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Problem Statement: Example of a DeButanizer column in Aspen HYSYS Dynamics. | Solution: The example is for a DeButanizer column to run in dynamic mode in Aspen HYSYS. There are two feed streams, each of which is a mixture of light hydrocarbons. The overhead product is a butane rich stream, and the bottom product is a mixture of heavier hydrocarbons.
The column has 15 stages. The feeds are connected to stage 4 and stage 8. A partial condenser has been used with vapour product going to vent and liquid product contains butanes. There are four control valves: two valves for two feeds, one for the overhead butane product and one for the bottom product.
There are six controllers in the simulation. The following variables are controlled using PID controllers:
Feed1 – Mass flow
Feed2 – Mass flow
Condenser – Liquid percent level
Condenser – Vessel pressure
Reboiler – Liquid percent level
Column Stage 6 – Temperature
The configured controllers can be found in the Control Manager. The user can open the control and change the setpoint to each controller from the Control Manager.
The simulation has a strip chart with the following variables:
Feed1 - Mass Flow
Feed2 - Mass Flow
Condenser - Vessel Pressure
Main TS - Stage 6 - Temperature
Butanes - Component Mass Fraction - i-C5
The HYSYS case is attached with this solution. You can download this example and explore the performance of each controller in the event of changes of setpoints.
Note: The example was created in V8.6 so it can only be opened in Aspen HYSYS V8.6 and higher.
Keywords: DeButanizer Column, Dynamics
References: None |
Problem Statement: This knowledge base article describes on how to use to Advanced Filter Panel in SCM | Solution: Home Tab > Advanced Filter Panel
Users can use the Advanced Filters panel to filter which data is shown in the screen. The user can filter the data by values or by the data dimensions. The filters that display in the Advanced Filter panel depend on the screen.
Note: When users apply a filter to a screen using the Advanced Filter panel, a filter icon () is displayed on the tab next to the screen title as a visual indicator that a filter has been applied to the screen's contents. Note that the filter image does not appear until you click Apply in the Advanced Filter panel. When users clear the filter selections in the Advanced Filter panel and click Apply, the screen displays the unfiltered data, and the filter icon is removed from the tab. The filter icon will only be displayed for Data Viewer screens.
Applied filters will persist until the user modifies them (even if the screen is closed and re-opened).
Sections of Advanced Filter Panel:
Upper section of the panel
It includes the following:
Show Filter Details - Used to select the filters (attributes) listed in the Name list for which users want to view details. To display details about a filter, click the checkbox next to the desired attribute.
Name list -Displays a list of the available filters for the screen. When the user selects a filter, the values users can filter on appear is the lower section of the panel. For each filter users select, a new section appears in the lower section of the panel.
Filter is Active - Indicates whether a filter in the Name list is active.
Use Global Filter - Indicates that a filter should be applied globally to all data viewer screens.
Clear Global Filters button - Removes all global filters
Lower section of the panel
It includes the following:
Filters details – Displays a list of values for the selected filter.
Text Filter –When the user enters text into the Text Filter box, the filter list reduces to only those items that contain the text string. For example, if users select Ship To for the filter and then enter “a”, only those Ship To locations for which there is an “a” in the code or description are displayed in the list.
Clear Filter icon – To the right of the Text Filter text field, use this icon to clear all filter values selected.
Checkbox Column – items that are checked will be filtered on.
Code– Code identifier for the selected filter.
Description Column – Description of the selected filter.
Cross Filter Button – reduces all filter lists to only those items that are related to selected filters.
Reset Button– Removes the filters previously selected. To remove filters, click Reset and then Apply to complete the action.
Apply Button – Processes users’ selections and updates the information that displays on the screen.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to define the bundle inclination in Aspen Air Cooled Exchanger? | Solution: We can model this in Aspen Air Cooled Exchanger by entering the ‘Tube side flow direction’ and the ‘Angle of outside flow’ on the Input | Exchanger Geometry | Unit Geometry tab.
The ‘Angle of outside Flow’ is assumed to approach the face of the tube bundles in the perpendicular direction. Consequently, the plane in which the tube bundle lies is determined by the angle of the outside flow.
If "Horizontal" (Default) is entered, the tubes are always horizontal regardless of the Angle of Outside Flow.
If the Angle of Outside Flow is 90°, i.e. horizontal, and the Tube Side Flow Direction is "Upward" then the tubes will be vertical with the fluid in the first tube side pass flowing upwards. If the Tube Side flow direction is "Downwards" then the tubes will be vertical with the fluid in the first tube side pass flowing downwards.
If the Angle of Outside Flow is 0° or 180° (Up or Down), the Tube Side Flow Direction has no effect, i.e. the tubes are always horizontal.
Other combinations of angles will produce bundle orientations partway between the above extremes.
Keywords: Inclined tubes, inclined bundle, tube side flow direction, angle of outside flow.
References: None |
Problem Statement: This knowledge base article describes on how to configure Data Display using View Settings Panel | Solution: Display table or chart data in the Workspace.
On the Home tab, in the Panel group, click View Settings Panel. The View Settings panel appears on the right side of the workspace.
Select the desired options in the Format section and Rows and Columns sections.
Click Apply.
The table or chart data updates in the Workspace, reflecting the selected options.
To View Data by Code or Description
Click the Advanced button at the bottom of the View Settings panel.
On the Advanced dialog, select a filter in the Filter List dropdown list and either Code or Description in the View By dropdown list.
Click OK.
Click the Apply button on the View Settings panel.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: Pool boiling is defined as boiling from a heated surface that is submerged in a volume of stagnant liquid. If the temperature of the liquid is below the saturation temperature the process is known as subcooled or local boiling. If the liquid is maintained at saturation temperature then the process is known as saturated or bulk boiling.
Some definitions/terminology often used is as below;
Saturation temperature (Tsat): Boiling point temperature at prevailing pressure. For a mixture this will be the bubble point.
Superheat: Excess temperature over the saturation value (T - Tsat). Wall superheat (Tw - Tsat).
Subcooling: Opposite of superheat given by (Tsat-T). | Solution: In the diagram below, different representations of boiling are shown for increasing wall superheat or heat flux.
Single phase (Natural convection): Temperature gradients are set up within the pool and heat is removed by natural convection from the surface. The liquid near the heated surface is slightly superheated and subsequently evaporates when it rises to the liquid surface.
Nucleate boiling: In this region the wall superheat is sufficient to cause vapour nucleation at the heating surface, the Onset of Nucleate Boiling (ONB). These bubbles can break away from the surface and may be dissipated into the liquid (condense in superheated liquid). As the wall superheat is increased further, bubbles form rapidly and rise to the surface of the liquid and finally vapour patches and columns are formed close to the heating surface. The Critical Heat Flux (CHF), Burnout or Critical Point marks the upper limit of nucleate boiling where the interaction of the vapour leaving the surface prevents the inflow of the liquid supply to the heating surface.
Transition: Here there exists an unstable vapour blanket over the heating surface that releases large patches of vapour. Re-wetting of the surface by liquid is then believed to occur. This region is only studied under conditions of constant wall temperature.
Film boiling: Eventually a stable vapour film covers the entire heating surface. Heat is transferred by conduction and convection through the vapour film, with radiation becoming important as the wall superheat is further increased.
Results of pool boiling are normally plotted as heat flux (or heat transfer coefficient) against the wall superheat, which is the wall minus the saturation temperature. This produces different regimes as described previously for the wall temperature controlled case.
In the situation when the heated surface is heat flux controlled, as the critical heat flux is just exceeded, the temperature jumps sharply to the film boiling curve, missing the transition region as shown by the dashed line. As the heat flux is reduced the temperature follows the film boiling curve until the transition boiling region where it then “jumps” to the nucleate boiling curve.
Keywords: Pool boiling, Critical heat flux, Onset of nucleate boiling
References: None |
Problem Statement: This knowledge base article documents how to multi-change the scale of a group of tags within aspenONE Process explorer. | Solution: Within aspenONE Process Explorer legend area you can select multiple trends with the tick boxes located on the left-hand side of the legend area.
Once selected you can change the scale of any of the selected trends which will then change all selected trends to the new scale as shown in the example below.
Keywords: auto
zoom
database
manual
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to customize Model Summary in Aspen HYSYS? | Solution: The Model Summary in Aspen HYSYS provides summary of stream results and unit operation data in tabular format. This is similar to Workbook but has much more advanced features, is customizable, and can be exported to Excel.
The Model Summary is available under the Home ribbon in Aspen HYSYS as highlighted below.
The user can customize the Model Summary Grid simply by coping properties and conditions from the a stream and pasting those on the Summary Grid.
Copying data from one stream will automatically populate the information for all other streams in the simulation. The copy and paste option is also applicable for each unit operation available in the flowsheet.
The Model Summary can be exported to Excel either as a standalone summary or keeping live link via the Aspen Simulation Workbook (ASW).
To Export to Excel click on "Send to Excel/ASW" and follow the on screen instructions. If you keep the link with ASW then inputs can be changed in Excel and the results will be updated in the Excel spreadsheet.
Keywords: Model Summary, ASW, Workbook
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do you run the Refinery Reactor models on a 32 bit operating system? | Solution: The 32 bit machine by default only allocates up to 2 GB of memory for any given application, whereas 64 bit operating system allows up to 4 GB for a 32 bit application. The 32 bit operating systems have a flag that can be set to allow an application to use up to 3 GB for an application. This is critical for the reactor models because Aspen HYSYS uses Aspen Properties and Equation Oriented solver (EO) which both require large amounts of memory.
To enable the 3GB switch:
Right-click on the Command Prompt icon in the Accessories program group of the Start menu. Click Run as Administrator.
At the command prompt, enter: bcdedit /set IncreaseUserVa 307.
Restart the computer.
Keywords: 32 bit operating system, Windows Vista, Windows 7, or Windows 8
References: None |
Problem Statement: What is this warning and how this can be eliminated? | Solution: This warning message will appear if you select “TEMA F and F EJ Line Element FEA interface” option expansion joint calculation as shown below.
TEMA F and F EJ Line Element FEA interface EDR now interfaces to the TEMA flanged-and-flued (thick wall) expansion joint Line Element Finite Element Anaylsis software, obtained directly from TEMA. The FEA analysis results can now be obtained much faster than with traditional FEA tools. The program provides and receives all the required data to design the expansion joint and the tubesheet-shell-tubes assembly.
The TEMA Line Element FEA is a DLL created by Paulin Research in Houston. To perform this calculation, the users need a DLL file to be used together with EDR, the warning is present when this DLL is missing.
TEMA is working with Paulin Research to market the DLL. Please contact TEMA directly regarding this DLL.
Keywords: Expansion Joint, TEMA, Flanged and Flued Joint
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I resolve error code: -939519994?
When launching an application like Aspen Plus or Aspen HYSYS, you may get an error message stating: "The licensing system has licensing resources that could satisfy the request, but they are not available at the time of the request."
Here is an example of the error.
Application: AspenPlus.exe
--------------- Information Flags ---------------
Error while checking out license AspenPlus
--------------- Sequence of Events ---------------
Server: Local license server (NO-NET)
Bucket: default
Type: Unified License
Code: -939519994
Description: The licensing system has licensing resources that could satisfy the request, but they are not available at the time of the request. | Solution: This error comes up if you are running out of tokens. You can use SLM License Profiler to check the number of tokens available to use.
Step 1: Click on Start --> All Programs --> AspenTech --> Common Utilities --> SLM License Profiler
Step 2: Select your license server
Step 3: Check the SLM_Pool and see if you have tokens available to launch that particular products.
