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Problem Statement: : | Solution: Lead Alkyl Susceptibility Relationships
Lead susceptibility graph paper has been used for many years to estimate octane number at any lead level when octane numbers at two lead levels are known. Using these charts, a straight line drawn through two points approximates the entire octane number versus lead concentration relationship. The charts have linear octane scales and non linear lead concentration scales which are given below. The basis for these scales is discussed later. Recently these scales have been put in equation form so that computers can be used for gasoline blending calculation
KeyWords:
lead
additive
blending
DuPont
dupont
susceptibility
alkyl
octane
research
motor
road
TEL
tetraethyl
tetramix
TML
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to print Aspen PIMS documentation and help? | Solution: The electronic copy of the System
Keywords: None
References: Manual (also called user guide or user manual) is no longer delivered with Aspen PIMS installation as the same information is now in the Help file. If you need paper copy of the document or any help topic, print from the online Help.
To print the Help topics within a specific book:
1. From the Aspen PIMS Help system, go to Help Topics -> Contents, select a topic, then click the Print button to display the Print Topics dialog box.
2. Select the "Print the selected Heading and all subtopics" to print all the topics within the selected book.
To print a topic and all the topics that are linked to the topic:
1. From the Aspen PIMS Help system, display the topic you want to print.
2. Right-click anywhere in the body of the topic to display a context (right-click) menu, and then select Print to display the Print dialog box.
3. Select the Options tab, and then select the "Print all linked documents" option to print the current topic and any topics that are linked to the current topic. For example, if you use this print option from the What's New topic, you would print the What's New topic and all the topics that are linked to the What's New topic. |
Problem Statement: SLM is the new licensing system that is being used for all Aspentech products as of the aspenONE release. The aspenONE release contains version 2004 of the PIMS Family products. Before aspenONE is shipped, clients must specify how they would like the licensing for the products set up. There are several options for the PIMS Family products with SLM and these are summarized below. | Solution: There are several options for licensing configuration with SLM and the aspenONE release of the PIMS Family products. You must choose how you would like your products licensed before our Order Administration group can process your upgrade request. Below is a summary of the options and how to properly request them.
Standalone, Dongle-free, Hardware-locked key
This configuration does not use a dongle. It is a license file that is linked to a specific PC. Each PIMS Family product user will have a different key file saved on their machine. When requesting this type of license, please state that you would like a "standalone, dongle-free, hardware locked key" and include the corresponding configuration data. This configuration data is generated by running the utility that can be reached at the following link:
http://support.aspentech.com/webteamasp/My/FrameDef.asp?/webteamasp/UpgradeOrder/DongleFreeInstructions.asp
Standalone, Dongle-free, Domain-locked key
This configuration does not use a dongle. This is a single license file that is linked to a specific domain name and saved on the PC of each PIMS Family product user. Typically most, if not all, users at a single site are on the same domain. Therefore, this single key can usually be copied and used by all the PIMS Family product users at a site. When requesting this type of license, please state that you would like a "standalone, dongle-free, domain-locked key". You will need to run the configuration utility on one PC that is on the desired domain and send that in with your request. This configuration data is generated by running the utility that can be reached at the following link:
http://support.aspentech.com/webteamasp/My/FrameDef.asp?/webteamasp/UpgradeOrder/DongleFreeInstructions.asp
Standalone Dongle
This configuration means that each user of a PIMS Family product will have a dongle on their PC and a corresponding license file saved on their machine. No configuration information is necessary and when requesting, please state that you wish to have "Standalone Dongles" and how many you need (ie, one for each user). When additional users are added, additional dongle(s) will need to be requested from Aspentech.
Network Dongle
This configuration means you will be sent a dongle which will reside on a network server. All users of PIMS Family products will need to be connected to the network server to access the license key and be able to use the products. No configuration information is necessary and when requesting, please state that you wish to have a "Network Dongle". When new users are added, they can simply connect to the same network server and access the license.
If you have any additional questions about the licensing options or which would best serve your needs, please contact PIMS Support.
KeyWords
license
SLM
dongle
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: Sometimes PIMS seems to take a very long time to read my input tables. This is especially noticable when it involves the CASE table, since it delays the display of the Run Execution Dialog Box. What can I do to speed this up? | Solution: If your input tables are in Excel 95 format (or a combined format that includes Excel 95), then PIMS can read them much faster. This is because PIMS can read this format directly without accessing Excel itself. However due to changes in Excel, PIMS must access Excel and use it to read input tables that are of a later format. This can cause considerable delays. Therefore re-saving your input tables in Excel 95 (or combined) format will speed things up.
Another way to speed up the reading of the file is to eliminate any unnecssary data from the file. Sometimes the CASE table is one sheet in a spreadsheet that contains a lot of supporting data (raw prices, database dumps, etc.). Reducing the file size will also help speed up the reading of the table information.
KeyWords
speed
Excel
spreadsheet
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: The model is set-up to sell a stream on a volume basis in a weight based model. When the model is run, it generates an optimizer error of the type shown below. What can cause this?
XPRESS Optimizer
? 98 Error: At line
729
no match for row VBALUR2
CPLEX Optimizer
CPLEX Error 1448: Line 729: 'VBALUR2' is not a row name.
These messages mean that the matrix reader encountered one or more rows in the columns section of the MPSPROB.MPS file that were not contained in the rows section of that file. | Solution: A possible cause of this problem is that the model has several ALTTAGS tiers and at least one of them has not been flagged as VOL in table sell. Putting a "1" under VOL for the offending stream will solve the problem.
KeyWords:
alttags
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: When running PIMS using the XPRESS optimizer, you sometimes see the message "unable to remove shift infeasibilities" in the iteration log. | Solution: When solving numerically difficult problems, the optimizer may temporarily shift variable bounds by small amounts. The warning message "unable to remove shift infeasibilities" arises when the optimizer is unable to restore the original bound.
Getting this message indicates that the model is over constrained and the optimizer cannot find a way to a solution.
Examine the solution and look for high marginal value(s). Relax the cause of the the high marginal value(s) and the model should solve without the warning message appearing.
KeyWords
XPRESS
Infeasibilities
Shift
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: The modeling of a contaminant removal process such as a hydrodesulfurization unit can be as simple or as complex as the modeler feels necessary. Through the use of various options within the PIMS system, the modeler can structure the contaminant removal in several ways. The modeling of the severity of process operation adds a level of complexity and model accuracy not found in other structures. | Solution: Please see the attached document.
Keywords:
References: None |
Problem Statement: When do I need a new license file for products in the PIMS Family (PIMS, ORION, DPO, MBO, and Report Writer)? | Solution: The need for a new license file occurs anytime the internal version number of the product changes. Recently this has occurred per the chart below:
aspenONE 2004 - all products switched to SLM licensing system and required new license files
aspenONE 2004.1 - all PIMS Family products changed their internal version numbers and therefore new licenses were required. An aspenONE 2004 license will not work for aspenONE 2004.1 versions.
aspenONE 2004.2 - no licensing changes are being made for this release and no new license files will be required for the PIMS Family products. aspenONE 2004.1 licenses will be valid.
aspenONE 2006 - This release is expected in late 2006. At this time it is expected that the products will again change the internal version numbers and new license files will be required.
HOW TO OBTAIN A NEW LICENSE FILE
1) Go to the support website at http://support.aspentech.com
2) Click on UPGRADE REQUEST on the left side menu
3) Login. If you do not have an account on the support website, you will need to first register. It usually takes about 24 hours to setup a new account due to governmental control regulations that we must comply with.
4) Fill out the UPGRADE REQUEST form completely. Select the "Planning, Scheduling, and Blending" for PIMS Family products. Make sure you specify your SITE ID (System Name) and provide as much information as you can about how you would like your license configured. The main points are:
a) Standalone (resides on user's PC) or Network (resides on network license server)?
b) Dongle or dongle-free
c) If dongle-free, select and provide the locking configuration data per the form instructions.
Keywords:
References: None |
Problem Statement: ?o?????U???I???U?????I?u?????h?E`??e?e?????E?X?g?S?[?????C?I?????E???f???>??? | Solution: ?Y?t?I???f???I???I?a`e?I?a??? ?e?B?@???I???f?????I?X?g?S?[?? zzz ?I???U SCD1 ?U???I ?u?????h?>?iZZZ?E?a?s?-?BZe?????E???E?a?????e?B
1) ?e?[?u?? ASSAYS?E?X?g?S?[??zzz???Y?e???e. ???I?a???I100% ?P???V???????????A???e. ?
2) ESTzzz ?s??Table CRDDSTL ?E?e?`?????I?X?g?S?[?????K???Ecrude unit?????????e?e?????E???e
3) zzz???V?????u?????hZZZ?ISi???????A?Y?e???e?B???e?I?E???I?I?X??SU??
a) ?V?????u?????hZZZ ??BLENDS?E?C?A???e
b) ?u?????h ZZZ ??Si?? zzz ?? BLNMIX?E?C?A???e
4) Si?? zzz ?? Table BUY?E?C?A???e
5) ?u?????h ZZZ ??Table SELL?E?C?A???e
?Y?t?I?a???I Case 2??ZA?s???e??PIMS??zzz?????u?E?z?u???e???????i???e
Keywords: crude
recycle
JP-
References: None |
Problem Statement: Is it possible to put an additive into a preblend? In other words, is it possible to put an additive into a specification blend that is a component to another specification blend? | Solution: You can put an additive into a preblend but its effect on the blend quality cannot be carried forward into another destination.
Suppose that your model has a preblend, called PRE, that feeds a finished blend, called FIN. PRE receives an additive. The reason for this limitation is related to the recursion structure of the preblend, PRE. The modeler must recurse the properties of PRE so that its properties can be "seen" by the final blend, FIN. The properties of PRE are recursed if the model inserts initial guesses for the properties of PRE.
However, the additive technology of PIMS causes some recursion structure to be set up for PRE. So, there are automatically-created rows and columns named RRONPRE and RMONPRE, where RON and MON are the research and motor octane numbers. When you put guesses in PGUESS for the RON and MON of PRE, it causes the model to try to add redundant structure.
Keywords:
References: None |
Problem Statement: PIMS can and will overwrite non-placeholder coefficients if they are in "update" positions.
An update position is a place where PIMS expects to update the coefficient with the current value of a property, regardless of the value of the coefficient. In general, this involves an intersection of a row that references a property (by having a property tag in characters 2-4) and a column name tag that has a value for this property.
The reader should keep in mind that properties in PIMS are tag based. In other words, properties that are associated with a stream tag in one part of the model can be accessed anywhere else in the model via that stream tag. | Solution: In the attached model, there are two submodels that demonstrate how PIMS can overwrite non-999 coefficients.
Submodel SCFP represents a feed pool for the cat cracking unit, SCCU. It is a normal pool structure with a couple of additions. Row GSULCFP is an attempt to constrain the weight % sulfur of the cat feed to 1.7 maximum. Note the entry of 1.7 in the pool collector column, CFP. The problem with this is that this coefficient is in an update position -- it is in a pool collector column and the row name indicates a property, SUL, that is recursed for this pool. Because of this, PIMS will update this 1.7 coefficient at every recursion step with the SUL of the pool.
The overwriting of the sulfur limit will have an unpredictable effect on the constraint. The constraint could become looser or tighter. In this case, the constraint became tighter.
The solution to this modeling problem is to introduce a new column. Please supress the spreadsheet originally attached to SCFP and un-surpress the spreadsheet labeled, "SCFP-correct." This revised version of the submodel uses a new column, SPC (for "specification"), to implement the constraint. PIMS will no longer overwrite the 1.7 coefficient.
Submodel SDUM is a dummy submodel that demonstrates a common way to access a property value. Row ESPGDUM uses a -999 coefficient under Column LN1. Because this column is fixed to 1.0, we expect Column MN1 to take on a value equal to the SPG of LN1. However, in this model, tag MN1 also has recursed properties, including SPG. So, PIMS will overwrite the coefficient of 1 in this column with the current value of the SPG of MN1. As a result, the column will take on a different activity than expected. In the Full Solution report, the SDUM section shows the expected value of column MN1 (which is the SPG of LN1) vs. the actual value (which is the SPG of LN1 divided by the SPG of MN1).
The solution to this modeling problem is to avoid using, in rows that reference properties, column name tags that have recursed properties, except for those columns that contain the "-999" placeholders. In this example, if we replaced column name MN1 with MMM, then PIMS would not overwrite the coefficient of "1".
KeyWords
recursion
overwrite
replace
coefficient
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: Caution: PIMS will give an error if all crudes allocated to a logical crude unit are disabled | Solution: Crudes can be removed from a PIMS model using the DISABLE column in Table BUY. Caution should be exercised in using this feature, however, because if all crudes allocated to a logical crude unit are disabled, then PIMS will generate an error message.
Crudes are allocated to a logical crude unit using Table CRDDISTL.
As of PIMS 14.0, the error message is cryptic, looking something like:
*** TABLE ZASSxxx NOT FOUND FOR REPLACEMENT ***
where xxx is the name of the logical crude unit. This error message should be made more descriptive in future versions.
The workaround for this problem is to remove the logical crude unit from the model, commenting out columns in CRDDISTL and CRDCUTS, commenting out the corresponding row in SUBMODS, and removing references to unique product streams in PGUESS and the submodel tables.
Another, perhaps simpler workaround for this problem would be to create a capacity row for the logical crude unit and set the MAX of this capacity to zero. Please make sure that the model is not forced to buy crude that it cannot process.
KeyWords
DISABLE
BUY
Crude
Logical Crude Unit
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: Of the problems experienced by the users of PIMS models, the most vexing usually fall into one of these categories:
Infeasible solutions
Materials out of balance
Failure to converge
Locally optimal solutions
This solution outlines how to address these categories of problems. | Solution: Please see the attached Adobe Reader (.pdf) document. It is based on a Powerpoint presentation that was first presented at the 2005 PIMS User Conference.
Materials out of balance are also covered in Solution 115634, "Diagnosing Materials Out of Balance."
