keywords: P&ID, pid, drawing, 74, batch
References: None |
Problem Statement: After several opens and closes of projects and project evaluation runs, I start getting error messages with the software application. | Solution: One of the messages in particular, referred to CiceroUIWndFrame, is a Microsoft Office feature that only comes with Microsoft Office XP and Microsoft Office 2003. The application that references this error message CiceroUIWndFrame, is for the Speech and Handwriting Recognition feature of Microsoft Office
XP (or Microsoft Office 2003).
There is a lot of information out on the Internet about this Speech and Handwriting Recognition software causing crashes with other third party applications, as well as other Microsoft applications.
Microsoft suggested to either install Office XP Service Pack 3, or to remove the Speech and Handwriting Recognition part of Microsoft Office XP (or Microsoft Office 2003) to avoid the crashes.
Reports from other users who experienced these types of crashes chose to uninstall it, and after the removal, the crashing stopped completely.
To un-install the Speech and Handwriting Recognition feature in Microsoft Office XP (or Microsoft Office 2003)
1. Open Control Panel.
2. Select Add/Remove Programs.
3. Choose Microsoft Office.
4. Click on the Change button.
5. Choose Add or Remove Features, click Next.
6. Check off the Advanced Customization of Applications, click Next.
6. Open the + sign for the Office Shared Features, then open the + sign for the Alternative User Input. Click on the drop-down box for the Alternative User Input, and choose Not available from the drop-down box.
7. Reboot your system after making this change.
Keywords: CiceroUIWndFrame, SPEC0001.TMP, crash, utob32.dll, icaruskb.exe, memory could not be read, speech, handwriting, recognition, ICARUSKB.EXE, referenced memory, instruction
References: None |
Problem Statement: I need some help understanding how ICARUS does the calculation in the fluid heat tracing for pipe component.
For example, here are my Specifications:
Material: CU
Traced pipe length: 3 feet
Traced pipe diameter: .5 inches
Tracing Symbol: T-LOC (Traced tube connection longit with cement)
Distance to supply header: 22 feet
Distance to return header: 22 feet
Heating medium: OTHER
When I estimated this item with these specifications, I have these questions:
Why were threadolets generated for this entry instead of some other type of connection?
Why did the program generate 8 feet of A-53 pipe, 2 feet of A-106 pipe, and 48 feet of copper tubing? I don't understand how 3 feet of copper pipe turns into 48 feet of copper tubing.
Why were field shop fabrication hours generated instead of remote shop? | Solution: Threadolets are generated because threadolets are used for connecting copper/pipe tubing in fluid heat tracing.
8 feet A-53 pipe is for Supply header, 2 feet A-106 pipe is for Return header.
--->Since you have 22 feet for both the distances to supply and return headers, the total tubing length = 3 + 22 + 22 = 47 feet. We add another 1 foot by default, so the total becomes 48 feet.
Field shop fabrication hours were generated because heat tracing is always done in the field, never the remote shop.
Keywords: tracing
heat tracing
heat
fluid heat
fluid
References: None |
Problem Statement: Where are the slot names for installation bulks defined? I cannot find it in the API (Aspen Icarus Programming Interface) documentation. | Solution: Refer to the attached document Installation Bulk Item Slots Only.doc which contains a listing of the Installation bulk slot items for use with the Icarus API. The information will be added in the future version.
Keywords: API, slot, slotnames, slot names
References: None |
Problem Statement: Spreadsheet Import/Export in Aspen Capital Cost Estimator V7.3.2 | Solution: Uses standard Microsoft Excel 2007 or 2010 only
Exporting Data
Empty Component and Bulk Spreadsheets
All applicable Project Components and Bulks
Selected Project Components by Type or by Area
Importing Data
Equipment Lists
P&ID Data from various sources (Vendor neutral)
Export Economic Evaluation Component Template datasheets to standard Microsoft Excel spreadsheet.
Export project data by Type or by Area to Excel spreadsheet.
Import project data from configured Excel spreadsheet into Economic Evaluation project.
Available in Aspen Capital Cost Estimator (ACCE)
Uses standard Excel 2007 and 2010 with no Macros
Available for process equipment, quoted cost item, plant bulks and installation bulk options
Site Development (SD), Unit Cost Library (UCL), Equipment Model Library (EML) and Pipeline Segments are not included
Uses basic Area specifications only (Parent Report Group, Area title, Area type, Area dimensions)
One ?Index? worksheet at the beginning to aid navigation to all the worksheets. Contains hyperlinks to other worksheets
One worksheet for area specs (area name, report group, area type, dimensions)
One worksheet for each type of project component (process equipment, plant bulk, quoted cost item)
One worksheet for each of the installation bulk options (items on the standard ?Options? drop-down: piping, instrumentation, electrical, etc.)
Worksheets will be created for only the items chosen by user in the tree-view of the spreadsheet import/export dialog
.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: Why do some of the process equipment pieces not show data on the Design Data Sheets? | Solution: Design data sheets are only generated for process equipment for which the equipment code begins with letter ?D?.
If you look in the components palette, each item has an equipment code (see image below). For process equipment, the equipment code begins with the letter ?D? or ?E?. For plant bulks, the code always begins with letter ?B? (for bulks). For site development, the code begins with ?SD?. Design data sheets are only generated for process equipment for which the equipment code begins with letter ?D?.
Keywords: Report, design data sheets, process equipment
References: None |
Problem Statement: Improvements in Aspen Process Economic Analyzer & Decision Analyzer | Solution: ? Process Modeling
Integrated Economics capabilities enhanced
Equipment and total weight reported in results
Selected Economic parameters reported in the results
Aspen Plus and HYSYS stream costing passed to APEA
HYSYS power utility mapped to electricity in APEA
Improved mappings of Aspen Plus tower internals to APEA (including auto-mapping of multiple tower sections to the new APEA multi-diameter tower model)
?Replace? function added to streamline equipment mappings
Design criteria for compressors revised
Data import support for 2nd level and lower HYSYS sub-flowsheets
Unique stream and unit op names are still required across all hierarchies
Decision Analyzer Improvements
ARM (Analyzer Relocation Module) review and update all 89 locations for costing and design specs
ASM (Analyzer Scaling Module) Error messages will be generated if min/max component limits are exceeded. Original value is retained as indicated in the error message.
Keywords: V7.3
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I set delivery time by equipment class? | Solution: To set vendor fabrication and shipping times for equipment class:
1. In the Project Execution Schedule Settings subfolder, right-click on Equipment Classes Delivery Times and click Edit. The Schedule Equipment Classes specifications form appears in the main window.
2. For each equipment class, specify the number of weeks needed to fabricate and ship equipment after vendor data approval.
The default values of the fabrication and shipping times used for different equipment classes are documented in the Aspen Icarus reference manual Chapter 36 Icarus Technology.
Keywords: Fabrication and shipping time
References: None |
Problem Statement: How is Pipe Testing Calculated each Area? This figure is provided in the Area Bulk Report section (for each area) of the Capital Cost evaluation report. | Solution: Pipe Testing is a function of number of piping iso's and diameter x length. The number of fittings does not enter into this--except for the fact that number of fittings affects the calculation of number of piping iso's in some fashion.
COA 306 PIPING SYSTEM TESTING Hydrostatic testing PIPE TESTING (field only) Prepare for test (place blinds & blanks, open valves, support items, air purge, etc.); test (fill, pressurize and monitor lines, soap test joints); clean up after test (drain lines, remove temporary items, close valves, etc.)
The number of pipe testing man-hours is calculated by the system based on the estimated time to do the following.