Step 4: Find the license key that you are trying to use and highlight it. Scroll to the column labeled "Token Value" and compare it with the SLM_Pool. If the Token Value exceeds the amount of available tokens in the SLM_Pool, then you will not be able to check out the license.
Please contact AspenTech Support: [email protected] if enough tokens are available and still you are getting above error message.
Keywords: error code -939519994
slm error -939519994
The license for this product or feature could not be found.
Aspen Plus license can't be found
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I obtain critical properties values from Excel VBA? | Solution: The code for accessing critical properties utilities are given below. Please refer KB solution 112361 for more information on VBA automation for linking Excel to Aspen HYSYS.
Option Explicit
Dim hyApp As HYSYS.Application
Dim hyCase As HYSYS.SimulationCase
Dim hyFlowSheet As HYSYS.Flowsheet
Dim hyUtility As HYSYS.CriticalPropertyUtility
Dim hyStream As ProcessStream
Dim Pc As Double
Set hyApp = GetObject(, "HYSYS.Application") 'Only works if the HYSYS case is open
'Get the currently open case
Set hyCase = hyApp.ActiveDocument
Set hyFlowSheet = hyCase.Flowsheet
'Create a Critical Property Utility
Set hyUtility = hyCase.UtilityObjects.Add("Critical-1", "CriticalPropertyUtility")
For Each hyStream In hyFlowSheet.Streams
'If this is a material stream
If Not hyStream.IsEnergyStream Then
'Attach the stream
hyUtility.AttachedStream = hyStream
'An example to get Pseudo Critical pressure value. Values can be displayed in the spreadsheet cells
Pc = hyUtility.PseudoPCValue
End If
Next hyStream
The user can also use the attached Excel file which contains the above code. This code only works for streams in the main flowsheet.
Keywords: VBA, Critical Properties Utility
References: None |
Problem Statement: Why is there no condensation calculation when using gas on the outside of the Aspen Air Cooled Exchanger? | Solution: Dry gas is appropriate for waste heat recovery units where gases such as flue gases are being cooled. Also for any exchanger where gases other than or including air are handled. It should be noted that Air Cooled Exchanger cannot handle condensation of any of the components of the gas stream. However, if condensable components are defined then the following warnings will be issued if there is any likelihood of condensation occurring on the surface or in the bulk stream.
When a gas is specified, the user has to supply properties through the normal Physical Properties input.
The dehumidification calculations will only work when the user selects humid air with the Air Cooled Exchanger program.
Keywords: Warning 4026, Dry Gas, Condensation
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do you simulate an air cooled exchanger in Aspen HYSYS with fan speed to control the process side outlet temperature? | Solution: In Aspen HYSYS you can control the process side fluid temperature with fan speed control. However, the fan speed cannot be connected directly with the PID controller output. The workflow would to link the demand speed in a cell inside a spreadsheet. This can be done by the drag and drop method.
The cell linked with speed (A1) can be connected to the controller output.
Note that variable name does not appear when linking the Output target to a spreadsheet cell. But the controller will work. If you click "Select OP" again the variable name will be populated in the "Output Target Object" as shown below.
The range for the fan speed can be specified in the Control OP Port where the user can enter minimum and maximum value for speed.
A simple example case is attached in this solution. This file was created in V8.6. This can be opened from Aspen HYSYS V8.6 and newer versions.
Keywords: Air Cooled Exchanger, PID Controller, Fan Speed Control
References: None |
Problem Statement: What do the Wegstein Parameters of the Recycle represent? | Solution: The Wegstein Parameters are located under Parameters tab | Numerical page.
The four Wegstein Parameters and their meanings are described below.
Acceleration Frequency
The number of iterations before and acceleration step is applied to the next iteration. After this many interations, the assumed values and calculated recycle values will be compared and the Wegstein acceleration factor will be determined and applied to the next assumed value. When the acceleration factor is not being used, the next assumed value is determined by direct replacement.
Q Max and Q Min
The Wegstein acceleration method uses the results of previous iterations in making its guesses for the recycle stream variables. Assumed values are calculated as follows:
X(n+1) = QX(n) - (1-Q)X(n)
where: X = Assumed value
Y = Calculated value
n = Iteration number
Q = Acceleration factor
HYSYS determines the actual acceleration to apply based on the amount of change between successive iterations. The values for Q max and Q min set bounds on the amount of acceleration applied. Note from the equation that when Q = 0, direct replacement is used. When Q is negative, acceleration is used. When Q is positive and smaller than 1, damping occurs.
Acceleration Delay
The Acceleration Delay parameter delays the acceleration until the specified step. This delay applies to the initial set of iterations and once the specified step is reached the Wegstein Count is applied. That is to say no acceleration is performed until the delay value is reached and after that iteration the acceleration is applied according to the Wegstein count. The default is specified as 2 but now it can be specified to any value.
For example, if the "delay" is set to 5 and the Wegstein count is 3 then the first 5 iterations will use direct replacement and the sixth will use acceleration then after every third iteration the acceleration step is applied.
Keywords: Recycle, Wegstein, Acceleration Frequency, Delay, Qmax, Qmin
References: None |
Problem Statement: What is the function of the Tolerance Sensitivities in the Recycle operation in Aspen HYSYS? | Solution: HYSYS allows you to set the convergence criteria factor for each of the variables listed under the Recycle Parameters | Variables. The tolerance values you input serve as a multiplier for Aspen HYSYS internal convergence tolerances.
For example, the internal tolerance for Temperature is 0.01 and the default multiplier is 10, so the absolute tolerance used by the Recycle convergence algorithm is 0.01*10 = 0.1. Therefore, if you are working in SI units, the temperatures of the assumed and calculated recycle streams must be within 0.1˚C of each other if the Recycle converged.
Here is a list of internal tolerances for the recycle:
Note that the flow rate tolerance is relative, rather than absolute.
Keywords: Recycle, Tolerance, Sensitivities, Parameters
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I find the build number of the Aspen HYSYS simulation case? | Solution: In Aspen HYSYS V9 there is a new type of File Open dialog called "HYPROTECH file picker" added. This is available under File | Options. Refer the screenshot below.
With this new File Open dialog the user will see the build number of the original HYSYS file as shown below.
Keywords: File Open Dialog, HYPROTECH File Picker
References: None |
Problem Statement: I am upgrading a file in Simulation or Rating mode that has "User specified properties" in both vapor and liquid phase, from V8.4 to any newer version.
The results of the overall film coefficients do not match between versions, the key results as area ratio or outlet temperatures are inconsistent between versions.
Why are the results different between these versions? | Solution: This error can happen when values entered manually for Vapor mass fraction has been omitted as shown in the screenshot below:
Even though there are only vapor properties, and that the vapor mass fraction would be 1, if this value is left empty, the program could perform an extrapolation of the properties, thus affecting the film coefficient calculations and all the variables that depend on this value.
To avoid this issue, make sure that the vapor mass fraction field is always filled. In doing the calculations between different versions, the results will yield less differences.
Keywords: User specified properties, heat transfer coefficient, vapor mass fraction, different results
References: None |
Problem Statement: Can I password protect my AICE project? | Solution: No, this functionality has been only implemented for Aspen Capital Cost Estimator.
Users will not be able to set, change, or remove a project password in AICE. However, AICE will prompt the user for the password if a user opens a password protected ACCE project in either AICE.
Keywords: Password, AICE, Project
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I find the wall temperature of pipe in Aspen Hydraulics? | Solution: To obtain the wall temperatures the user first needs to configure the detailed heat loss model in the pipe segment.
When the Hydraulic flowsheet is converged the temperature profiles will be shown in the Insulation page under the Performance tab as shown below.
Keywords: Wall Temperature, Pipe in Hydraulics
References: None |
Problem Statement: This article explains why the basis date changes each time the same start and end date is used when searching for pattern basis. | Solution: All modern high-speed search algorithms make use of the assumption that their data sets are evenly spaced. Therefore, when we query data out of our user’s historians, we do so with a specified interpolation interval.
１[Labelled here as ‘Sampling Interval’]
We also allow our users to specify a historical time range over which to conduct the pattern search.
The range can either be ‘Last XX Days,’ the currently viewable timeline, or, an absolute start/end time manually entered by the user.
２[History Window Options]
Pattern Searching How does it work
There is a special caveat with using "Last XX Days". It counts backwards from current time to the specified number of days. The problem with this approach (counting backwards from this moment in time) is if you have sparse data collection i.e. you collect let’s say every 7 seconds and the search engine creates intervals of 5 seconds.
This way you will have some empty intervals. This is perfectly fine if your intervals are always the same as there will be interpolation and final summarization that will make up for this. On the other hand, if you repeat the "Last XX days" query few seconds later your reading may end up in a different time interval.
For example:
Real Time 0:01 0:06 0:09 0:15 0:19 0:30
Real Data 7 8 6 3 2 6
Interp. Time 0:00 0:05 0:10 0:15 0:20 0:25 0:30
Interp. Data 6.8 7.9 5.8 3 2.1 4.8 6
In the above example, you will notice that there was no value between 0:19 and 0:30 for the real data, but it still must have a value for the pattern search algorithm to work as expected.
Pattern search is predicated upon a “signature” pattern which will be checked against all data points along the time series. If you haven’t already made the connection that if time is always moving forward, and a user tries to run a pattern search using a signature of a fixed start and end time; they are likely to receive slightly different results between each search. These differences may be slight shifts in the matched patterns, a slightly different signature pattern, slightly different ‘fit percentages’, or even an additional time interval on the signature dataset, and in extreme cases; an additional or even absent pattern match!
Here is a more “real world” example of a signature pattern:
In the blue dataset, a user captured the pattern at 0:37 seconds after the minute. Then, 18 seconds later, they re-ran the pattern search with the same signature in red. The absolute values of both red and blue are shown on the left side. In light-green, there is the point by point difference between the two – scale is different and shown on the right side. If you zoom in you will also note that the blue signature is one time-interval longer, this may not be significant for signatures whose resolution is 1 minute as they are granular enough that this may be even less than the rounding error, but may be very significant when interpolating between hours or even days as there might be a significant difference between rounding up from 5 or 6 intervals whereas rounding between 799 and 800 intervals is negligible! This may lead to a noticeable rounding difference if the intervals are not granular enough.
So, what strategies do we implement to minimize issues which may arise from this? Since the majority of this feature is evident only through running the same signature start/end time against a historical window that is absolute (remember; not: "Last XX Days"). After a user runs a pattern search with the non-absolute option, we automatically will insert the start/end time and default the next pattern search to this absolute time. We must always use same absolute time. This will ensure that if the user ran the pattern search again, they will receive the same matches, with the exact same signature, and all the same fit percentages. Furthermore, we also allow (and encourage) our users to save their signatures. The values are stored permanently into their Aspen InfoPlus.21 datasource and can be recalled to run pattern searches against any other tag in any of their other historians listed in the ADSA configuration! This may not eliminate the possibility that utilization of the "Last XX Days" history window may yield slightly different results using saved signatures, but it will help to mitigate many of the inconsistencies which may not seem expected, but are in fact, explainable.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: An example of reactive distillation in Aspen HYSYS | Solution: This example case simulates the synthesis of Methyl Acetate from Methanol and Acetic Acid in a catalytic distillation column. The feed conditions and composition are as follows:
Temperature 75°C (165°F)
Pressure 101.3 kPa (14.7 psia)
Molar Flow 45 kgmole/h (100 lbmole/hr)
Composition - Mole Fractions
Methanol 0.4
Acetic Acid 0.4
M-Acetate 0.1
Water 0.1
The column is configured with the specifications given below:
No. of Stages 15
Feed Feed, Stage 10
Condenser Type Total
Ovhd Liquid Distillate
Bottoms Liquid Bottoms
Condenser Energy Cond Q
Reboiler Energy Reb Q
Pressure
Delta P, Condenser 0 kPa (0 psi)
Condenser 95 kPa (13 psia)
Reboiler 101.3 kPa (14 psia)
Active Specifications
Reflux Ratio 5
Distillate Rate 20 kgmole/h (44 lbmole/hr)
The column is first solved without reaction.
