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Problem Statement: On the Data tab, the External Changes icons are always grayed out, when do they become active? | Solution: The two icons in the External Changes section of the Data tab become active after you have imported data into SCM, at that time you must decided to accept or reject the changes that were brought into SCM from an external source.
Keywords: Plant Scheduler
Supply Chain Planner
References: None |
Problem Statement: To control the cut point in the Crude Units, user created structure had to be incorporated in table ROWS.
This kind of structure can be made more user friendly and easier to set up by using table PROCLIM. This document explains how to set up the required structure. | Solution: The overall structure required is to capture the activities of the swing cut columns in table ROWS, drive them to submodel created ad hoc and setting up the cut point limits in the submodel through the use of table PROCLIM.
We will base this example (see attached model) on Swing Cut KD1 for Crude Unit 1 (SCD1), which is adjacent to cuts KE1 and DS1.
Here are the details:
1. Capture the activities of the swing cuts in table ROWS
First, the total activity of the Swing Cuts (up and down) is captured using E-rows (ECD1KD+, ECD1KD-) in table ROWS. The total amount of the Swing Cut that goes up is contained in the column SCD1KD+, and the portion that goes down is contained in column SCD1KD-. For crude unit SCD2, the columns would be SCD2KD> and SCD2KD<.
Note: You can review the actual swing cut structure in the crude unit submodel (!SCD1.xls) that is generated by PIMS if you ask for it in Model Settings | General | Miscellaneous and select the checkbox called CRUDEXLS. From here you can easily identify what the column name is for the swing cuts. This ability to generate the crude unit submodel is available in version 14.15 and higher.
2. Create a new submodel to capture activity of swing cuts
In table SUBMODS, create a dummy submodel (SCRD in this example).
3. Capture swing cut volumes in submodel and create PROCLIM structure
The E-rows (ECD1KD+, ECD1KD-) created in table ROWS are continued in submodel SCRD.
The PROCLIM row ZLIMSKD is created:
? 550 F is the end Cut Point for cut KE1 if all the swing cut goes up (activity of SCD1KD- is zero)
? 530 F is the end Cut Point for cut KE1 if all the swing cut goes down (activity of SCD1KD+ is zero)
4. Define limits in table PROCLIM
Define the MIN and MAX cuts point for the upper destination stream (KE1 in this case) in table PROCLIM. Under columns MIN and MAX you can put any value consistent with the actual possible end points defined in table ASSAYS for cut KE1 (see properties IFVTKE1, IFVTKD1). The values under columns MIN CUT POINT, MAX CUT POINT are not read by PIMS because they are to the right of the ***, but it is a good idea to add them here as a reference for the value to use in the limits.
5. See results in Process Limits section or in the submodel section
The results can be seen either in the Process Limits section of the Full Solution report or in the submodel SCRD:
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: A user that was trying to remove a property from an existing blend event in Aspen Refinery Multi-Blend Optimizer (MBO) decided to remove the property totally from the product, using the PRODUCT dialog menu. However, while MBO easily let him remove the property from the product, and even though he manually cycled from one product to another on the event dialog, MBO does not update the BLEND_SPEC and remove the offending quality. The only way to remove the quality is to physically open the database table and delete the row. How do I complete the deletion process? | Solution: This issue only occurs in versions earlier than V7.3.1. Some properties cannot be deleted because other properties may depend on them. If the required properties are not present, the simulator adds them.
In V7.3.1, the design of the Product dialog has been improved. In V7.3.1, the Product dialog box allows deleting the required properties.
Procedure:( i.e. Demo model)
? Invoke the product dialog (command: Model->Products).
? For product U87, the Specification grid should look as below. Only for some properties, the delete button is visible. These properties are not required and can be deleted. For required properties, the delete button is not displayed to disallow deleting them. The required properties cannot be replaced either(i.e. DON property depends on MON and RON properties). That is why their selection buttons () are also hidden.
? If you delete any non-required property and click OK, after reopening the dialog, the deleted property should not come back.
Keywords: Product Dialog box, Specs
References: None |
Problem Statement: After a BCI model is loaded, the status window shows a message 'Recipe list not loaded'. What does that mean? | Solution: Check under Menu Tools | Program Options ?, and see if the box at the bottom 'Only FTP PREP Input File to BPC' is checked.
FTP is activated only if login and directory information is provided in this section. Otherwise, if this section is left blank, BCI assumes a local directory structure exists and that recipe files should be stored locally. So, if the files are not stored locally, this box should be checked.
Keywords: BCI, Blend Controller Interface, recipe, loaded, RECIPE.BPC, Honeywell BPC
References: None |
Problem Statement: A new property, "MultipleEvents", has been added in Aspen Refinery Multi-Blend Optimizer (MBO) and Aspen Petroleum Scheduler (APS) to the .EventsColl object that allows you to specify if you want the system to refresh all screens each time multiple events are added. | Solution: In Aspen Refinery Multi-Blend Optimizer:
The OrionMBO.EventsColl object exposes the following property:
Property
Option
Description
MultipleEvents
OrionMBO.enEVENTS.EVENTS_MULTIPLE
Use automation to add multiple events without refreshing/simulating each time an addition/modification has been made. Refresh will not occur again until MultipleEvents is reset to OrionMBO.enEVENTS.EVENTS_SINGLE.
OrionMBO.enEVENTS.EVENTS_SINGLE
Use automation to add multiple events and refresh all screens each time additions and modifications are made.
In Aspen Petroleum Scheduler:
Property
Option
Description
MultipleEvents
Orion.enEVENTS.EVENTS_MULTIPLE
Use automation to add multiple events without refreshing/simulating each time an addition/modification has been made. Refresh will not occur again until MultipleEvents is reset to Orion.enEVENTS.EVENTS_SINGLE.
Orion.enEVENTS.EVENTS_SINGLE
Use automation to add multiple events and refresh all screens each time additions and modifications are made.
Important note : When using the MultipleEvents property, it is your responsible to reset the flag to OrionMBO.enEVENTS.EVENTS_SINGLE after events have been added or updated. If you do not reset the MultipleEvents property, screens will not refresh and will appear froze. You should therefore use this property with caution.
Attached two example codes for VBA abd VB.Net.
Keywords: Automation
References: None |
Problem Statement: In V7.3.1 when using PIMS-AO, the XLP matrix generator will flag errors if there are cells with errors, such as #NAME, #REF, etc. in Excel input tables. How can I find all of these to correct them? | Solution: Below is an example of macro coding that can be used to find each instance in a workbook of an error. The macros creates a sheet named "Errors" which contains the locations of all the #REF, #NA, #DIV0, etc. Excel errors in the workbook. You can click on the error and it will take you to that cell if you have in-cell editing turned off in your Excel settings. All such errors should be corrected.
Sub ListErrors()
Dim ws As Worksheet
Dim Rng As Range, Cell As Range
Dim NR As Long
Application.ScreenUpdating = False
If Not Evaluate("ISREF(Errors!A1)") Then
Worksheets.Add(After:=Worksheets(Worksheets.Count)).Name = "Errors"
Else
Sheets("Errors").UsedRange.Clear
End If
NR = 1
On Error Resume Next
With Sheets("Errors")
For Each ws In Worksheets
If ws.Name <> "Errors" Then
Set Rng = Nothing
Set Rng = ws.Cells.SpecialCells(xlFormulas, xlErrors)
If Not Rng Is Nothing Then
For Each Cell In Rng
.Range("A" & NR) = ws.Name
.Range("B" & NR) = Cell.Address
.Range("C" & NR) = "=" & ws.Name & "!" & Cell.Address
NR = NR + 1
Next Cell
End If
End If
Next ws
.Activate
End With
Application.ScreenUpdating = True
End Sub
Keywords: Excel errors, #REF, #NA, #DIV0, #NAME
References: None |
Problem Statement: Aspen Base Load Service has been installed and worked correctly. After a few days the service has suddenly stopped.
When trying to start the service manually from Administrative Tools > Services, the following message is returned:
"The Aspen Base Load service on Local Computer started and then stopped. Some services stop automatically if they have no work to do, for example the Performance logs and Alert Service".
Aspen Base Load Service will not start, and PIMS does not start without the service. How can I restart the service? | Solution: Possible cause of this problem is overflow of Windows Event log. Check the Windows event log as follows:
1. Open Control Panel > Administrative Tools
2. Click on "Event Viewer"
3. Open "Application" Event
If there are a lot of events for "Aspen Base Load", clear the log using the following steps:
1. Right click on "Application"
2. Select "Properties"
3. Click on "Clear Log"
4. Increase the number in "Maximum log size"
5. Re-start "Aspen Base Load Service" from Administrative Tools > Services
Keywords: MSC Token, Services, Event Viewer
References: None |
Problem Statement: In solution 122451, it describes how to control swing cuts using Table PROCLIM by adding a dummy submodel. This solution is an alternative that also uses Table PROCLIM but omits the dummy submodel. | Solution: To implement this technique, user needs to be familiar with the PIMS matrix row names that PIMS generates from PROCLIM. For example, let's use the Volume Sample model as attached, the purpose is to control the percentage of SCR1 swing cut KD1 that swings up. This will be represented by the PROCLIM entry of Z1KD.
In PROCLIM, we define a row as in the table,
* TABLE PROCLIM
TEXT
MIN
MAX
Z1KD
KD1 swing
0.001
99.999
PIMS will generate three rows based on this row name in PROCLIM,
ELIM1KD
GLIM1KD
LLIM1KD
So in table ROWS, we add the modifications,
* Table ROW_SWING
*
TEXT
SCD1KD+
SCD1KD-
ZLIM1KD
LLIM1KD
KD1 swing
-100
GLIM1KD
KD1 swing
-100
ELIM1KD
KD1 swing
-1
-1
1
The matrix in PIMS will be,
ELIM1KD
-1.0 * SCD1KD+ -1.0 * SCD1KD- +1.0 * ZLIM1KD = 0.0
GLIM1KD,
-100.0 * SCD1KD+ +99.999000 * ZLIM1KD >= 0.0
LLIM1KD,
-100.0 * SCD1KD+ +0.001000 * ZLIM1KD <= 0.0
Table PROCLIM can now be used to put MIN and MAX constraints on the percentage of the SCR1 swing stream KD1 that swings up.