KeyWords
infeasible
infeasibility
balance
imbalance
converge
nonconvergence
local
optimal
optimality
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: A capacity, purchase, sale, transfer, etc. needs to be turned off during a particular run. What is the best way to do this within PIMS? | Solution: Many times it is necessary to model a plant with particular purchases, sales, capacities, etc. turned off. There are multiple ways to do this and several options are discussed below.
MATERIAL STREAM: To disable a material stream and eliminate it from all parts of a model, use Table DISABLE. This will eliminate the indicated streams' matrix structure from BUY, SELL, blends, submodels, etc. There is a detailed explanation of what structure is removed in the PIMS HELP file under the description of Table DISABLE.
SUBMODELS: To disable an entire submodel and remove it from all parts of a model, enter a 1 in column DISABLE of Table SUBMODS. This will remove the matrix structure associated with the submodel, including:
? Recursion rows are removed from Table ROWS
? Submodel columns are removed from Table ROWS (pertains to global ROWS table also)
? Recursion pool collectors are removed from PGUESS as long as they are not used by other submodels
? Any entries in BOUNDS, MIP, RATIO, and GASPLANT that correspond to the disabled submodel are removed.
Please note that PCALC entries are not effected. Therefore if properties are PCALC?s via a disabled submodel, the result can be unresolved 999s in the other submodels.
INDIVIDUAL ITEMS: To turn off individual items such as Purchases, Sales, Capacities, Blend Capacities, Inventories, Transfers, etc. within their respective tables, there are generally two options. One is to set the MAX value of the item equal to zero, and the other is to use the DISABLE column to eliminate the item.
When the MAX value is set to zero, then the matrix structure of the item is preserved and the item is shut down. In the case of sales, capacities, transfers, and inventories, this will result in the corresponding error distributions being stripped out. If the item is turned on again in a subsequent case, the matrix must be regenerated to restore the error distributions. PIMS should do this automatically, but you can ensure this by using the keyword GENERATE in Table CASE for the case that reactivates the item. When the MAX is set to zero, PIMS will still calculate and report the marginal value of the stream.
In tables BUY, SELL, CAPS and PINV, a non-blank entry in the DISABLE column can be used to eliminate the item. This will remove structure associated with the selected item from the matrix. This can give the advantage of a smaller matrix with potentially faster run times.
KeyWords
distribution
off
disable
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: You have received your license file, but would like it configured differently. For example, you received a network dongle-free license and would like a dongled network license, or you received a network dongle and would like a standalone dongle or standalone, dongle-free license. | Solution: Send an email to [email protected]. In this email include a summary of what you would like changed. Be sure to include the following data:
1) Do you want a network or standalone license?
Network licenses reside on a network license server and users connect to that server to use the license.
Standalone licenses reside on the user's PC.
2) Do you want a license tied to a dongle or dongle-free?
3) If you want the license to be dongle-free, you need to let us know what you want the license locked to. Some choices are below:
a) ethernet address - valid for a single PC
b) preferred network - has been called a "domain" locked license. This type is for standalone licenses that are copied to each user's machine and valid for folks who have an unlimited use site license.
4) Provide the locking criteria if you do not want a dongle. This data can be copied and pasted into the email. To obtain the data, go to START | PROGRAMS | ASPENTECH | COMMON UTILITIES | SLM CONFIGURATION WIZARD. Click on CONFIG and a data window will open. In the bottom right corner click on COPY TO CLIPBOARD, then paste the data into your email. If this utility is not currently on your machine, then you can use the DVD's that came with your license to install it. Use DVD #3 and install the SLM TOOLS only.
Keywords: license
References: None |
Problem Statement: : | Solution: There are times when the LP study at hand involves looking at a change in contaminant removal across a unit. Normally, the relationship between a product contaminant level and a feed contaminant level is defined in PCALC. Changing a PCALC factor is not allowed in a case stacking run. As a result, the relationship between feed and product must be defined in submodel table structure. Once the relationship is defined in submodel structure, it becomes accessible in table CASE and can be changed.
KeyWords:
quality
pcalc
applications
Applications
PCALC
distributive
recursion
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: ABML (Aspen Blend Model Library) provides a portfolio of pre-defined linear and non-linear blending prediction methods and correlations.
The ABML portfolio can be expanded by adding user defined correlations using the following ABML functions:
? GBLNVAL
? GNDXR
? GPRPCALC
? UBML (User Blending Model Library)
The use of the GBLNVAL function is described here. It allows to calculate new properties for the blending components through the Property Calculation Formula to impose blending specification on those properties in the final blend. | Solution: In this example, we will model the property TVL (ASTMD 4814 TV/L Linear method to predict the temperature-V/L 20:1 values of Motor Gasoline (MoGas) blends) with the Property Calculation Formula facility and then access this formula through the ABML GBLNVAL function so that we can impose a blending specification to this property.
Aspen PIMS will calculate this property for all the blending components and then will perform a linear blend with these values to meet the specification defined in table BLNSPEC.
Attached is the model that includes these calculations.
Note: This property (TVL) can be created through table ABML with correlation TVL.
The following steps are required:
1. Add the formula to the Property Calculation Formula
In the Aspen PIMS Model Tree go to the Property Calculation Formula facility, and add a new Calculation as indicated in the figure below:
Three input properties are required to calculate the TVL: RVP (Reid Vapor Pressure, psi) , T10 (D86 T10) and T50 (D86 T50). These properties are provided in the model in table BLNPROP.
2. Access the new property in table AMBL through correlation GBLNVAL
In table ABML, introduce correlation GBLNVAL. No input is required, the output is the tag defined in the Property Calculation Formula (TVL in this case). This will ensure that the TVL property can now be used to impose a blending specification.
Up to 20 output properties can be identified in the OUTPUT section of function GBLNVAL.
3. Set up a Blending Specification for this property
Impose a specification in table BLNSPEC as required. In this example, a MIN TVL limit of 110 is imposed to all gasolines.
4. Review results for final blend
The property limit and the final value of the blend can be seen in the Specification Blend section of the FullSolution or Down/Across reports.
Keywords: ABML
GBLNVAL
Property Calculation Formula
References: None |
Problem Statement: What causes the reported property value of a crude cut stream to not match its index value?
Please refer to below example:
I have defined RVP values for LN1 crude cut stream in T.ASSAYS:
and used Property Calculation Formula to calculate RVI:
Aspen PIMS calculated following RVP and RVI values for LN1:
However backcalculating RVP manually I get a different result:
RVP = RVI^(1/1.25) = 20.0135^(1/1.25) = 10.9915
Where does this discrepancy come from? | Solution: The current reporting of the property value for an assay stream is calculated based on the EST rows in Table CRDDISTL and therefore will stay the same and is unlikely to be synchronized with the index value for the same stream. Other (non-crude cut) streams have relevant properties values that are back-calculated from the recursed indices values.
This is how Aspen PIMS works by design. However there is an enhancement request to change this behavior currently under consideration for a future release.
Keywords: index, property, back calculate, crude cut
References: None |
Problem Statement: : | Solution: In normal PIMS shift vector structure, a deviation in the base feed quality would usually cause a change in the yield of the product. The regular structure would have a shift vector intersect the material balance row, and if any qualities of the product were involved, they would be multiplied by the yield effect and be entered into the product quality recursion structure. Yields would adjust product of constant quality much like each N2A shift vector in the sample model shifts the reformate yield at the same quality as the base vector.
In many processes represented in an LP model there are situations where the presence of a quality in a feedstock to that process alters one or more qualities of the product of that process. One such example could be the change in benzene content of reformate as the feed NPA quality changed. There are two specific situations that must be addressed. The first is when there are yield effects associated with the quality change and when there are no yield effects. The adjustment equations are different.
KeyWords:
quality
submodel
applications
Applications
recursion
distributive
qualities
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: : | Solution: There are times when the use of the Distributive Recursion technology in PIMS can be used to model extremely complicated structure. There are situations where final blend qualities are utilized in calculating another blend quality that is used in the respective blend specification. An example of this is if a quality of the blend, say Qa, is to be used in the calculation of another blend quality, Qb. With this type of structural requirement, it is necessary to be able to capture the quality Qa of the blend and pass the calculated results into the appropriate matrix sturcture representing the calculating of quality Qb.
KeyWords:
recursion
distributive
Applications
applications
unconventional
submodel
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: My model runs for many iterations without converging. It does not converge on properties, although the objective function is relatively constant from iteration to iteration. Is there a way to automatically terminate the model run? | Solution: Under Distributive Recursion, PIMS offers two different convergence modes: Converge on Property Values and Converge on Objective Function Values. In the case of the model behavior described above, it would be desirable to switch the convergence mode from property values to objective function value. PIMS does not, at present, provide the capability of automatically switching between convergence modes.
If the user is watching the monitor during the PIMS run and is using PIMS version 2004.1, the solution progress chart will show this behavior, as shown below:
The user can halt the recursion manually using the keystroke combination <alt>-i. But the user may not be watching the monitor all of the time, so an automatic method of halting the recursion would still be useful.
The key to this proposed technique is to maintain a memory of objective function values from pass to pass. Normally, a PIMS model is only aware of its state at the current recursion pass. The trick here is to build memory of a number of past objective functions into the PIMS model. We accomplish this using the PIMS Simulator Interface (PIMS-SI), a layered product which is licensed by many PIMS users to link nonlinear simulators to PIMS models. For this solution, we use a very simple "simulator," implemented in entirely in Excel.
The PIMS-SI server consists of an Input sheet, and Output sheet, with other calculation sheets in between. In our example model, the Input sheet reads the pass number, the number of recursed items out of tolerance, the objective function value, the solution status, and the case number. The Input sheet is also configured to read some column values: STOPOB1, STOPOB2, STOPOB3, etc. These belong to a dummy submodel, called STOP, which implements the objective function "memory."
When implementing this solution, we need to decide how many objective function values to consider to determine if the objective function has converged. Let us call this number M. In the example model attached to this solution, M=20.
Submodel STOP has M columns. The submodel also has a number of equality rows equal to M-1. Column OBJ is fixed to 1.0. At the intersections between column OBJ and the equality rows, we will store coefficients equal to the negative of the objective function values for the last M-1 recursion passes. The equality rows set the remaining column values of STOP equal to these coefficients. This is how we force the model to "remember" the objective function values for the previous M-1 recursion passes. The following graphic shows the correspondence between the current pass objective function and column values and the coefficients of STOP.
Note how this technique shifts the previous value of the objective functions. The current objective function value becomes the value of column STOPOB1. The previous pass objective function, which used to be the value of STOPOB1, becomes the value of STOPOB2, etc. The following graphic shows how the Output sheet sets the values of the STOP coefficients for the next pass.
Note that there is a return code in the Output sheet. If the return code is +1, then PIMS will keep iterating. If the return code is -1, then the iteration will terminate. The return code is computed in a table that is part of the Output sheet. This table is shown below.
This table compares the minimum and maximum objective function values for the last 5, 10, 15, and 20 passes. If the difference (DELTA OBJ) is less than the tolerance for any of these sets, then the return code is set to -1.
Attached is a simple example model that contains the PIMS-SI STOP technique described above.
KeyWords
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: In this situation a number of feeds are simultaneously processed in a unit with variable operating conditions, such as severity or reactor temperature. Yield vectors are available for each feed at each operating condition, but the non linear relationships prevent accurate modeling of the product mix by means of a single severity or temperature adjuster to a base or set of base yield vectors. This situation is illustrated by the simplistic model shown in table SCRK in which three feeds C3F, C4F, and NAP are processed at a reactor temperature in the range 800 to 900 degrees. It is required here that the operating temperature for each feed be the same. This requirement is met by recursing on the temperature of the total pooled feed (property TMP) in pool RFD. This quality is then PCALCd to two dependent pools, C3T and C4T in respective rows ETMPC3F and ETMPC4F, which will require each individual feed to be processed at this same temperature. | Solution: See the attached document.
Keywords:
References: None |
Problem Statement: Is it possible to implement period-specific submodel coefficients in a PPIMS (multi-period PIMS) model? | Solution: There are several ways to implement period-specific submodel coefficients in PPIMS.
Technique 1: Period-Specific Submodel Tables
This technique uses separate submodel tables that are specific to each period. Since rows and columns in a submodel table cannot be period-specific, one can use period-specific capacity limits to turn these on or off.
In the example tables below, the modeler has replaced the reformer submodel table, SLPR, with three period-specific submodel tables, SLP1, SLP2, and SLP3. These are declared in Table SUBMODS. In Table CAPS, the modeler uses columns MAX1, MAX2, and MAX3 to turn on the submodel that is appropriate for each period, and to turn the others off.
Technique 2: Period-Specific Entries in Table ROWS
This technique involves over-writing the submodel coefficients by using period-specific rows and columns. Please refer to the example below. In this Table ROWS, the modeler uses eight-character row and column names instead of the seven-character row and column names usuall found in that table. The eight character is a period identifier. So, VBALR901 and SLPRR901 refer to period 1, VBALR902 and SLPRR902 refer to period 2, etc. At the intersection of the period-specific rows and columns are the coefficients that will over-write the default coefficient found in Table SLPR.
Technique 3: Period-Specific CASE Changes
This technique involves implementing period-specific changes to the submodel coefficients in Table CASE, using the PERIOD keyword. Please refer to the sample CASE table, below. The modeler sets up three cases (numbers 2, 3, and 4) to implement period-specific changes to Submodel SLPR. Because the PERIOD keyword can be used at most one time per case, each of these cases makes changes to one period and modifies the previous period. Cases 2 and 3 are not meant to be run. Case 4, containing changes to all three periods, is meant to be run.
KeyWords
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: : | Solution: Many processes in a refinery operate in different modes. That is, a process such as a crude still may have two different modes of operation that cannot occur simultaneously. For example, a crude still may have two modes of operation and there are different capacity limitations present for each of the two modes. In such a case, the LP solution representing an average day over some defined time horizon will show both modes operating. The LP must be able to calculate the amount of time processing in each mode and apply the capacities accordingly. This avoids the individual modes of operation from exceeding their respective capacities.