The following kinetic reaction is added in the Properties Environment.
CH3OH + CH3COOH = CH3CH3COO + H2O
The forward has the following parameters:
A = 1.0e5
E = 2.3e4 kJ/kgmole
When the reaction is ready, enter the simulation environment and add the reaction in the column. It is assumed that the user is already familiar with reaction sets in Aspen HYSYS.
The standard solver “HYSIM Inside-Out” is not capable of handling reactions in the column. HYSYS will change the solver to Newton-Raphson Inside-Out. However, for this column we will use the Sparse Continuation Solver.
There are two HYSYS files attached with this solution: one with a distillation column without reaction and the other with reactions. Note that the simulations were created in HYSYS V8.6. These files can only be opened with V8.6 and higher versions.
Keywords: Reactive Distillation
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I find the Coversion of Hydrocracker products and how is the conversion calculated? | Solution: The hydrocracker product yields are available under the Results page as shown in the screenshot below.
The conversion is calculated as follows:
Conversion weight % = 100 x (light products + distillates) / feed mass flow rate
Conversion volume % = 100 x (light products + distillates) / feed volume flow rate
Note that adding all the the product yields (light products + distillates) may not match the conversion exactly. The small differences in the conversion balance is due to the internal tolerances for recycles in the hydrocracker model.
Keywords: Hydrocracker, Product Yields, Conversion
References: None |
Problem Statement: The file size keeps increasing when running the dynamic simulation. How do I reset the file to its original size? | Solution: The dynamic simulation typically contains several strip charts to display the process conditions with time. As the Dynamic simulation runs, the data histories fill up with time. The number of data each variable can store depends on the logger size. The default size is 300. The default option can be changed from File | Options or specified for each strip chart.
The Dynamic simulation will store the data for all the process variables and the file size will increase. To revert the file to its original size the user can set the current time in the Integrator zero. This will remove data from the strip chart historian. The file size will be smaller when you save the file with zero current time.
Keywords: Dynamic Simulation, Strip Chart, Data Logger
References: None |
Problem Statement: What are the differences between the various heat exchanger models? | Solution: There are four shell and tube heat exchanger models available in Aspen HYSYS. The Simple End Point and Simple Weighted models can be used for material and energy balance for any two-sided heat exchangers. They can also be used for shell and tube exchangers material and energy balance. Simple Steady-State Rating model is used for rating of shell and tube exchangers. The Dynamic Rating is divided in two sub-models: Basic and Detailed. Both models are used for rating in steady-state mode as well as in dynamic simulation.
There is an additional model that is used to integrate rigorous Aspen EDR models within your Aspen HYSYS flowsheet, the Rigorous Shell&Tube model. Activated EDR tools is available in Aspen HYSYS V8.4 and later to help you manage exchangers across your flowsheet using rigorous EDR models. For more details about the use of this Rigorous Shell&Tube model, please visit Article 000040824
The basics of each Aspen HYSYS model:
1. Simple End Point
This model is based on Q = U A Ft LMTD. The main assumptions behind this model are that the overall heat transfer coefficient U is constant the specific heats of the streams at both exchanger sides are constant. The heat curves of both shell and tube side are linear. The heat exchanger geometry is not considered in this model.
2. Simple Weighted
This model is particularly powerful in dealing with non-linear heat curve problems such as phase change of pure components in one or both heat exchanger sides. The heat curves are divided into a number of intervals and an energy balance is performed in each interval. This model can only be used for energy and material balance. The heat exchanger geometry is not taken into account in this model.
3. Simple Steady State Rating
This model makes the same assumptions as the End Point Model. It is simply an extension of the End Point model which incorporates a rating calculation. If detailed geometry information is provided, the exchanger can be rated using this model. For linear or nearly linear heat curve problems, this model is a good choice because it is much faster than the dynamic rating-detailed model.
4. Dynamic Rating
Basic
The Basic Model is based on Q = U A Ft LMTD and makes the same assumptions as the End Point model. This model was originally developed for dynamic mode but was extended for rating in steady state. This model is somewhat oversimplified in that geometry configurations are not taken into account. Therefore, this model has limited functionality. When using this model, both pressure drops and the overall UA must be specified.
Detailed
The Detailed Model divides the entire heat exchanger into a number of heat zones. In each heat zone there is a shell hold-up and one or more tube hold-ups, according to the number of tube passes per shell pass. It is a good counterpart to the Weighted Model. The Dynamic Detailed Model is used both in steady state and in dynamic operation and is designed to solve any linear and non-linear heat curve problems.
Keywords: Heat Exchanger, Model, End Point, Weighted, Dynamic, Rating
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I configure a PID controller with multiple process variables and one control valve? | Solution: You can only connect one process variable (PV) to each PID controller in Aspen HYSYS. If you need two PV then this can be configured with two PID controllers and the output (OP) from each can be connected to a selector block. The output from the selector block can be linked with the control valve.
The selector block can process the output based on the mode chosen in the Parameters page as shown in the screenshot below.
The user can also apply the "Hand Select" mode. This mode allows the user to select output (OP) from a specific controller. The signal can be manually switched or can be linked with a spreadsheet where the switch can be configured with the conditional statement.
Keywords: PID Controller, Selector Block
References: None |
Problem Statement: Sometimes when generating side by side case comparison report in Periodic PIMS (PPIMS) model for multiple cases, this warning message may appear and is this related to any range setting in PIMS? | Solution: This message appears when you run would like to generate case comparison report side by side in P-PIMS, but . different cases have different no of periods. For example, case 100 running 3 months , Case 200 running 2 months , case 300 running 1 month. So it is not feasible to generate case 100-300 side by side.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: In APS/MBO versions V9 and V10, when the model is archived, the Units file and the SMC folder are not being included. | Solution: This is known to occur in APS/MBO versions V9 and V10, when the Relative path is used for the Units file/SMC folder instead of the absolute path, as shown below:
This has been fixed in V11 of APS/MBO.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: After installing Office 2013 patch KB 4484190, and reloading simulator or trying to simulate in Aspen Petroleum Scheduler, users get error E2044 “Unable to find Excel worksheet” when working with multi-workbook models. | Solution: Microsoft has changed how Excel handles which workbook is active when multiple workbooks are open, which generates the error after the Office patch has been installed. As a workaround, you will need to add the following code to the SECOND workbook in your model:
Private Sub Workbook_Open()
Dim defaultUnitWB As Workbook
Set defaultUnitWB = Application.Workbooks.Item(1)
If defaultUnitWB.Name <> ThisWorkbook.Name Then
Application.WindowState = xlMinimized
End If
End Sub
NOTE: If you continue to have issues after implementing the code above you can try the following:
Add the above code to the first workbook as well.
Change the “xlMinimized” part in the code above for “xlMaximized” in the second workbook.
Keywords: APS, Orion, multiple workbooks
References: None |
Problem Statement: Recommended procedure for setting up Aspen OnLine RTO Environment for V10 | Solution: The attached document describes the recommended procedure for setting up Aspen OnLine / RTO server on Windows Server 2016. It should be applicable to Windows Server 2012 as well.
This document assumes that AspenTech software products are installed under “C:\Program Files (x86)\AspenTech”.
It is also assumed that a network license server is used instead of using local license files..
Keywords: rto, setup, v10, aol, configuration
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to change pre-configured object symbol type in drawing editor? | Solution: In case user needs to change pre-defined symbol type in drawing editor, it can be proceeded in Explorer
The following snapshot is a sample with Centrifugal Pump.
By changing the symbol name(e.g. 'Screw') in the following two paths , then your centrifugal pump is now changed to Screw pump symbol in Drawing editor:
1. Attribute "DefaultSymbol": (Pumps\Centrifugla.sym -> Pump\Screw.sym)
2. Representations/ObjectSymbol/Display. Representations is an association that you can see from Options/Show Association: (Pumps\Centrifugla.sym -> Pump\Screw.sym)
Key words
Object, Symbol, Drawing Editor,
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: Users receive the following error Message "Aspen AFR has encountered an error and will be closed" when attempting to launch Aspen Fidelis Reliability including this dialog box pop up:
Workaround
This error is due to the log file "user.config" becoming corrupted and once that happens Aspen Fidelis Reliability will crash on open. To resolve this, delete the user.config file then launch AFR again. | Solution: Manually delete the bad user.config file which can usually be found in a sub-directory under C:\Users\<username>\AppData\Roaming\Aspen_Technology,_Inc
Fixed in Version
VSTS 488400: Targeted for fix in a future release
Keywords: user.config file, crash on open, AFR encountered error
References: None |
Problem Statement: You could see this error on opening the Aspen APC Web page /PCWS after a new install.
"Your session failed to start for the following reason:”
Could not connect to the Aspen APC Web Provider Data Service.
Please wait for the Aspen APC Web Provider Data Service to complete initialization.
Verify that the Aspen APC Web Provider Data Service is running on the Web Server. | Solution: The problem is that the install program registered BOTH the 32bit and the 64bit versions of AFWSecCliSvc.exe and now the COM registration has a conflict.
To fix this situation, do the following:
Stop everything that accesses the AFW Security Client Service (you may not have all these on your server):
Aspen InfoPlus.21 Task Service
Aspen APC Web Provider Data Service
AspenTech Production Control RTE Service
Stop the AFW Security Client Service
See which version of the service is being used in the AFW Security Client Service windows service properties (e.g. what is the path to the exe file).
Unregister both versions of that service (64bit and 32bit):
"C:\Program Files\AspenTech\BPE\afwsecclisvc" /unregserver will unregister the 64 bit server
"C:\Program Files (x86)\AspenTech\BPE\afwsecclisvc" /unregserver will unregister the 32 bit server
Re-register the version that is used in the AFW Security Client Service windows service properties (ONLY RUN ONE OF THE BELOW COMMANDS)
"C:\Program Files (x86)\AspenTech\BPE\afwsecclisvc" /service will register the 32 bit server
"C:\Program Files\AspenTech\BPE\afwsecclisvc" /service will register the 64 bit server
Refresh the Windows Services snapin so the latest AFW Security client Service configuration is shown.
Start the AFW Security client Service.
Start the dependent services (that are applicable for your server):
Aspen InfoPlus.21 Task Service
Aspen APC Web Provider Data Service
AspenTech Production Control RTE Service
Keywords: Production Control Web Server
PCWS
Aspen Local Security
References: None |
Problem Statement: Process Data Configuration for Third Party Historians | Solution: The attached documentation article explains how to set up AspenTech products to be able to get Plant and Process Data from a Third Party Historian on Plant Data tool.
Keywords: data, third, historian, plant, configuration
References: None |
Problem Statement: Starting from V10, a DMCplus controller with SmartStep enabled cannot run in Multi-Step mode. When trying to run you will see the message "Advanced license needed for Multi-Test mode" in the Web Viewer when the controller is turned ON. | Solution: This is by design. From V10, Multi-Step mode for SmartStep is only available for Aspen DMC3 controllers. Aspen DMCPlus controller wilth SmartStep enabled can only run in Single test mode.