Prepare for test (place blinds & blanks, open valves, support items, air purge, etc.)
Test (fill, pressurize and monitor lines, soap test joints)
Clean up after test (drain lines, remove temporary items, close valves, etc.)
The calculation is not simply a percentage of the pipe installation man-hours. Instead, the calculation models all of the procedures above for the pipe lines in each area.
Keywords: testing
pipe
calculated
calculation
COA
COA 306
test
References: None |
Problem Statement: How can I use COMPONENTS from one project in another project? | Solution: You can bring components ( or whole areas) from another project into your current project by doing the following:
1.) Open the project you want to import the items into
2.) Make sure you are in the Project View
3.) In the Projects tab on the Palette, double click on the project you want to import items from. It should expand the project where you will see the areas, and there will be plus signs under the areas where you can expand the areas to see the components.
4.) In the Palette, click on the component or area you want to import, and drag it over to the Project View in your current project. If it is an area, drop it on the Report Group you want it in. If it is a component, drop it in the area you want it in. Aspen Capital Cost Estimator will bring the item into the project.
5.) Repeat for additional items. Also, you can use the control and shift keys to drag multiple items at one time.
(The unit set should also be the same in the two projects)
Keywords:
References: None |
Problem Statement: When I index at an area level, does it compound the indexing done at the project level or replace the project level compounding with the area level compounding? | Solution: By default the system will use the area indexing and replace the project level indexing with the area level indexing. There is a new option that started in V7.0 which allows you to specify that the indexing will compound the project level indexing instead of replacing it.
Default Replace (R):
New Compound (C) option:
Keywords:
References: None |
Problem Statement: I do not what to use the power distribution and the process control features in Aspen Capital Cost Estimator (ACCE), so I unlinked the areas from the process control and power distribution form. When I evaluate the project the program closed with the following message: Aspen Icarus Cost Engine Application has encountered a problem and needs to close. | Solution: In ACCE, all areas are automatically linked to default control centers and unit substations. User can modify the control center and unit substation structures, but users have to make sure every area is linked to a control center and a unit substation, and every control center is linked to a unit substation. Otherwise the aforementioned crash could happen. Option ?M? under Project Basis View | General Project Data can be used to suppress default equipment/area/project bulks.
Keywords: Process control, power distribution
References: None |
Problem Statement: My company decided to move from Aspen ICARUS Project Manager (IPM) to Aspen Kbase. I know that I cannot just open up my IPM Project in Kbase because of contractor, process control and power distribution issues (there are no multiple contractors in IPM, where there are in KBase, and there is no Power and Process Distribution in IPM where it does exist in Aspen KBase). How to I take my IPM project file and convert it into a Kbase file so that I don't have to re-enter in all the data by hand again? | Solution: It's easy! Here are the steps to EXPORT your IPM file into an ICARUS 2000 specs file:
1. Open your IPM file in IPM.
2. Perform an estimate to make sure that there are NO ERRORS. If there are ERRORS, the ERRORS MUST BE FIXED. (This is important, as if there are ERRORS in the IPM project, the ERRORS will cause more problems when exported to the Kbase system.)
3. If there are no ERRORS, or you have fixed them, then go to the menu bar and select: FILE | EXPORT TO specs.
4. A Save As dialog box will appear. Place this file in an EMPTY folder, and make sure that you name the file SPECS (with no extension). Ex: specs
5. Now, your IPM file is exported to an ICARUS 2000 specs file which can be imported into Aspen Kbase.
6. Exit out of IPM.
Steps to IMPORT the ICARUS 2000 specs file into Aspen Kbase:
1. Open Aspen Kbase.
2. Go to the menu bar and select: FILE | NEW. The Create New Project dialog box will open.
3. Enter in a Project name and Scenario name and then click the IMPORT button.
4. The Select Import Type dialog box appears.
5. Select the radio button ICARUS 2000 9-10, and click the OK button.
6. The Browse for folder dialog box opens, and browse to the folder where you saved your specs file in step #4 above (when you exported the IPM file to a specs file). When you have found the folder, click the OK button.
7. The import will then begin. This can last several minutes to even an hour, depending on how many components the specs file has.
Once the import is finished, you now hae your IPM project CORRECTLY converted into an Aspen Kbase project.
Keywords: export
import
icarus 2000
ipm
project
specs
References: None |
Problem Statement: I have created a new P&ID using the new Aspen Kbase P&ID Editor tool. How do I use this P&ID with an Equipment Model Library Item? | Solution: 1. Open the P&ID library from the Libraries Tab.
2. Click on the Components Tab.
3. Right-click on the Equipment Model Library and select SET DEFAULT P&ID.
4. Click NEW.
5. Choose the Item Symbol using the browse button.
6. Choose the Item Type using the browse button.
7. Choose the P&ID file using the browse button.
8. Select the P&ID drawing and click OK. (If no drawings appear under the P&ID library, then there are no User-Created P&IDs to select from to create the default).
9. Click OK to save the new default.
10. Click OK again to exit out of the Set Default P&ID menu.
11. The next time that you add in your EML item, and select to attach the PID (Open Default), your drawing will then appear for that EML item.
Note: All user Equipment Model Library files (EML files) are located in the ...\Aspen Icarus xx.x\Data\EML\IP or Met
OtherSolution documents you might find helpful:
Tutorial and Best Practices for Using the Aspen Kbase P&ID Editor
http://support.aspentech.com/webteamcgi/SolutionDisplay_view.cgi?key=112277
How to use the Line Size Equation Editor in Aspen Kbase
http://support.aspentech.com/webteamcgi/SolutionDisplay_view.cgi?key=114149
How to make sure previously used line size equations are used in an imported Kbase project from an Icarus 2000 project
http://support.aspentech.com/webteamcgi/SolutionDisplay_view.cgi?key=116489
How to customize or create your own equipment symbols to use with the KBase P&ID editor?
http://support.aspentech.com/webteamcgi/SolutionDisplay_view.cgi?key=114137
How to Import a Custom Equipment Symbol
http://support.aspentech.com/webteamcgi/SolutionDisplay_view.cgi?key=114424
Keywords: EML
Equipment Model Library
Library
References: None |
Problem Statement: What are the basic differences between different Aspen Economic Evaluation products like Aspen Capital Cost Estimator, Aspen In Plant Cost Estimator and Aspen Process Economic Analyzer? | Solution: Different products have different features with different capabilities. Aspen Process Economic Analyzer, Aspen Capital Cost Estimator, and Aspen In Plant Cost Estimator use the same cost engine and they are different in project basis.
The biggest difference between ACCE and Aspen Process Economic Analyzer is the functionality you have with ACCE and not with APEA and vice versa.
What ACCE allows you to control that APEA does not: Allows more than 1 contractor, control over process control and power distribution systems, allows pipeline areas, link with P3 5.0 (P3 v5.0 and Interface to be purchased directly from Primavera), allows control over Contractor Scope, Engineering Work force, Equipment rental, and custom codes of accounts.
What Aspen APEA allows you to import is different simulators, design criteria and investment analysis.
If you have a license for both ACCE and APEA, you can open ACCE along with using an APEA license as well, and then you will have the functionality of all the above.
When you open ACCE you get the option whether you would like to use the APEA inside ACCE environment. You select the option. It will use the additional license for the product. Now if you create or open an existing case you will see all the options usually appear in the project basis of APEA. You can load the simulator data in this environment just like the way we do it in APEA.
The biggest difference between AIPCE and APEA and/or ACCE is that with APEA and ACCE you can import your simulation whereas in AIPCE, you cannot.