Keywords: Swing Cut
PROCLIM
Control
ROWS
Swing
References: None |
Problem Statement: Aspen PIMS V7.3.1 has a new function called Assay Manager which can be launched from model tree by right clicking on the ASSAYS branch. Some users have noticed that Assay Manager does not launch and a message "No data returned from Assay Manager" is displayed in the execution log. | Solution: Assay Manager will be installed in the following directory,
C:\Program Files\AspenTech\Aspen Feedstock Assay Manager
If it is not there, Assay Manager is not installed. Aspen PIMS V7.3.1 now has a prerequisite that Microsoft .NET Framework 4.0 be installed.
The installation of Microsoft .NET Framework 4.0 is checked during installatiion if the "Upgrade/Repair" option was selected. However, the installation is not checked if the "Modify" option was chosen. Regardless of which option is checked, the installation of Aspen PIMS V7.3.1 will complete without error, but Assay Manager will not be installed.
The following steps are necessary to install Aspen PIMS with Assay Manager.
1. Uninstall Aspen PIMS.
2. Install MS .NET Framework 4.0.
The installation kit is in the supplemental DVD
\Petroleum Supply Chain V7.3.1\3rd Party redistributables\Microsoft .NET Framework 4.0
3. Re-install Aspen PIMS V7.3.1.
Keywords: Installation, prerequisites, requirements
References: None |
Problem Statement: Is it possible to export the planning board graphic from Aspen Plant Scheduler to Excel via the "Export to Excel" selection on the File menu? | Solution: Exporting the planning board graphic is not supported at this time.
Exporting from the "Export to Excel" selection on the File menu only supports the exporting of sets and tables, not graphics.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I improve the Oracle publishing performance of Aspen Petroleum Scheduler? | Solution: Beginning with Version 8.4 , users can improve Oracle performance on Publish by adding the keyword ORACLE_DELETE_RESULT_TBL_W_TMPTBL with the value "Y". This prompts APS to use the temp table to copy the data to be retained, truncate the existing table and then copy back the data to the results table again.
This will improve the speed of deleting if the data to be deleted is at least 30% of the total data in that table.
Y – Uses the temp table to copy data to be retained, truncate the existing table and then copy data back to the results table, thus improving the speed of delete; speed only improves if the data to be deleted is at least 30% of the total data in the table.
Keywords: Oracle, CONFIG table, publish
References: None |
Problem Statement: When updating an Aspen Petroleum Scheduler (APS) database to version 7.3, I got some validation issues related to "Order Problem" in some tables, such as:
Table _LINEFILL
Order Problem: [ID] is 9th column, should be 1st column.
Order Problem: [CASE] is 8th column, should be 5th column.
How do I know what is the correct column order for APS database tables? | Solution: When DBUpdate utility (or script created by the utility) is running to upgrade a model, it cannot modify the order of fields/columns, change field/column names or delete fields/columns in the database. After updating a database, we strongly recommend that you run a DB validation to verify that there are no remaining structural errors that the DBUpdate utility could not resolve and that must be made manually.
Check the correct "Column Order" of tables, opening the OrionDBGen.mdb file located on the APS folder and look at the "Table Columns" option. It will show you all columns by table, including the Column order. See following example:
_LINEFILL table:
Keywords: DBUpdate
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do the "Copy" and "Copy and Link" functionalities work in Aspen Petroleum Scheduler (APS) V7.3?
Can you suggest a practice to use the new functions in order to have same results in terms of number of steps to do comparing with v2006.5 ? | Solution: Here is the explanation of how to use some shortcut menu options related to Events. All of them will be available when a desired event is selected and you right click on the Gantt chart.
APS v2006.5:
"Copy" functionality: This task is used in the Event interface to copy and link an event on an event screen
Steps to follow:
1) From the Event Interface, right-click the desired event (to be copied) to display the context (right-click) menu
2) Select the "Copy" command
3) A New event dialog box will pop up containing the same information such as: rate, quantity, etc, and linked start date with the original event.
4) Edit/ delete linked/modify start-stop as needed and click Ok
5) New event will be created
APS V7.3:
In addition to the "Copy" option (same behavior described above for v2006.5) , version v7.3 has two others : "Copy and Link" and "Paste".
"Copy" and "Paste" functionalities : This task is used in the Event interface to copy an event on an event screen. (The difference with COPY in v2006.5, the event will be created without any LINK). "Copy" - copy the event to the clipboard; "Paste"- Pastes the contents of the clipboard onto the Gantt
Steps to follow:
1) From the Event Interface, right-click the desired event (to be copied) to display the context (right-click) menu
2) Select the "Copy" command
3) Put the mouse on the new DATE you want to start the new event
4) Right-click to display the context menu and select "Paste" option
5) A new event will be created with same previous event information but different "Start" and Stop times (new date)
"Copy and Link" functionality : Makes a copy of the selected event and links it to the original event. Only available if you have one event selected.
Steps to follow:
1) From the Event Interface, right-click the desired event (to be copied) to display the context (right-click) menu
2) Select the "Copy and Link " command
3) A New event dialog box will pop up containing the same information such as: rate, quantity, etc, and linked start date with the original event.
4) Edit/ delete linked/modify start-stop as needed and click Ok
5) New event will be created
As you can see "Copy and link" in V7.3 should work the same way as "Copy" in v2006.5 (Exactly same steps). Copy and "Paste" option just allows users to copy events at different start time.
Keywords: copy, paste, link
References: None |
Problem Statement: New Dialog boxes have been added in Aspen Petroleum Scheduler(APS) v7.3.1 to avoid data tables manipulation. | Solution: Previously, direct manipulation of data tables was required to enter and modify component, product and tank information. In V7.3.1, dialog boxes have been added that allow you to make changes through the APS interface.
New Tables:
- COMPONENT Dialog box
- PRODUCT Dialog Box
- TANK Dialog Box
COMPONENT Dialog box:
Use the Component Definition dialog box to add, modify, or display a component
To access this dialog box:
? Click Model | Component.
PRODUCT Dialog box:
Use the Product Definition dialog box to add, modify, or display a product.
To access this dialog box:
? Click Model | Products.
TANKS Dialog box:
Use the Tank dialog box to add, modify, delete, or display tanks.
To access this dialog box:
? Click Model | Tanks.
More details about different dialog box options, refer to the APS Help file.
Keywords:
References: None |
Problem Statement: This article describes the procedure to create templates in Aspen Petroleum Scheduler (APS) that can be used in Excel to edit multiple events at the same time. | Solution: Editing multiple events in Excel is performed by defining templates that are applied to Excel spreadsheets
The template you create defines what and how specific types of data are displayed in Excel. Your customized display allows you to quickly view, edit, add or delete information that most easily fits your needs. You can define multiple templates for the same data types.
Steps to create a template:
1. Once Gantt Interface is selected, click Events | Multi-Event Editor Templates:
2. Creating a new Template: Click in the "Select Template type" drop-down list to display and select the type of event template to create:
or Editing an existing template, click in the "Select Database Template to Edit" drop-down list to display and select an existing template.
3. Select an item from the Available list and click > to move the item to the Selected list
4. Click "Next" to continue. The Edit Report layout and Save to database screen appears.
Select desired data and click the Move up and Move Down buttons to shift the selected data to a desired position. This order indicated the order this data is displayed in Excel.
5. Enter a template name in the "Template Name" field. In case that this is an existing template, this name appears in this field (shows above screen shot).
6. Click Create Template to save the template changes.
Keywords: Edit Events in Excel, Multi-Event Editor
References: None |
Problem Statement: A new field, "Plot Title", has been added to the Layout Options dialog box that allows you to add a title to trend charts. | Solution: Enter a title for the plot from the "Layout Options" dialog box. Right click on the desire trend, as shown:
This title appears at the top of the trend chart:
If this field is left blank, the text associated with the first trend?s Description field appears at the top of the trend chart, as shown:
Keywords: Trend chart
References: None |
Problem Statement: When selecting some events in Aspen Petroleum Scheduler (APS), then selecting the option--"Edit in excel", it pops up the following error messages, as shown below :
How I can fix these warnings to use "Edit Events in Excel" functionality? | Solution: Microsoft Office adds a security option to deliberately lock out programmatic access to the VBA object model from any Automation client unless a user chooses to permit such access. This is a per user and per application setting, and denies access by default.
This security option makes it more difficult for unauthorized programs to build "self-replicating" code that can harm end-user systems.
Follow this procedure to fix these errors:
1.) Open up a blank worksheet in Excel and change the following (with APS closed):
2.) Select File/Options
3.) Then Select ?Trust Center? and click on ?Trust Center Settings??
4.) Go into the ?Macro Settings? selection and put a check next to ?Trust Access to the VBA project object model? (see below):
5.) After this, close out excel, open APS and try it again. Make sure this selection comes up checked when ?Units? opens to make sure the change persists, otherwise go through it again.
Additional information:
For any Automation client to be able to access the VBA object model programmatically, the user running the code must explicitly grant access. To turn on access, the user must follow these steps.
Office 2003 and Office XP
1. Open the Office 2003 or Office XP application in question. On the Tools menu, click Macro, and then click Security to open the Macro Security dialog box.
2. On the Trusted Sources tab, click to select the Trust access to Visual Basic Project check box to turn on access.
3. Click OK to apply the setting. You may need to restart the application for the code to run properly if you automate from a Component Object Model (COM) add-in or template.
Office 2007
1. Open the 2007 Microsoft Office system application in question. Click the Microsoft Office button, and then click Application Options.