Keyword
SmartStep, Multi-Step, DMC3
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: When using the Aspen Cim-IO Store File Recovery Utility, the following error message is logged in the Cim-IO log file.
29-MAR-2012 12:03:51.302, Logged by TSK_RECVR on node IP21SERVER:
WHIS21DAT: Inserted only 0 of 100 elements into recid 5025, fieldid 605618177, tag [PI26-2401/CI1.PV], sample error -81.
29-MAR-2012 12:03:51.302, Logged by TSK_RECVR on node IP21SERVER:
Timestamps: Fri Mar 23 21:59:39 2012 to Fri Mar 23 22:07:33 2012 | Solution: The mentioned" error -81" refers to the error returned by the Aspen InfoPlus.21 routine WHIS21DAT.
WHIS21DAT detected "Insufficient privilege (s) to access the database". It is the first error trapped while attempting to output the 100 occurrences reported in the error message. In this case, none of the occurrences got to be updated due to privilege issue.
The solution will be to run the Aspen CIM-IO Store File Recovery Utility client executable using an account which has permission to write to Aspen InfoPlus.21 database.
Keywords:
References: None |
Problem Statement: While installing Microsoft .Net Framework 4.6.2 on a machine which does not have internet access, you may encounter "A certificate chain could not be built to a trusted root authority" | Solution: 1.Download certificate：MicrosoftRootCertificateAuthority2011.cer from below link.
http://download.microsoft.com/download/2/4/8/248D8A62-FCCD-475C-85E7-6ED59520FC0F/MicrosoftRootCertificateAuthority2011.cer
2.Go to Start→Run→MMC
3.Go to File→Add/Remove Snap-in... (Ctrl+M)
4.Double click on "Certificates"→select "Computer account"→Next→Finish→OK
5.Return to main window，Expand：Certificates→Trusted Root Certification Authorities→Certificates
6.Right click on "Certificates "，All Tasks→Import...
7.Select the certificate file，then next until finish.
Now, you should be able to install Microsoft .Net Framework 4.6.2 successfully.
KeyWords
.Net Framework 4.6.2
certificate
trusted
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: “Install aspenONE products” option is gray out in aspenONE Engineering V10 Installer.
However, this option is working in aspenONE Manufacturing and Supply Chain V10 Installer. | Solution: Since V9.0, AES products no longer support 32-bit operating system. But we did not disable “Install aspenONE products” option in the installer.
In V10, we have disabled “Install aspenONE products” option in AES installer, but this option is still available in MSC installer as CIM-IO interface can be installed on 32-bit desktops.
You may get this issue while trying to install AES V10 on a 32-bit operating system.
We strongly recommend you install aspen software on supported platform. Please click on below link for more information.
https://www.aspentech.com/platform-support/
KeyWords
AES V10
Gray out
Installer
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: While I was at PIMS training the HTML reports like Full | Solution: would open up with links on the left side to each and every section of the report. These are quite useful and I would like to set my model to show them as well.
Solution
This option is called HTML Reports with Frames. It is not model, but individual PIMS instalation specific. It can be enabled by going to Tools/Program Options... and the selecting
"Launch HTML Reports with Frames" as shown below:
1.
2.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: Difficulty in getting a RadFRac column with multiple precipitating salts to converge. | Solution: This is a difficult problem in general because each salt may or may not precipitate and RadFrac may encounter difficulties on a path where one salt is precipitating while the solution precipitates a different salt.
On the RadFrac Convergence | Basic sheet, set the Salt precipitation handling method to Ignore-Flash. RadFrac will ignore precipitation of salts during the column convergence and check for it at the end, issuing a warning if any salt precipitates. Examine the results to see which salt precipitates. Now set up the chemistry to precipitate that salt only and repeat the run with the default salt option (Include).
Keywords: None
References: : 91687 |
Problem Statement: What Programming Language(s) are used in Aspen HYSYS? | Solution: Aspen HYSYS is written using different programming languages, this KB article will explain with more detailes how they are used.
In general, the engine portion of the code is programmed in C++, C, HTML and Javascript. The most of engine is written in C++ and in some cases in C. The HTML and Javascript are very minor compared to C++ and are only used to make the flowsheet summary work. Some calculation operations are written in Fortran. The user interface (UI) is mostly programmed in C# with some parts in VB.NET.
Keywords: Programming Language, HYSYS
References: None |
Problem Statement: Below table lists which MES suite applications have been localized: | Solution: Note： IP.21 Process Browser and IP.21 Mobile were sunset in V10
Keywords: A1PE
APRM
APEM
APEX
SQLplus reporting
RBV
Localization
References: None |
Problem Statement: What are the recommended property packages for solubility of gas in water in a hydrocarbon system? | Solution: Peng Robinson is generally recommended as the property package of choice in Aspen HYSYS for any hydrocarbon system. However, in some cases the PR equation can consider the water solubility of Hydrocarbons to be a little low.
If hydrocarbon solubility in the aqueous phase is important, then the user can use the Kabadi-Danner package. This package is a modification of the SRK EOS enhanced to provide good VLL equilibrium results for dilute HC/H2O systems. The other option is to consider the Glycol package. The Glycol package in Aspen HYSYS has updated with interaction parameters giving better prediction of solubility of hydrocarbon in aqueous phase.
Keywords: Property Package, Hydrocarbon Solubility
References: None |
Problem Statement: What is the purpose of "Loadls.exe" and how to use it? | Solution: Loadls.exe is an executable installed by default on the location: C:\Program Files (x86)\Common Files\SafeNet Sentinel\Sentinel RMS License Manager\WinNT and it will add or remove the Sentinel RMS License Manager service to the Windows NT System Service registry, which is the service that broadcast the network license over the network.
You must have the Administrator security privileges to use the program effectively.
To Add the Sentinel RMS License Manager as a System Service, execute the Loadls.exe with right click and select Run as administrator.
Confirm that the Executable Path field reflects the correct path to the executable file – lservnt.exe and press the “Add” Button.
Click Ok to the confirmation screen once it completes.
You can verify the service was added on the services windows, and you should see the Sentinel RMS License manager service running.
To Remove the Sentinel RMS License Manager service from the System Service registry, execute Loadls.exe with right click and select Run as administrator and click remove, then click Ok on the confirmation window.
The License server service will be removed and you won’t find it listed on the services.msc window, this will stop the network license broadcast.
KeyWords
Loadls,
sentinel rms service
Install SLM Service
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: This knowledge base article describes the steps to run Aspen SCM in administrator mode. | Solution:
1. Open Aspen SCM from Windows
2. Right click on Aspen SCM icon and select open file location
3. Click on properties
4. Click on compatibility tab and select Run as administrator.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: I want to design an Excel front end to input products distillate Data, and then these data will be passed to HYSYS, and then automatically characterized to generate crude components. The Assay data is configured as a backblend of different product distillation data, but I am unable to access the input when using backblend. | Solution: When attempting to access assay data configured on a stream as a backblend of several product cuts, the assay data input is not exposed a variable in Aspen simulation workbook. Once way to workaround this is to use the use the macro-cut or single stream properties input options to enter the data. These assay input options are exposed as variables in ASW.
Use a material stream to represents each single product or light or residue
Use a Petroluem Feeder block to combine each characterized stream in the ratio that you would use for the back blend, the output of the Feeder is the crude feed
Use either Material Stream|Worksheet|Petroleum Assay|New Assay|Multi Cut Properties or Single Stream Properties as assay type
Ensure that the ‘auto characterize’ button is selected so that if any changes are made in Excel Aspen Hysys solver will update the crude
In ASW, you can now access the assay input data variables and adjust them in Excel
The files attached contain a single stream that is characterized by the backblend from several product inputs, this is data is not accessible in ASW. The flowsheet also contains several single streams that represent each product fraction, each stream is characterized and the resultant blended crude is a mix.
Keywords: Aspen simulation workbook, backblend, Aspen Assay Manager
References: None |
Problem Statement: Offline-to-Online Fails with Error Message saying 'specified cast not available'. How can I fix this? | Solution: This is an error message that is most likely due to multiple versions of Aspen Plus and Aspen Online installed. Since V9, Aspen Online only works with a comparable version of Aspen Plus, as a result when working in an Aspen Online V9 project, only Aspen Plus V9 files are compatible. During the offline-to-online process, Aspen Online will attempt to connect to the simulation engine of the default version of Aspen Plus, as set in the system registries.
This means that if there is more than one version of either software is installed, Aspen Online will attempt to read the most recent version, and this may be different to the Aspen Online version being used. As a result, the offline-to-online procedure will fail and Aspen Online will return the error message of 'specified cast not available'.
The ways to fix this are as follows:
1) Maintain one version of both Aspen Plus and Aspen Online on the same machine. While this is the simplest solution, it is not always desireable to some users and Aspen Engineering suite does support multiple version compatibility.
2) Use the most recent version of both applications. This may be more practical especially when configuring a new project or upgrading an existing project. Also, the system registries would automatically have set the default version to the most recent version, if that was the last version installed. However, if the preference is to have a higher version of both applications installed but still use a lower, or older, version then try option 3.
3) Use the 'set version' utility in Aspen Plus to define the default version in the system registry keys and ensure this is consistent with the version of Aspen Online you want to run. Once this is done, the Aspen Online offline-to-online utility will connect to the default simulation engine which is now the user preferred default option, modified by the 'set version' utility.
Keywords: specified cast not valid, offline-to-online failure, unable to do offline-to-online, offline, online,
References: None |
Problem Statement: A1PE server as a directory server may configure multiple data sources in ADSA. Although You had deleted one of data sources from ADSA, the deleted data source is still showing when doing tag search in A1PE.
This article provides a workaround to remove the deleted data source in A1PE search list after it had been deleted in ADSA. | Solution: The tags for the data source can be removed using below URL issued from A1PE server.
http://localhost:port/solr/update?stream.body=<delete><query>tag_datasource:ds</query></delete>&commit=true
- port is Tomcat HTTP port, e.g. 8080
- ds is the data source name for the tags to delete
KeyWords
deleted data source
data source
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How can I access the local temperature (i.e. temperature at a specific location) of an RPLUG unit operation in a calculator block? Which variable would I use? | Solution: REAC-TEMP is the correct variable, and the ID1 field signifies the specific RPLUG location that the temperature is pulled from:
Note: By default, the RPLUG block profile is divided into 10 intervals:
Given 10 intervals, a total of 11 points (i.e. n + 1) are reported in the RPLUG Profiles:
Note, the user has the ability to drag/drop or copy/paste from the RPLUG profiles to the Calculator block. In doing so, the ID1 field is automatically populated. For example, dragging and dropping the sixth data point from the RPLUG temperature profile yields the following:
See the attached *.BKP file for reference.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: A closed propane refrigeration solves in Sequential Modular mode but when switching to Equation Oriented mode it fails. | Solution: A closed loop flowsheet can not be modeled in EO the same way as it is modeled in SM. In SM the solver uses an efficient way to create a tear stream and solve the flowsheet to converge at the tear stream location. The same model in EO mode will return several non-linearity errors due to the closed nature of the model. The solution is to break the loop then use EO connection equations to pass variables across the broken stream connections.
The model attached shows how this can be modeled. The loop is broken in a position of the flowsheet that is most efficient with regards to optiomizing the number of variables being passed, thereby the number of connection equations required. The stream out of the Condenser (CHILLER) and inlet to the flash drum (S-DRUM) will be the connection location.
Next set up the inlet stream to the flash drum (S-DRUMIN) to be a pass-through stream, this will ensure the stream ports are made available to the connection equation. This can be done in the Stream input form| EO Options| Additional Options| Pass-through.