KeyWords:
submodel
mode
modal
modes
process
applications
Applications
capacity
capacities
throughput
limit
limits
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: PROCLIM?e?[?u???E???A?A?i?????e?e?v???Z?X?????I?T?u???f???E?????e?X?y?b?N?u?????h?I?????E?a?I???A?}?g?S?b?N?X?IZ??I?????????BSe?X?IZLIMXYZ?s?aZPRPXYZ?s??ZO?A?I?}?g?S?b?N?X?s???i?????e?U???B?A?U?eE,L,G?s???>?I??Z????\?i???U???B?U???E?A???A?Isolution 129960 ??ZQ?????A?-???????B
Su?e???IZLIMXYZ?s?aZPRPXYZ?s?I?????A?I?J?????W???IE?s?ESU?U?e?U???B?>?e?IPROCLIM???{Z??I?E?s?A?A???eS??eZZ?????e???\???A???U???B
?x?N?^?[??FREE???e?????e?????E???e?A?>?e?c??E?s?i???e?j?E?>?e?E???????E???e??????????e?E???A?APROCLIM?e?[?u???I?K?p?I?I???L???e?????E?E?e?U???B?U???E?A???A?Isolution 114406 ??ZQ?????A?-???????B | Solution: ?a???I???I?'???iFREE?x?N?^?[??E-?s???E?i?????e?E?>?e?E???j???C?I?????E?K?p???e????Z|???U???B
Cat Cracker feed pool??Atmospheric Resid ?IGasoils?E`I???e?a?|?????????e???????l?|?U???B???I?a???I?U?A?Igasoils (LV1, LV2, HV1, HV2, DCG) ???e?A?I Atmospheric Resid (AR2)??? ?e?U???B
???????A?A???????????I?I?E???I?a?|?E?E?e?U???B
AR2 / (LV1+ LV2 + HV1 + HV2 + DCG)
Su?e???IPROCLIM?I??Z??I?E???I?a?|?E?E?e?U???B?iAR2??SU?Y?U???j
AR2 / (LV1+ LV2 + HV1 + HV2 + DCG + AR2)
?????I?a?|???K?p???e?E?IAR2?J???????T?u???f??????FREE???e?????e?K?v??? ?e?U???B?>?e?E???A?A???e?ESU?U?e?U?-?E?e?U???B
?v???Z?X?????I?AR2?I???????I???A?>?e?I`S?A?IGasoil??0?E?E?e?AAR2???I100???????B
AR2?J?????IFREE?s?E1???u?I???A?>?I?J???????t?S?[?i?????A?j?????A?e?????U???B
???O?F?>?Y???I?I???IFREE??? ?e???????I?l??Z??e???????A?\?????B???????A???I??Z????I?>?I?????E?E?e?o?I?I?E???v???E???I???a`e? ?e?U?????B?i?E?[???E???I?l?E?E?e??????Sm?????e?E?I???I?J?????ECapacity???e?????e?????????
PROCLIM?e?[?u???E???????u?I???U???B
???e?I?}?g?S?b?N?X?I?\?????E?????B
??????Z|???e?e?????EAR2?J?????I???e???\??ELLIMARG?s?ESU?U?e?A???U?????B???????A?a?|?I??Zq?E`S?????eGLIMARG ?? LLIMARG?s?E?ISU?U?e?A???U???B
Keywords: Table PROCLIM
Process Limits
Free vectors
JP-
References: None |
Problem Statement: A custmer called with an installation problem. While attempting to install PIMS, the installation procedure failed and returned the following message:
"The file ABMLdll.dll cannot be opened in write mode." | Solution: The solution was to reboot the computer. The DLL file was resident in memory and could not be overwritten during installation.
KeyWords
install
installation
failure
DLL
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: : | Solution: It is possible to incorporate coefficients defined by the use of tables CURVE and NONLIN in distributive recursion structure (see chapter on Aniline Improver using CURVE and NONLIN above). The values from table CURVE, which are a function of some column activity in the matrix, then become "properties" which can be used elsewhere. In the example presented here, the sulfur in the coke is not a static multiplier of the sulfur in the feed but is, instead, a function of it. This requires the use of tables CURVE and NONLIN to define such a relationship.
KeyWords:
pcalc
PCALC
quality
qualities
recursion
distributive
applications
Applications
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: : | Solution: The atmospheric residuum produced in a PIMS model has qualities that include the bulk qualities of the residua itself plus the fractional contents of the vacuum cuts. It does not contain, however, any of the qualities of those vacuum cuts. Such qualities include specific gravity, metals, etc.
In a PPIMS model, the user may wish to inventory atmospheric residua for use in a later period. Under normal circumstances, the processing of the inventoried atmospheric residua will produce vacuum still products with the same bulk qualities as produced from the current activity of the crude still. That is, the intrinsic qualities of the vacuum cuts that are contained in the inventoried atmospheric residua are not handled.
KeyWords:
PPIMS
inventory
inventories
resid
residua
residuum
Applications
applications
recursion
distributive
qualities
quality
atmospheric
crude
tower
vacuum
still
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: : | Solution: There are some blending components, such as alcohol in gasoline, that have a non-linear blending quality for which there is no good index. In such cases, the user can either assume that the blending component is in the blend at a given concentration and use a constant quality, or use a PIMS recursion technology to model the non-linearity rigorously.
KeyWords:
blend
specification
blending
quality
qualities
variable
blendstock
component
applications
Applications
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to report % desulphurisation in a hydrotreater | Solution: The required structure can be seen in submodel SKHT, which is shown below and is also available in the downloadable attachment. SKHT is described below.
Row EPRDKHT drives the activity of column HTK to be the total amount of hydrotreated product produced.
Row EDFDKHT drives column ABC to have the same activity as column HTK. This new column will represent the feed entry in the reporting rows. It is necessary for the activity of this "feed" column to have the same activity as the product column as the reporting row structure uses property*tonnes, not just the property value, and using the actual feed quantity would distort the results.
The sulphur content of the feed KE1 is PCALCed to ABC
Row ESULKH1 drives the activity of column AAA to be the sulphur tonnes of the product
Row ESULKH2 drives the activity of column BBB to be the sulphur tonnes of the "reporting row structure" feed
The reporting rows, PNUMNUM0 and PDENDEN0, report the % desulphurisation.
Multiplying out the reporting rows gives:
(-100*SulP*QP+100*SulF*QF) / (SulF*QF)
where:
SulP is the sulphur content of the product
SulF is the sulphur content of the feed
QP is the quantity of the product
QF is the "reporting row" quantity of the feed
As QP=QF, the equation becomes:
(-100*SulP+100*SulF) / (SulF)
If SulF = 2% and SulP = 0.2%
% desulphurisation = (-100*0.2+100*2)/2 = 90%
KeyWords
Reporting
Desulphurisation
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: : | Solution: The P-PIMS representation of a stream inventory assumes that all the production in a given period passes through the modeled tank. That means the resultant material being processed downstream of the tank has as its qualities the recursed values of the residual heel from the previous period and the current production. This may not always be the case.
There are some situations where the inventory tank is not directly in the line of production. In situations such as this, inventory is added to when the downstream production cannot accommodate all the current production and is drawn down when there is a shortfall. In effect, there is a single line to and from the inventory tank and this line can only take on one direction at a time in a given period. In addition, the qualities of the tank change only when there is an excess production and the inventory is increased. This is the subject of this chapter.
KeyWords:
inventory
inventories
quality
qualities
running
gauge
static
tank
recursion
distirbutive
Applications
applications
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: This knowledge base article describes what "NaN" in the fullsolution report means. | Solution: The "NaN" value is sometimes displayed in the fullsolution report when there is a value that is outside the allowable range for Aspen PIMS. The largest value Aspen PIMS will handle for reporting is 10^30. Such values are usually the result of a data entry error and commonly involve Table ASSAYS or PGUESS. Review the area indicated by the NaN value in the fullsolution to determine and correct the offending data.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: This solution gives an overview of how the process of optimization works in Aspen PIMS for a distributive recursion model. | Solution: The optimization process from data input to solutions output can be described as the following 3 steps:
1. User input is retrieved by Matrix Generator
Matrix Generator retrieves the data in the model input files and automatically constructs an L.P. matrix that represents the process economics, process technology, and material balance of the process. The matrix is then written out in standard MPS format. It is also possible to produce a Matrix Listing report, which displays a listing of the L.P. matrix rows, sorted alphabetically by row name, or in row input order. Coefficients within each row are shown in column input order.
2. Matrix is optimized by Optimizer
The L.P. Optimizer employed in Aspen PIMS incorporates Xpress. Aspen PIMS reads the matrix from the file created by the Matrix Generator, optimizes the matrix, and writes out the optimal solution. The progress of the solution is tracked in the iteration log. Aspen PIMS also allows you to save the current solution to a file and input that solution as an advanced estimate to the solution for some future case.
3. Solution is reported by Solution Reporter
The Solution Reporter retrieves the optimized solution from the solution file and generates the reports selected by the user.
Keywords: Optimization, matrix generator, optimizer, Xpress, solution reporter
References: None |
Problem Statement: During model execution I can see a message "Processing table PDOLD" in the status bar in the bottom left hand corner of PIMS window. I do not have this table in my model structure.
What is table PDOLD and how is it used by PIMS? | Solution: Table PDOLD is an internal copy of table PDIST that is used during matrix generation. Even if there is no table PDIST in the model, table PDOLD is created with a single row. You can briefly see the message in the status bar even with no table PDIST.
Keywords: PDOLD
References: None |
Problem Statement: : | Solution: Many times in sophisticated LP modeling there is a need to model a cross product of two qualities. Such a requirement may arise from modeling equations within the submodel structure. This example will demonstrate how to model the cross product of two qualities. The first example will be for a specification blend and the second example will be for a normal recursed pool.
KeyWords:
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: : | Solution: The formulation of gasoline determined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency contains limitations on the benzene content (among others) of the fuel. Refiners must be very careful to limit the production of benzene which ends up in gasoline.
Reforming traditionally served as the incremental octane source for a refiner's gasoline pool. Unfortunately, reformers also produce benzene from precursors such as methyl-cyclo hexane in the reformer feed. Also, the higher the reformer severity the more benzene that is produced. The refiner must limit the benzene in gasoline by removing the benzene precursors from the feed and operating at lower severities.
KeyWords:
quality
reformer
reforming
recursion
distributive
applications
Applications
benzene
Benzene
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: : | Solution: The modeling of a contaminant removal process such as a hydrodesulfurization unit can be as simple or as complex as the modeler feels necessary. Through the use of various options within the PIMS system, the modeler can structure the contaminant removal in several ways. The modeling of the severity of process operation adds a level of complexity and model accuracy not found in other structures.
KeyWords:
contaminant
sulfur
removal
HDS
submodel
recursion
distributive
pcalc
PCALC
hydrodesulfurization
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: : | Solution: A typical representation of an HDS unit contains one or more feeds as candidates for removal of the contaminant, in this case sulfur. Usually, there is some fraction multiplier for the sulfur in the product as it relates to the sulfur in the feed. If there is only a single feed, the quality of the product will be related to that feed. If there are multiple feeds to the unit, then the quality of the product will be related to the quality of a feed pool. A recursion pool must be constructed to aggregate the qualities of the feeds so that a single quality will be available to the PCALC.
KeyWords:
submodel
HDS
desulfurization
sulfur
PCALC
pcalc
Applications
applications
removal
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: I would like to include the penalty cost for [Inventory level] x [Inventory quality] in my PPIMS model.
How can I create this structure in the model? | Solution: This example is for a Distributive Recursion model - not a PIMS-AO model. In a PIMS-AO model, nonlinear equations could be built onto the model tree to model this. For DR, the tables described below are used.
There is no variable that represents the inventory level directly. However there are two types of variables that represent difference between target and closing inventory. They are,
IDEFxxx : Deficit from target inventory
IEXCxxx : Excess from target inventory (xxx is inventory tag)
Therefore Closing inventory level can be calculated by the following formula.
Closing = Target + IEXCxxx - IDEFxxx
Please look at the attached sample model. URG (Unleaded Regular Gasoline) is the inventory that has Sulfur penalty. Target inventory is defined by table PINV as follows.
Table ROWS is defined like below. There is an E-row to calculate closing inventory. UTRGURG is a new variable whose activity represents the target inventory level.
Table BOUNDS defines target inventory level in FIX columns as follows. It must mach the TARG entries in table PINV.
SINV is a dummy submodel to calculate Sulfur penalty for the inventory level. The column activity of PEN is Sulfur quality multiplied by inventory level, and it consumes a dummy utility IPE. The cost of IPE is in table UTILBUY.
The result is reported like below.
Keywords: PINV
ROWS
BOUNDS
References: None |
Problem Statement: Which license keys do I need to commute for the various Aspen PIMS features? | Solution: When using SLM Commute, you may see many licenses that do not need to be commuted in order to run the current version of Aspen PIMS. Many of these licenses are present for backward compatibility with older versions of Aspen PIMS. Below is a chart of what should be commuted for various features and model types.
Model type or desired feature
Licenses which must be commuted
Regular PIMS model using Distributive Recursion, PPIMS, MIP, ABML, and/or PIMS-SI
Aspen PIMS
PIMS model using PIMS-AO features (XLP matrix, Parallel Processing, Global Optimization, Feedbasket Reduction, Ranging Analysis, Parametric Analysis, and/or Goal Programming)
Aspen PIMS
Aspen PIMS Advanced Optimization (PIMS-AO)
Global model (MPIMS or XPIMS) using regular PIMS features
Aspen PIMS
Aspen PIMS Regional Optimizer (MPIMS)
Global Model (MPIMS or XPIMS) using PIMS-AO features
Aspen PIMS
Aspen PIMS Regional Optimizer (MPIMS)
Aspen PIMS Advanced Optimization (PIMS-AO)
If Submodel Calculator (SMC) is to be used in any of the scenarios above...