Obviously though, there are differences in the PROJECT BASIS between AIPCE, APEA and ACCE.....thus the reason to have them as different products and different pricing between the products. For more detailed on price, you will probably want to speak with your salesperson so that they can give you a demonstration for the products.
There is a link to a document on our support web site that gives you information on the different cost estimation products so that you can do a comparison between the features that each product has:
http://support.aspentech.com/webteamcgi/SolutionDisplay_view.cgi?key=120373
You can transfer Aspen Basic Engineering data to and from ACCE. You can not exchange data between Aspen Basic Engineering (ABE) and AIPCE or APEA.
Keywords: Difference, ABE, APEA, ACCE and AIPCE estimating capabilities.
References: None |
Problem Statement: When I evaluate my project I see the following error:
ERROR> 'EN - 1' INVALID DISCIPLINE NO. IN COLM. 10-11
Then I don't see any cost in the indirect cost. How can I fix it? | Solution: The problem is in the Project Basis View / Engineering / By Discipline. If you don't specified the Discipline this error will appear, so if you select all Disciplines or the discipline you want to specified and re-evaluate the project, you will notice that the error: “ERROR 'EN - 1' INVALID DISCIPLINE NO. IN COLM. 10-11” does not appear anymore.
If you evaluate the project you will see now all the indirect costs.
Keywords: Indirect, error, discipline
References: None |
Problem Statement: If I do a project/area level evaluation and compare the results for the item versus a MaxiBlock result generated by an individual component evaluation, the results are different. Why? | Solution: This behavior can be observed on cases where you have equipment hanging from a structure. In such cases the system does not consider the structure in which the tower is hanging since only the component input is sent to the engine. Because of this assumptions there could be differences in the steel support and installation bulks.
Keywords: Maxiblock report item ladders clips mast lights foundation
References: None |
Problem Statement: What are the new reports added for version 7.0 ? | Solution: New standard area reports are included with this version: Component Listings with Equipment Cost (equipment cost was not previously included in the component listings reports). The new reports are located at:
1. Full Import_Other Reports_Area_Component Listings_Sorted by ID
2. Full Import_Other Reports_Area_Component Listings_Sorted by Name
Keywords: New report, new feature, reports, report
References: None |
Problem Statement: Running an Excel report closes any open instance of MS Word | Solution: This is as designed.
Defects in MS Office require this behavior, the user should raise this issue with Microsoft to correct the base issue.
Keywords:
References: None |
Problem Statement: Is there a way to get insulation calculated for all my pipe lines without visiting each individual pipe line and entering the insulation thickness? | Solution: You can use the Hot and Cold Insulation Schedules to get the insulation for the piping and equipment calculated for either the project or a specific area. If you check the Aspen Capital Cost Estimator (ACCE) User Guide (Defining the Project Basis), under Insulation Specs (for V8.2 it starts on page 107, it will be different for other versions), it discusses the use of the Insulation Schedule Tables. You can turn it on for the project (or a specific area). For the project it is under:
Project Basis View | Design Basis | Insulation Specs
Go there and choose the appropriate hot and/or cold table(s). Then when you run an evaluation the system will generate the appropriate insulation based on the process temperature
Keywords: insulation, insulation specs, hot insulation, cold insulation, hot, cold
References: None |
Problem Statement: What are the minimum disk files to install the Aspen ICARUS software and support files? | Solution: The minimum disk files to install the Aspen ICARUS software and support files are the following from the DVD set:
All files off the root(not subdirs) of the DVD 6
DVD 6\Browser
DVD 6\aes2004cd1\core
DVD 6\aes2004cd1\Aspen Icarus 2004
All files off the root(not subdirs) of the DVD 1
DVD 1\Browser
DVD 1\Atlanta2004InfDVD1\SLM
You should have a choice to install the SLM Client tools (including the commute manager) as the last item in the list from DVD 6; way below where you choose to install Aspen ICARUS.
The SLM client tools are needed to for licensing. HOWEVER, if you already have the previous version of Aspen ICARUS installed on your PC (v12.2.2003), you don't have to re-install the SLM client tools again, unless you wish to update your version of the SLM client tools.
For most installs you should not need anything from DVD 1, but it's best for safety and support if you have the SLM stuff available.
If you wish to install the Aspen ICARUS documentation, please use the Documentation DVD.
Keywords: install
installation
ICARUS
documentation
References: None |
Problem Statement: When I I change my high pressure steam on my jacketed vessel, why does my jacket design temperature stay at 200 C (392F)? | Solution: For horizontal and vertical tanks, the maximum jacket design temperature is 392 F (200C) and the minimum design temperature is -20F (-28C). If a vessel design temperature is less than 200 C (and greater that -28C), then the jacket design temperature equals the vessel design temperature. If the vessel design temperature is greater than 200 C, then the jacket design temperature is set to 200 C. There is no way to adjust the jacket design temperature.
Keywords:
References: None |
Problem Statement: Why did my project work in V7.3.2, but now in V8.0 I get a duplicate line number error? | Solution: Check the component and there is probably two lines that have the same line number (ie, two of Line 1 or Line 2).A The same component can not have two lines with the same line number starting in V8.0.A This used to work in earlier versions, but due to the excel import/export feature it can no longer be supported.
Give one of the lines a new, unique, line number.
Keywords: duplicate, line
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I modify the dimensions of an area that are different from the default value? For example, my tank is larger than the default area size. What is a good size to use for the area? | Solution: A lot of people do not realize that the Economic Evaluation products have the ability to size the area based upon the components in the area. If you are not sure of what might be a good area size, then let the system size it for you. Just do the following:
1. Create your area and take the default size.
2. Add all the components into your new area.
3. Modify the Area Specs and delete the area dimensions.
4. Evaluate the project and it will estimate an area size based upon the components in the area.
Keywords: big, large, estimate, area
References: None |
Problem Statement: Why don't I see the control valve on my line? | Solution: Often times people will create an instrument loop and specify the Instrument Sensor Location, but not specify the Control Valve Location.
The system will generate the sensor but not the control valve. You need to also specify the Control Valve Location and then the system will also generate the control valve.
Keywords: control valve, control, valve, location
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I dump the evaluation results into MS Access? | Solution: After evaluating the project, open the Interactive Reporter and on the Menu, and select File | Open Project Database to transfer the results to MS Access.
Keywords: Database, Access
References: None |
Problem Statement: How does Aspen Economic Evaluation handle equipment demolition? | Solution: Demolition in the Aspen Economic Evaluation software is handled in the following manner:
1. Demolition can be on a component by component basis
2. Demolition is more of a dismantling of the component as opposed to a true demolition.
3. The Aspen Economic Evaluation cost engine performs a 'smart demolition' in that it does not include items such as formwork, paint, etc.
4. The Aspen Economic Evaluation cost engine provides you 100% of manhours for piping. But, it is up to the user to adjust our system defaults. This is because demolition is too dependent on a site by site basis.
5. You can also can add demolition components which are site development items.
Internally, in order to generate the costs for a demolition item (DEML), the cost engine actually calculates the cost to design and install the item, then it backs out all those material costs, zeroes them out, and then the cost engine reports out only the manhours and labor cost to demo the item. You can see this by looking at detail report for the item.
Keywords: deml, demolition
References: None |
Problem Statement: In the External Steel Material File, what are the units used for the Cost in User Currency(CUR/WT) field? | Solution: The input units are either $1/lbs for I-P or $1/kg for MET.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: New Equipment Models are implemented in Economic Evalustion V7.3. One of them is the Cryogenic Double Wall Full Containment storage tank. This | Solution: explains the detail specifications of this tank.Solution
Q1: The material of Suspended tank lid, Roof rafters and hangers, Outer tank lining are not described in the result.