In the EO Connection form at the flowsheet level, an EO Connection is created to connect the outlet port and inlet ports of CHILLOUT and S-DRUMIN, respectively. To ensure the ports get connected, the Port Connection check box is selected.
You can use an OOMF command to confirm that the connections are made correctly after you re-initialize and build from the SM level or EO level (options 1 and 2 respectively after hitting the RESET button)
The flowsheet is constrained to calculate flow of refirgerant by making condenser (COND) duty constant, using an EO spec group (CALC_FLOW).
Positive heat flow will ensure positive material flow through the loop and the concept is that the duty demand is calculated by the process side which is not part of this flowsheet, therefore the duty is made constant.
Modeling Tips: When you open the Aspen Plus backup file, switch to Sequential Modular mode, re-initialize and solve then switch to Equation Oriented mode and solve. This should ensure that there are no mass balance errors in EO mode.
Keywords: Closed loop in EO, singularity, non-linearity, EO refrigerant loop
References: None |
Problem Statement: Can I set the Aspen Plus HEATX exchanger specification using a Calculator block? | Solution: The HEATX block Setup | Specifications sheet contains a “Specification” field, wherein the user can specify the Exchanger duty, Hot stream outlet temperature, etc.
A Calculator block cannot directly set exchanger the specification field. However, it can override it (the effect is the same). As an example, the attached .bkp file contains a HEATX block with an “Exchanger duty” specification, and a Calculator block that overrides it with a temperature approach spec. (hot stream inlet / cold stream outlet). Running the simulation file causes the HEATX block to solve according to the specified approach temperature (ignoring the duty spec).
Note that this technique will generally not work in other blocks such as FLASH2 or HEATER.
Keywords: Control, Fix
References: None |
Problem Statement: “PIMSWIN MFC Application has stopped working” when run case comparison report.: | Solution: The problem is with the apostrophe in the model name.
The case comparison code does not like this special character and fails in PIMS V10.
The workaround is to remove the apostrophe from the model name and also from any part of the model location.
KeyWords
PIMS crash, V10, case comparison
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: This article explains what is the PROWS report, how to generate it and how to access it in Aspen PIMS. | Solution: PROWS – Process Submodel Parameter Rows
The PROWS solution spreadsheet (.xls) file contains all the information that is contained in the P-ROWS of submodels.
It allows to easily see all P-ROWS in the model and their values for each submodel.
To generate this file:
Click Reports… in Model Execution Dialog box and check PROWS in Selection tab.
Once report is generated it can be accessed through Solution Files in model tree under Report Maps.
Keywords: PIMS, report, Excel, Process parameters
References: None |
Problem Statement: Calculator blocks let you insert Fortran statements into flowsheet computations to perform user-defined tasks. Under certain circumstance, the following message can appear after running the model:
* WARNING DURING FLOWSHEET ANALYSIS
FORTRAN READ-VAR X IN FORTRAN BLOCK Y
APPEARS ON THE LEFT-HAND SIDE OF AN ASSIGNMENT STATEMENT.
Where:
X= variable name
Y= Calculator block | Solution: This message is related to the Calculator variable definition. The user specifies as the import variable a variable that should be an export variable or vice versa.
Where:
Import Variables establish information flow from the block or stream containing a sampled (read-only) variable to the Calculator block.
Export Variables establish information flow from the Calculator block to Aspen Plus.
To more information go to the following article (What Fortran code can be interpreted rather than compiled?)
Keywords: Fortran Statement, Left-Hand Side, Right-Hand side, Read-Var, Parameter
References: None |
Problem Statement: I want to utilize multiple property methods inside my Aspen Plus simulation. How can I control which property methods get used in different parts of the simulation? | Solution: The flowsheet default property method can be specified in the Methods | Specifications | Global form:
To utilize a different (non-default) property method in a certain portion of the flowsheet, the user could select a group of unit operations and streams, right-click the group, then select Change Section:
The property method used for that section can be specified on the Methods | Specifications | Flowsheet Sections form in the Properties environment:
Alternatively, the property method can be overridden in a specific block by using the Block Options form:
Keywords: thermodynamics, package, fluids
References: None |
Problem Statement: Users would like to change the Date Time Axis configuration on Planning Board. | Solution: Go to Planning Board.
Right Click on the time axis to bring up the Properties tab.
You can change the Behavior mode from Automatic to Fixed.
Select the desired options from Available tiers.
You can also Change the Step, Text Alignment and Display Format.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How can I specify the Overall U for a Heat Exchanger on Aspen Energy Analyzer (AEA)? | Solution: By default, AEA calculates the Overall U based upon the stream side film coefficient (HTC), which in turn is calculated by using stream properties. For further details, refer to the article Where can I find the equations used to calculate HTC?
However, you can edit the Overall U for any desired exchanger following the steps below:
Open the HI Project view
In the Viewer pane, select the design you want to edit
Select the Heat Exchangers tab | Overall U page
To specify the Overall U for an exchanger, select the User-specified check box in the associated row. The Overall U value becomes editable
Keywords: Overall U, Heat Transfer Coefficient, HTC, Heat Transfer Area.
References: None |
Problem Statement: This article explains how to solve the error message “Failed to load UBML library” in Aspen Petroleum Scheduler. | Solution: This error message usually appears when the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable is missing for the Visual Studio version the UBML.dll was compiled with. For example, if the user built UBML.dll was compiled with Visual Studio 2010, verify you have downloaded the corresponding 2010 runtimes in the machine.
Additionally, if there are any dependent dll’s, for the user built UBML, make sure they are present in the machine and have been registered.
Keywords: User Blend Model Library, APS
References: None |
Problem Statement: This knowledge base article describes on steps to add a planned downtime in the model. | Solution: Planned Downtimes:
The Planned Downtimes screen allows you to specify times when a resource will be down for some type of downtime, such as planned maintenance or holidays. It is assumed that no hours are available on the resource during the Planned Downtime period.
To specify planned downtime:
From the Navigation Pane select Data Management.
In the Data Management choice list, select Capacity Data | Operating Calendar | Planned Downtimes.
From the Planned Downtimes screen, select the Properties icon in the Ribbon on the Home Tab. Fill in the Resources and Weekly Resource Schedule sections with the start time and duration for each day of the week.
Click Apply.
A report reflecting the data you entered appears in the Workspace to the left of the Properties panel.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: This article explains how to modify the parameter values for ABML correlations in Aspen Petroleum Scheduler (APS), Aspen Refinery Multi-Blend Optimizer (MBO), and PIMS-AO. | Solution: Parameter values for ABML correlations can be modified in the Correlation dialog box in APS (Models > Blend Library Coefficients…)
If these same parameters wish to be modified in PIMS and the correlation has no option section to modify the parameters in the completeabml.xls, this can be added in ABML table using PIMS AO. For example, user can add the 13 parameters for ABML_MTM correlation in APS and MBO to the ABML table in PIMS as follows:
Parameters are to be added under OPTION section, using the parameter name followed by an underscore and the correlation number.
Keywords: Aspen Blend Model Library, coefficient
References: None |
Problem Statement: This article shows where in the database notes defined in General Model settings will be stored. | Solution: Notes defined under General Model Settings can be found in table PrCase.
Table PrCase:
The notes are added for all the cases selected for that particular run. These are the same notes shown in the reports.
Keywords: PIMS,
References: None |
Problem Statement: Which method can I use for Electrolytes and Polymers interaction? | Solution: Aspen Properties can handle processes where both electrolytes and polymers co-exist (along with other products). The property method which better handles and represents all of these components interactions is the EP-NRTL Activity Coefficient Model.
The Electrolyte-Polymer Non-Random Two-Liquid (EP-NRTL, model GMEPNRTL) activity coefficient model is an integration of the electrolyte NRTL model for electrolytes and the polymer NRTL model for oligomers and polymers. The model is used to compute activity coefficients for polymers, solvents, and ionic species.
This integrated electrolyte-polymer NRTL model is designed to represent the excess Gibbs free energy of aqueous organic electrolytes and complex chemical systems with the presence of oligomers, polymers and electrolytes. The model incorporates the segment-based local composition concept of the polymer NRTL model into the electrolyte NRTL model. From the Gibbs free energy expression, one can compute activity coefficients for various species as functions of compositions and molecular structure of oligomers, polymers, solvents, and electrolytes.
As an integrated model, the electrolyte-polymer NRTL model reduces to the electrolyte NRTL model in the absence of polymers or oligomers. The model reduces to the polymer NRTL model in the absence of electrolytes. Furthermore, the model reduces to the original NRTL model if neither electrolytes nor polymers or oligomers are present. As such, this model is a very versatile activity coefficient model.
Note that this model does not address the solution nonideality of polyelectrolytes, which are further characterized by counterion condensation, an intramolecular phenomenon that closely resembles micelle formation.
This model cannot be found under the POLYMERS filter on the Property Method selection:
To find it, change the filter to ALL and look for the EPNRTL method:
All this and more info can also be found on the Help Guide from Aspen Properties.
Keywords: polymer, electrolyte, NRTL, method
References: None |
Problem Statement: Aspen SCM rejects the value change in Duration field of Activity Editor and the value reverts to previous one. | Solution: Open AECTL1 and configure the AE table that controls the contents of the tabs in Activity Editor to set the TYPE as TIME for DURATION. See below example:
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: This article explains what is the SDMAP report, how to generate it and how to access it in Aspen PIMS. | Solution: SDMAP – Stream Disposition Map
The SDMAP solution spreadsheet (.xls) file contains the full stream disposition map with stream quantities filled in for the solution for each unit in the model.
Rows display process streams, while columns display the units in the model with the submodel four-character tag. Positive values represent inputs and negative values represent outputs.
To generate this file:
Click Reports… in Model Execution Dialog box and check SDMAP in Selection tab.
Once report is generated it can be accessed through Solution Files in model tree under Report Maps.
Keywords: PIMS, report, Excel
References: None |
Problem Statement: This article explains what is the UTMAP report, how to generate it and how to access it in Aspen PIMS. | Solution: UTMAP – Utility Disposition Map
The UTMAP solution spreadsheet (.xls) file contains the full utility disposition map with utility quantities filled in for the solution.
This file will display utility consumption and production for each unit. Rows will display the units, while columns will display the utilities. Positive values represent consumption and negative values represent production.
Additionally, it will display the balance between the amount of utility purchases and sales at the bottom of the table.
To generate this file:
Click Reports… in Model Execution Dialog box and check UTMAP in Selection tab.
Once report is generated it can be accessed through Solution Files in model tree under Report Maps.
Keywords: PIMS, report, Excel
References: None |
Problem Statement: This article explains what is the SDSUM report, how to generate it and how to access it in Aspen PIMS. | Solution: SDSUM – Stream Disposition Summary
The SDSUM solution spreadsheet (.xls) file contains the output of the stream disposition summary in spreadsheet form. The following concepts are reported for each stream:
Purchased amount
Amount processed (+) or produced (-) in submodels.
Amount destined for blending (+) or as final blend (-)
Sold amount
Balance
Incremental value
To generate this file:
Click Reports… in Model Execution Dialog box and check SDSUM in Selection tab.
Once report is generated it can be accessed through Solution Files in model tree under Report Maps.
Keywords: PIMS, report, Excel
References: None |
Problem Statement: What are hcr files in contrast with hsc files? | Solution:
The file type hcr is particular to the Hydrocracker model. Aspen HYSYS has got other models (particularly for petroleum refining) with their very own file format, such as the hydrocracker, FCC, reformer, etc.