Aspen PIMS Submodel Calculator
in addition to the licenses specified above for the type of model in use
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I change the system password that was given while installing Petroleum Supply Chain products? | Solution: The system password needs to be supplied while installing V8.2. Most companies require their employees to change their system password periodically. When password changes happen, this has to be updated in Petroleum Supply Chain product services. The procedure follows:
Go to Control Panel and click on Administrative Tools and then click on Services, once the service windows comes up you have to change the password for three services
1) AspenTech PIMS case runner service
2) AspenTech PIMS case runner web service
3) OrionSVCHost.exe
To change the password for a service, right click on the desired service and select Properties. Then go to the Log On tab and enter the new password. After you change the password remember to restart the service
Keywords: System password
System password change
Password expired
PIMS integration tools password
APS integration tools password
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I change the database maintenance options using PIMS OLE automation? | Solution: Use the following calls to change the database maintenance options using PIMS OLE automation:
DELETE EXISTING: bOK = iPimsWin.SetIntegerSetting("DatabaseDeleteOn", 1)
PURGE EXISTING: bOK = iPimsWin.SetIntegerSetting("DatabasePurgeOn", 1)
ONLY UNIQUE CASES: bOK = iPimsWin.SetIntegerSetting("OnlyUniqueCasesInTablesOn", 1)
To set database maintenance to KEEP EXISTING use three below calls together:
bOK = iPimsWin.SetIntegerSetting("DatabaseDeleteOn", 0)
bOK = iPimsWin.SetIntegerSetting("DatabasePurgeOn", 0)
bOK = iPimsWin.SetIntegerSetting("OnlyUniqueCasesInTablesOn", 0)
Please note:
- bOK is a declared boolean variable
- SetIntegerSetting is a predefined PIMS OLE function as described in the HELP system
Keywords: automation
database
maintenance
calls
References: None |
Problem Statement: In Platinum, the Case Runner icons have a pencil image and will appear by some variables such as shown below:
What can cause the Platinum Case Runner icons to not be displayed on the Platinum flowsheet? | Solution: Aspen PIMS Platinum Case Runner requires Windows 7 OS and V8.2. If these conditions are met and you still do not see the icons, this can happen if the Aspentech PIMS Case Runner Web Service is not running.
To verify:
1. Go to Start->Control Panel->Administrative tools->Services window. Users will see only one of the Case Runner related services installed. The service highlighted in Red does not get installed.
Root cause:
Case Runner service expects “Windows Firewall” to be running so that it can add the port exception required for the service to function correctly. This fails if “Windows Firewall” is disabled or not running on user’s machine (Start->Control Panel->Windows Firewall)
Workaround:
Enable “Windows Firewall” and then perform the following steps?:
1. Open command prompt in “administrator” mode.
2. Traverse to “C:\Program Files (x86)\AspenTech\Aspen PIMS\PIMS Case Runner Service” folder.
3. Type the following command:
C:\WINDOWS\Microsoft.NET\Framework\v4.0.30319\installutil PIMSCaseRunnerWebService.exe
4. “Refresh” the Windows services list and see if “Aspen Case Runner Web Service” is part of the list.
If you perform the steps above, and you still do not see any PIMS Platinum Case Runner icons, then go back to Services and set the "AspenTech PIMS Case Runner Service" to log on as the local system account. Try again and if the problem still persists, then contact PIMS Support.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: The existing Aspen PIMS model was built using old Excel format (.xls) spreadsheets. After installing Excel 2010, it can still read the older files in compatibility mode, but this usually slows down Excel performance. If old Excel files (.xls) are saved in the new format (.xlsx), then all the links between the model tree and the worksheets in the workbook have to updated from filename.xls to filename.xlsx. Is there easy way to update all the links in the model tree? | Solution: Please do the following steps:
1. Save the existing workbook as new format (.xlsx)
2. In Aspen PIMS, go to the model tree, right click on "Tables" and select "Rename a Workbook"
3. The following dialog appear.
Select an existing workbook (.xls) from upper list box then enter a new workbook (.xlsx) from lower text box.
You can also select a new file from "..." button at right bottom corner.
Click "OK". This will update the links for all the worksheets in that particular workbook.
4. Repeat step 2 and 3 until all workbooks renamed
Keywords: Office 2010, PIMS Model Tree
References: None |
Problem Statement: Some users are considering an update of Microsoft office from 2003 to 2007. What is the compatibility of the PIMS products with MS Office 2007? | Solution: Starting with AspenONE 2006.5, all PIMS Family products support MS Office 2007.
Prior to AspenONE 2006.5, the PIMS Family products were not officially tested for compatibility with Office 2007. All the products support and were tested with Microsoft Office 2003.
The PIMS Family products include,
Aspen MBO -- name changed to Aspen Refinery Multi-Blend Optimizer in V7.1
Aspen Orion -- name changed to Aspen Petroleum Scheduler in V7.1
Aspen DPO -- name changed to Aspen Petroleum Supply Chain Planner in V7.1
Aspen PIMS
Aspen Report Writer
When upgrading to Office 2007, some Excel 2003 and older files may contain items that cannot be opened by Office 2007 automation. There is a work around for this issue that is described by KB solution article 123599. For additional information specifically about Excel 2007 and Aspen PIMS refer to solution article 124501.
Keywords: Excel 2007
Compatibility
References: None |
Problem Statement: This knowledge base article describes why deleting structures given by Simplify Mathematical Programming System (Simplify MPS) may lead to model execution errors.
Simplify MPS option is used to remove all unnecessary R vectors (error without distributions) successively, from the MPS file until there are none left. The purpose of this program is to provide a report to the user of all the unused recursed qualities in their respective recursed pools. That is, the model is recursing on an unused quality in a process submodel or blending activity. | Solution: It is recommended to use Simplify MPS just as suggestions to which structures could be removed from the model. It is necessary to verify that all related distributions in any other submodels or T.PCALC are removed as well.
In below example Simplify MPS shows that four structures can be removed from pool ALK:
Corresponding T.PGUESS entries have been removed and submodel has been revised:
After executing the model following error appears:
Investigating the error it turns out that stream ALK is pooled with missing properties in SAAA:
Therefore the same structures need to be removed from pool AAA as well.
Keywords:
References: None |
Problem Statement: When using valve sizing methods to calculate pressure drop (Delta P) in steady state, changing the Valve Opening % doesn't automatically update the Delta P calculation. | Solution: In steady State, the valve can be used to calculate Delta P or mass flowrate using the valve sizing methods option which is available in Design ll Parameters of the valve model property view. The Delta P that is calculated is a function of valve opening %, therefore when the valve opening % is changed the Delta P calculated should be updated.
However, in Aspen HYSYS versions earlier than V8.2, this isn't automatic and the checkbox for ‘Use the sizing methods to Calculate Delta P’ will have to be unchecked and re-checked again. Unchecking/re-checking this box triggers the solver to recalculate the Delta P across the valve.Â
From V8.2 and upwards, Aspen HYSYS automatically recalculates the DP once the valve opening % is changed.
Keywords: Delta P, sizing methods, valve opening %
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I create a fin data bank? | Solution: Within Aspen MUSE, a databank can be set up containing the information on a number of fin types. The same databank can be used in all Simulation modes (PFIN, MULE and MUSC), and gives a standard set of fin geometry and performance data. Once a fin type has been entered in the databank, fin data need not be entered in the input; you simply refer to a fin number in the databank. The databank is a simple sequential file. The first three lines identify the fin and its geometric form. The remainder gives Re-f-Cj performance data. Data in the databank should be in metric units (mm, fins/m).
For each fin the data begins with a 701 line, followed by a 702 line giving the fin number and type. The fin number is any number in the range 101 to 9999, which uniquely identifies the fin. To refer to the fin in the main input, for example on lines 133, 141, 142 etc, it is simply necessary to give this number. The inclusion of the fin type on line 702 is recommended, but not mandatory. The data continues with line 703 giving the fin geometry, and a series of 710 lines giving Re-f-Cj performance data. It is wise to set up data for a wide range of Reynolds number, to cover all potential uses of the bank.
The fin databank may contain null lines, beginning with two blanks or an asterisk, which are ignored when the data are read. These can add comments, and improve the readability of the databank.
The structure of the dataset lines is given as;
701
FINS S "Name/Identifier"
702
Item 1 - Fin number (100-799)
Item 2 - Fin type (1, Plain, 2, perforated, 3, serrated, 4, wavy)
703
Item 1 - Fin height (mm)
Item 2 - Fin thickness (mm)
Item 3 - Fin frequency (f/m)
Item 4 - Fin porosity
Item 5 - Fin serration length (mm)
710
Item 1 - Reynolds number
Item 2 - Friction factor (f)
Item 3 - Colburn factor (j)
Item 4 - Reynolds number
Item 5 - Friction factor (f)
Item 6 - Colburn factor (j)
An example of the fin databank is given in the file FINDAT, which should be placed in the same directory where muse.exe resides. Edits to the fin databank can be made by a word processor, but should be saved as an ASCI format with no extension name.
Keywords: Fin Databank
References: None |
Problem Statement: Some Data Functions in Report Writer that get data from an Aspen ORION Database bring the Date/Time references as Date - Time, while others only get the Date (no Time) as a reference.
An example of the first type is the ATDSOEventDetails() function, which gets two fields called STARTDATETIME and STOPDATETIME. These fields have a format of MM/DD/YYYY HH:SS.
An example of the second type is the ATDSOTankInventories() function which gets one field called DATE. This field has a format of MM/DD/YYYY, i.e. hours and minutes are not used.
This creates a problem when data of these two types of functions need to be joined, because by default, the DATE format assumes that the hours and minutes are 00:00. Therefore, if only the DATE is of interest, the hours and minutes from a field that carries Date/Time information in the MM/DD/YYYY HH:SS format have to be truncated. | Solution: To convert from the MM/DD/YYYY HH:SS format to MM/DD/YYYY format, use the Excel functions CONCATENATE(MONTH(A1), "/", DAY(A1), "/", YEAR(A1)), where A1 would be the reference STARTDATETIME or STOPDATETIME in (MM/DD/YYYY HH:SS) format.
The MONTH(), DAY() and YEAR() functions are Excel Functions and they get the Month, Day and Year from a Date string. The CONCATENATE function joins those separate values into one string.
This way, the Concatenate function is effectively truncating the Hours and Minute, just leaving the Date.
Keywords: Date
Time
STARTDATETIME
STOPDATETIME
CONACATENATE
References: None |
Problem Statement: The ATReplicateSheet(VarParm, MDBFileName) is used to create multiple copies of the worksheet it is located in. It supports two methods of determining how many copies of the worksheet to create.
The first method involves passing an SQL query string as a parameter. The function will execute the SQL query and create a copy of the worksheet for each row of data it returns. In addition, an Excel worksheet level defined name is created in each copy that will contain the values of each column in the row with the names of the columns being used as the defined names. This is done so that other functions in the worksheet can use these values as arguments to other functions or as part of cell expressions.
The second method involves passing an array of strings as a parameter. The function will create a copy of the worksheet for each member of the array and create the Excel worksheet level defined name "REPLNAME" containing the value of the array element. This is done so that other functions in the worksheet can use this value as an argument to other functions or as part of cell expressions.
This solution document shows how to use the SQL query string as a parameter, along with the Excel worksheet level defined name. It is used when you need to filter the data by some criteria, instead of specifying a fixed array of data. For comparison purposes, the array string method is also shown.
Usually this function is used in conjunction with ATRenameSheet(), which is needed to give a distinct name to the replicated sheets. Also, the Excel name is used as a parameter in most of the functions used in the template. | Solution: For this purpose, an SQL query that brings only one column of data will be entered as the first parameter to the ATReplicateSheet(VarParm, MDBFileName) function. The name of the column, defined in the SQL query, will automatically be the name of the Excel worksheet level defined name. This Excel worksheet level defined name is a variable that references a specific cell, a range of cells or a value. In this case, it will reference a value.
Necessary steps:
Create the query that will select the data that you want to report: for example, UNITS, BLENDS, STREAMS, etc.
Create the Excel name. To do so, go to Insert | Name | Define. On the top of the windows that appears, enter the name you want to define, at the bottom enter the value: in this case you can leave it empty by writing ="". Another possibility is to enter as the value, the same name; this is not a problem as it will be overwritten anyway when RW executes.
In the attached example, both methods are shown:
In Sheet 'Unit - Excel Parameter', in cell B2 the following SQL query is used =ATReplicateSheet("select distinct UNITOP from PMUNITOP, PMGROUPS where UNITOP like 'SCD*' and UNITOP=STRMID and GRPID= '#UNIT'",)
This will select all the UNITOP data that begins with 'SCD'. UNITOP, the column name of the data brought back, will also be the Excel worksheet level defined name: in each of the replicated sheets, the value of that name will be one of those returned by the query. This name UNITOP is used in the same template as a parameter for renaming the sheet as well as for selecting data for the report itself.
Sheet 'Unit - RW Group' shows how to pass an array of strings, as well as the use of the Excel name REPLNAME, created by Report Writer. In this case, this name is fixed; in the previous case, that name is just the selected column name of the query.
As an example of how to use this Excel name as a parameter, note that the function =ATRenameSheet("UNIT " & UNITOP ) would rename the first Sheet as UNIT SCD1 if the first retrieved value for the query is SCD1. The syntax is also shown for combining a string ("UNIT") with an Excel name value (UNITOP). The & symbol is used for this
Keywords: Excel worksheet level defined name
ATReplicateSheet()
ATRenameSheet()
SQL Query
Parameter
References: None |
Problem Statement: When running a PIMS-RW template in Excel, the step between selecting the template and selecting the database takes a long time to complete. One common cause of this problem is that the template has path specific references to the PIMSRPT.XLA file. For example, a function reference might look like this:
"C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office\Library\PimsRpt.xla'ATGetColumn(....)"