A1: The Suspended tank lid material is aluminum. The Roof rafters and hangers material are CS. The Outer tank lining material is CS.
Q2: The piles generated by Aspen Capital Cost Estimator are included in which item?
A2: The piles are included in the item Foundation (#49).
Q3: Which items are included in the item Inner tank (#43)?
A3: The Inner tank (#43) includes the tank shell, tank base ring, primary bottom, secondary bottom, and corner protection. All of this material is by default is A553 (9% Ni Steel). Users can select different inner tank materials.
Q4: Which items are included in the item Suspended tank lid (#44)?
A4: The Suspended tank lid (#44) includes the aluminum lid and aluminum stiffeners.
Q5: Which items are included in the item Roof rafters and hangers (#45)?
A5: The Roof rafters and hangers (#45) item includes CS roof rafters and CS rod hangers that support the suspended tank lid.
Keywords: LNG Tank, Materials, Specification, V7.3
References: None |
Problem Statement: What is ?ICAPILib? mentioned in Aspen Capital Cost Estimator API reference Guide? | Solution: ICAPILib is the name of the API interface. The file that defines this is ICAPICOM.dll. This should be in the C:\Program Files\AspenTech\Economic Evaluation version# \Program\Sys directory.
Keywords: API
References: None |
Problem Statement: New crude oil desalter model in V7.3 | Solution: A new cost equipment model has been created to estimate the cost and ancillary components of a crude oil desalter. This new equipment model is located under Component | Process equipment | Vessels - pressure, storage | Vessel - horizontal tank | Crude oil desalter.
The crude oil desalter consists of a horizontal tank with high voltage electrostatic plates mounted inside and transformer/rectifier units mounted on the outside. Based on vessel dimensions supplied by the user, estimates are calculated for the # of internal plates, # of transformers, size of inlet/outlet piping manifolds, etc. The values calculated by the system can be overridden on the input form if more exact information is available. Costs generated for the transformers are included in the equipment costs with weights reported separately.
A new graphical PID has been developed representing the piping and instrument scope for the new model.
Keywords: V7.3, crude oil desalter
References: None |
Problem Statement: When I put in a pipe wall thickness, why does Aspen Process Economic Analyzer seem to be increasing the thickness? | Solution: The code in Aspen Capital Cost Estimator is trying to use a standard thickness. When the wall thickness entered does not equal a standard thickness, Aspen Capital Cost Estimator is selecting the next higher standard thickness. If you would like to use a particular standard schedule, then enter a value slightly less than or equal to the schedule wall thickness you want to use.
Keywords:
References: None |
Problem Statement: For a specified depth, how does Aspen Capital Cost Estimator calculate the amount of soil excavated? | Solution: For a given buried depth of piping, Aspen Capital Cost Estimator uses the following method to calculate the amount of excavated soil:
Excavation width = Pipe Diameter + 2 ft
Excavation depth = Depth of buried pipe + Pipe Diameter + 6 inches
Volume excavated = Excavation width x Excavation depth x Length of pipe
Note: Depth of buried pipe needs to be specified on the plant bulk pipe form to get excavation etc. The 6 inches added to the dept are for sand bedding. We do not report the excavation volume on ccp report or other reports, we only give the man-hours for trenching, sand bedding and backfill.
Keywords:
References: None |
Problem Statement: Is there a report that will show my costs for the different country currencies in my project? | Solution: Yes. You can use the Interactive Standard Report
Full import | Capital Cost Reports | Direct Costs | Currency Summaries | Overall Currency COA Summary
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: Why would my Icarus software generate more safety valves compared to what I specify?
For example, I specified 1 safety/relief valve, but I get 5 safety valves in my output report. | Solution: This has to do with the process conditions exceeding the maximum available safety relief valve size.
A change was made several years ago that if the conditions result in an extremely large safety relief valve (larger than the max. available, which is typically 8 inches), the Icarus cost engine will re-design the relief configuration and parallel the relief lines in order to accommodate more appropriate safety relief valve sizes.
If you wish to only have 1 relief valve, one can set the line diameter to 8 inches or less and then can be assured of only 1 relief valve in the output report.
Keywords: safety valve
pressure safety valve
valve
relief valve
safety
References: None |
Problem Statement: Can I specify zero in the field of ?Pipe and fittings material adj? in the custom pipe specs form? | Solution: In custom pipe specs specification form, there is a field for ?Pipe and fittings material adj?. Since V7.3.2, the user is allowed to enter 0 as the adjustment value. Prior to this, only values > 0 were allowed. When 0 is entered, the actual unit cost for pipe and fittings will be set to a small value ($ 0.01) which will generate a very small, negligible material cost. This is based on customer feedback where users want the costs to be zero (i.e. negligible) but want to see the key quantities counted. In order for the key quantities to be counted, the cost has to be a small non-zero positive value.
The adjustment value entered will be considered as percentage and be indexed by 100. Thus, if 1000 is entered as the adjustment for pipe and fitting material, the material cost will get multiplied by (1000/100) = 10.
Keywords: Custom pipe specs
References: None |
Problem Statement: Does Timed Recovery retain all of the project data at the time of a crash? | Solution: No, the SPECS file which is used to recover the project is updated with the latest project information based upon timed intervals. You can adjust this time interval for your project by going to:
Tools | Options | Preferences (Backup/Recover)
Keywords: Timed Recovery, SPECS
References: None |
Problem Statement: Why don't I get any Elbows or Tees when I have pipe that is above 48? I specified that I want Elbows and Tees, but in the details report, all I see are man-hours for welded pipe. | Solution: Mainly elbows and tees are lost when you go above 48. By lost, we mean that since nobody makes that large size elbows and tees, we assume that they are manufactured by bending straight pipe (for elbows) or simply cutting and welding another piece of pipe (for tees). Almost all other fitting such as reducers, flanges, blinds etc are manufactured in large sizes.
For the two lost fittings (elbows and tees), the hours for manufacturing the fittings in the field are added to the manhour counts below the fittings. Below, we show details of a comparison between a 48, 100 ft run of pipe with one elbow, one reducer, one tee, one flange, one blind, one spectacle blind, and one threadolet with an identical 60 layout.
48 Inch configuration
311
1
PIP 158
CS FIELD MATERIAL
A 53
ELBOW 48 IN 0.38 IN THK
1.0 EACH 2367 0 0
1853 LBS
311
1
PIP 158
CS FIELD MATERIAL
CS
FLG WN 48 IN 150 CLASS
1.0 EACH 1405 0 0
856 LBS
311
1
PIP 158
CS FIELD MATERIAL
A 53
REDUCR 48 IN 0.38 IN THK
569 LBS
1.0 EACH 221 0 0
311
1
PIP 158
CS FIELD MATERIAL
CS
BLIND 48 IN 150 CLASS
1492 LBS
1.0 EACH 1425 0 0
311
1
PIP 158
CS FIELD MATERIAL
A 53
TEE 48 IN 0.38 IN THK
2182 LBS
1.0 EACH 1828 0 0
311
1
PIP 158
CS FIELD MATERIAL
CS
THREADOLETS
1.0 EACH 7.87 0 0
311
1
PIP 158
CS FIELD MATERIAL
CS
SPBLND 48 IN 150 CLASS
1641 LBS
1.0 EACH 1567 0 0
311
1
PIP 158
CS FIELD MATERIAL
A 53
PIPE 48 IN 0.38 IN THK
191 LB/FT
100 FEET 9729 0 0
312
1
PIP 158
CS FIELD SHOP FAB
A 53
FIELD SHOP X-RAY
0.8 EACH 0 19 460
312
1
PIP 158
CS FIELD SHOP FAB
A 53
HANDLE & WELD PREP OPER.