2. Click the Trust Center tab, and then click Trust Center Settings.
3. Click the Macro Settings tab, click to select the Trust access to the VBA project object model check box, and then click OK.
Keywords: -Programmatic Access to Visual Basic Project warning
-Failed to edit event in Excel
-Edit Events in Excel
References: None |
Problem Statement: This is the procedure to select a Multi-Event editor Template and then to launch to Excel to edit, add and delete Event data in Aspen Petroleum Scheduler (APS) and Aspen Refinery Multi-Blend Optimizer (MBO). | Solution: Steps to edit, add or delete Event data using the Multi-event editor template:
1. On the Event interface, select the events you wish to edit. You can either use SHIFT+click to select individual events or click and drag around the desired events to select multiple events.Your selected events are highlighted.
2. Right-click on any highlighted event and click Edit in Excel from the shortcut menu.
If the highlighted events are of varying event types Excel opens with a different spreadsheet for each event type.
If you have defined multiple templates for the same data type, the Multi-Event Editor Templates dialog box appears, use Shift+click to select the desired templates, and then click OK. For each event type, you can only select one template. Associated spreadsheets open for each event data type.
3. In Excel, modify, add or delete data as desired.
4. Save your data and exit Excel.Your changes will be written to memory. Depending on the type of data you modified, you may need to refresh the event screen to see your changes.
5. To permanently save data to APS tables, click Save icon (tool bar) or select File | Save Model.
If you wish to revert all changes made using an Excel template, click located on the toolbar. All values will return to original states prior to modifications in Excel.
Keywords: Edit events in Excel
References: None |
Problem Statement: When creating a method CreateEvent() for Material Service - I get the message:
"You can not create an event Material Service... Just edit...".
Are there any ways to create event Material Service automatically in VB.Net? | Solution: The CreateEvent() is the 2006.5 type of automation call to create an Event. This method does not support Material Service Events but there is the newer method of creating events using the EventColl Interface.
The CreateEventItem() and Add() can be used to create a new event of type "Material Service" or any other type of event .
CreateEventItem() Sample Code:
Example:
Sub CreateNewEvent()
Dim eventscoll As OrionMBOLib.EventsColl
Dim count As Integer
Dim index As Integer
Set eventscoll = CreateObject("OrionMBO.EventsColl")
Dim EventItem As orionMBO.EventItem
Set EventItem = eventscoll.CreateEventItem()
Dim EventType As Long
EventType = EventItem.Type
Set EventItem = Nothing
Set eventscoll = Nothing
End Sub
More sample codes are available in the Help file under Automation ->Objects->Orion.EventsColl
Keywords: -Material Service Event
-Automation method
References: None |
Problem Statement: We are getting an error as shown below when Aspen Petroleum Scheduler (APS) is opened. We think its due to the fact that some refinery data imported into APS is negative but we cannot determine what the value is from the xseq number. Could you please let us know how to determine what the X_SEQ 233220 is so we can identify the data that is in error?
Reviewing the Event_Read_Error_Log.txt created in the Local working folder, it shows the following: | Solution: The Error log is showing there is a negative quantity value (this is probably because the Start time is later than the Stop time of an event) . What you can to do:
From the database or APS, select ATOrionEvents table, scroll right until find X_SEQ column, select it and right click to select FIND option. Write the X_SEQ number showing in the log report: 233220. Selected row is the Event that has bad "VOL: or negative value.
From Database:
From APS model:
The row shows all information related to the Event. To identify it, check column TYPE, for example, TYPE :15 is a Product Shipment Event that Start 6/2/2011 12:00 ; stop time 6/2/11 05:39 ; X_SEQ= 21.Review then, which field is showing negative value and correct it. (You can get more information about Event type , in the Help file => topic : EVENT TYPE)
Then, from APS model, knowing the X_SEQ number, it can be found quickly , from an Event
screen, select form the Menu |Gantt| Preferences or clicking the green button on the left gantt chart corner:
Select "Show only events from the list" option and write the X-seq number that you want to find. Then, APS will show only the selected event, as shown:
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I find out the calculation sequence of the units in Aspen Petroleum Scheduler (APS ) V7.3? In version 2006.5 I could go to the log table and look at the UNITS tab and it would show me a seq number for each unit indicating the calculation order. | Solution: If the DBGINFOLEVEL in CONFIG is set to "100" then the unit sequence is written to OrionDbg.txt . We attached a sample file to this solution.
The OrionDBG.text file located on the "Local Working Directory" folder defined under "User Settings"
It will shows information like this: (see attachment for more details):
The order of Unit calculations follows the following logic :
1. First "PARAM" GROUPS (parameters)
2. Second FURNACE BANKS (for Aspen Olefins Scheduler)
3. Then APS looks at a Unit and see if all the "Predecessors" are calculated and then make sure all Feeds are calculated then APS calculates it.
4. The Table ATOrionUnitCalc stores the CALC_XSEQ for CALC units ,that is what is being used to do calculations.
Example ATOrionUnitCalc:
Keywords: UNITS, CALC UNITS, CONFIG table
References: None |
Problem Statement: This knowledge base article describes how the "Transportation mode" field can be added using the Automation call "Create Events" for "Product Receipt Event" in Aspen Petroleum Scheduler. | Solution: Here is a code example to create a new "Product Receipt" event.
Note there are some rows related to Event parameters called: ID, ID1, ID2, and ID3.
Depending on the information that user requires, for example, "Transportation mode" for "Product Receipt" event, ID3 must to be fill up. Then , for the above example, cId3="aa" represents the transportation mode, according to the next table:
Other example, for "Product Shipment Event "(Type 15)
- ID - Dest Tank Id; - ID1 - TANK ;- ID2 - PL and ID3- ship system(transportation mode)
Keywords: -Automation method
-CreateEvent
-Event Parameters
References: None |
Problem Statement: How does the parameter RESULTS_CLEAR_DAYS that is in the CONFIG table work? What does a value of zero indicate and what does a positive value mean (say 10)? | Solution: The keyword RESULTS_CLEAR_DAYS will be populated (VALUE field) from selected option in "Model Settings" called "Clear Normalized Publish Tables". This option allows the user to clear published results from the data table _EVENTS.
If you click this option and leave the default value "0", Aspen Petroleum Scheduler" will delete all previous records (history) . "Past Number of days" field indicates the number of days that published results remain in the data table _EVENTS. For example, if you select the "Clear Normalize Publish Tables option", and then enter "7" in the Past Number of Days field, you keep only the published results for the last 7 days (considering Start and Stop time).
Keywords: Publish, EVENTS Table
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I edit multiple events in Aspen Petroleum Scheduler (APS) and Aspen Refinery Multi-Blend Optimizer (MBO) using Microsoft Excel? | Solution: As of V7.3.0.3, there is new functionality called "Edit Event in Excel" that allows users to modify multiple events at the same time using Excel. Multiple Events can be edited using the existing "Multiple Event Editor" dialog box implemented in V7.1 or by using "Multi-Event" Editor templates with Microsoft Excel. For the most flexibility regarding editing and adding data, we recommend using the Excel Multi-Event editor.
A template wizard helps you create "custom" display templates. These templates can then be used to display, edit, add and delete event data directly within Excel.
This new functionality requires the following:
1.- Creating multiple Event Templates: Template defines what and how specific types of data are displayed in Excel. Customized template display allows users to quickly view,edit, add or delete information that most easily fits need. Multiple templates can define for the same data types.
2.- Accessing Multi-Event Editor templates to edit and view data in excel:Use this procedure to select a multi-event editor template and then to launch to Excel to edit, add and delete event data.
For more details about the Procedures to create a template and edit in Excel, review the corresponding solutions links references on this solution.
Keywords: -Events
References: None |
Problem Statement: When trying to exit from Aspen Petroleum Scheduler (APS) V7.3.1, the message shown below appears often. It can take minutes until we are able to exit. Why is this message prompted, and how do I prevent it? | Solution: We implemented a Logic in Aspen Petroleum Scheduler (APS)/Aspen Refinery Multi-Blend Optimizer (MBO) that prevents two users from saving at the same time. It goes something like this:
-User "A" saves, an entry immediately goes into the SCHEDULE_LOG table with the DESCRIPTION : 'Saving Events'
-When user "A" is finished saving, the DESCRIPTION is updated to 'Close_Scheduling.' the time stamp is also updated.
-If user "B" tries to save APS/MBO first checks to see if there are records in the SCHEDULE_LOG that aren't 'Close_Scheduling' this means someone may be in the middle of saving. We then look to see how long ago that record was created, if it's less than the CONFIG table entry INT_MINS_SAVE_SCHEDULE, we inform user B that they can't save.
By default, INT_MINS_SAVE_SCHEDULE , is set to 5-min ( value can be from zero to 1000 minutes) . So it is possible that the message was legitimate. We can suggest a couple of things:
1) If you get the message again, immediately look at the SCHEDULE_LOG to see if the most recent record is still showing 'Saving Events' and the X_UPDATED is less than 5-min ago.
2) You can set INT_MINS_SAVE_SCHEDULE to a smaller time in the CONFIG table. If you set it to "0", it will disable this feature. Of course, this also means that data corruption can occur if multiple users save at the same time.
In summary, the message should only appear if the other user has not finished saving. Then, we don't always wait for the time to pass before another user can save. The timer is there only in the event that there is a problem with another user saving (i.e. network goes down, APS crashes, etc.). The intent was that the time should be the maximum amount of time it should take a user to save. If the SCHEDULE_LOG hasn't been set to "Close_Scheduling", APS/MBO waits a reasonable amount of time, and then lest other users save - assuming the first user had some problem saving.
This is part of the best practices implemented under a multi-user environment.