Instead of this:
"=ATGetColumn(....)"
In order to prevent problems with references to missing files, PIMS-RW removes the path information for each function reference. For a large template, this process can take a long time to complete. | Solution: The solution to the problem is to remove the path references so that PIMS-RW does not have to do this. The process to do this is to
Make sure that the PIMS-RW add-in is active. This is done in Excel using the "Tools-Add Ins" dialog box. Simply check the "AspenTech Supply Chain Report Writer" (If that is not available, check the "Aspen Tech Report Writer Functions")
Use the "Edit Links" option in Excel to change the reference to the PIMSRPT.XLA file. The standard location of the file is "C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office\Library\PimsRpt.xla.
The path reference should now be gone and the template should run faster.
Note: The path reference is created when the template is created on a computer where the PIMSRPT.XLA is not in the standard "Library" location.
If you have any questions about this, please let us know. We can be contacted using the following methods:
Support Website: support.aspentech.com
e-Mail: [email protected]
Telephone: 888-996-7100 (option 32) or 281-584-4357 (option 3,2)
KeyWords:
pims-rw
template
excel
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: There have been a couple of cases of users running a PIMS-RW template and discovering that the report has either missing or incorrect data for one or more of the cases. | Solution: The situation is caused by a feature in PIMS that allows the user to change the text description in table case (especially for streams that are in either T.BUY or T.SELL). This results in multiple text descriptions being written into the database table PMSTRMID. When PIMS-RW executes a query against the database, it uses a "key" that involves combining the stream tag with the stream descriptor. The end result is that you can end up returning the wrong data from the database.
The easiest solution to the problem is to either not have column TEXT in any of the tables in your case file; or, to use !TEXT so that PIMS will ignore these entries. Your template should then return the correct data.
KeyWords:
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: The tokens show as being consumed when closing the Citrix session, shutting down the PC or logging off without closing Aspen applications.
Root Cause:
The root cause of this issue is due to closing the Citrix session, or shutting down the machine or logging off and not closing the AspenTech application, which results into the Application staying “active” on the server.
If you don’t close the application appropriately, it will keep consuming tokens until the timeout period is reached, which is 5 minutes for HYSYS. Other applications may have a different timeout period. This means that if the application is force closed, the server won’t receive a signal for it to release the tokens until the time out period is reached.
If the application is running in the server and the Citrix session has been closed, and no time out period or Idle disconnect is set inside Citrix, then the token will stay consumed and will not be released until the application is closed. | Solution: We have three possible recommendations that you can apply.
1. Close AspenTech applications before shutting down the machine or closing the Citrix session.
2. Inform all employees or have a warning message appear to notify the user to close all open applications before shutting down.
3. Configure Idle and Disconnect Timeout Settings in XenApp. Citrix knowledge base article explains this in more details: http://support.citrix.com/article/CTX127318/
Keywords: tokens and Citrix
SLM and Citrix
slm server and Citrix
tokens not being released
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to add labels to the macros run in LIBDPND. | Solution: In order to add the desired labels, you need to run a macro with arguments for the specialized installation procedure in LIBDPND. A macro with arguments can be run as LM's special installation macro. LM uses <MUTIL DO_CMD ?CMD to fire the macro. ?CMD contains what ever you have in the SPECIALM column for that feature. So you should be able to run a macro with up to 7 arguments. Just enter <MACRO ARG1 ARG2 etc... in the SPECIALM column. You CAN change the width of the LIBDPND table to enable that.
KeyWords
CAPS
SPECIALM
Add Labels
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: I would like to know where Aspen Multi-Blend Optimizer (MBO) and Aspen Petroleum Scheduler (APS) store the state of a Gantt screen. By this I mean whether or not it is in Fit-All mode and if in Fit-All mode which Gantt rows are expanded and which are collapsed. It must store this somewhere because it remembers the state of the screen when I close and re-open a model. | Solution: Expansions of Gantt items are saved in the following database tables:
GANTT_EXPANSION_EVENTS - For regular Gantt View
GANTT_EXPANSION_RECONÂ - For Model Accuracy Interface
The table may look as below. If the EXPANDED field is "1", the item is expanded. If it is "0", it is not expanded. Missing items are not expanded:
Â
Keywords: -Gantt screens
References: None |
Problem Statement: Discuss the purpose of INIT Sheet with Aspen Petroleum Scheduler (APS)? | Solution: An Aspen Petroleum Scheduler model has Units.xls as a part of the model. This Units.xls has various work sheets for various modeling purposes. INIT sheet is one among them.
· INIT sheet, is a Special purpose sheet, provides a way to Initialization of certain model elements
· INIT Sheet is executed by APS Simulator only once when we reload the Simulator.
· INIT Sheet is not executed for every calculation period.
· INIT Sheet - #RESULTS Section can be used for Initialization of Virtual tanks inventory (pool tanks)
· INIT Sheet can also used for getting model configuration information from the APS Simulator for automation logics
Modelers need to consider other worksheets, like PREP or POST or User defined units sheet, if the modeling situation required scenarios, other than the mentioned above.
Keywords: INIT, Config, Virtual Tanks
References: None |
Problem Statement: We are trying and install Aspen Petroleum Scheduler (APS) 7.3.0.3 64 bit on a Win7 64bit machine. The application opens without any problem but, when we try to open a model based on a .dsn file that uses Oracle ODBC, the application gives an error message, because it's not able to find the correct ODBC driver.
We found out that it could be a known issue from Microsoft as discussed in the article here:
            http://support.microsoft.com/kb/2721825
Can we install the 32 bit version of Oracle drivers also?
Will application continue to work properly? | Solution: There is no 64-bit version of APS. Only 32-bit is available, but it works fine on 64-bit Windows 7 OS.
Aspen Petroleum Scheduler can only work with 32-bit driver of supported Oracle clients. It will not work with 64-bit Oracle clients.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: We imported a crude assay through Excel Integration Utility (EIU) that ended in the number 1 (Assay1).
In EIU we mapped this Assay to CTU1 in Aspen Petroleum Scheduler (APS), including the streams, properties, etc. In APS we were able to build multiple crude units against this one assay without mapping these additional crude units in EIU.
In addition to building crude unit CTU1 in APS we also were able to build 2CTU1, 3CTU1 and 4CTU1 - all without changing any of the assay info (e.g., mapping the new crude units and streams) in EIU and re-importing the assays.Â
Will this work? | Solution: Aspen Petroleum Scheduler looks at the last digit of the "Unit Id" to get the "Assay Id". Therefore CTU1, 2CTU1, 3CTU1 and 4CTU1 units all would use the Assay Id:Â 1 to figure out the assays for that crude unit .
User should take care so that the specific crude unit has the required number of streams .
Keywords: Assays, EIU, Crude Unit
References: None |
Problem Statement: This knowledge base article describes how to configure a "Settings" worksheet on a template to be used in Excel Integration Utility (EIU) for Aspen Petroleum Scheduler (APS) and Aspen Refinery Multi-Blend Optimizer (MBO) applications. | Solution: The "Settings" worksheet is mandatory for all workbooks in Excel Integration Utility template.
The "Settings" worksheet is used for the following:
·  Defines units of measure to be used.
·  Maps component rundowns and assays
·  Specifies the Application ID and User ID for updates – these values can be overwritten for each event
Settings Structure
Between #START and #END are sections and keywords that are used to define specific settings related to the information you will be importing. The section names and keywords must appear exactly as specified.
For APS, the following sections are applicable:
1. Crude Inventory Reporting
2.  Crude Receipts
3.  Product Shipments
4.  Process Inventory Reporting
5.  Assays
For MBO, the following sections are applicable:
1. Component Rundown
2. Process Inventory Reporting
3. Price Set
Keywords:
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I disable changes to important tables in the Aspen Petroleum Schedular Model Tree view, to avoid accidental changes? | Solution: Aspen Petroleum Scheduler provides access to Model Tables via Model Tree and Table View.
In this Model tree, there are many groups like ADMIN Group, Model Group, Scheduling Group etc. Sometimes, there is a need to disable some of the Tables to prevent users from accidentally changing or updating the data (such as the UNITS Table, Schedule Table etc.).
This solution explains how to prevent changes to those tables from Model tree table view, so that changes are restricted from Model tree. Note that the necessary changes can be done through APS GUI at any time, based on the security option configured in the Model.
There is a Table named “Model_Table� with a Column “HIDE�. This table can be used to configure APS tables to enable or disable from the model tree.
Consider a situation in which you want to disable the view of “UNITS� tables from the model tree. To achieve this, open Model Table� and update the HIDE column with "-1".
Below is the example screen shot:
Note that “0� is to enable the display and “-1� to hide the display:
Keywords: model tree
References: None |
Problem Statement: Why are no Submodel Model Calculator (SMC) files supplied with the VBDEMOV73.mdb model supplied on production DVDs? | Solution: The VBDemo model doesn't use .smc files. The VBDemo model shows how to use VB units. The Demo model has an SMC folder supplied and the user can combine .smc files and VB units if needed.
Keywords: -VB demo model
References: None |
Problem Statement: Please clarify how Aspen Petroleum Scheduler (APS) recognizes cut data and order when using Excel Integration Utility.
For example, in table CRDCUTX there are different cuts from Assay data. I noticed that when APS maps the information, APS is taking Light Naphtha "LN" as cut number even though "NC1" is cut #1 and "LN" is cut #5 before using Excel Integration Utility (EIU).
Since the model was built considering that the gas cut "NC1" was cut #1, the question is how does APS recognize and map cut data when using EIU? | Solution: Aspen Petroleum Scheduler (APS) has a unique way of associating assay numbers, stream names and cuts to crude units. You should take this into consideration when defining a crude unit.
Assay numbers are associated with a CRUDE unit by appending the assay number to the end of the crude unit name. The mapping of the assay streams to the output streams is a one to one mapping of available cuts to the stream names defined as PRODUCTS. For example, if the CRDCUTX table for ASSAY=1, and contains 4 distinct cuts with unique CUT numbers 1, 5 ,9 and 21, a crude unit name CRD1 is created and will produce the following product streams :
d1, d2, d3, d4, LVN, HVN, VGO, RSD (the first four product streams are light end streams)
· The LVN stream will be all the data in the CRDCUTX table where ASSAY=1 and CUT=1
· The HVN stream will be all the data in the CRDCUTX table where ASSAY=1 and CUT=5
· The VGO stream will be all the data in the CRCUTX table where ASSAY=1 and CUT=9
· The RSD stream will be all the data in the CRDCUTX table where ASSAY=1 and CUT=21
If another stream, KERO, is added and mapped to the CRDCUTX table as CUT=35, the product streams would be defined as indicated below in order to correctly get data from the crude unit CRD1:
d1, d2, d3, d4, LVN, HVN, VGO, RSD, KERO
The KERO stream will be all the data in the CRDCUTX table where ASSAY=1 and CUT=35
Aspen Petroleum Scheduler always orders the cuts in numerical order and then pairs each unique cut with the positional stream name from the defined products. A problem could arise if a new assay is added in a single data record for a single crude that has a cut number that is not higher than the existing cuts. Looking back at the example, if the new CUT value was 10 instead of 35, the following would be produced:
· The LVN stream will be all the data in the CRDCUTX table where ASSAY=1 and CUT=1
· The HVN stream will be all the data in the CRDCUTX table where ASSAY=1 and CUT=5
· The VGO stream will be all the data in the CRCUTX table where ASSAY=1 and CUT=9
· The RSD stream will be all the data in the CRDCUTX table where ASSAY=1 and CUT=10
· The KERO stream will be all the data in the CRDCUTX table where ASSAY=1 and CUT=21
In this situation, the LVN, HVN and VGO cuts for CRD1 would be correct but RSD would incorrectly pick up the data from CUT 10 and KERO would pick up data from the original RSD qualities from CUT 21. Care therefore needs to be taken when assigning new CUT numbers when existing cuts are present.
In APS, the cuts will be sorted from lowest to highest number.
Keywords: -ASSAYS
-
References: None |
Problem Statement: I have my Advisor model in a Microsoft Access database. Most of the Advisor reports will not generate when using Aspen Report with this database. Why? | Solution: Microsoft Access is not robust enough to handle the "outer joins" performed in the report generation process. It is recommended that you use either Microsoft SQL Server or Oracle with Aspen Advisor.
KeyWords:
model
microsoft
access
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: After importing from Excel Integration Utility (EIU), the Audit Inventory dialog box shows that the Crude composition value is equal to the "Simulated" value, but the total volume or inventory is equal to "Plant" value. Why? | Solution: The way Aspen Petroleum Scheduler (APS) works regarding Audit inventory data is that by default the Value field should be the same as the PLANT VALUE field (imported data). This is true for process tanks but not for Crude Tanks.
With crudes in a tank we use the crude composition of the SIMULATED results and the volume of the PLANT VALUE. The assumption is that the crude composition isn't something that is known well. The volume is.
Using EIU to import Crude Inventories, on the “CrudeInventory” tab, the Composition section is required. As mentioned before, many clients do not know the exact compositions of their crude tanks. What those clients are doing is simply putting in one dummy crude composition. When imported into APS's auditing feature, the system will assume you know your tank volumes but take the simulated compositions (again this is by design). In order to get "plant" compositions, you would have to overwrite the simulated values or type anything in the VALUES fields because they are editable .
If the SIM-checkbox is clear, the "Values" are editable. The user can type anything he wants - including the values equal to sim values. The entered data can be saved in table ORION_MGR_CRDINV_IMPORT. When reading the table back, the user-entered values are displayed. If upon reading the table APS adjusts the values based on the status of the Sim-checkbox, the user-entered values will be lost. If the user clicks the Sim-checkbox after the initial display, the values become consistent with the status of the checkbox but if the checkbox is clear, the user still can edit them
Keywords: -Audit Inventories
-Excel Integration Utility (EIU)
References: None |
Problem Statement: Does Aspen Petroleum Scheduler (APS) integration service require a user name and password during installation? | Solution: Username and password is a requirement for the installation of the integration service for V8.2. However from V8.4 onwards, APS integration services will not require user name and password during installation. Customers having SQL or Oracle DBs as their APS model should give read/write access to “Network Service� account of the machine where APS Integration service is running.