40 FEET 0 134 3264
312
1
PIP 158
CS FIELD SHOP FAB
A 53
CUTTING PIPE
2.0 EACH 0 28 672
312
1
PIP 158
CS FIELD SHOP FAB
A 53
BEVELING PIPE
4.0 EACH 0 44 1060
312
1
PIP 158
CS FIELD SHOP FAB
A 53
WELDING
4.0 EACH 0 225 5452
312
1
PIP 158
CS FIELD SHOP FAB
A 53
THREADOLETS
1.0 EACH 0 2 47
317
1
PIP 158
CS PIPE ERECTION
A 53
ERECT SHOP FAB PIPE
40 FEET 0 128 2903
317
1
PIP 158
CS PIPE ERECTION
A 53
ERECT STRAIGHT RUN PIPE
60 FEET 0 113 2561
317
1
PIP 158
CS PIPE ERECTION
A 53
FIELD X-RAY
0.8 EACH 0 20 494
317
1
PIP 158
CS PIPE ERECTION
A 53
WELDING
4.0 EACH 0 281 6773
317
1
PIP 158
CS PIPE ERECTION
A 53
BOLT UP CONNECTIONS
1.0 EACH 0 14 335
366
1
PIP 158
PIPE HANGERS, SHOES ETC.
ERECT PREFAB PIPE SUPP.
5.0 EACH 2001 64 1484
60 inch configuration
311
1
PIP 158
CS FIELD MATERIAL
CS
FLG WN 60 IN 150
CLASS
1256 LBS
1.0 EACH 2054 0 0
311
1
PIP 158
CS FIELD MATERIAL
A 53
REDUCR 60 IN 0.50
IN THK
1152 LBS
1.0 EACH 308 0 0
311
1
PIP 158
CS FIELD MATERIAL
CS
BLIND 60 IN 150
CLASS
2261 LBS
1.0 EACH 2032 0 0
311
1
PIP 158
CS FIELD MATERIAL
CS
THREADOLETS
1.0 EACH 7.87 0 0
311
1
PIP 158
CS FIELD MATERIAL
CS
SPBLND 60 IN 150
CLASS
2487 LBS
1.0 EACH 2235 0 0
311
1
PIP 158
CS FIELD MATERIAL
A 53
PIPE 60 IN 0.50
IN THK
318 LB/FT
100 FEET 18196 0 0
312
1
PIP 158
CS FIELD SHOP FAB
A 53
FIELD SHOP X-RAY
1.0 EACH 0 30 721
312
1
PIP 158
CS FIELD SHOP FAB
A 53
HANDLE & WELD PREP OPER.
20 FEET 0 200 4882
312
1
PIP 158
CS FIELD SHOP FAB
A 53
CUTTING PIPE
8.0 EACH 0 143 3473
312
1
PIP 158
CS FIELD SHOP FAB
A 53
BEVELING PIPE
17 EACH 0 275 6683
312
1
PIP 158
CS FIELD SHOP FAB
A 53
WELDING
5.0 EACH 0 405 9824
312
1
PIP 158
CS FIELD SHOP FAB
A 53
THREADOLETS
1.0 EACH 0 2 47
317
1
PIP 158
CS PIPE ERECTION
A 53
ERECT SHOP FAB PIPE
20 FEET 0 85 1928
317
1
PIP 158
CS PIPE ERECTION
A 53
ERECT STRAIGHT RUN PIPE
80 FEET 0 199 4537
317
1
PIP 158
CS PIPE ERECTION
A 53
FIELD X-RAY
1.2 EACH 0 38 928
317
1
PIP 158
CS PIPE ERECTION
A 53
WELDING
6.0 EACH 0 607 14645
317
1
PIP 158
CS PIPE ERECTION
A 53
BOLT UP CONNECTIONS
1.0 EACH 0 17 423
366
1
PIP 158
PIPE HANGERS, SHOES ETC.
ERECT PREFAB PIPE SUPP.
5.0 EACH 2497 78 1819
See all the fittings except elbow and tee retained; labor manhours increased due to additional work involved in bending pipe into elbow and welding a manufactured tee.
Wordaround:
If it is really necessary that the ELBOWS and TEES be added for 60 pipe, as a workaround, you can specify your OWN, user-entered material/manhour additions for the Elbows and Tees through Material/Manhour Additions on the component, OR the user can create a library item to account for these Elbows and Tees.
Keywords: EL, Elbow, Elbows, Tee, Tees, TE, pipe, 60, 60 inch, 48, 48 inch, 60, 48
References: None |
Problem Statement: There is an item for Instrument assembly hook up where we can choose
P - (P)rimary instrument assembly hookup
A - (A)lternate instrument assembly hookup
I have searched in the knowledge base and Aspen Icarus | Solution: A brief description of the Instrument assembly hook up option for general instrumentation specs is located in the Aspen Icarus
Keywords: field, hookup, Instrument, assembly, Inasmbly.dat, inparts.dat
References: Manual and did not find any documentation on this switch. Is there any?
I would like to know what alternate assemblies would be used if I choose (A)lternate. |
Problem Statement: What's new in V7.3: Support for MS Windows 7 64 bit Operating System and MS Office 2010 | Solution: Aspen Economic Evaluation products V7.3, including Aspen Capital Cost Estimator, Aspen In-Plant Cost Estimator and Aspen Process Economic Analyzer, can be run on the MS Windows 7 64-bit operating system and is compatible with MS Office 2010 (32-bit version only).
Keywords: MS Windows 7, MS office 2010
References: None |
Problem Statement: If the same project is in two different cost basis (e.g. UK and US) and you use Decision Analyser to relocate the project to a third location (e.g. China-Shanghai), it will end up with two different prices and man-hour; why? | Solution: The starting point, the point from which you relocate from effects how the location factors are calculated. So when a project relocates from the UK to China or the US to China, we will see differences. You can see the calculated location factors in the location indexing form and see how they are different when relocating from the UK or US to China. This is primarily due to differences between the exchange rates from US to China and the UK to China.
Couple of further points:
1. The ARM DB has has been updated for V7.3.
2. Relocating from the US to the UK will impose the UK ARM rules (including all-in ARM wages for construction labor - this is a key point) so there will be differences seen in the results due to this in addition to imposing the ARM db rules . Pricing for the 5 standard bases (US, UK, EU, JP, ME) are updated annually and furthermore even when the ARM db is updated, you should not expect to get the same results by relocating projects between the primary standard bases using ARM as there is no-cross validation between the different models (ARM vs. Standard Location Bases). An exclusion to this, however is the construction and engineering wage rates and some commodities (e.g. rebar, ready-mix) are the same in the standard bases and the ARM db for the 5 key locations (this is true when the ARM db gets upated). Remember, however, the ARM construction wages are loaded (from the base) so this will impart differences.
3. Differences in the manhours are again due to the starting point from where the project was relocated (from user guide: Construction workforce productivity - one value is provided for each plant location, relative to the construction productivity at the country base location). This will effect both the engineering and construction wage hours calculated.
4. The basic question: which one to use or is correct. Since relocation results depend on the starting point, the intent of the relocation is determine relative differences between the starting point and relocated point. In this case, you would have to gauge the relocated costs vs. the starting point for both the UK and US starting points (if necessary). The way you might do this, is to have a single starting point, the one you have the most knowledge in, calibrate this location, e.g. specify known wage rates/productivities, commodity costs, etc. Save this case and then relocate to different locations as necessary. If you have any wage rate data for the new locations, specify them (including updating the exchange rates), otherwise use the OOTB results to determine the relative differences between all the locations (including the base).