Keywords: SCHEDULE_LOG, CONFIG settings, Warning messages
References: None |
Problem Statement: After changing my window authentication password, I now cannot use the functionalities "Passing Assays from PIMS to APS" and "KPI Targets passing from PIMS to APS". | Solution: During the APS installation procedure, if you are installing APS Integration services, you will always see the User name and Password dialog box. If you enter a user name and password, the OrionSvcHost service will be installed using the entered User account name and password. If you select the Skip user/password validation option, the OrionSvcHost service will be installed with the local system information.
In the case that you entered information about username/password, and later change your window authentication information, follow this procedure to re-connect again with APS Integration service:
1.- From "My Computer" , right click on it and select "Manage" option:
2.-Select "Services and Applications" | Services, and look at for "OrionsvcHost.exe" from the list displayed
3.-Right Click on that name and select "Properties" option, then select "Log on" tab, "This account" option and put the new information in regarding new password. Then click "Enable" button. After that, both functionalities will be opened without any problem.
Keywords: -APS Integration Services
-Passing Assays from PIMS to APS
-KPI targets from PIMS to APS
References: None |
Problem Statement: How can I specify a different property method for the distillation part and the condenser of a column in Aspen Batch Modeler (ABM)? | Solution: In order to specify a different property method for the distillation part and the condenser in ABM V8.8. In the standalone ABM interface, one can specify new component list for the condenser, and set the component list to the below two variables:
Condenser.Componentlist
Drum(1).ComponentList
1) Under Configure Properties | Edit Using Aspen Properties, added a new property method with a new set of parameters then save and close it.
2) Under Edit Using Aspen Properties, add a new component list, for example: “CondProp".
3) Select "CondProp" under Edit Physical Properties, and chose a property method. For example: NRTL-2:
4) Under Simulation | Flowsheet | Blocks | B1 | Blocks | Condenser, select "All variables" and modified ComponentList to CondProp:
5) Repeat the above steps for Drum(1).
In a similar way in the Aspen Plus V8.8 interface using the BatchSep block, a Componentlist with a different property method can be created under: Block Options | Component Lists tab. After creating a new Componentlist, one will have to set Condenser.ComponentList and Drum(1).ComponentList on the Parameters table.
Attached an example file for Aspen Plus.
Keywords: Property method, Condenser, ComponentList.
References: None |
Problem Statement: This knowledge base article describes why the Blend Control Interface (BCI) does not pick up the NumericLowLimit and NumericHighLimit. | Solution: If the model has blender.cfg file, BCI will read the Low limit and High Limit from the .cfg file. Otherwise, BCI will read from NumericLowLimit and NumericHighLimit of CustomMap table, these two limits are blender specific, not product specific. So if we set NumericLowLimit and NumericHighLimit for each product, BCI will only read one of them.
Keywords: BCI NumericLowLimit
BCI NumericHighLimit
cfg file
CustomMap table
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to fix dbupdate error: Failed to execute command, Invalid field data type | Solution: The error show in screenshot may appear during database conversion
This error is caused because the application failed to modify Int32 column to AutoNumber when the table has records. To fix this the user can modify it manually by baking up the data, changing the column type to AutoNumber, then importing the records back.
Keywords: Dbupdate error
Failed to execute command
Dbupdate
References: None |
Problem Statement: New automation object was added "OrionMBO.RecipeMIPUDTVar" in v7.1 that allows user to pass information to and from Aspen Refinery Multi-Blend Optimizer(MBO) Automation functions defined in the RecipeMIPUDT interface | Solution: The purpose of OrionMBO.RecipeMIPUDT is to allow user to control the MIP volume and MIP recipe settings for events in Multi-Blend Optimizer. Use the OrionMBO.RecipeMIPUDT object to expose the methods listed in the following topics:
Properties
Description
fMinPercent
This property contains the component threshold value. It is represented as volume percent.
IRecipeMIPOn
This property contains the flag indicating whether this component is MIPed.
sComponent
This property contains the name of the component of the blend
Automation Methods
Description
SetEventMIPFlag
Use this method to set the MIP flags for an event
GetEventMIPFlag
Use this method to get the MIP flags for an event
SetConfigMipRecipeDay
Use this method to set the MIP recipe day settings on the ?Blending tab? of the Settings dialog box
GetConfigMipRecipeDay
Use this method to get the MIP recipe day settings in the configuration dialog
SetProductDefaultMIPRecipe
Use this method to set the threshold value for the components of a product
GetProductDefaultMIPRecipe
Use this method to get the threshold value for the components of a product.
SetBlendEventMIP
Use this method to set the MIP volume flag, MIP recipe flag and the component threshold values for a particular blend
GetBlendEventMIP
Use this method to get the MIP volume flag, MIP recipe flag and the component threshold values for a particular blend
More details and examples(codes) can be founded in the MBO help file under "Automation Methods" .
Keywords: - Mixed Integer Programming (MIP) functionality
References: None |
Problem Statement: This knowledge base article describes how to reconfigure olefin plant penalty coefficients. | Solution: Follow the steps to check and modify the settings.
1. Go to the directory on the server where Aspen Olefins Scheduler is installed. By default, it should be C:\Program Files\AspenTech\Aspen Olefins.
2. Locate the file ATEthyleneSystemConfiguration.exe and double click to open it.
3. Find and select manifoldSettings in left side list under ATEthylenePlant dll config. The settings in right side of the screen (from top to bottom) are 1000, 100, 10000, 1000, 1, 10, -2. These are the default settings that come with the installation.
4. Change the 2nd setting (PenaltyFurnaceScheduled) to 500, click ?Enter?, you will see the field turns to red; change the 4th (PenaltyStreamScheduled) to 100, enter again and make sure the field turns to red as well. Do not change anything else.
5. Save the changes through menu File | Save.
6. Click OK, and then exit the System Configuration screen.
These changes have to be made in all servers.
Keywords: Penalty Coefficients, dll.config file, Reconfiguration on Penalty
References: None |
Problem Statement: After installation, I cannot open the Matrix Analysis Program.
If I try to open it from within Aspen PIMS, I get the following error:
"Unable to launch the Matrix Analysis Program (MAnal.exe)
Please make sure that this program has been properly installed and OLE registered."
If I click on the executable itself, nothing happens. How do I prevent this error? | Solution: First, make sure that the following dlls are present:
SharedResDLL.dll
xlpxmps.dll
DataConnectWrapper.dll
Then, re-register the MAnal.exe executable:
1. Open a command prompt with administrator rights (Run as Administrator)
2. Navigate to C:\Program Files\AspenTech\Aspen PIMS (or the location of MAnal.exe)
3. Type the following command: MAnal.exe /regserver
Now you should be able to open the Matrix Analysis Program.
Keywords: Matrix Analyzer, mps file, mpsprob.mps
References: None |
Problem Statement: How does DBUpdate handle case and column orders in Aspen Petroleum Scheduler (APS) and Aspen Refinery Multi-Blend Optimizer (MBO)?
Here is a validation report getting after run DBUpdate showing some order problems: | Solution: The DBUpdate utility (or script created by the utility) cannot modify the order of fields/columns, change field/column names or delete fields/columns in the database. After updating a database, we strongly recommend that you run a DB validation to verify that there are no remaining structural errors that the DBUpdate utility could not resolve and that must be made manually.
With the release of V7.3.0.2, new messages have been added in the end of the DBUpdate report for both options : Validate and Update, as shown:
"Case problem and column Order problems cannot be handled by DBUpdate"
A) Applying VALIDATION option:
B) Applying UPDATE option:
Keywords: DBUpdate, Warning messages
References: None |
Problem Statement: Can the characteristics of a falling film or thin film evaporator be modeled with the Aspen Engineering Suite (AES)?. Which component of AES is suitable? Are there designated unit operation models to represent a falling film evaporator, and - if not - how can existing unit operation models be applied? | Solution: This solution presents a few ideas and approaches to model falling film evaporators:
Aspen Plus
Simulate the falling film as a series of Flash2 blocks, each with a specified duty, the sum of the duties being equal to the overall evaporator duty. The vapor from a subsequent flash could be fed back to the previous flash and the simulation should show a temperature profile from flash to flash. The number of flashes and the duty per flash would be adjustable based on the actual temperature profile observed in practice.
Simulate the evaporator as a series of HeatX blocks, specifying the heat transfer coefficients, area etc. The only caution here would be to make sure the film flow velocities are high by specifying narrow tubes.
Aspen Hetran
Aspen Hetran can perform the calculations for a shell & tube falling film evaporator. An example file is attached to this solution. The characteristics of the model in Aspen Hetran are:
Feed is input at the top of the exchanger and is distributed evenly across the tubes.
The liquid film flows down the inner edge of the tube wall due to gravity.
The liquid film is thin with the vapor evaporating off the liquid film giving a fairly high film coefficient.
The liquid & vapor both travel downward and separate at the bottom of the exchanger.
The temperature driving force is normally small for these type exchangers.
No recirculation takes place.
KeyWords
falling film evaporator
thin film evaporator
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: What are the recommended best practices for backing up and restoring clustered computer nodes for an MES clustered InfoPlus.21 system that is based on Microsoft’s Clustering feature? | Solution: In general, there are two ways to perform a backup of an IP21 system:
1. Full System Backup – such as using third-party backup software to fully backup the nodes of a cluster including the shared disk(s).
2. Data Backup – such as backing up only the IP21 data files, including the latest snapshot and the history archive files.
Each type of backup will be described below:
1. Full System Backup
Performing a full system backup (and restore) of computers in a Microsoft cluster is a topic for Information System specialists. The mechanism for performing backups depends on the way the cluster is configured, such as which version of Windows server is involved, whether the computer nodes are virtualized (VMs), and whether cluster shared volumes are used. Therefore, it is recommended to follow Microsoft’s best practices for backup and restore of cluster nodes. There are various articles available on the web for this subject.
Warning! Active history archive files are not in a state to be safely backed up and later restored. Please see associated solutions 127329 and 130029.
2. Data Backup
A data backup involves saving various IP21 data files that can be used to reinstate an IP21 system.