A separate patch for V8.2 is targeted to be released which will not require user name and password during installation
Keywords: APS integration installation
Username password for installation
APS installation
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I enable usage log generation on the SLM Server? | Solution: Follow this procedure to enable usage log generation on your SLM server machine.
Check if there is a “SLMServerLogs” folder available at this path: C:\Program Files(x86)\AspenTech\SLMServerLogs\lserv.log
If the folder is not available, create a folder named “SLMServerLogs” at the specified path: C:\Program Files (x86)\AspenTech\SLMServerLogs
If the folder is available, kindly follow the below steps:
Login to SLM license server using Administrator account
Right click on the "My Computer" icon and select "Properties".
3. Click on "Advanced" tab. Choose the "Environment Variables" button.
4. Under the bottom box called "System Variables", look for LServOpts and double click on the LServOpts variable name to locate the path where the logs are being generated.
If the LServOpts environment variable has not been set correctly or created at all, please do the following:
1. Proceed to create a new environment variable with the following information:
Name: LServOpts
Value: –l "C:\Program Files(x86)\AspenTech\SLMServerLogs\lserv.log" -z 2m -lfe 2
(If you are using a 32-bit machine, the value will be:
–l "C:\ProgramFiles\AspenTech\SLMServerLogs\lserv.log" -z 2m -lfe 2)
2. Go to Start, then Run; type in “services.msc”, then click OK;
3. Find the service called “Sentinel RMS License Manager” and restart the service to enable the logging.
4. Check the location designated by the environment variable that was just created to see if logs files are now being generated.
Keywords: : usage Log, enable log, SLMServerLogs, LServOpts
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I access my personalized Technical Support e-Bulletin page? | Solution: This knowledge base article explains how to access the personalized Technical Support e-Bulletin page that will show recent Patches, Knowledge, and Upcoming Training based on your region and selected My Products.
A summary of the e-Bulletin page content, top product news, and featured training is sent by email on a monthly basis, along with a link to the e-Bulletin page. To ensure that you receive the monthly email, please update your Email Preferences and check the box next to "Technical Support eBulletin" as seen below.
To access the e-Bulletin page directly through the Support Center website, follow these steps:
1. Login to the AspenTech Support Center website
2. Click on Find the Answer from the left sidebar menu to reveal the sub-menu option, and then click on e-Bulletin.
Please note that you will not see recent patches, knowledge, and upcoming training for your products unless they are selected in your product list. To modify your selected product list, please visit My Products.
Keywords: : license on virtual server, virtual machine, rehost, license
References: None |
Problem Statement: The status of the Hyprotech SQP Optimizer indicates ‘violated constraints’. However, the current value of the process constraints functions is above the minimum specified in the Derivative Analysis tab. | Solution: One of the reasons why this message can appear is because the user defined their constraints (in the Constraints/Objective Function page of the Derivative utility) as inequalities of the type
Minimum < Current Value < Empty
As a workaround, the user should specify a maximum value for the process constraints, even if only a lower bound is required. If unsure, the user can choose a relatively large number for the maximum. This will be addressed in a future release.
Keywords: Optimizer, Constraint, Violated, SQP, Derivative
References: None |
Problem Statement: How is Mass Flow converted into the Std. Gas Flow [STD_m3/h] variable reported in the ‘Properties’ page of any stream in Aspen HYSYS? | Solution: The Std. Gas Flow is calculated from the specified or calculated mass flow, according to the Ideal Gas law at standard conditions (1 atm, 15 deg. C):
IdealDens = p0 Mw / (R T0)
where,
p0 – pressure at standard conditions (Pa)
Mw – gas molecular weight (kg/kmol)
R – ideal gas constant (8.314 J/mol/K)
T0 – temperature at standard conditions (K)
For a particular standard pressure and temperature, the mass density is only a function of the molecular weight. You can create a user variable to display this property for each stream or you can use the spreadsheet block in HYSYS to perform this calculation. In the file attached, a user property ‘IdealDens’ was defined in the Properties environment, where F2= p0 / (R T0)=1/23.644 kmol/m3 (based on previous standard conditions). This is used in all streams of the flowsheet.
Keywords: Mass Flow, Std. Gas Flow, Standard conditions, Density, Ideal
References: None |
Problem Statement: The value of a user property (defined in the ‘User Properties’ folder) is not showing up in the Properties tab of some streams. | Solution: There may be several reasons for this occurrence. First, make sure that the referred property is activated for all streams in the flowsheet (this can be done accessing the Correlation Manager). Then, check the parameter Min. Def. Comp. (%) in the user-property tab in the Properties environment.
This parameter will restrict the property calculation to streams where the sum of the relevant components is above the indicated value. If you decrease this value to zero, then all streams should display a value for this property (where applicable).
Keywords: User Property, Min. Def. Comp., Correlation Manager
References: None |
Problem Statement: Pressure assignment in a mixer is either ‘Equalize all’ or ‘Set Outlet to Lowest Inlet’. Thus, the pressure of the mixed stream is either the lowest of all inlets, or all streams have the same pressure. The user may wish to mix a lower pressure stream to others at higher pressure, and have the outlet pressure equal to the highest value. | Solution: Instead of using a Mixer, the user should use the Balance operation of ‘Component mole and heat flow’ and assign the desired pressure value to all streams connected.
Keywords: Balance, Mixer, Pressure
References: None |
Problem Statement: Can I include several objective functions in the same optimization problem in Aspen HYSYS? | Solution: In the Original optimizer, the user can only select one objective function. With the Hyprotech SQP optimizer, multiple objective functions can be handled. This option requires the previous setup of a Derivative Analysis.
In the Objective function menu of this analysis, add another ObjFunc.
Keywords: SQP Optimizer, Objective functions, Derivative Analysis
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to design, rate / check and simulate an Aircooled Exchanger using Aspen Air Cooled Exchanger in Aspen Plus? | Solution: Using EDR (Exchanger Design and Rating) - Aspen Air Cooled Exchanger in Aspen Plus, one can rigorously design and rate an Air-cooled exchanger.
In the Standalone EDR- Aircooled exchanger application air properties (dry and humid) are incorporated within the program, but in Aspen Plus it will be modeled using a HeatX block,so an air stream needs to be defined and attached to the cold side of the HeatX block.
This example assumes that you are familiar with Aspen Plus and EDR-Aircooled exchanger user interfaces. In this example, sample files are attached to each scenario i.e. shortcut mode in Aspen Plus and Design, Rating and Simulation using Aircooled exchanger application. In the sample file we will first design the NGL cooler and rate/check the design separately and simulate the final chosen design in the simulation.
Also the steps below use a reference exchanger (NGL-COOL and EDR-DES) in the attached simulations instead of simply using aircooled exchanger where appropriate.
Design:
1. First of all run the desired NGL cooler block in the Aspen plus shortcut mode to verify the process conditions are feasible.
2. Next open a new EDR file, select the Aircooled exchanger application, set it to Design mode and save with a name and exit.
3. Next open the Aspen plus file ( in this example: Aspen Plus - Aircooled Exchanger (Shortcut).bkp) and add a new HeatX block and name it as EDR-DES (replicating NGL-COOL block) and also add a Duplicator block and connect the NGL-Warm as feed to both HeatX blocks.
4. Next define the AIRIN stream conditions same as AIR-IN stream
5. Next go to Data | Blocks | EDR-DES | Setup and specify the hot outlet temperature (of 140F) as exchanger specification.
6. Next on the same form, specify the calculation method as AirCooled, type as Design and Hot side as Tube side as in the picture below.
7. Finally move on to EDR options form and reference the Aircooled Design Pre-Run.EDR file and run the simulation.
8. EDR-Aircooled exchanger will design and show all possible designs in the results form of EDR browser | Optimization Path.
9. Save this file as Aspen Plus - EDR Aircooled Exchanger Design.bkp and close.
10. Open the Aircooled Design Pre-Run.EDR file and review the results and save it as Aircooled Design.EDR to preserve the design file and also save it as Aircooled Rating.EDR to use it in Rating mode.
Rating/Checking:
1. Open the above Aspen Plus - EDR Aircooled Exchanger Design.bkp file and save it as Aspen Plus - EDR Aircooled Exchanger Rating.bkp
2. Then go to Data | Blocks | EDR-DES block | EDR options | change the EDR file reference to Aircooled Rating.EDR
3. Next go to Data | Blocks | EDR-DES block | EDR Browser and check the Enable Run box and select Update to update the geometry information from design run as shown below.
4. Once the update is completed, uncheck the enable run box and then go to Data | Blocks | EDR-DES block | Setup and change the run type to Rating and keep the design specification as is.
5. Run the simulation and review the EDR geometry results for area ratio(should be atleast 1.0 or the excess area should not be negative) to make sure the exchanger is sized to perform the required duty.
6. Save the file as Aspen Plus - Aircooled Exchanger Rating.bkp and exit.
Simulation:
1. Open the Aircooled Rating.EDR file and save it as Aircooled Simulation.EDR to use it in simulating the aircooled exchanger (NGL-COOL), which is part of simulation and to preserve the Rating EDR file.
2. Now open the Aspen Plus - Aircooled Exchanger Rating.bkp and save it as Aspen Plus - Aircooled Exchanger Simulation.bkp
3. Next deactivate or delete the EDR-DES block and its connections. Connect the NGL-WARM stream to NGL-COOL block.
4. Next go to Data | Blocks | NGL-COOL | Setup and change calculation option to Aircooled and type to Simulation from shortcut mode.
5. Next go to Data | Blocks | NGL-COOL | EDR options and reference the Aircooled Simulation.EDR file.
6. Run the simulation and review the results for outlet conditions, duty that can be achieved and pressure drop to evaluate the actual performance of the aircooled exchanger.
Note: We can run the design, rating/checking and simulation from a single Aspen plus back up file and EDR file instead of saving multiple files, but to show each individual step these details are given and asked to save the file at each step with a different name. Download the files to a working directory and make sure the path to EDR file is correctly located before running the file.
Keywords: Aspen Plus, Aircooled exchanger, Acol+, EDR, HTFS+, Design, Rating, Simulation.
References: None |
Problem Statement: How can I move my hardware-locked license to a Virtual Machine? | Solution: This knowledge base article explains how you can move a hardware-locked network license to a virtual machine.
Before moving the license, please follow these steps:
Step 1: Make sure you have a static IP address and a hostname – When locking a license to a virtual machine, the license is normally locked to the VM's IP address and hostname. It is vital to make sure you have static information. Otherwise, you will end up with a license that does not work if the IP address or hostname changes.
Step 2: Install the license server software on the virtual machine - It is recommended to install the latest version of the SLM Server software from your installation media. Note: the latest version of the SLM Server software is compatible with all previous versions of the SLM Client Tools.
Step 3: Obtain the locking information for the virtual machine - At this stage, you should have the server already setup and have the latest SLM Server software installed. Obtain the locking information for the virtual machine. This can be done by downloading the SLMLockInfo tool by clicking on the link below that says “SLM Lock Info”. After you download the tool, run it on the Virtual Machine where the license will be installed and click “Copy to Clipboard”. Save the information on a text file.
· SLM Lock Info
Step 4: Submit a license key request – A license key request will need to be submitted from the AspenTech Support Site.
To submit a license key request, visit our License Key Request page and fill out the form.
Keywords: : license on virtual server, virtual machine, rehost, license
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do you account for Utilities Consumption for blending? What is the necessary structure to include the utility consumption and report it? | Solution: You need to make changes to Table ROWS, to capture the total blending activity, and set up an additional Submodel to define the utility consumption and report them. It is necessary to use this additional Submodel, as it is the only structure for which PIMS will automatically report Utilities consumptions.
Table ROWS structure:
In Table ROWS, for each of the blends that you want to consider, define an E-Row (you can name it EBLNZZZ for example, where ZZZ is the tag of the blend) and make an entry of -1 in the intersection with column BVBLZZZ, which is the column created by PIMS to hold the total amount of the blend ZZZ. The E-Row will carry the total amount of the blend to the submodel where the Utility consumption will be defined and reported.
Note: If you are working in a Mass based model, and the blends are sold in Mass, you have to use column BWBLZZ instead of column BVBLZZZ. As in this case the column activity will be in Mass units, you have to adjust the Utility consumption coefficients acordingly.
In the example below, Utilities Consumption for the URG, UPR and LRG blends are considered.
Submodel Structure:
In a Submodel created for this purpose (SBLN in this example),
The E-Rows are continued, and the activities of the blends coming from Table ROWS are transferred to the columns UPR, URG, LRG by entering a 1 under each of these columns (in the matrix, the names of these columns will be SBLNUPR, SBLNURG and SBLNLRG). The structure shown below is set up: the coefficient in UBALKWH defines the consumption of the KWH utility per barrel of Blended product. The P-Rows are included to show the segregated consumption per each Blend. If these P-Rows are not defined, only the total amount of utility consumed is shown. In this case, to show the results in [$/day], the coefficients in the UBALKWH row are multiplied by the KWH price (in Row 10).
The resulting report shows the total amount of KWH consumed by all three blendings (Utilities Used/Produced), and through the PROWS (Process Parameters), we see the segregated consumption per blend
KeyWords
Report
Blending
Utilities
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: In Aspen's datasheet for the CIM-IO for Measurex interface, there is a sketch showing the CIM-IO node connected to an Application Manager box. In the manual the connection seems to be to any type of box called ODX Device. What are the specifics of an "ODX device"?