The other thing to be careful of is if you use different UOM between the UK and US created projects, this will cause some additional differences. If you import components from the UK project to create the US base, there may be additional pricing differences between standard IP vs. Metric sizes (e.g. motors, piping) and rounding differences.
Keywords: Decision Analyzer, Relocation, Cost Basis
References: None |
Problem Statement: When doing an evaluation I get the following warning message:
Getting warning WARN > 'U0 - 6' PERCENT OF ACTIVE BRICK TO BE SPECIFIED
What is this message referring to and where I can get to it? | Solution: The warning message that you get is related with the area level instrument specification for the percent of active bricks. Right click on the area > Modify > Area Instrument. There is a field named Percent active bricks which defaults to 0 or 100 depending on the short circuit protection for the field bus.
Specifying a value should eliminate the warning message, or if the default is correct, the message can be ignored.
Keywords: Active brick instrumentation fieldbus
References: None |
Problem Statement: Is it possible to link SP3D file to Aspen economic evaluation program? | Solution: Yes functionality works with Smart Plant3D v6.1 Service Pack 2 and it only works with Aspen Capital Cost Estimator. It will not work in Aspen In plant Cost Estimator and in Aspen Process Economic analyzer.
You can import data from SP3D and will be able to create the following Aspen Capital Cost Estiomator components like:
Bulk piping components with associated fittings.
Pipe Racks (requires definitions in SP3D)
Open Steel Structures (requires definition in Smart Plant3D)
Smart plant reports are exported to Aspen Capital Cost Estimator through the use of Excel spread sheet reports. Smart Plant3D Excel spreadsheets are imported into Aspen Capital Cost Estimator.
SP3D lay out in Aspen Capital Cost Estimator will be having following steps:
1. Open a new or existing project. Go to File | Import SP 3D
2. Add SP 3D spread sheet dialog box opens. All the non pipe(e.g. open steel structures and or pipe racks) run sheets are selected and added to the Non pipe Runs Sheets list box. All the piping sheets and their associated fitting sheets are selected and added to the Pipe Sheets with Fitting Sheets list box. The files directory are displayed in Folder Dir text box.
Note: SmartPlant3D handles flange and weld counts differently than Aspen Capital Cost Estimator, thus there may be double dipping of flange and weld counts after importing. Provisions were made in the V7.1 Aspen Capital Cost Estimator release to handle total flange counts received from SP3D, however, there still may be slight differences with total # welds generated from Icarus. Please review your results and report such discrepancies to Aspen Tech Support
Keywords: Sp3D, link, Import, excel, piping sheets
References: None |
Problem Statement: With the Canned Pump Model, how is the pump weight accounted for? | Solution: The weight for the Canned Pump Model is a simple function of the cost. Head or RPM do not come into consideration in the weight calculated.
Keywords:
References: None |
Problem Statement: What's new in V7.3: Removal of default speed from input form for certain centrifugal pumps | Solution: For the following centrifugal pump models:
? Standard ANSI single stage pump
Plastic ANSI single stage pump
API 610 pump
General service pump
Standard ANSI magnetic drive pump
The input form in the GUI previously showed the default driver speed as 30 xHz (1800 rpm in US basis). However, if speed was not specified, the evaluation engine would design the pump for a higher speed if the head requirements exceeded internally set limits. To better reflect this behavior the default value was removed from the input form in the GUI. A descriptive note was added to this field to indicate that the speed varies with pump head. In the pump head input field, the descriptive note typically provides the maximum head values for a particular speed.
Keywords: Pump, speed
References: None |
Problem Statement: How can I save the indexing I have done in a project, so I can re-use it later? | Solution: You can save indexing implemented in a project by exporting it to the Indexing Library, where it can be re-used. Every indexing has a Code of Accounts (COA) specification associated, so this may be exported as well. On the Project Basis View, right-click on Indexing and select ?Export to Library?, you will get a message informing you that the associated COA specs should be to exported as well, so select ?OK?. You may choose not to export the COA specs file by closing the Name window if you intend to always use the same COA specs. However it is advisable to export it as well for consistency, so provide appropriate names for the COA specs file and the Indexing file (preferably the same name).
Keywords: Indexing
References: None |
Problem Statement: I have noticed that sometimes the number of my Standard Reports for my Design Data Sheets and my General Design Data Sheets do not match; is there a bug? | Solution: No. Not all components that have General Design Data Sheet information will also have Design Data Sheets. Often times you may find less Design Data Sheets in your project than General Design Data Sheets.
Keywords:
References: None |
Problem Statement: Why are COA 532 and 531 not used in the Aspen Icarus reports?
I can't find COA 532 Handrail w/ toe plate or 531 Stair Treads for the Platform architecture in my output report. | Solution: Platforms, rails, etc. are generated for equipment items, but COA 532 and 531are not used.
For equipment platforms, COA 512 is used for ladder costs (ladders are generated instead of stairs to connect the platforms).
COA 513 is used for grating, hand rails, and accessories.
Different COA's are used for equipment platforms and accessories because these items are typically purchased from the equipment vendor instead of directly from steel components vendors.
Platforms and accessories are generated for towers, vessels, reactors, storage tanks, and a few miscellaneous items. Platforms are not generated for heat exchangers.
As a general rule, platforms are created for items if the height is greater than 10 feet. If the item is in an open steel structure, additional platforms are only generated if the item is taller than the structure (to service the exposed portion at the top).
You can add in quoted items for COA 532 Handrail w/ toe plate or COA 531 Stair Treads if you need to account for them.
Keywords: platform
platforms
handrail
toe plate
stair
tread
References: None |
Problem Statement: I am seeing Gin poles generated by the system to lift my heavy equipment, how do I tell the system to use a large crane? | Solution: By default Aspen Capital Cost Estimator will use gin poles to lift heavy equipment, but you can easily tell it to use a large crane instead. All you need to do is go to your Project Basis View tab, then choose
Basis for Capital Costs | Desing Basis (Equipment Specs)
In the Heavy equipment lifting option field, choose C for large cranes.
Keywords:
References: None |
Problem Statement: After the project is evaluated, and looking at the reports.mdb file, there is a new table listed, that isn't in the documentation. It is the R Table, which consists of five fields which look like they tie back to the CESEQ field in the A table. What are the four fields for and what are they used for?
CESEQ COAIND MCOSTRAT HOURRRAT LCOSTRAT | Solution: Col1=CESEQ Integer - Key - relates(links) to the DETAILS relation (A table or AprojID).
Col2=COAIND Integer - Icarus/User COA(Defined on COA Definitions) - The COA codes used to determine indexes
Col3=MCOSTRAT Float - Ratio of MCOST output to MCOST system
Col4=HOURRRAT Float - Ratio of HOURS output to HOURS system
Col5=LCOSTRAT Float - Ratio of LCOST output to LCOST system
The above ratios are related to features like indexing, productivity, and escalation.
Keywords: rprojid, database
References: None |
Problem Statement: I have chosen Motor for my API610 Pump, but I am not seeing the purchase cost of the motor; why? | Solution: When you choose a motor as part of your pump description the cost of the motor is included as part of the purchase cost of the pump. The cost is not reported separated.
Keywords:
References: None |
Problem Statement: New sediment removal filter model in V7.3 | Solution: This new equipment model is located under Components | Process Equipment | Separation Equipment | Filter | Sediment Removal Filter.