Backup Concepts
To backup IP21 data files for a clustered configuration, follow these steps:
1. Prepare copies of the history files using the practices described in the following articles below.
2. Save those files and a copy of the IP21 snapshot file to a storage location. In a clustered configuration, these files should be sourced from the shared cluster disk used by IP21.
Please refer to associated solutions 127329 and 130021 for backing up history files.
Restore Concepts
To restore backed up data files to a clustered configuration, follow these steps:
1. Re-establish the IP21 cluster to a fully functional state. Depending on the situation, this might involve performing the steps from Chapters 4 and 5 of the Aspen MES Cluster Administration Guide.
2. Once the cluster is functional, if the Aspen InfoPlus.21 Resource is online, then use the Microsoft Cluster Manager to bring it down.
3. Move the backed up data files to the appropriate folder locations on the IP21 shared disk.
a. Restore the backed up IP21 snapshot file.
b. Restore the backed up history files. Refer to associated solution 130029.
4. Bring the Aspen InfoPlus.21 Resource online.
Keywords: History
fileset
TSK_HBAK
Clustering
Cluster
References: None |
Problem Statement: When exporting a model from ACM, you might want to invoke nmake manually over the intermediate files generated by ACM in order to troubleshoot any possible errors. If the following error appears:
"nmake -f MakeUntitled command failed (return code 2) Is C++ (required to export compiled flowsheet) installed - Can''t find nmake.exe Are PATH and other environment variables set correctly? To see all errors, invoke the command manually"
This solution illustrates how to do this. | Solution: 1. In ACM go to Tools > Settings > Export Models and uncheck "Delete intermediate files"
2. Export your model and even if the process fails, you will notice that in the working folder some files will be generated, these contain the c++ source code and nmake script among others.
3. Open a cmd window (Start Menu and type cmd.exe ) and run the following command:
>"C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Visual Studio XX.X\Common7\Tools\vsvars32.bat" (with quotes)
This sets the environment variables for Visual studio components including compiler and linker.
In the line above replace XX.X with the Visual Studio version installed in your machine
4. Navigate to the working folder where intermediate files are stored, in the line below use your own path:
>cd "C:\SomePath"
5. The nmake script will be a file with the name starting by Make followed by the ACM model name and with no extension, for example "MakeHeater". Invoke nmake over the script file:
>nmake "makemodel"
Substitute the quoted name in the line above with the one for your model.
nmake program should return information on the assemble process of your dll including any possible error.
Invoking nmake manually can also be used to solved a compatibility problem with the version of ACM and Visual Studio installed, please see solution 147161. To register the extension manually see solution 141281.
Keywords: ACM, nmake
References: None |
Problem Statement: What Prop-Set can be used to report the mole fraction of a component on water-free (dry) basis? | Solution: 1.Click on the Prop-Set form and select MOLEFRAC (Mole fraction for a component in a mixture). As shown below:
2. Open the Qualifiers sheet, select Total as Phase and Dry for Water basis
3. Make sure to include the Prop-Set into the report. Go to => Data Browser | Setup | Report Options | Stream. Click and include PS-1 as selected property sets.
4. After running the file in the stream results the Prop-Set will display the mole fraction of the selected component on a dry basis.
Keywords: , Stream Results, Dry Basis, Prop-Set
References: None |
Problem Statement: How can we limit the property of a crude cut in Aspen PIMS? | Solution: The method for limiting a crude cut property that is easiest to implement involves a dummy submodel with a process limit row (a Z-row) to implement the constraint on the crude cut property and Table PROCLIM to implement the property limit.
We will show an example in which we wish to limit the volume percent aromatics, or ARO property, of a light distillate cut, LD1. We will implement a limit of 20 volume percent aromatics in LD1.
In Table ASSAYS, the material balance row and aromatics rows are defined for the cut LD1. An initial guess for the ARO property in of LD1 in Table PGUESS ensures that the property is recursed.
We cannot implement a constraint on a crude cut property directly in Table ASSAYS. To accomplish this, implement a dummy submodel, which we will call SCCL. This submodel has one column which is called LD1 to allow us to pick up the ARO property of the LD1 pool. Column LD1 is fixed to 1.0 because, for the property constraint to work, this column must have a finite, nonzero value. Row ZAROLDS implements a process limit, to be completed in Table PROCLIM. As with any other submodel, SCCL must be listed in Table SUBMODS and its spreadsheet attached to the Aspen PIMS model tree.
We place the LD1 aromatics limit in Table PROCLIM.
Shown below is an excerpt from the Full Solution Report for the model, showing that our limit of 20 volume % aromatics in the pool LD1 has been satisfied.
Model LimitCrudeCutPoolProperty01, which demonstrates this technique, is attached to this solution.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to use the "red line" in v7.3 to drag around the Gantt and trend charts to delineate a specific time when looking at events. | Solution: From the ?Period bar? located at the top of a Gantt chart (third object), use the slider(diamond symbol) to move the red line:
Keywords:
References: None |
Problem Statement: This article describes the steps to install Excel Integration Utility (EIU) in Excel 2003 specifically. | Solution: Installation Procedure:
Prior to installing, download and save the "EIU2003.reg" file attached to this solution.
1. Install Aspen Petroleum Scheduler/Aspen Refinery Multi-Blend Optimizer application as usual (un-install the previous version of the application if you want to install a new version on your machine).
2. During the installation procedure, ensure the "Excel Integration Utility" component is selected under Aspen Petroleum Scheduler application ( From Aspen Tech Installer).
3. When the installation process finished, verify the following files were installed under:
C:\Program files\ Common File\ Aspen Tech Shared\ExcelUtilities folder
4. Open the Aspen Petroleum Scheduler demo model and select the option or button at the tool bar about "EIU" 5. A new Excel session will be opened. Confirm "Aspen_EIU" appears in the menu bar, as shown:
6. If not, please check the registery. Start | Run | regedit =>
Select HKEY_CURRENT_USERS|SOFTWARE||MICROSOFT|OFFICE<version>|EXCEL
Verify that AspenTech Excel integration utility appears on the list and also ?LoadBehaviour? must be 0x00000003(3). If the value is 0x00000002(2) must be changed to 3.
7. After completing the verifications in Step 6, select File |Import from the menu bar:
Select the ?EIU2003.reg? file (attached to this solution) and click Open:
The following message should pop up:
?Information in C:\.........(EIU2003.reg location in your machine)?\EIU2003.reg has been successfully entered into the registry?
8. Close any Excel windows that opened (just keeps the Units.xls associated with the APS demo model) and repeat steps 4 & 5.
9.- Select "Aspen_EIU" option in the Menu Bar: Select the "Not Connected" option from the list:
When the next dialog box pops up, select APS model (for MBO model, select MBO)
11. Now the "Connected" option appears on the list and other options are now available to be used
Keywords: excel, eui
References: None |
Problem Statement: A new routine has been added since build 11.25.25 to help determine the running application.
Additionally "AddCase" and "DeleteCase" automation method have been added to Orion.Aplication. | Solution: A routine called "Determine Application" has been added to determine if the running application is Aspen Petroleum Scheduler (APS) or Aspen Multi-Blend Optimize(MBO).
Here an example of this Code:
New automation methods related with "CASES" funtionality:
-AddCase: Use this method to add a new case by copying the events data from the source case for a given number of days.
DeleteCase: Use this method to delete a named case in the application
For more details , please review the APS Help file for topics called : AddCase and DeleteCase.
Keywords: -Automation method
-Cases
References: None |
Problem Statement: Can I implement "Calc Units" for an Aspen Petroleum Scheduler(APS) Oracle database? | Solution: Aspen Calc units are supported in Oracle starting with V7.3.0.2.
For prior release versions, consider using Excel or OrionVB to duplicate the desired methods
Calc Units definition:
Calc units are similar to "User-Defined" unit, except that Calc units allow the user to define calculations internally (via the Calculations dialog box) rather than externally in the Units workbook (Units.xls).
For more details, review into the Aspen Petroleum Scheduler Help file, the topics called: " Calc Unit", "Working with a Calc Unit" and "Calculations".
Keywords: -Calc Units
-Oracle database
References: None |
Problem Statement: Sometimes a simulation model contains user updated pure component and binary interaction parameters. These parameters can be used in other process models. The steps to create an enterprise database for these parameters are discussed in this document. | Solution: In newer versions of Aspen Plus, you no longer need to make the division of files into DAT and INP, as describe in this KB. Now exporting the DFM file, modifying it and saving it as an INP format is enough to create a new database. If you are using a recent version of Aspen Plus, please refer to How to create an enterprise database for pure component and binary interaction parameters from a simulation model instead.
The following steps are to be done in Aspen Plus:
1) Open the file that contains the modified parameters to which you want to create the database.
2) From Setup | Report Options, select Property tab, and check "DFMS format input file (DFM file)" check box.
3) Run the model in the Properties Environment. If there are any error messages in your simulation, those must be solved before proceeding with the database creation.
4) Once results are available, go to the Simulation Environment and click on File | Export.
5) Select the file type (.rep) and save the report in a place of your preference (two files will be created: a .dfm and .rep).
The following steps are to be done in Notepad:
6) Open the .dfm file generated in step 5 using Notepad or any ASCII text editor and change the following:
Erase any duplicated data (if you haven’t deactivated the checkboxes in step 2.
Cut and paste the data New Prop between the fields PROP-DATA and NEW COMP. Make sure they have a blank line separating them.
Make sure that the fields FILE CSTDB XYZPWD New and WRFILE XYZPWD have the exact same name in the characters XYZPWD (regardless of what you decide to name them). This will become the name of your databank in Aspen Properties.
7) After editing, save the first section of the .dfm file as a .inp file and the second section as a .dat file as instructed (you may rename the file, for example, to dfms_filename.inp).
The following steps are to be done in Aspen Properties Dababase Manager:
8) Open the Database Manager, right click on Database Manager Aspen Properties and select Create New Database. You might need administrator’s rights to work with this tool.