An MxOpen network also contains a Roibox device. Can CIM-IO get information from this type of device? | Solution: The manual depicts a simplified sketch in the datasheet. The requirements section of the datasheet is the definitive listing of required software. The ODX Application Manager software is required to communicate to the CIMIO ODX interface and manages multiple ODX client requests to access data from MxOpen LAN devices. The ODX Application Manager is basically an ODX-protocol tcp server communicating to multiple compliant ODX-protocol tcp clients, such as CIMIO ODX, and is available on UNIX and recently on NTI [Davinci] from Honeywell Measurex.
Regarding the Roibox device, it is required to install the ODX Application Manager and configure the Measurex tags required from the Roibox device on a READ table so CIMIO ODX interface will be able to access the tags in the ODX Application Manager, which obtains the values on a polling frequency from the MxOpen Lan devices.
KeyWords:
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: After installing a standalone license file successfully, the old license file is still active. | Solution: In this situation, the aspenONE License File Installer was used to install the new standalone license file. The picture above shows the installation was a success, but Aspen HYSYS is still using the old license file and the AspenTech License Expiration Reminder continues to detect the expiration to be the year 2018 instead of year 2019.
The following three steps will fix the license installation:
1. Go to the standalone license file installation folder C:\Program Files (x86)\Common Files\AspenTech Shared.
2. At the AspenTech Shared folder, delete all existing license files. Files that starts with LSERVRC_xx_xxxx.xxx, extensions that ends with .SLF and extensions that ends with .LIC.
3. Run the aspenONE License Installer to install the new license
4. The Aspentech Shared folder should only have one lservrc_xx_xxx.slf license file now.
5. Verify by launching HYSYS and opening the Licensing Information. It should list the new license expiration date.
Keywords: Standalone License Installation, aspenONE License File Installer, and License Expiration
References: None |
Problem Statement: This article explains why the Output Database tab is greyed out and how to correctly access the settings to modify your database options. | Solution: Output Database information will be disabled when the Model Execution Dialog box is open. You will find that when accessing through Model Execution Dialog Box > Settings > Output Database, you will not be able to modify any of the parameters for that particular tab.
You need to access through Model Settings > General > Output Database in order to be able to modify your database settings.
Keywords: SQL, Access, Results
References: None |
Problem Statement: How can I include hydraulic head in Aspen Plus Dynamic? | Solution: In Aspen Plus, the hydraulic head is seldom considered when equipment is mounted at different height. However, the hydraulic head may have noticeable influence on dynamic run especially for liquid system. As a result, you may have to consider it when transferring a steady model to a pressure driven model of Aspen Plus dynamics.
To do this, you can add a heater block in Aspen Plus during a steady run and define a pressure increase within it. As the heater block is a dummy unit operation, you need to select Instantaneous type for it.
The attached example is to model a high water tank in Aspen Plus dynamic and the above method was used.
To include hydraulic head inside a unit operation, a drum for example, you need to change the value of variable LiquidHead from No to Yes.
Key Words
Dynamics Hydraulic Head
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: Windows Installer error code 1618 is displayed when you try to install aspenONE Products. This occurs when more than one installation is running at the same time. For example, this can happen if you install aspenONE Products at the same time that Windows is installing updates.
To resolve the problem, before you install aspenONE Products make sure that you are not installing any other programs. | Solution: 1. Cancel current aspenONE Installation
2. Press Ctrl+Alt+Del and start Task Manager
3. End the MSIEXEC.EXE processes
For Windows 7
In the Processes tab, select MSIEXEC.EXE, click End Process
For Windows 10
In the Details tab, select MSIEXEC.EXE, click End Task
4. Install aspenONE products
If this solution fails, reboot the computer and start the installation again.
Keywords: error1618, installation, install
References: None |
Problem Statement:
When using Compliance.21 to receive alerts via email, in some cases the emails are treated as Junk Email by Outlook. | Solution:
Occasionally Outlook does not recognize the “From” address used by Compliance.21, as for any alert it will always use the email format “Compliance.21@DatabaseName”. This format is hardcoded, and it cannot be changed.
The solution is to configure the rules in Outlook to make messages delivered by Compliance.21 not Junk. Microsoft offers articles about the level of protection in the Junk Email Filter and how to change it.
Change the level of protection in the Junk Email Filter
Link: https://support.office.com/en-us/article/change-the-level-of-protection-in-the-junk-email-filter-e89c12d8-9d61-4320-8c57-d982c8d52f6b
Overview of the Junk Email Filter
Link: https://support.office.com/en-us/article/overview-of-the-junk-email-filter-5ae3ea8e-cf41-4fa0-b02a-3b96e21de089
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: Aspen OnLine: Access denied exception may occur when an Aspen Plus EO model is used in an Aspen OnLine project during offline-to-online operation or when Aspen OnLine engine runs the EO model. | Solution: When attempting to move a model from the offline folder to the online folder using the Aspen Online Offline-to-Online utility, users may receive the following error message:
Starting offline-to-online operation...
Model name: column_V84.bkp
Copying files to online directory ...
Files copied to online directory.
Generating model variable list ...
Offline-to-online operation failed.
Access is denied. (Exception from HRESULT: 0x80070005 (E_ACCESSDENIED))
at APConnect.IAPEngConnect2.GetEngineSimulation()
at AOLConfigDLL.ConfigDLLAppContent.OpenAPEOFile(String sOffDir, String sModelName, Int16 iModelType, String ScrName)
Routine=ConfigDLLAppContent.System.String OpenAPEOFile(System.String, System.String, Int16, System.String). EI=10. stat=0
Routine=ConfigDLLAppContent.System.String OpenAPEOFile(System.String, System.String, Int16, System.String)
Routine=ConfigDLLAppContent.System.String APEOOffToOn(Boolean, System.String, System.String, Boolean, Int32, Int16, System.String, System.String, System.String, AOLUtils.ICallBackAgent ByRef)
Routine=ConfigDLLAppContent.System.String OffToOn(System.String, Boolean, Boolean, System.String, System.String, Boolean, Int32, Boolean, Int32, Int32, AOLUtils.ICallBackAgent ByRef, Boolean)
Routine=WinAppContent.System.String OffToOn(Boolean, Boolean, System.String, System.String, Boolean, Int32, Boolean, Int32, Int32)
Routine=frmOffToOn.Void DoOffToOn(System.Object, System.ComponentModel.DoWorkEventArgs)
Routine=frmOffToOn.Void OnOfflineToOnlineComplete(System.Object, System.ComponentModel.RunWorkerCompletedEventArgs)
When this occurs while Aspen OnLine engine drives an Aspen Plus EO model, users will see a message, similar to the one below, in the engine log file:
Thu, Jan-25-2018 15:37:48 Access is denied. (Exception from HRESULT: 0x80070005 (E_ACCESSDENIED))
at APConnect.IAPEngConnect2.GetEngineSimulation()
at AOLEngineDLL.EngineDLLAppContent.InitializeEO(IEngModel& xModel, Int32& ostat)
Routine=EngineDLLAppContent.Void InitializeEO(AOLUtils.IEngModel ByRef, Int32 ByRef)
at AOLEngineDLL.EngineDLLAppContent.InitializeEO(IEngModel& xModel, Int32& ostat)
at AOLEngineDLL.EngineDLLAppContent.APEORunner(IEngModel& xModel, String ClientID, IModelRunCallBackAgent& NotifiedObject, Boolean& SuccessRun)
Routine=EngineDLLAppContent.Void APEORunner(AOLUtils.IEngModel ByRef, System.String, AOLUtils.IModelRunCallBackAgent ByRef, Boolean ByRef)
Thu, Jan-25-2018 15:37:48 Aspen Plus executables will be cleaned up and will be restarted at the beginning of the next cycle.
This problem due to a Microsoft patch that has been released to fix a chip security issue. The solution is to apply the latest Windows update and then reboot the machine. If the problem persists, please contact AspenTech Support.
Keywords: 0x80070005(E_ACCESSDENIED), Access is denied, Offline to Online error message, aspen online engine fails, ssd failure, offline-to-online operation failed
References: None |
Problem Statement:
Basic steps to identify the possible root cause of a Cim-IO connection failure. | Solution:
(A) = Cim-IO Server
(B) = Cim-IO Client or InfoPlus.21 Server
1.- On (B) verify that the TSK’s assigned to the Cim-IO connection are running in InfoPlus.21 Manager. Typically, this TSK’s can be found as TSK_A_XXXX, TSK_M_XXXX and TSK_U_XXXX.
For every TSK assigned to the Cim-IO connection, there should be an executable associated. Validate in Task Manager --> Details that the executables are running.
2.- Use Cim-IO Test API to verify if the CIM-IO interface can retrieve data successfully; if something is wrong error codes and messages may appear. You should perform this from (B) to (A).
More information can be found in Proper way of using the Test API utility to diagnose problems with CIMIO
3.- Review in (A) and (B) the CIMIO_MSG.LOG and search for any error message regarding the hour when you noticed the problem started.
The path to find this file is: C:\Program Files (x86)\AspenTech\CIM-IO\log
4.- Confirm that the Services file match regarding the ports being used by for the communication. Also check that the ports have consecutive numbers between each line, and that the entry "CIMIOManager 7777/tcp" exist.
The path to find this file is: C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc
*Note: If you have a Firewall enabled, review that the ports are open.
5.- On (A) open Cim-IO Interface Manager and validate that the interface is running and also that the ports that appear match the ports in the Services file.
In contrast, on (B) open Cim-IO IP.21 Connection Manager and verify that the connection is established.
6.- Corroborate in (A) and (B) that the entries in cimio_logical_devices.def match.
The path to find this file is: C:\Program Files (x86)\AspenTech\CIM-IO\etc
7.- In the InfoPlus.21 Administrator, take into consideration the visible messages regarding the connection with the problem (InfoPlus.21 Administrator --> ServerName --> CIM-IO -->Logical Device) like IO_LAST_STATUS and IO_#_BAD_TAGS.
** Note: Always confirm that the entries are spelled correctly.
Keywords:
Cim-IO
Connection failures
References: None |
Problem Statement: What equations are used in the Vessel Sizing Utility? | Solution: The attached document contains the equations used in the vessel sizing utility.
KeyWords
Vessel Sizing, Utility, Separator
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to submit an online evaluation request. | Solution: You can submit an Aspentech Software Online Product Evaluation Request
1. Go to https://esupport.aspentech.com/
2. Select Support Menu in the top bar.
3. Click on Software Evaluation under the Software Services
4. Select No Account if you are a new user or Login if you are a customer.
5. Complete the form and Submit.
A case will be created and a Customer Care Specialist will review your request.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How is PIMS Submodel Calculator Used? | Solution: The Aspen PIMS Submodel Calculator (SMC) is a tool that allows Aspen PIMS submodels to be evaluated in isolation. SMC is used for model validation and quick simulations. With SMC, a modeler can also integrate an Aspen PIMS model with other applications, such as Aspen Petroleum Scheduler. The Aspen PIMS Submodel Calculator is a separately licensed feature of Aspen PIMS.
Use SMC to evaluate how changes to the process submodel operation parameters or feedstock qualities will affect the model without executing the LP model. The idea is that the user can specify quality values and individual column activities. The user can then use SMC to execute the submodel, calculate unknown activities and qualities, and report the results of the operation.
Please note that before the submodel calculation is executed, two things must be accomplished:
The submodel matrix must be "squared," that is, the number of rows must be equal to the number of columns. This is accomplished by specifying column values
The number of unknown property values (or "-999") must be zero
These tasks can be accomplished by importing solution data or by manual entry.
PIMS Submodel Calculator
Provides a mechanism to examine the performance of one or more submodels operating at given conditions on feedstocks of given qualities
Can be used to create a “.smc” file that can be read by other applications, for example Aspen Petroleum Scheduler
In addition, qualities of tags that are related in table PCALC/PCALCB are updated in the Submodel Calculator according to that relationship
To open SMC, select Model | Data Assistants | Submodel Calculator or click the SMC Tool on the toolbar
Select the submodel you want to view. You can select more than one submodel by clicking “ctrl” on your keyboard. Once selected the submodel calculator interface will appear. Double click a cell to modify the value.
Click on “Resolve” to import solution data. This will import activities and properties.
Once matrix is square (number of columns = number of rows) and there are no unresolved placeholders, “Calc” button becomes active. Click “Calc” to resolve the matrix.
Calculated values are shown in red. Also notice values under column BALANCE will appear. These values are the sum product of the row entries multiplied by the vector activities.
Submodel Calculator Legend:
Features:
Can elect to use or not use individual rows in the calculation (column Use)
Can change the submodel coefficients
Can reset “-999” placeholders; reenter values and calculate again
Can copy contents of current view into clipboard, paste elsewhere
Keywords: Submodel, Calculator, APS
References: None |
Problem Statement: There are two type of sales data in AFO, one is ADS, another is expected sales in DQM.
What is the difference of them? Which is used to generate replenishment plan? | Solution: ADS is stand for average daily sales, which is the average of the third week's sales data.
Expected sales is also called forecast sales, which is calculated with the entire four weeks' sales data and also consider the setting in Storm & Holiday Planner.
Expected sales could be check in Customer Setup Report.
AFO use expected sales to generate replenishment plan by product by tank.
Key words:
AFO
sales
forecast
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: When there are no default rules or tank beginning value, is there a way I can verify Aspen Refinery Multi-Blend Optimizer (MBO) is using 0.012345 as the property value? | Solution: In the MBO help file section for Rundown: Component you will find that for regular components if there are no component default, property default of tank beginning values, MBO will use the value 0.012345.
You can verify this value is used by MBO with the following steps:
In the Multi-Period Blend Optimization dialog, check the option "Save Solution to Database"
Click on “Optimize” to obtain a solution
After the optimizer is done, open table LPSOL in Database. Look for the properties of interest. For instance, for dummy component TST with empty property values you can see the values for the properties of that component in rows named ITST_xxx_yyy where xxx is the property of interest and yyy is the period. See below how some of the properties of the dummy tank are 0.012345.
Keywords: Access, SBO
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to add blenders in Aspen Petroleum Scheduler and Aspen Refinery Multi-Blend Optimizer? | Solution: Use table BLENDERS to list the blenders that are available for use in Blend events. On the Aspen APS or MBO Model Tree, select Data Tables | MODEL | BLENDERS. Enter the information for the blender in a new row.