The new model expands on the existing cartridge filter model by allowing more options for vessel specifications (e.g. size, materials of construction, DP, DT, etc.). It is modeled after existing vertical vessels and requires users to supply a percent internals allowance (vs. total vessel weight) to account for internals/filtering element costs. As these types of filters are highly specialized, the new model provides the flexibility of specifying different design possibilities and returns output similar to a vertical vessel design data sheet for further fine tuning.
A new graphical PID has been developed representing the piping and instrument scope for the new model.
Keywords: V7.3, sediment removal filter model
References: None |
Problem Statement: There are times when you may need to know how add a mass flow meter and associated instrumentation, without adding a process equipment item to the project. This is an advanced topic, and not to be taken lightly.
This | Solution: Document shows one procedure of how to add a mass flow meter and associated instrumentation, without adding a process equipment item to the project.
Solution
There are times when you may want to add (for example) a mass flow meter and associated instrumentation without having to add a process equipment item to the project.
To do this, please follow these instructions:
Create a new component - bulk pipe - above ground or buried pipe (not yard pipe).
Name it Mass Flow Meter.
Give this item a 1 foot length and 1 inch diameter.
Go to Options - Material/Man-hour % adjustments.
Specify 0% for piping material adjustment and the piping man-hour adjustment.
Then go to Options - Pipe Item Details.
Add a description such as Add line 1, Volumetric Model A (for Add), line number 1, the diameter of the mass flow meter that you want, and a 1 foot length.
Go to Options - Instrumentation.
Add a description such as Add mass flow meter, Volumetric Model A (for Add), loop number 1, Process Variable F, Sensor Type 2 (for Flow Transmitter), Senor Element type MS (Mass Flow Meter), and Sensor Location 1 (or whatever line number you specified in step 7 above).
Evaluate the component, and look at the non-zero results under Instrumentation. They are the results for the instrumentation and hook-ups for the Mass Flow Meter.
Keywords: instrumentation
References: None |
Problem Statement: Can I use Aspen Capital Cost Estimator V7.1 to open a project created in V7.2? | Solution: ACCE V7.1 or previous versions cannot be used to open a project created in V7.2. When trying to do so, user will get an Access Denied error message as shown below. This is because of the major improvements in V7.2, such as supporting Mega project, that previous versions are not compatible with.
Keywords: Version compatibility, V7.2
References: None |
Problem Statement: What version of Primavera is supported in V8? | Solution: In V8.0, we have upgraded the link to Primavera Project Management applications from P6.2 to Oracle Primavera P6 Enterprise Project Portfolio Management (EPPM) V8.2. The link will continue to work for Primavera Project Management P6.2 as it was in V7.3.2.
Keywords: Primavera, compatibility
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I get a report showing from where the equipment a pipe line originates? | Solution: You can get a report with the equipment a pipe line originates from by running the Interactive Reporter and choosing an excel report with the following options:
Excel | Other Reports | Discipline | Pipe | Stream Line List
The following report was generated from the New Expansion P5 scenario in the Sample Projects delivered with Aspen Capital Cost Estimator.
Keywords: pipe, stream, equipment, stream line, originate
References: None |
Problem Statement: How can I increase my fireproofing cost? | Solution: If the cost is too low for the fireproofing cost of a particular component, you can use the Mat/Man-hour Addition, Add the extra cost to COA 820.
Keywords: fireproofing, COA
References: None |
Problem Statement: I have all my project files on my ICARUS 2000 UNIX system and I need to know how to get all my projects from UNIX into Aspen Kbase. How is this done? | Solution: There is a batch import utility in the Aspen Kbase 12.1 and 12.2 systems that make it easy to import all your projects from your ICARUS 2000 NT system right into Kbase!
But first, you must transfer all your P folders and the proj.list file from the ICARUS 2000 UNIX system down to the local hard drive of your PC.
STEP 1 : Transferring your P folders (Project folders) and the proj.list file from ICARUS 2000 UNIX to the local hard drive
TAR all the P folders AND the proj.list file from the \usr\users\ic2000 folder on your UNIX system.
FTP the TAR folder (in binary mode) created above, to your local hard drive.
Using WinZip, unzip the TAR folder into a temporary directory on your hard drive, making sure to keep the directory structure in tact.
STEP 2 : Importing your P folders (Project folders) from the local hard drive to Aspen Kbase
Launch Aspen Kbase 12.1 or 12.2. Do not open a project.
From the menu, select TOOLS | BATCH IMPORT.
The Aspen Kbase software will look on your hard drive for the location of your \IC2000\Projects directory, and display it in the first dialog box after lauching the BATCH IMPORT tool. If this is not the correct directory, use the BROWSE button to select the location of where your ICARUS 2000 projects and proj.list are stored.
There will be CHECK MARKS next to all the Project folders (P folders) that are in your \IC2000\Projects directory. If you wish to import all the projects selected, keep all the check marks there. If you don't wish to import certain projects, just uncheck the ones you don't wish to import.
Once you have selected/unselected the projects you wish to import, click the NEXT button.
The next dialog box (step 2 of 3) shows the project archive location to save the import. Provide a project name for the import. Then click the NEXT button.
The next dialog box (step 3 of 3) shows all the projects that will be imported into Aspen Kbase. Click the FINISH button to begin the import.
The next dialog box (Batch Import Status) provides the status of each project being imported. BE PATIENT!!! This process can take some time depending on how many projects are imported as well as how large each of the projects are being imported into Aspen Kbase.
NOTE: If you have MANY projects to import, it is suggested that you run this BATCH IMPORT before leaving the office for the day, as the process can take anywhere from just a few minutes to a couple of hours to complete.
That's all there is to it!
If you have questions, please e-mail [email protected], or call 888-996-7100 for technical support assistance.
Keywords: ICARUS 2000
UNIX
projects
P folder
import
batch import
Keywords
References: None |
Problem Statement: In V7.3 the spreadsheet view has been extended to included quoted cost
components. | Solution: In V7.3 the spreadsheet view has been extended to included quoted cost
components. This will enable users to modify COA, material costs, etc. of
all quoted items in one form. A new menu item under View->Spreadsheet
View-> Quoted Item->All has been added to display the form (example
below).
For more information on Economic Evaluator V7.3, click on the link below:
http://support.aspentech.com/webteamcgi/SolutionDisplay_view.cgi?key=130707
Keywords:
References: None |
Problem Statement: Why do I get a different schedule for my pipe component when specifying the material as Carbon Steel (CS) against Stainless Steel (SS), even though I specified the same thickness and diameter? Shouldn't the schedule be the same? | Solution: Schedule definitions are different for CS and SS. Stainless steel pipe schedule and corresponding wall thickness is based on ASME B36.19M standard. We also generate some higher schedules which the ASME standard doesn't specify for stainless steel. Take for example a pipe with 24in nominal diameter. The schedule and corresponding thickness for 24 inch stainless steel pipe is as follows:
Schedule
Thickness (inch)
5S
0.218
10S
0.250
40S
0.375
80S
0.500
100S
1.531
120S
1.812
140S
2.062
160S
2.344
The values from 100S to 160S are not in ASME B36.19M.
Say you had specified wall thickness = 0.688 inch, the system generates the pipe with wall thickness equal to or greater than your specified thickness. So you get schedule 100 pipe for SS. The weight of schedule 100 pipe for SS is 374.87 lb/ft which is what is reported.
For CS, the schedule and thickness is according to ASME B36.10M and the thickness of schedule 40 pipe is exactly = 0.688 mm. So in that case you would get schedule 40 pipe and corresponding weight.
If the specifications for your SS pipe does not match the generated values (the ones not reported on ASME B36.19M), the workaround would be to build a custom pipe spec for each diameter and each schedule required in the project and index material and labor to achieve accurate cost.