On the other hand, the hsc format is the standard HYSYS simulation file. The hsc file can contain the hydrocracker template file, that is, the hcr file. However, the hcr file by itself, cannot contain any other HYSYS block.
If you would like to use the same hydrocracker for other simulations, you can save solely the hydrocracker template in its hcr format.
Every time you create a hydrocracker block on a HYSYS simulation, a small window displaying the option for either creating a new template or using an existing one shows up:
If the option for using an existing template is selected, you may browse through the hcr file location and select it for its use. This action can only be done for hcr standalone template files, so even if you have an hsc file containing a hcr template, you will not be able to read it as a hydrocracker template.
Keywords:
hydrocracker, file, HYSYS
References: None |
Problem Statement: This article explains what is the PRMAP report, how to generate it and how to access it in Aspen PIMS. | Solution: PRMAP – Stream Property Report
The PRMAP solution spreadsheet (.xls) file contains all the properties for all streams in the model. There is no report for recursed pools that are not actual streams.
Rows will show the streams while columns will show the properties in the model.
To generate this file:
Click Reports… in Model Execution Dialog box and check PRMAP in Selection tab.
Once report is generated it can be accessed through Solution Files in model tree under Report Maps.
Keywords: PIMS, report, Excel
References: None |
Problem Statement: There are many nomenclature and rules to follow when modelling PIMS. This article is to summarize the important rules and nomenclature in PIMS modelling. | Solution: Please see attached documents for the summary of commonly asked modelling rules and nomenclature in PIMS. The targeted audience of this article is the PIMS users who have basic understanding of PIMS model structure.
Keywords: Submodel, placeholder, 999, -999, pool collector, material balance, utility balance, recursion, PROCLIM, matrix coefficient, RHS, rowname, control rows, specification blending, capacity
References: None |
Problem Statement: What is the correlation used to calculate the Mean Average Boiling Point [Petroleum] property? | Solution: The Mean Average Boiling Point or MeABP is a property based on TBP.
It is calculated as follows:
MeABP=(MABP+CABP)/2
Where:
MeABP = Mean Average Boiling Point, °Rankine
MABP = Molar Average Boiling Point, °Rankine
CABP = Cubic Average Boiling Point, °Rankine
MABP is molar basis and CABP is volume basis. Both calculated as shown below:
MABP =sum(xi*BP), xi is mole frac
CAP=(sum(vi*BP^1/3))^3 vi is vol frac
Keywords: MeABP, MABP, CABP, Properties, Petroleum, Basis, TBP.
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to correctly export hypocomponents from Aspen HYSYS to Aspen Plus. | Solution: When exporting fluid package from Aspen HYSYS to Aspen Plus some components could have problem in being mapped property and Pseudocomponents are created. They need to be defined manually in Pseudocomponents form, which is incomplete. The missing information of Boiling Point, Gravity and Molecular Weight can be find in Aspen HYSYS.
To find these information, go to Aspen HYSYS | Component List folder and double click on the desire element, then go to Critical tab of the Component Identification window and copy/paste Base Properties values into Aspen Plus | Pseudocomponents form.
If the Pure Components folder is incomplete in your Aspen Plus file, you can delete it and proceed to run the Properties Simulation.
To know how to export fluid package from Aspen HYSYS Database to Aspen Plus, please review the following article:
How to export a Component List and Fluid Package information from Aspen HYSYS to Aspen Plus.
Keywords: Export, Component List, Fluid Package, Properties
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to clear Recent Models window in Aspen HYSYS | Solution: When opening Aspen HYSYS, there is a default window showing recently opened files.
To clear the Recent Models form please follow these steps:
Close all Aspen HYSYS files.
Go to C:\Users\username\AppData\Local\Aspen_Technology,_INC.
Note: you may have to enable "hidden folders" on your computer to see the AppData folder.
Open the View tab in your explorer window
Click on Options button
Go to View tab and toggle the "Show hidden files, folders, and drives"
Click on ok and close the window
From the available folders select the Aspen HYSYS version from where the Recent Models should be cleared.
Inside the AspenHYSYS.exe folder go to the folder of the version (e.g. for V10 it will start with 36) and open the user.config file with Notepad.
Go to the bottom of the file and search for the entry <setting name="MostRecentlyUsedFiles" serializeAs="Xml">. You will see below the <string> entries with recent files routes.
Select the route of the file you want to clear and delete the whole line. If you want to have the Recent Models form totally empty, delete all the listed <string> entries.
<setting name="MostRecentlyUsedFiles" serializeAs="Xml">
<value>
<ArrayOfString xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance"
xmlns:xsd="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema">
<string>C:\Program Files (x86)\AspenTech\Aspen HYSYS V10\Samples\Atmosferic Crude Tower.hsc</string>
<string>C:\Program Files (x86)\AspenTech\Aspen HYSYS V10\Samples\Atmosferic Crude Tower - Dynamic Model.hsc</string>
<string>C:\Program Files (x86)\AspenTech\Aspen HYSYS V10\Samples\Ammonia Synthesis.hsc</string>
</ArrayOfString>
</value>
</setting>
Save the file and close it. Open Aspen HYSYS and check for the Recent Models form which will be clear of the deleted routes.
To clear Recent Models from Aspen Plus, please review the article How to clear Recent Models window in Aspen Plus
Keywords: Recent, clear, HYSYS
References: None |
Problem Statement: In HYSYS Hydraulics, should I specify dry, moist, or wet clay? | Solution: The difference between dry, moist, and wet clay/sand is the extent of water-saturation of the clay/sand medium. The presence of water affects the thermal conductivity of the clay/sand; the more water contained therein, the greater the thermal conductivity utilized for heat transfer calculations:
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How can I specify the number of shells for a Heat Exchanger on Aspen Energy Analyzer (AEA)? | Solution: The total number of shells is calculated by multiplying the number of shells in series and the number of parallel shell passes. By default, AEA auto-calculates these two parameters based on the maximum area per shell specified for the unit.
To modify these values, go to the HEN Grid Diagram and double-click the heat exchanger. From the Heat Exchanger configuration window, go to Parameters and uncheck the auto-calculate box of the parameter you would like to edit.
Note: if you uncheck the auto-calculate option for both series and parallel, you will not be able to edit the ‘Max Area per Shell’ anymore.
Keywords: Number of shells, shells in series, shells in parallel.
References: None |
Problem Statement: I want to utilize different solid heat capacity parameter values in different equipment blocks. How can I do this in Aspen Plus? | Solution: A user can create a property method which utilizes a different set of solid heat capacity parameters. After creating a method named, for example, “SOLIDS2”, the user could then go to the Selected Methods folder, click on the SOLIDS2 Models tab, and specify that Property “HS” takes its values from Data Set 2:
Next, the user could add a new heat capacity form to hold the Data set 2 CP coefficients:
Inside the new parameters form, the user could input a second set of coefficients:
Lastly, the user could go into the Block Options folder of any unit operation in the Simulation Environment and specify whether the block will use the SOLIDS or SOLIDS2 method.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: If you try to use the Data Extract from Aspen Plus/HYSYS, Aspen Energy Analyzer (AEA) will pop-up the following message:
How can I use the 'Data Extract from simulation' feature on AEA now? | Solution: Since aspenONE V8.8, the Data Extraction from simulator feature is no longer available in AEA standalone. You will need to use the Activated Energy Analysis within the simulator and then transfer the heat integration data to Aspen Energy Analyzer standalone.
Jump Start Guide to Activated Energy Analysis in Aspen Plus and Aspen HYSYS
Getting Started with Activated Energy Analysis in Aspen Plus
Alternatively, you can try the Data Transfer from Excel feature to use specifically formatted excel spreadsheets to import stream information, or complete heat exchanger network designs with splitters and utility heat exchangers, into an Energy Analyzer case.
Are there any Excel templates to extract data from Excel to Aspen Energy Analyzer?
Keywords: Data Extract, Aspen Plus, Aspen HYSYS, Excel, discontinued, standalone.
References: None |
Problem Statement: What does the "Load usrdmo" do when it is activated from File | Options | Equipment? When can it be useful to activate it? | Solution: This is an option added in V7.2. When activated, it loads the usrdmo library when you start the HYSYS session. This is only useful if you are running into memory issues with the reactor models. For the most part, memory issues are better addressed by migrating to a 64-bit operating system (which allows an application to use 4GB of memory) or by setting the 3GB option for the 32-bit operating system.
This option will be disabled for releases higher than V10. For more information about this, please refer to KB article: 241315: USRDMO and DMO Solver Checkbox
Keywords: usrdmo, refinery reactors, Equipment Options
References: None |
Problem Statement: Is it possible to view the TBP, ASTM D86 and ASTMD1160 curves for a stream in Aspen Plus? | Solution: In Aspen Plus, to show the TBP, ASTM D86 and ASTMD1160 curves for a specific stream follow these steps:
1. In the Simulation Environment, right click on the desired stream.
2. Select Analysis -> Distillation and click Go
3. In the Distillation Curve wizard, select the desired property to be displayed.
To report the TBP, ASTM D86 and ASTMD1160 curves for streams in the Stream Summary follow these steps:
1. In the Property Sets folder, create a new folder with the desires properties.
2. Run the simulation and on the Results Summary | Streams | Vol % Curves or Wt. % Curves sheet select the desire property.
Keywords: TBP, TBPCRV, ASTM D86, ASTM D1160, Assay, Property Set
References: None |
Problem Statement: What should be done to fix PH Flash Failure errors caused by kinetic energy term included in the energy balance? | Solution: The problem is caused by the Solver of Flare System Analyzer during the initialization. When the first iteration of the energy balance takes place, if the kinetic term is very large, an inconsistency between the inlet and outlet velocities results in wrong stangnation enthalpy values, this is why the PH flash failure shows. The actions to solve this problem depend on the version of Flare System Analyzer you use.
For V9 users
To solve the issue, since version V9, there is an option to not include the Kinetic Energy term during initialization. This allows the pipes to have non-zero velocities for the subsequent iterations where the KE is considered. If you observe a PH flash failure when including this term, go to the Initialization tab in the Calculation Settings and set the Ignore KE for Vel. Initialization to Yes.
For previous versions.
Since the issue is due to the initialization, one tip that can help the case is to use the Simultaneous option for the Structural Analyzer. In this way, the estimates for the system are usually better and the PH Flash failure is usually solved.
If the problem persists with this method, you can contact our support team for a more detailed review.
Keywords: Aspen Flare System Analyzer, Kinetic Energy, Balance, PH Flash Failure, Initialization, Solver
References: None |
Problem Statement: Users and modelers would like to export sets and tables from SCM to excel and they prefer to include/exclude headers. | Solution: In V10.0 SCM if you right click on a set/table you have the option Copy with Headers.
There is also a shortcut Ctrl+Shift+C
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: When a custom database containing binary parameters is created, PRBKV and PRLIJ parameters are not automatically loaded to the simulation by design. This article shows how you can set PRLIJ parameters to load automatically once you have added the database to the simulation Properties Environment in Aspen Plus. | Solution: 1. Create the custom database containing binary parameters. In this example, a custom database called test has been created, which contains PRBVK and PRLIJ for the binary mixture methanol-water.
Note: for more information on how to create a custom database, please refer to solution 000025903.
2. Launch Aspen Plus and create an empty simulation. From File | Options | Properties Basis, select the custom database you have created (TEST, in this case) from Not searched to Searched and move it to the top. then click Apply. This will set the custom database to be searched first for binary parameters it contains.