9) Select the .inp and .dat files saved in step 7 for importing, and click on Finish.
10) If you want, choose to add security. If not, just click on Next.
11) Select the .inp file saved and click on Finish. Once the conversion is finished, the new databank will be available for your reference within the Database Manager.
12) Reopen Aspen Plus and you’ll see that a new enterprise database has been created with your data under Components | Specifications | Enterprise Database tab.
Keywords: Enterprise Database; User Database; Databanks; .inp file; DFMS; .dat.
References: None |
Problem Statement: Example of the Cause and Effect (C&E) Matrix in Aspen Hysys Dynamics | Solution: The process flowsheet is an example of a simplified process unit with feed cooling and buffer tank, modeled using a Splitter.
Cooling is provided by the condenser, PreCon and Feed is delivered to the Process Unit through the Feed Valve. Feed temperature must be kept below 190C or feed to the unit is cut-off, cooling loss alarm is triggered when feed temperature increases to 165C.
The Cause and Effect Matrix is used to configure the alarm and corrective action due to cooling loss
The Cause and Effect Matrix has the following input:
Feed Temperature: Alarm at 165C Trip at 190C
The Cause and Effect Matrix has the following output:
Feed Valve actuator failure
The output is set to invert so as to swap the signal sent to the output object to be consistent with the desired state of said object.
When C&E sends an output of 1, it means the process is healthy but the Hysys valve actuator fail state is 1. The invert option ensures that when the cause (input) variable is tripped, C&E ouptut to the valve will be 1 to mean the process is not healthy and corrective action should be made, instead of 0.
For the Cause and Effect Matrix:
1 = Healthy
0 – Bad
For the Hysys Valve
1 = Failed
0= Not Failed
This is why the C&E Output to the valve actuator must be inverted.
Monitor spreadsheet sets has a few variables to monitor the effect of the C&E matrix:
Feed Cooling, cell B1, represent utility supplu to the Feed condensor
Feed temperature, B2, this should increase as the cooling utility supply decreases
Feed Flow, B3, should decrease when the Feed valve trips closed and Buffer Tank accumulation, shown using By Pass Flow (Accumulation stream), B4, should increase
Feed Valve Failure, D3, should change from 0-Not failed to 1- Failed, after the C&E input trips
Trigger the C&E Matrix:
Once the process model is opened, start the integrator. Set the value of Feed Cooling to the value in B6, monitor the state of the C&E matrix input.
Next set the value of B1 to the value in B7. Note that the Feed Valve Failure value changes to 1 and Feed Flow is about 0.Restore cooling to the feed using value from B8. C&E Matrix will return to a Healthy state.
Keywords: Cause & Effect Matrix, invert C&E output, C&E Trip
References: None |
Problem Statement: Within the Integrator, what is the effect of selecting "Reduce recycle efficiency for small timesteps" on the holdup recycle efficiency? | Solution: When the “Reduce recycle efficiency for small timesteps” option is checked in the Integrator Options (and assuming no reactions take place), the holdup recycle efficiency is reduced by the following factor:
Factor = min(1, max(0.001, sqrt(Time Step x Composition Frequency/5 seconds)))
The Time Step has a default value of 0.5 seconds and the Composition Frequency has a default value of 10.
For instance, if a smaller time step of 0.1 seconds is chosen the factor becomes:
Factor = min(1, max(0.001, sqrt(0.1 x 10/5))) = min(1, max(0.001, 0.447)) = min(1, 0.447) = 0.447
Thus, the holdup recycle efficiency will be reduced by a factor of 44.7%.
Below is an image showing where to find the recycle holdup efficiencies.
Keywords: Integrator Options, Recycle, efficiency
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I use the SLM Configuration Wizard in V8.8? | Solution: In this knowledge base article we will be looking at the different options inside the SLM Configuration Wizard.
To get started we will need to load the SLM Configuration Wizard which gets installed with every product install.
Click on Start --> All Programs --> AspenTech --> Aspen SLM --> aspenONE SLM License Manager
Now we have clicked on “aspenONE SLM License Manager” you should be able to see the program load up. Click on “Configure” to load up the SLM Configuration Wizard.
The SLM Configuration window will appear on the screen. The first option we see is the program asking you if you are going to be using a Network license.
If you are using a Network license select “Yes” and then click “Next” If you are using a Standalone license select “No” and then click “Next”
Network License Configuration
1. Use this field to add your license server IP Address or Hostname. You can also use the “Browse” button to browse the machines on the network that is running the SLM Server.
2. This field is used to show the “Buckets” available on the license file installed on the license server.
3. The navigation buttons are used to set the priority of the server list so for example if you have multiple license servers you can configure SLM to use certain servers first before automatically switching to the next server.
4. If you already know the buckets you have available on your license then you can manually enter the bucket number. Please Note that you can’t specify buckets if it has not set in your license by AspenTech.
5. Use the navigation buttons to set the priority of the buckets. So if you want for example to use bucket 2 first then default bucket then you can specify that order using the navigation buttons.
After clicking “Next” you can now configure the advanced options on the SLM Tools. Using the advanced options you can configure Project Tracking Information, Advanced Network Settings, License Type and License Expiration Reminder. You can leave these settings as default and continue with the SLM Configuration process.
After clicking Next you see the final page which is the confirmation page before the network license settings is configured on the machine.
Standalone License
With a standalone license you shouldn't need to use the SLM Configuration Wizard because the SLM License Installer should automatically install the license for you but if you would like to re-initialize the standalone license on your system then you can use the SLM Configuration Wizard.
Keywords: slm configuration wizard
how do i use slm config wizard
how do I configure network settings on slm
network configuration on slm
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to use the SLM Commute Tool for V8.x? | Solution: The Aspen SLM Commute (SLMCommute.exe) allows the user/client to borrow licenses from a network server. These borrowed, or commuted, licenses allow a client computer to run the licensed product while disconnected from the network without the use of a SLM dongle.
Note: You must run Aspen SLM Commute when connected to the License Server network to obtain and verify the licenses required.
The commuted time is specified in days, with a maximum of 30 days. The licenses can be returned prior to their expiration date. In order to successfully commute a license, the commutable feature must be activated in the license file.
To use the SLM Commute tool:
Go to Start | Programs | AspenTech | Common Utilities | SLMCommute
The license server that was configured in the SLM Configuration Wizard should be listed under the SLM Server(s) column.
Unlike previous versions, V8.0 SLM Commute provides the option to select a license by the product name or the specific license name by server.
Additionally, V8.0 SLM Commute allows users to commute one or more of the same license key. It is recommended that you choose only the licenses you will need.
In the Days to check out license(s) from server field, enter the number of days you require the license(s).The number of days can be any integer from 1 through 30.
Then click Commute
If the commute is successful, SLMCommute displays the list of commuted licenses. The license or licenses are temporarily released from the server to your hard drive. You can now exit the tool and run your licensed product away from the network.
The license will expire automatically at midnight on the last day of your license period. You can return the license before the expiry date.
To return the commuted licenses, click the licenses you will be returning.
Click Return or Return All
Recommended Practices
To maximize the efficiency of your network licenses when commuting:
Do not take any more licenses than you need.
Take the licenses only for the period that you require.
Always check licenses back in when you reconnect to the network.
Make a note of the server names or IP addresses.
Tip: If you find SLM Commute is slow, open a licensed product before running
SLM Commute.
Keywords: SLM Commute, license, checkout, expire, network, server, tools, V8
References: None |
Problem Statement: Can I have both Standalone and Network license on one computer? | Solution: You can configure computers to have both standalone and network modes. For example, if you need to run two AspenTech products: product A is on a standalone license and product B can be accessed from the network.
To achieve this configuration,
1. Configure the standalone license on your machine. For this you can use the new License Installer which is included in aspenONE V8.8
2. Load the SLM Confguration Wizard and Configure the Network license. You can use aspenONE License Manager and then load the SLM Configuration Wizard to configure your network license.
Now when you access aspenONE products it will look for the standalone license first and if it can't find a license it will then switch to the network license.
Keywords: standalone and network license
how do I configure multiple licenses
standalone license
network license
References: None |
Problem Statement: The PCWS shows this error for a DMC3 application:
IOFacilityDataSource.WriteEntries(): Write failed, application 'AKA2'. entry /AKA2/Independent/PIC123.SP/Setpoint value: '10.182'. Write error: status = -6, facility = 77, driverStatus = 77001 | Solution: The Aspen Process Controller can request data directly from the OPC server, using Aspen Process Data or CIM-IO. When you add a new IO source you can select the type of connection:
We recommend to use CIM-IO as source type and thus the Aspen Process Controller becomes a CIM-IO Client. The executable responsible to send the requests to the CIM-IO server is AspenTech.ACP.IO.CimioClientDriver.exe. In my example below I have two CIM-IO IO connections, so I have two executables:
I invite you to review your online settings to gain further understanding of your system. Now, since the APC application is a CIM-IO client any read or write problem shown on the PCWS will use CIM-IO error formatting.
The CIM-IO status of 0 means good, while the status of “-6� is an error status. Each Aspen Cim-IO interface is assigned a two digit facility code which is used to identify the interface on a programmatic level (KB 119056). CIM-IO for OPC uses facility 77, therefore the message is saying that the error message is related to CIM-IO for OPC.
Write error: status = -6, facility = 77, driverStatus = 77001
Now, the driver status corresponds to the problem with the OPC point. If you go to the cimio_opc.def file located under C:\Program Files (x86)\AspenTech\CIM-IO\etc folder you can translate the error code number. The 77001 error number corresponds to:
FAILURE,77001,Operation Failed
In summary the error in the PCWS is saying that CIM-IO failed to write to a Setpoint tag. It also shows the path for that entry, in this case it’s an Independent variable of the AKA2 application (/AKA2/Independent/PIC123.SP/Setpoint). It could be that the DCS point is not accepting writes due to the DCS mode (AUTO, CAS, MAN). Other option is that the PID block has a safety check on the Setpoint and 10.182 is outside the limits.