Once you have entered the blenders, go back to the Model tree menu and right click on “BLENDERS”. Click on “Save”.
Notice how X_SEQ, X_BY and X_UPDATED are automatically updated after saving.
If message “Unable to find ORIONDBGen.mdb. Please select the path for it.” appears when clicking on BLENDERS table, click OK and select ORIONDBGen.mdb found in C:\Program Files (x86)\AspenTech\Aspen Refinery Multi-Blend Optimizer if you’re working in MBO.
Keywords: Database, GUI
References: None |
Problem Statement: How can I adjust characterization results for a crude cut in my PIMS model using Aspen Assay Management? | Solution: Here are the steps to modify a specific value for a property after characterization has been performed:
Note property values for a particular crude in Model Assays section. For example, look at RONclear value for WN1 cut of Alaskan North Slope.
In PIMS Tables section, go to Cut Crudes and under “Action” column, select “Update” for the crude(s) you want to modify in your PIMS tables.
Go to “Property-Cut Map” tab and check the cuts you want to update.
Select “Adjustments” instead of “Mapping”. Enter a value to be added to the original characterized value or add a formula by clicking the formula button.
Generate cutting results. Review results in “Crude Cutting results” tab before sending them to your PIMS model. You can see that the adjustment value was added to the characterization result for RON (51.06 + 0.5).
Click on “Update PIMS tables”
Review results in Assay table:
Keywords: AAM, afam
References: None |
Problem Statement: This article explains what happens to crude composition trends when you add crude tanks into #MIX section in Aspen Petroleum Scheduler. | Solution: The use of crude tanks in #MIX section is not supported. The feeds to a #MIX calculation can only be process tanks and streams. Adding a crude into #MIX will cause the crude composition trends to show incorrect results. For example:
Correct: Crude composition trend without crude tank T011 in #MIX after simulate all.
Incorrect: Crude composition trend with crude tank T011 in #MIX after simulate all.
As you can observe, this causes the first crude in table CRUDES to disappear from the trend as well as some gaps in the composition.
If you observe this type of behavior in your crude composition trends, make sure you don’t have any crude tanks under your #MIX calculations.
Keywords: APS, Orion, INIT, PREP, POST
References: None |
Problem Statement: Can Aspen Engineering Suite products utilize GPU acceleration? | Solution: The calculations performed by Aspen Engineering Suite (including Aspen Plus, HYSYS, Aspen Custom modeler, etc.) are not amenable to GPU acceleration. GPU acceleration is meant for doing the same operation on a large number of values, which is not the kind of calculation that Aspen Engineering Suite does.
For example, Aspen Plus Dynamics does very different operations depending on the equations. It could be a detailed property calculation, a correlation that is looked up from a library, or an explicitly written out equation.
The part that might be handled by a GPU would be the linear algebra within the solvers, but solver calculation time is much smaller than the time it takes to evaluate all of the various operations. In the extreme case of a difficult optimization, the solver takes around 5-10% of the total calculation time. For a simulation like Aspen Adsorption, the solver usually is taking 0.5-5% of the total calculation time. This is already sped up by decomposing the problem so the individual matrices that are solved are much smaller.
If you want to speed up the simulation, you should focus on refining solver and model settings to improve performance. Usually the main source of slowness is due to convergence difficulty and not the speed of an individual iteration.
Keywords: GPU acceleration
Aspen Engineering
Solver and model settings
References: None |
Problem Statement: Example LNG User Variables - Relating Heat Leak and Delta P to flow rate of feed stream | Solution: In heat exchanger operations (Cooler/Heater, LNG exchanger, etc.), the values of pressure drop and heat leak are needed to calculate to operation. Although, the pressure drop and heat leak are dependent on flow rate of fluid passing through it. Therefore, pressure drop or heal leak should not be keep fixed, if the flow rate of fluid changes significantly.
There is not any direct way to relate pressure drop and heat leak with fluid flow rate in heat exchangers. Therefore, User Variables might be used. User Variables can use automation (VB code) to access the flow rate of fluid and calculate the pressure drop and heat leak based on given correlation, and specify the pressure drop and heat leak for the exchanger.
The attached HYSYS case illustrates this procedure with user variables. This case has one LNG exchanger and one cooler.
LNG exchanger:
The first user variable (CalcLNGDeltaP on the LNG op) relates the pressure drop in 2nd pass with the mass flow rate through 2nd pass, using a simple correlation DP = K * FLOW * FLOW.
The second user variable (CalcDwnStrmLNGHeatLeak on the stream 'Feed Gas') calculates a heat leak value based on the stream flow rate, and then puts (specify) this into the LNG specification for the Heat Leak.
Cooler:
The user variable (CoolDP on the Cooler op) relates the pressure drop with the mass flow rate of input stream, using a simple correlation DP = K * FLOW * FLOW and specify this into Cooler pressure drop specification.
The K factor in the above pressure drop correlation is taken as 9.0e-9 kPa/(kg/h)2, but the user need to change it to the appropriate value based on the design and geometry of the exchanger.
Also attached is an huv file that will allow these user variable to be imported into any other case. (See Solution #109210 for details on how to import the huv file.)
Note
The Knowledge Base examples are provided for academic purposes only and as such are not subject to the quality and support procedures of officially released AspenTech products. Users are strongly encouraged to check performance and results carefully and, by downloading, agree to assume all risk related to the use of these examples. We invite any feedback through the normal support channel at [email protected].
KeyWords
LNG User Variable, Heat Leak Specification, Side, Pressure Drop, Cooler
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: What are the main differences between Scripts and Tasks? | Solution: 1. A script is a set of instructions that automates the setup and control of an entire simulation, while a task is a set of instructions that defines a sequence of actions that take place during a dynamic simulation. For example, you can use scripts to automate specification and initialization, define units of measurement, or call external applications, but you cannot use tasks to do these jobs. Tasks are usually used to change the value variables, write message, pause the simulation, etc. when certain conditions are met during the simulation run.
2. Scripts are written in Microsoft Visual Basic Scripting Edition (VBScript), while tasks are written in ACM language.
Keywords: Scripts
Tasks
Difference
References: None |
Problem Statement: What do the five Reset options in Equation Oriented do and How should they be used? | Solution: In an Equation Oriented (EO) flowsheet, when the reset button is hit, a dialog box with five options is displayed. The option you select should depend on the level of changes you have made to the flow sheet.
If you have added and connected a new block or made changes to a stream or block input form then you should choose option 1: Reinitialize and run sequential modular simulation, and synchronize to the equation oriented simulation. This option returns the flowsheet to sequential modular mode, solves the model and the EO synchronizes.
If you have configured any EO forms such as created a new EO connection equation, added a spec group or created an EO Alias, then you will want to choose option 2: Rebuild equation oriented simulation and reinitialize with current EO results. This option assumes that the flowsheet is starting from a converged SM case and re-builds the entire flowsheet in EO.
If you solve to a new position in EO but the solution fails to converge and you are having trouble finding the cause then use option 3: Restore previous solution (from before last EO solve). This option takes your flowsheet back to the last solution.
If while in EO mode you make changes to an existing EO form such as change activate or reactive a Connection Equation, change the specifications of an EO variable in the spec group, change the value of an EO variable via the EO Input form etc then select option 4: Reinitialize equation oriented simulation with changes in configuration Flowsheet/Hierarchy level EO-Input and EO-Option may not be reused during initialization. This option ensures that the EO build is only executed on the objects that have experienced an input change and ensures consistency of the changed variable in all EO forms.
Finally, if you want to make changes to the independent/measurement variables in your flowsheet but before the solve, you want to ensure the solution begins from a feasible position then choose option 5: Update equation oriented simulation from external file.This option imports a variable file that typically contains variables and their corresponding values, into the current workspace. This variable is made available when the user creates it by using the ‘Export Variables’ option in the Equation Oriented menu| Variables ribbon.
Keywords: EO reset options, EO reinitialize, Aspen Plus reset
References: None |
Problem Statement: When using Aspen Audit and Compliance manager, it may be difficult to visualize its content in the Event query site (http://<ServerName>/AuditComplianceManager/EventQuery.asp). This solution provides the steps needed to fix this. | Solution: Go to Internet Explorer Tools | Compatibility View Settings and add the server name to the list in the Settings window as shown below
After that, reload the AACM site and you should be able to visualize it properly.
Keywords: Aspen Audit and Compliance Manager
References: None |
Problem Statement: When executing the setup.exe from the AspenONE_MSC_T installation media folder you get the error message shown below, even after you have verified that software requirements for the version you are installing in the AspenTech Platform Support are correct (https://www.aspentech.com/en/platform-support).
This issue may be encounter when an unzipping process was not completed successfully when using the Windows unzipping tool. AspenTech does not recommend using this tool when uncompressing the installation media files. A symptom that indicates the uncompressed media is not correct is that all the files located in the AspenONE_MSC_T are the same size. | Solution: To avoid this issue, use antoher unzipping tool, such as the one that is downloaded from the AspenTech Download Center if Selected
Keywords: Version of this file is not compatible
MSC install
References: None |
Problem Statement: This solution provides example on how to get interpolated data from Aspen InfoPlus.21 database for applications using ODBC connections based on method described on solution How to access the AGGREGATES and HISTORY pseudo tables in ODBC aware application. This example will use Excel 2013 as application to read value from an ODBC connection with Aspen InfoPlus.21 database properly configured. | Solution: On Aspen SQLplus:
1. Create a query to the history table containing the interpolated data from the tags you want information:
(Refer to SQLplus Help files to get more information about HISTORY table parameters to use on it, also check solution 105128).
2. Create a VIEW of the result by adding CREATE VIEW <ViewName> AS at the beginning of the code:
On Excel:
1. Open a new Excel book and go Data / From other sources / From Microsoft Query:
2. Select the ODBC connection to IP.21
3. Look for the view we have previously created (in this case ATCAIHIST) and click on > button:
4. Click on Next and continue click on it until you get to the Finish button. Click on Finish and then select the location in the spreadsheet for the result to be written, click OK:
5. You should get the result of the query as a table in Excel:
Keywords: ODBC
References: None |
Problem Statement: When you try to use built-in functions (e.g. sin or cos) within a calculation in Aspen Calc and execute the calculation you may get the message:
"Failed to create object : CalcBuiltinFunctions.clsFunctions in formula <name> at line nn" | Solution: This error might be caused by a problem with the CalcBuiltinFunctions.dll and CalcFunctions.dll files. Re-registering those dll's will resolve the error.
Open a command prompt and navigate to the "<drive>:\Program Files\Aspentech\Aspen Calc\Bin" folder and run the commands in following order:
regsvr32 /u CalcBuiltinFunctions.dll
regsvr32 /u CalcFunctions.dll
regsvr32 CalcBuiltinFunctions.dll
regsvr32 CalcFunctions.dll
Special Note: When registering these dll's on a 64-bit system please make sure to use the 32-bit version of 'regsvr32' that is in the syswow64 folder.
Keywords: Failed to create object : CalcBuiltinFunctions.clsFunctions in formula <name> at line nn
AspenCalc
References: None |
Problem Statement: This solution provides a brief example on how to create a dashboard for an aspenONE Process Explorer graphic providing example on the use of settings like:
a) Scale: The whole range of values displayed by the dashboard including uppers and lower limits.
b) Limits: The color indication of the value state.
c) Ticks: Marks displayed externally to the dashboard which should provide an easy way to count values.
d) Others formats
For a detailed explanation of parameters description and additional information please consult Aspen IP.21 Browser Graphic Studio help files. | Solution: Adding dashboards for an aspenONE Process Explorer’s graphic
Open Aspen IP.21 Browser Graphic Studio and start a new project:
Locate the Dashboard Componets icon and click on it:
Select the type of dashboard to add:
Adjust the size and position of the dashboard:
Select the dashboard with a left click, then right click over it and go to properties:
Go to Data tab and select the Aspen InfoPlus.21 (IP.21) data source and Tag to bind to this dashboard:
Save the graphic and add it to the main project folder:
Publish the project into aspenONE Process Explorer (go the File / Publish project / to aspenONE Process Explorer menu):
Tuning scale, ticks and limits for dashboards
There are three main factors for tuning a dashboard:
a) Scale: The whole range of values displayed by the dashboard including uppers and lower limits.
b) Limits: The color indication of the value state.
c) Ticks: Marks displayed externally to the dashboard which should provide an easy way to count values.
d) Others format.
Next example will consider a KPI tag with values from 0 up to 100 in which we want to set up 5 zones: two for high values, two for low values and a zone for expect behavior. Limits of these zones will be set as follow:
High High limit: 90
High limit: 75
Low limit: 10
Low Low limit: 25
The expected behavior for this tag is to have values between 25 and 75.
To create a dashboard with these specifications we’re going to use the Radial Gauge, and manual setting of limit values which can also be taken as part of the IP.21 records fields.
A) Scale
Having the dashboard added to the graphic, right click on it and select Properties, go to Scale tab:
Click on the Number radio button and write 0 as minimum and 100 as maximum values. Publish the graphic to check the result:
B) Limits
Go to properties of the dashboard and select Limits tab:
Click on the Number radio button and set limits values and color as follow and publish it to aspenONE Process Explorer:
B) Ticks
Ticks are distributed proportionally around the gauge dashboard, because of this; it is not possible to have mark values on points that do not fit a proportional distribution, for example, in 10 and 25. In this case we’re going to gives priority to values around green area limits to be displayed on the dashboard.
Go to properties of the dashboard and select Scale tab. Change the Major Ticks, Minor Ticks and Midle Ticks values as follow:
A zoom into the dashboard show how these setting are applied:
D) Others format
Finally, since we’re using integer values, we can change the format of the displayed value:
With this the final result of the dashboard looks like:
Keywords: aspenONE Process Explorer
A1PE
Dashboard
References: None |
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