3. Quit Aspen Plus and reopen it. From now on, the binary parameters will be automatically loaded.
Note: This procedure applies only to a single machine. as these steps set the custom database to being default for searching PRKBV and PRLIJ and save the setting to the machine registry. This means that the steps above must be followed in every computer that uses the custom database, if you want the parameters to be automatically loaded.
Keywords: PRILJ; parameters; custom database; databank;
References: None |
Problem Statement: When GDOT has an error reading a tag.parm we get the log file message: Read error for OPC item…. Followed by: Execution skipped due to bad values (<iteration count>).
Regarding at this how are the prediction handled after the read error stop and all variables back to good status. | Solution: For a bad CV, prediction continues as normal, but the prediction bias is fixed. Once the bad CV becomes good again, the bias update is simply resumed.
In the case of a bad MV, prediction continues as normal using any other MV that affects the CV and the bias is updated as normal. If there is no movement in any valid MV signal that has an effect on the CV, then any change to the CV is absorbed in the initialization cycle for just that MV in order to prevent a prediction bumb.
Keywords: GDOT
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to export a Component List and Fluid Package information from Aspen HYSYS to Aspen Plus. | Solution: To export a component list and fluid package from Aspen HYSYS to Aspen Plus go to Component Lists folder in Aspen HYSYS and highlight the one you want to export. Click on Copy button and select Aspen Properties option on the Component List Type window and click on Copy. A new Aspen Properties Component List will be created.
The next step is to create a fluid package for this Aspen Properties component list. Go to Fluid Packages folder and click on Add dropdown menu and select Aspen Properties. Choose the Property Package you want to use.
Select the fluid package you want to export and go back to the Fluid Package main folder. Then highlight the Aspen Properties fluid package you just created (Basis-2) and click on Export button choosing the file type as Aspen Plus Backup File (*.bkp). Give a name to the file and save it.
Open the created file in Aspen Plus. You will see the components already specified.
If you see the Pseudocomponents folder unspecified, that means that no all the componenets where properly mapped.
Please review the following article with instructions of how to specify the pseudocomponets after exporting fluid package from Aspen Hysys:
How to correctly export hypocomponents from Aspen HYSYS to Aspen Plus.
Keywords: Export, Component List, Fluid Package, Properties
References: None |
Problem Statement: When you open the planning board and double click on an activity to bring up the activity editor, you may see the below message: | Solution: The issue is due to the AECTL1 not being fully configured. More specifically, the Split tab AESPLCTL control set AESMFG is not being filled for a lot of the facilities. Once those are filled, the error would be resolved.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: This knowledge base article describes on how to use Inventory Problems Report in Aspen Plant Scheduler | Solution: Inventory Problems Report
Inventory includes raw materials, work in progress and finished goods. Problems in inventory are usually inventory shortages that hinder production. Inventory Problems Report in Aspen Plant Scheduler can be used to view the inventory problems for the products associated with the schedule.
Accessing the Report
Open the Planning Board.
Click on the Format tab on the Ribbon.
Click on Report icon.
Click on Inventory Problems Report.
Using the Inventory Problems Report
Problem Start indicates the beginning of the inventory problem.
Duration indicates how long the problem exists.
Amt indicates the quantity by which the inventory falls short.
Tgt Inv and Max Inv are the minimum and maximum required levels of inventory.
Upper section of the report contains filters
Duration filter can be used to filter the report to view the inventory problems beyond the specified duration.
Amount Filter can be used to filter the report to view the inventory problems above the specified amount.
Material Filter can be used to view the inventory problems for selected materials.
Problems below zero and Problems below target can be used to view the inventory problems below zero or target inventory levels.
Users need to click the Refresh button to view the report based on applied filters.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to activate debug logging for the Aspen InfoPlus21 History Backup task TSK_HBAK. | Solution: 1. Open the Aspen InfoPlus21 Manager
2. Locate TSK_HBAK in the defined tasks list and double click on it.
3. Edit the Command line parameters by adding "-d1"
4. Click Update
5. Stop and start TSK_HBAK
Keywords:
References: None |
Problem Statement: What products are new in aspenONE V10? | Solution: aspenONE Engineering Suite:
Aspen Basic Engineering Activated Datasheet
Aspen Plus Batch
aspenONE Manufacturing Suite:
Aspen Unified PIMS
Aspen Watch Centralized Monitoring
AtOMS Browser
AORA Data Service
KeyWords
License upgrade
ALDA
new license
V10
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: The steam valve not working as designed in my Aspen Batch Modeler simulation. The pot temperature never increased to the set temperature. | Solution: You need to check the settings of the steam valve. Under "Controllers" - "SteamValve" - "Parameters", make sure the Action is set to "Rev" instead of "Dire". Action determines which way the output is moved in response to changes in the process variable. For Direct action, if the process variable increases, the output increases. For Reverse action, if the process variable increases, the output decreases. Here for the steam valve, the process variable is the pot temperature, and the output is the steam flow rate. When the pot temperature increases, the controller should let the steam flow rate decrease. Therefore, you need to set it as Reverse action.
If the pot temperature is not changing quickly enough, you may need to increase the Gain and decrease the Integral time to get better sensitivity.
Keywords: Controllers
Direct action
Reverse action
References: None |
Problem Statement: This knowledge base article describes on how to perform Bulk Edit in SCM Data Viewer Screens | Solution: 1. Select the values to be modified.
2. Right click on the selected values and select Bulk Edit.
3. Select an operation in the Operation drop down list
4. Type in the desired value
5. Click Apply
Selecting “=” as the operation will set all selected values in the table equal to the typed value. Selecting “*” will multiply all selected values in the table by the typed value (for example – to increase all the selected starting inventory by 20%, select “*” as the operation and type 1.2 as the value). Selecting “/” will divide all selected values in the table by the typed value. Selecting “+” will add the typed value to all selected values in the table. Selecting “- “will subtract the typed value from all selected values in the table.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I model Insulated Vessel blowdown under Fire scenario? | Solution: Use the Stephan Boltzman Fire equation or fix an external heat flux using Applied Duty (just set C1 to a value and the remaining constants to zero). Add the insulation by using the 'detailed' heat loss model. Make sure you have checked the "Apply duty stream to outside wall" checkbox, which will ensure the fire duty is applied on the outer most wall ie the external surface of the insulation.
'Detailed' Heat loss model is not recommended with API 521 Fire method in HYSYS. This is because API 521 Fire model does not take into account the vessel mass and conductivity.
Keywords: Blowdown, Fire scenario, Stephan Boltzman Fire equation, Insulation, API 521 Fire method
References: None |
Problem Statement: Is there an easy way to export bulk variables from Aspen HYSYS into ASW? | Solution: The easiest way is using the Workbook found in the Home (ribbon) | Summaries. Please find below the procedure:
1) Under the Simulation environment, go to Home (ribbon) | Summaries | Workbook.
2) Right-click and "Select-All" the stream results for all the streams and then click on "Copy".
3) Afterwards, go to Navigation Pane | Data Tables then create a new one and right-click and paste all these copied variables.
4) Having done that, click on "Send to Excel" button and under the Export Data Tables window toggle on the option: "Export variable link information with tables to enable live links using ASW" then "Export tables to Excel".
5) All those variables will be available on the ASW organiser. See screenshot for reference:
Keywords: Variables Exporting, ASW, Workbook.
References: None |
Problem Statement: DMC3 Builder would crash upon opening an existing project. You have tried to recover the project following KB 46924 but were not successful, you suspect one of the datasets or the applications is corrupted. | Solution:
Recovering corrupted datasets:
To reconstruct a corrupted dataset (most likely you will lose global slices, and the dataset name in the process), do the following.
Open a new project in DMC3 Builder.
Click on the Datasets node and choose Import Dataset and Import any example dataset file like the crude.clc dataset example (just to get a dataset structure in the project).
Save the project and exit DMC3 Builder.
Open the new project file in Windows explorer and access the APC\dataset0 folder.
Delete all the files in the new dataset0 folder except for: datasetwrapper.base and datasetwrapper.native. (These two files are the most likely components of a dataset to get corrupted)
Copy all files from the corrupted APC\dataset0 folder to this new folder (except for the corrupted datasetwrapper.base and datasetwrapper.native files).
Exit Windows explorer and try to open the new project in DMC3 Builder.
If it opens, you now have most of the dataset recovered. You’ll notice that the dataset name has your example dataset name but you can rename that.
If multiple datasets need repair, repeat steps 2-6 for the next dataset.
Recovering corrupted application files:
Recovering application snapshots is more difficult. There is already some corruption recovery logic in DMC3 Builder that can often automatically recover corruptions for applications. If this does not work, then you must use the project.contents file to remove all applications, and then add them back in one-by-one. You should also remove the application folders out of the new project and move them back individually from the old corrupted project as you add the application back. Hopefully, only one of the application snapshots will be corrupted and you will be able to recover the majority of other application snapshots in this way.
If this procedure doesn't work, please contact Aspentech support.
Keyword:
DMC3 Builder, corrupted dataset, corrupted application
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: What is the meaning of double banking in the plate exchanger? | Solution: In a normal (i.e. single banked) plate heat exchanger the hot and cold streams flow in alternate channels ensuring that any two adjacent channels contain hot and cold streams. In a double banked plate heat exchanger some of the hot (or cold) channels are adjacent to each other.
The Plate program can handle both fully or partially double banked plate heat exchangers. While handling a partially double banked exchanger, the Plate program assumes that the double banking is uniformly distributed within the exchanger.
Plate can handle double banking for single pass exchangers. Multipass exchangers are not generally double banked
In order to use the double banking option, select which stream is double banked from the drop-down list.
KeyWords: double banking, plate exchanger
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to check if Report Writer has the same output in V11 as old version? | Solution: You will need to run the same model and publish results in the same way. This is a pre-requisite for getting the same report from Report Writer. After you made sure the results are the same in the model, you can go to Excel and run Report Writer to generate the reports. Here is a general guideline on how to do that:
Create the Aspen Report Writer queries necessary to generate custom Aspen Report Writer reports.
Generate table TW_Library if it is missing. The TW_library table is required in models producing custom Aspen Report Writer reports.
Note: For additional information about Aspen Report Writer and custom reports, see the Aspen Report Writer Help.
To create (add) the necessary Aspen Report Writer queries in a model stored in Access:
From the Event interface, click Simulator | Publish | Create RW Queries.
To create queries in a model stored on an SQL Server:
From the Event interface, click Simulator | Publish | Create RW Queries.
Note: The system saves the SQL_Server_Create_Views.sql file in the local working directory. (See User Settings tab on the Settings dialog box for the location of the local working directory.)
Run the SQL_Server_Create_Views.sql file on the server to create the queries.
Run the SQLServer_Create_N_Fill_TWLibrary.sql file on the server to create table TW_Library.
–or–
Launch the DBManager, which is located in same folder as the program executable (.exe) file.
Note: The location of the script is displayed in an informational message. Please make note of the path before proceeding.
Click Create RW Queries | OracleServer to generate the Oracle_Create_Views.sql file.
Run the SQL_Server_Create_Views.sql file on the server to create the queries.
Run the SQLServer_Create_N_Fill_TWLibrary.sql file on the server to create table TW_Library.
To queries in a model stored on an Oracle Server:
From the Event interface, click Simulator | Publish | Create RW Queries.
Note: The system saves the SQL_Server_Create_Views.sql file in the local working directory. (See User Settings tab on the Settings dialog box for the location of the local working directory.)
Run the Oracle_Server_Create_Views.sql file on the server to create the queries.
Run the Oracle_Create_N_Fill_TWLibrary.sql file on the server to create table TW_Library.