Please check the point in the DCS for any particular reason why that value is not accepted. Additionally you could use Test-API and write a value to the same point, KB 110241 mentions how to use the tool, use option “a� to do a CIM-IO PUT test.
Keywords: DMC3
CIM-IO
IOFacilityDataSource
References: None |
Problem Statement: When trying to display trends from a data source in aspenONE Process Explorer it displays a message “Timeout occurred before data was retrieved”. Is there any way to get aspenONE Process Explorer to display the data? | Solution: Try disabling the asynchronous calls from the aspenONE Process Explorer (A1PE) server to the remote Aspen InfoPlus.21 servers, to see if this makes any difference to the problem. This involves creating 2 new entries in the registry on the A1PE server.
On the A1PE server run regedit.
Locate the registry key:
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\CLSID\{710B32A1-7277-11D1-932C-00805F0F1C84}\
Right mouse click on this key and select New > Key
Give the new key the name: Options
Right mouse click on the newly created key and select New > String Value
Give the new value the name: DisableAsync
Double click on the newly created string and give it Value data: TRUE
Repeat this process, but for registry key:
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Wow6432Node\CLSID\{710B32A1-7277-11D1-932C-00805F0F1C84}
(add key Options, then give a new string value called DiableAsync with a value TRUE)
Once you have done this go to a Windows command prompt using “Run as administrator” and run: iisreset.exe
When this command has completed, open an A1PE browser and try to plot a trend from the IP.21 server again.
Below are screen captures showing one of the registry keys, firstly before the update, and secondly after the update with the new value:
Keywords: A1PE
Timeout
Asynchronous
Synchronous
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to model a compabloc heat exchanger? | Solution: The Compabloc welded plate heat exchanger is constructed by building stacks of rectangular plates into a heat transfer heart. These plates are edge welded to one another to form channels. The liquids flow in cross flow to one another and each side can be configured into the needed number of passes to achieve the necessary heat transfer duty and pressure drop limitations.
Compabloc exchangers have corrugated plates, but no fins so, they are more like Plate than PlateFin. Individual passes are crossflow passes which can be handled by Aspen PlateFin but not Aspen Plate. Neither PlateFin or Plate programs are capable to handle the passes that are stacked in parallel. Also, all passes have inter-pass mixing in headers which is again not a feature available in these two programs. To try to build the simulation in Aspen Plate program use can be made of 45 degree plates with one pass with same width as the Compabloc. In this case :
Length = compabloc width times number of passes
Number of plates =number in one compabloc pass
This should get the area, mass flux and flow lengths approximately right, heat transfer coefficients may be broadly reasonable. But there is no direct way of modeling this type of heat exchanger in Aspen EDR programs. Then there is a need to apply by hand an LMTD correction factor for the number of passes.
Keywords: Compabloc, Aspen Plate
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to install, configure, and start V8.8 Aspen Licensing Dashboard on an SLM Server | Solution: This KB article explains how to install, configure, and start V8.8 Aspen Licensing Dashboard on an SLM Server in order to monitor servers for denials, token limits, expirations, etc.
For more information on getting started with the V8.8 Aspen Licensing Dashboard, see KB article 142959.
Install the required services on an SLM Server
Note: The required services need to be installed on all SLM Servers that you want to monitor in the Dashboard.
1. Click Install and configure SLM (Software License Manager) software.
2. Check the box next to "I agree to the terms of this agreement", and then, click "Next".
3. Select the products as below, and then, click “Next”.
Note: When you select SLM License Server, the Aspen Licensing Dashboard Service is automatically installed. Select SLM Server Admin Tools as well.
4. Leave the License file name field blank, and then, click “Next”.
5. Fill in the Windows services account information, and then, click “Next”.
6. Verify your installation, and then, click “Install Now”.
7. Monitor the progress of your installation until completion.
Note: If the installation progress screen does not show any progress after 80%, check to see if there is an Auto Upload Tool screen in the background. Bring the Auto Upload Tool screen to the front, and then close it to continue with the installation.
Verify the Aspen Licensing Dashboard Service is running
After installation, go to the Windows Services console. The following two services should have been added:
Note: The default status is Started.
• SLM Usage Log Data Win Service
• SLMUsageDataSv
Note: The SLMUsageDataSv service is only added if IIS is not installed on the machine.
Starting and Configuring the Aspen Licensing Dashboard
To begin using the Aspen Licensing Dashboard to monitor your SLM servers:
1. To start the Aspen Licensing Dashboard, from the Start menu, select Aspen SLM | aspenONE SLM License Manager, and then click the Dashboard button.
Note: If you installed Aspen Licensing Dashboard without SLM Client Tools, you must navigate to the Dashboard folder to open Aspen Licensing Dashboard.
2. Add the SLM servers you want to monitor by clicking Add/Remove Server in the right-hand corner of the Aspen Licensing Dashboard screen.
3. Type the fully qualified computer name or IP address and display name. For example, the display name is houslmtest and the corresponding address is houslmtest.dev.aspentech.com. Click the + button for each of the SLM Servers to monitor.
Note: The Aspen Licensing Dashboard Service must be installed and have a valid Aspen Licensing Dashboard License Key for each of the SLM Servers you want to monitor.
4. After you add the SLM Server, close the Add/Remove Servers dialog box.
Keywords: Aspen Licensing Dashboard
Dashboard
SLM Server
References: None |
Problem Statement: What is Ramp Imbalance, Programmed Ramp imbalance and Ramp Horizon? | Solution: Ramp Variable - A variable is considered to be Ramp variable when the process parameter either keeps on increasing or keeps on decreasing in value. It never reaches to a steady state. Ramp variable is considered to be at steady state, when the rate of change of the slope for step response curve becomes constant.
Ramp Imbalance – An example of ramp variable is a Level. For a tank with one flow inlet and one flow outlet, both the flows needs to be exactly same to keep the level constant. If the inlet flow goes up the level will increase infinitely unless the outlet also goes up by the same amount. If the set point of the level is increased, the inlet flow will increase for some time but should come back to the same value as outlet flow. If DMC notices that the flows cannot be made equal after a while to maintain the level, it reports a ramp imbalance, or in other words mass imbalance. We could allow the controller to run even if there is imbalance of flow for some fixed number of consecutive cycles that we can define in the controller. If the ramp variable gets balanced withing the specified imbalance count, the counting will again start from zero, otherwise the controller or the sub controller will be shed.
The only time the ramp imbalance applies is at the controller's steady state. The steady-state optimizer in DMCplus adjusts all of the MVs that affect the ramp CV so that the net effect of all of the MV steady-state changes cause the ramp CV to have a rate of change of zero at steady state. If this can't be achieved, then the controller will (generally) turn off with a "ramp imbalance" error. The ramp CV will generally not be balanced.
Generally, there will be 3 kind of Ramp Imbalance for any variables:
· Traditional ramps with no imbalance
· Traditional ramps with imbalance
· Programmed imbalance ramps
Programmed Ramp imbalance – This type of ramp is allowed to be in imbalance indefinitely as long as the magnitude of the imbalance stays inside the calculated imbalance limits; these limits are used as steady state optimization limits and limits on amount of allowed imbalance
A Programmed Imbalance Ramp is used in a situation where it is not necessary or even desirable to exactly balance the ramp at every control cycle
The best example of such scenario is – A very huge holdup surge tank (Volume~time to steady state of tank) which has one stream coming in from column A & one stream going out to Column B. Controlling the surge tank level as a programmed imbalance ramp is justifiable as long as the holdup time in the tank is significantly larger than the settling times in either of the two columns
Safety Zones (equal to 10% of the difference between the operating limits) are implemented to ensure the value of the ramp is not driven too close to the operating limits.
Ramp Horizon – Ramp horizon is a fraction of time to steady state which is used to calculate the upper & lower imbalance limits. In case this imbalance limit is exceeded, the controller will be turned off.
Keywords: Ramp Variable
Ramp Horizon
Programmed Ramp Imbalance
DMC plus
References: None |
Problem Statement: What is the procedure to perform a clean restart of Data Collection in the Aspen Process Controller (RTE) environment?
Such a procedure is typically required when the user is unable to edit/update the existing collection list due to the following error:
“APC Builder. Unexpected error when submitting collection changes. ChangeCollection called when collections were active. – Contact your help desk. – Contact AspenTech technical support.”. | Solution: - Open a project in APC Builder and extract out all data that has been collected up to this time into this project. This is an extremely important step as the procedure listed in the following steps will result in loss of any data that has not been extracted out.
- In APC Builder, navigate to Online | Manage Data Collection, click Export to back-up the current tag list.
- Backup the entire C:\ProgramData\AspenTech\RTE\Vx.x\Clouds\Online\DataCollection directory.
- Delete just the DataCollection.config file in that directory.
- Restart the AspenTech Production Control RTE service.
Note 1a: This will affect running APC Builder controllers in that host (it's suggested to stop them before the restart). Close any APC Builder session opened related to that host.
Note 1b: It might require two attempts when restarting the service.
- Confirm that DataCollection.config has been recreated.
Note 2: Start the APC Builder controllers (if applicable).
- In APC Builder, navigate to Online | Manage Data Collection. Import the tag list exported in the first step to recreate the original list of tags to be collected and start data collection. Wait the minimum collection time and do an extraction to confirm the procedure has been successful.
Keywords: APC Builder
ChangeCollection
Unexpected error
Data Collection
References: None |
Problem Statement: How is Mach number calculated in Aspen Flare System Analyzer? | Solution: The Mach number is defined as:
Below is explained how Mach number is calculated using a sample file located in your installation folder "Sample-S1" (also attached to this document). As reference we are using data from BDV Line 1.