Keywords: Above ground, buried, grade, piping, scheduling, stainless
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I resolve the error, Cold Insulation Schedule is Required when using an external cold insulation file? | Solution: When you use an external cold and/or hot insulation file, you need to choose Cold Insulation Schedule and/or Hot Insulation Schedule in the Project Basis View | Insulation:
This should eliminate the error.
Keywords: Schedule, Insulation, Cold Insulation, Hot Insulation
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I name a contractor in Aspen Capital Cost Estimator (ACCE)? | Solution: For MS Excel to generate a report, there are some exceptional characters such as '\', '*', '/', '[', ']'. These characters if used as a part of contractor name could prevent MS Excel from generating reports based on contractor. While these exceptions are pertinent to MS Excel, MS Word can handle these exceptions. As a best practice, it is advised to avoid using these characters for naming components, area or report group within Aspen Economic Evaluation products.
Keywords: Excel, report, error.
References: None |
Problem Statement: How can I change the number of welds to above grade or buried piping? | Solution: To change the number of welds to ZERO:
On component itself:
Pipe type: S (Seamless pipe);
Flange type: S (Slip-on flange);
Pipe connection type: SC (Screw - no backweld)
On pipe item details:
Make sure pipe diameter is 2 or less
Pipe type: S (Seamless pipe);
Flange type: S (Slip-on flange);
Pipe connection type: SC (Screw - no backweld)
If you then want to add in the cost for specific # of welds, do the above and then in the NUMBER OF WELDS field (on either the component itself or on the Pipe Item Details form, or you can do this on both the component and Pipe Item Details form), then type in the number of welds you want.
Keywords: welds
weld
pipe
zero
References: None |
Problem Statement: When I run Manpower Productivity Expert in Aspen Capital Cost Expert (ACCE) 7.3.2 I get the following error: MAINPROG caused a General Protection Fault in module MAINPRO2.DLL. What can I do to fix this? | Solution: This error message usually shows up when trying to run the ManPowerExpert (MPE) in Windows 7.
MPE will not work in Windows 7 64 bit, and in the 32 bit version users need to adjust the path in their profile. One of the adjustments is that the path length has a limit of 190 characters. A suggested workaround for this problem would be to copy the whole path as a Word file (i.e. in the notepad) then edit the path so that it is no longer than 190 spaces and then run MPE. After running MPE, put the whole path back (the one you copied into the notepad) and this way you won't affect any programs. This way you only make temporary changes whenever you need to use the MPE.
Keywords: Manpower Productivity Expert, path, Windows 7, MAINPROG.
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I remove the siding automatically generated by my module area? | Solution: To remove siding which is showing up in COA 534 , modify your area and choose Area Modules:
Then in Siding - percent of wall area enter zero (0):
Now when you do a project level evaluation there should be no module siding generated.
Keywords: module, siding, COA, COA 534
References: None |
Problem Statement: I added an open steel structure and need siding. I have tried everything, but still cannot get siding generated.
Why can I not get Siding with an open steel structure? | Solution: 1. Check to make sure that your open steel structure is not typed as EXOPEN (thus not generating siding).
2. If you have an OSS deemed as BLDG, it will generate siding.
If you still require assistance, please e-mail your project to [email protected], and in your e-mail, specify which Open Steel Structure to look at in the project.
Keywords: open steel structure, OSS, EXOPEN, BLDG, siding
References: None |
Problem Statement: How does the Aspen Icarus software calculate the costs of the building model? | Solution: The model was designed with 3 users in mind.
1. A user that want to get back out exactly what they put in on a unit cost basis. The Option for No Labor adjustment was added to allow this to happen. An implicit assumption is that the Unit Costs specified and the craft wage rate are on a consistent basis.
2. A user without unit cost data, for which the Aspen Icarus default values or adjusted versions of the values is acceptable. Adjusting is best done by running the base version and then adjusting the subtotal values to get the desired composite.
3. A user with complete unit cost data based on unloaded wage rates.
If it so happens that your wage rate is well above the norm for un-loaded wage rates, we usually assume that you are specifying loaded wage rates. Normally, all costs specified in the system should be on a consistent basis, so the unit costs for buildings would be specified as loaded unit costs. However we are currently assuming, when labor adjustment is applied, that unit costs for buildings are specified on an UNLOADED basis.
We would recommend putting in unloaded unit costs in the input for the building model. The design data sheet will not be on a constant basis for the job, but the loading on the craft rate will make the resulting costs in summaries fully loaded.
Please see the spreadsheet for details on the calculation for one unit cost for one of your example building. There are some minor rounding differences but, you can see the general flow of the calculation.
We have identified two issues that we are studying for improvement.
1. One is when there is one case run with escalation and the second one is a case run without escalation.....you will get different number of manhours from the user input unit costs.
2. Second, how to handle loaded wage rates and loaded unit rates.
Look for further improvements on these 2 items in a future release of the Aspen Icarus software!
Keywords: building, labor, wage
References: None |
Problem Statement: I cannot install Patches downloaded from the Aspentech Support Web Site
I get messages such as:
1. Items were not updated correctly:
2. Error Executing the Specified Program: cscript.exe InstallPatch.vbs, or script.exe InstallPatch.vbs
3. Aspen Icarus : Unable to execute the specified command line! | Solution: 1:
The first thing to try is installing the Patch from the aspenONE update Center on the support web site:
http://support.aspentech.com/aspenoneupdates/
The aspenONE Update Center will check your computer for the latest version of aspenONE Update Agent software.
The aspenONE Update Center also uses ActiveX controls to determine which version of the software your computer is running. If you see an ActiveX warning, make sure the control is digitally signed by AspenTech before installing it or allowing it to run.
If you see an error message from the aspenONE Update Center regarding ActiveX controls, it is very likely that your Internet and/or Intranet security is set high.
In this case, you will need to change your ActiveX control settings in order to install the Patch.
Solution 2
The most common reason for this error message is that ActiveX controls were not enabled on the computer.
You can check your ActiveX Control settings though Internet Explorer - Tools - Internet Options - Security tab.
Then, choose Internet.
Select the button called 'Custom Level' and be sure to have these options set to 'Enable':
ActiveX Controls and Plug-Ins
Automatic prompting for ActiveX Controls
Download signed ActiveX Controls
Download unsigned ActiveX Controls
Initialize and script ActiveX controls not marked as safe
Run ActiveX Controls and plug-ins
Script ActiveX controls marked as safe for scripting
Once complete, perform the same 'Enable' actions for ActiveX Controls for Local Intranet.
Solution 3
The next common reason that this error would happen, is that the Windows Scripting Host (WSH) is either not installed or not operational on your computer.
The Windows Scripting Host (WSH) is required to be installed and present on computers that you wish to install any AspenTech Patch file.
To find out if the Windows Scripting Host is enabled on your PC:
Click Start | Run | cmd
Type wscript in the command shell
If its enabled, the Windows Script Host Settings dialog box will pop-up.
If you receive errors when trying to run wscript in the command shell, then this file either does not exist on your PC, or that the file has been re-named by your IT department.
Perform a search on your C drive for the file called wscript*.* to see if it is located elsewhere on the PC.
If it is no where on your PC, please consult with your IT department to reinstall the Windows Scripting Host (WSH) on your PC. You can also download the latest version of the Windows Scripting Host (WSH) from the Microsoft Web site.
Keywords: wscript, vb, patch, cumulative, script, aspenONE, update, agent, command line, error, executing, wscript.exe, csript.exe, cscript.exe
References: None |
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