–or–
Launch the DBManager, which is located in same folder as your Petroleum Scheduler or Multi-Blend Optimizer executable (.exe) file.
Note: The location of the script is displayed in an informational message. Please make note of the path before proceeding.
Click Create RW Queries | OracleServer to generate the Oracle_Create_Views.sql file.
Run the Oracle_Server_Create_Views.sql file on the server to create the queries.
Run the Oracle_Create_N_Fill_TWLibrary.sql file on the server to create table TW_Library.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to customize generation of Hypos in the petroleum characterization?
Quite often the default settings in Aspen Plus will suffice to model petroleum assays in flowsheet simulations. Typically, based on the distillation data provided by the user, a working TBP curve is generated by Aspen Plus engine and the fractions of pseudocomponents are optimized to provide a close match with the input distillation data.
However, in some cases closer match between the input distillation data and the simulated results are required. | Solution: In the attached file (characterized.bkp) identical ASTM D2887 data have been provided for the two assays “cuts” and “simple”.
The petrocharacterization solver has optimized the fractions of pseudocomponents as shown in the screen shot below for the “SIMPLE” assay:
And similarly for the “CUTS” assay as shown in the screen shot below:
All the default setting in Aspen Plus have been used in the pertoleum characterization for these two assays, except that the number of cuts have been specified to be the default 1 cut per temperature interval for the “SIMPLE” assay :
And 2 cuts per temperature intervals for the “cuts” assay, as shown in the screen shot below. Needless to say that more cuts will mean more accurate representation of the input distillation data:
The “SIMPLE” and “CUTS” assays have been used in streams “SIMPLE” and “CUTS” respectively. The PROP-SET D2887CRV has been defined to display the simulated distillation data in the stream results.
In the stream results, the simulated D2887 result by the two assays “CUTS” and “SIMPLE” can be compared with the input distillation data and it will be seen that a closer match has been obtained when we define more cuts per temperature intervals.
Keywords: Petroleum Characterization, number of cuts, pseudocomponents
References: None |
Problem Statement: In V11, how to workaround the issue when sometimes PIMS model run fine for a while, returns optimal solution, and then the entire application exists on itself? Everything disappeared suddenly and exits to desktop. | Solution: This is a known issue in V11 and will be fixed in CP1. The workaround for now is deselect "Create !PGUESS_AO Excel file" in Model Settings -> Reporting -> Outputs.
This issue only occurs in V11 AO and none of the other versions. You may find your model running well in old versions and V11 DR, but when the above description happens, try this workaround.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: Using DMCplus Simulate gives a different solution than DMC3 Builder Simulation in some cases. | Solution: The simulator inside DMC3 Builder is using the predicted values from the controller engine to wrap around the next values of the CV, rather than using an internal plant model as DMCplus does. This was done to improve the efficiency of the simulator and it works well most of the time. However, it can introduce some minor errors in the solution when IPSKIP has a value greater than 1.
IPSKIP is the number of predictions per interval and is the ratio of model coefficients (IPXNCI) to controller coefficients (IPNCI).
The number of controller coefficients is limited to a maximum value of 120. This limit was put in place to save computational time and improve the simulator’s efficiency. Based on the user settings of Controller Frequency and Time to Steady State (TTSS), the number of model coefficients calculated by the engine may surpass 120 and result in an IPSKIP value greater than 1. An example of when this situation would occur is when Controller Frequency (time period between runs) is set to 1 minute and TTSS is greater than 120 seconds.
When IPSKIP is greater than 1, the simulator’s internal engine will re-sample the model data to fit the limit of 120 coefficients. For example, if there is a 1-minute model with 240 model coefficients, it will internally re-sample the data to be a 2-minute model with 120 coefficients. It uses this model to calculate the move plan and closed-loop predictions. Finally, it will use this prediction of 2 minutes to interpolate for a prediction of 1 minute. This result is only an approximation and not the exact CV value.
DMCplus Simulate does not experience this issue because the solution that is presented to the user utilizes an internal plant model to calculate for the CV. Therefore, it does not require re-sampling of data and interpolation of results.
There are two possible workarounds in DMC3 Builder’s simulator:
Workaround 1: Use a copy of the controller application as the Plant Model
Create a copy of the application in DMC3 Builder.
Launch the simulation option in the original application and select the copy as Plant Model.
Workaround 2: Force IPSKIP to equal to 1 by changing the move settings*
Select ‘Move Settings’ in the Tools Ribbon of the Simulator:
Select ‘Use custom moves’ and set it to 15 (this should set IPSKIP to 1). Do NOT check the ‘Use expanded blocking’ option.
*Please note: changing the number of moves can slightly change the tuning. Be sure to simulate to see if the move suppression needs to be changed.
This is a known defect in DMC3 Builder’s simulator and will be fixed in V11 CP1, V12, and higher versions.
Keywords: simulate, simulation, dmcplus, dmc3, builder, difference, wrong, solution, defect, ipskip, ipxnci, ipnci
References: None |
Problem Statement: On a multi-CPU server (either physical or virtual), AspenTech recommends setting the affinity of all Aspen Infoplus.21 related processes to the same CPU or possibly placing all the Aspen InfoPlus.21 server API tasks (TSK_ORIG_SERVER, TSK_ADMIN_SERVER, TSK_APEX_SERVER, TSK_EXCEL_SERVER, TSK_DEFAULT_SERVER, and TSK_BATCH21_SERVER) on one CPU, the rest of the Aspen InfoPlus.21 processes on another.
NOTE: From V9.0 and onward you can now set the affinity from the Aspen InfoPlus.21 manager.
Before V9.0 the Aspen InfoPlus.21 Manager does not allow you to choose the CPU to use for Aspen InfoPlus.21 processes. How can you set the affinity of Aspen InfoPlus.21 processes when starting Aspen InfoPlus.21? | Solution: Windows Powershell allows you to change the affinity of running processes. The general command is:
$Process = get-process ImageName; foreach ($p in $Process) {$p.ProcessorAffinity=CPUNum}
where ImageName is the name of an executable image
and
CPUNum is the CPU number on which you want to the image to run.
· CPUNum = 1 means run the process on CPU 0
· CPUNum = 2 means run the process on CPU 1
· CPUNum = 4 means run the process on CPU 2
· CPUNum = 8 means run the process on CPU 3
· CPUNum = 2^n means run the process on CPU n
For example the commands
$Process = get-process cimio_c_client; foreach ($p in $Process) {$p.ProcessorAffinity=4}
$Process = get-process cimio_c_async; foreach ($p in $Process) {$p.ProcessorAffinity=4}
$Process = get-process cimio_c_unsol; foreach ($p in $Process) {$p.ProcessorAffinity=4}
$Process = get-process cimio_c_changeover; foreach ($p in $Process) {$p.ProcessorAffinity=4}
set the affinity of the Aspen Cim-IO client tasks for all the logical devices on the Aspen InfoPlus.21 server to CPU 2.
The command
$Process = get-process iqtask; foreach ($p in $Process) {$p.ProcessorAffinity=2}
sets the affinity of all the IQ tasks (i.e. TSK_IQn) to CPU 1.
The command
$Process = get-process infoplus21_api_server; foreach ($p in $Process) {$p.ProcessorAffinity=2}
sets the affinity of TSK_ADMIN_SERVER, TSK_EXCEL_SERVER, TSK_APEX_SERVER, TSK_DEFAULT_SERVER, TSK_ORIG_SERVER and TSK_BATCH21_SERVER to CPU 1 since all these processes use the executable image infoplus21_api_server.exe.
Attached to this solution is a batch file that sets the affinity of the Aspen InfoPlus.21 server API tasks (TSK_ORIG_SERVER, TSK_ADMIN_SERVER, TSK_APEX_SERVER, TSK_EXCEL_SERVER, TSK_DEFAULT_SERVER, and TSK_BATCH21_SERVER) to CPU 2 and the rest of the Aspen InfoPlus.21 processes to CPU1.
Copy Affinity.txt to the Aspen InfoPlus.21 code folder and rename it to Affinity.bat.
You may edit Affinity.bat to match your needs.
Next, open the Aspen InfoPlus.21 Manager and add TSK_AFFINITY as the last item in the defined task list. Uncheck the External Task box for TSK_AFFINITY. Browse to the file Affinity.bat in the Aspen InfoPlus.21 code folder to select the executable image for TSK_AFFINITY to execute. This mechanism allows you to set the affinity of all the Aspen InfoPlus.21 processes when starting Aspen InfoPlus.21.
From time to time, Aspen InfoPlus.21 related processes may restart. When this happens, the affinity of the restarted processes will be cleared. To reset the affinity of restarted processes, create a periodically-activated query that executes the batch file as follows:
1. Use the SQLPlus query writer to create the query:
system 'C:\"Program Files"\AspenTech\InfoPlus.21\db21\code\affinity.bat';
Note: The path to the InfoPlus.21 code folder may be:
C:\"Program Files (x86)"\AspenTech\InfoPlus.21\db21\code
2. Save the query as a CompQueryDef record named ResetAffinity
3. Use the Aspen InfoPlus.21 Administrator to schedule the query periodically.
Keywords: affinity
References: None |
Problem Statement: Aspen Capital Cost Estimator (ACCE) V10 New 8 Digit Externa Code of Accounts (COA) File | Solution: A new 8-digit external Code of Accounts (COA) file is now included in the out-of-box installation of Economic Evaluation products. This external COA named ‘AspenTech_8Digit’ defines and allocates detailed code of accounts for equipment, piping, civil, steel, electrical and instrumentation bulks. Having a detailed COA enables the users to calibrate their project at a more detailed level through indexing or detailed unit rate estimation. This file is meant to be an example and a starting point for users to duplicate and extend to suit the needs of their projects and in-house standards.
Keywords: V10, New, 8 Digit, COA
References: None |
Problem Statement: Aspen Calc has formulas that rely on components from Aspen Properties. For v11, Aspen Properties has discontinued their 32-bit version and replaced it with 64-bit components. Aspen Calc has updated their components (and associated formulas) to work with the new 64-bit component from Aspen Properties.
The consequences of the above-mentioned change are as follows:
If a customer site is using the 32-bit Aspen Calc Service (aka. CalcScheduler), then customer calculations and formulas that reference the Aspen Calc formulas which are based on Aspen Properties will no longer work. The site should use the 64-bit Aspen Calc Service.
Aspen Calc provides an example Aspen Properties file named, aromatics.aprbkp. In the past, this file was pre-processed using the matching Aspen Properties version and delivered in the Aspen Calc install media. This allowed the example calculation which is based on that file to work out-of-the-box. For v11, the aromatics.aprbkp file is not pre-processed and so before executing the example calculation, the aromatics.aprbkp must be pre-processed using Aspen Properties. | Solution: The steps to pre-process the aromatics.aprbkp file are provided in the attached document, entitled ‘Configuring Aspen Calc to Integrate with Aspen Properties.docx’.
Please download and review it to learn about the Best Practices to follow when integrating Aspen Calc with Aspen Properties.
Keywords:
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I log in to access support resources in aspenONE Exchange? | Solution: aspenONE Exchange is a feature that is integrated in Aspen products.
To run aspenONE Exchange, click the All Content button within the Aspen Product.
All content that is available within aspenONE Exchange will display. If the content is not displaying, review KB 92409 and verify your computer can access the aspenONE exchange server.
To access the content, click the Log in button.
Type in your Aspen Support Website Username and Password and click OK.
If you do not have an Aspen Support account, please visit our Registration Page.
Keywords: aspenONE Exchange
Manufacturing and Supply Chain
Engineering
References: None |
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