We know the following information reported in Aspen Flare System Analyzer:
Upstream
Downstream
Static Pressure (psia)
131.19475
131.14791
Density (lb/ft3)
2.274
2.273
Therefore we can calculate the following:
AFSA displays inlet Mach numbers close as hand calculation. The numbers are different because AFSA uses a smaller step size so the results are more rigorous than hand calculation.
Keywords: mach, fluid velocity, sonic velocity
References: None |
Problem Statement: Modeling Vacuum Steam Condensers with Aspen Shell & Tube Exchanger | Solution: OBJECTIVE
The example file will enable you to setup a Vacuum Steam Condenser rating case in the Shell & Tube Module of the EDR program and help analyze results.
PROCESS DESCRIPTION
Model a vacuum steam condensation on the tube side using tower water on the shell side. Enable rating / checking mode to evaluate performance in a defined geometry.
GENERAL GUIDELINE
Set process data and pressure drop constraints. Select water for both shell and tube sides from BJAC properties databank. Program will generate Vapor-Liquid Equilibrium calculations based on specified process conditions.
Set calculation method to rating / checking mode and input all parameters as shown in the example. Run the program.
RESULTS SUMMARY
OPTIMIZATION PATH: Offers a quick design check to confirm surface area ratio and pressure drop ratio. Confirms design status.
TEMA SHEET: Performance, design and construction details can be found in the section.
THERMAL & HYDRAULIC SUMMARY: Confirms complete condensation of steam and heat load matches between shell and tube sides. Pressure drop conditions are met as well. Distribution of pressure drop across various sections of geometry helps determine what to adjust to minimize pressure drop.
CALCULATION DETAILS: Performance along shell tube and tube side are located in separate sections. Each section details performance along the length of the heat exchanger and values for vapor fraction, film coefficients, heat flux, heat load, etc. can be depicted on a plot for easier understanding.
DESIGN CONSIDERATION: Ensure that actual pressure drop is close to allowable pressure drop in order to achieve a true Vapor Liquid Equilibrium diagram. If these values are apart, program will calculate saturation point based on input data and will issue a warning to adjust outlet pressure for true representation. High fouling fluids are typically located on the tube side for ease of cleaning.
Keywords: EDR, Vacuum Steam Condenser, Design, Simulation
References: None |
Problem Statement: Unable to optimize heat exchanger design due to disparate tools for process design, thermal heat exchanger design and mechanical designs, and optimization methods followed by other heat exchanger design tools that are not based on costs. | Solution: Cost based design optimization philosophy followed by Aspen Exchanger design and rating (EDR)softwares would enable you to find the optimal design for your heat exchanger needs based on cost.
The seamless integration between the thermal and mechanical design tools of Aspen EDR together with its integration with Aspen Tech’s process simulation tools enables analysis of several different alternatives before presenting you with the most optimal design.
This tutorial is intended as a guide to getting started using Aspen Shell & Tube Exchanger to create, evaluate, and save designs. It offers a step-by-step explanation of how an equipment designer would use the standalone program.
The workflow is demonstrated by completing the design of a Shell & Tube exchanger for a crude preheat train process.
Please follow the below steps
1. Download the following materials
a. Design Better HX using Aspen Shell & Tube Exchanger.pdf
b. Stream Properties.pdf
c. TEMA Sheet .pdf
d. PREHEAT TRAIN FOR JUMP START EDR.hsc
2. Follow the instruction on the file ‘Design Better HX using Aspen Shell & Tube Exchanger.pdf ’. This is a guide that would take you step by step through the exercise.
Keywords: design shell and tube, Cost based optimization, optimal heat exchanger design, mechanical design of shell and tube, interface to autocad inventor
References: None |
Problem Statement: What versions of Aspen InfoPlus.21 are compatible when using replication? | Solution: AspenTech recommends upgrading publishing and subscribing replication nodes simultaneously when either:
· the replication protocol changes or
· there are changes in Aspen InfoPlus.21 records used to replicate data from a publishing node to a subscribing node.
When differing versions are compatible, AspenTech recommends upgrading the subscribing node before upgrading the publishing nodes.
The following table shows the capability matrix between publishing and subscribing Aspen InfoPlus.21 replication nodes:
Publishing Node
Compatible Subscribing Node
Comments
2006.5
2006.5, 7.1 (all patch levels)
Replication introduced in version 2006.5
7.1 (all patch levels)
7.1 (all patch levels)
7.2 (all patch levels)
7.2 (all patch levels)
Replication re-designed for increased performance and reliability
7.3
7.3
Introduced long tag names in ip_analogdef, ip_discretedef, and ip_textdef records
7.3.0.2
7.3.0.2, 7.3.0.3
Introduced best fit history repeat area in ip_analogdef and ip_discretedef records
7.3.0.3
7.3.0.3
7.3.0.4
7.3.0.4, 7.3.0.5, 8.0 (all patch levels)
Changed replication protocol to transmit tags with long tag names more efficiently
7.3.0.5
7.3.0.5, 8.0 (all patch levels)
8.0 (all patch levels)
8.0 (all patch levels)
8.4 (all patch levels)
8.4 (all patch levels), 8.5 (all patch levels)
Introduced alarming history repeat area to ip_analogdef and ip_discretedef records
8.5 (all patch levels)
8.5 (all patch levels)
8.7 (all patch levels)
8.7 (all patch levels)
Field association changes in ip_analogdef and ip_discretedef records
8.8 (all patch levels)
8.8 (all patch levels)
Introduced definition record IP_AnalogDblDef
Keywords:
References: None |
Problem Statement: Refinery utilties planner demo in Aspen Utilies planner (AUP) V 7.3 | Solution: Please find the attached zipped file with step by step instructions of typical refinery case in AUP V 7.3 demonstrating new features of Excel embedded data editor and marginal cost.
Keywords: Refinery, AUP, Excel, marginal cost
References: None |
Problem Statement: After applying the Aspen IP.21Process Browser 7.3.0.2 patch a new Web server listed in Microsoft's IIS (Internet Information Service) called PlantData. | Solution: The PlanData Web server is is part of the High Performance Trend feature introduced in IP.21Process Browser with this patch.- It is used with Google Frame to provide fast access to tags in Aspen InfoPlus.21 database when calling the tag search option in the Plot section of IP.21Process Browser.
Keywords: Plant Data
Web server
Process Browser
References: None |
Problem Statement: New User Interface for Aspen Flare System Analyzer in V7.3 (with viewlet) | Solution: Aspen Flare System Analyzer V7.3 has been significantly improved with a new user interface to improve usability and productivity.
The new user interface is based on the latest Microsoft UI technology and standards also seen in Microsoft Office 2007. Improvements include:
? Modern ribbon design that groups common tasks
? Easy access to model icons to build flare system models
? New navigation pane and tab structure that allows easy access to summaries of inputs and results
? Easy zoom in and out, including a new search function to quickly locate a specific pipe or other model on the PFD
? New grid component for tabular view of key inputs and results, with sort and search capabilities to easily find information in large models
? One click export of tables to Excel
The attached animated tutorial demonstrates the features of the new Aspen Flare System Analyzer user interface
Keywords: Fare System Analyzer, UI,
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to model heat transfer between two cylinders: Outer rotating (at speed v) while the inner one is stationary. | Solution: Based on the following assumptions :
? vz only function of x. vx= vy=0
? Steady state
The equation of motion of z component of velocity (v) reduces to the following equation :
Boundary condition :
Using above boundary condition as well as equation of motion, we get the following equation:
Now come to the energy equation :
Assumption :
? vz only function of x. vx= vy=0
? Steady state
? No convection
? conduction (x-direction)
Using above assumption we can write reduce the energy equation as follows:
Boundary condition :
The temperature profile is as follows:
The average temperature is 64.10 0C.
The complete model is as follows:
Model rot_cyl
v as velocity ( fixed,8);
T0 as Temperature (fixed,60);
T1 as Temperature (fixed,60);
K as conductivity (fixed, .13);
mu as viscosity (fixed,.1);
R as length(fixed, .0003);
n as integerparameter (80);
x as LengthDomain (highestorderderivative:2, length:R, spacingpreference:R/n);
T as Distribution1D(XDomain is X) of Temperature;
//Equations:
k*R^2*T.d2dx2=-mu*v^2;
//Boundary conditions:
T(x.endnode) = T1;
T(0)= T0;
//Calculating average temperature
Tm as Distribution1D(XDomain is x, integrals:"idx", highestorderxderivative:0) of realvariable;
T_average as temperature;
for i in [0:x.endnode] do
Tm(i) = T(i)*x(i);
endfor
T_average = sigma(Tm.idx)/(0.5*R^2);
End
Keywords: PDE ,Cylinder
References: : Griskey. G.R., "Transport phenomena and unit operations a combined approach", Wiley and sons ISBN# 0-471-43819-7 |
Problem Statement: What documentation or sample applications exist to help understand and use the new OPC UA feature in V7.3? | Solution: Beginning with aspenONE? v7.3, Aspen provides an OPC UA compliant server-side component known as the InfoPlus.21 OPC UA Server.
The attached zip file contains a Help File and sample programs showing how to access data from Aspen InfoPlus.21 using the Unified Architecture (UA) programming interface developed by the OPC Foundation.
About the sample applications:
SampleIp21UaClient
The sample SampleIp21UaClient is a .NET (C#) console application that shows how to connect, read, write, and subscribe to an IP21 server using the UA interface.
SampleAspenUaClient
The sample SampleAspenUaClient is a .NET (C#) Windows forms application that shows how to access any UA server. This sample is not specific to IP21.
Keywords: read current values
read history values
read historical values
write current values
write history values
write historical values
subscribe
subscribing
connect
connection
References: None |
Problem Statement: I installed Aspen PIMS, but it did not seem to install the sample models. Where can I find those? | Solution: The attached file contains the library of Aspen PIMS sample models. These models are usually installed during the regular Aspen PIMS installation process. The typical location for these files is
C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Documents\AspenTech\Aspen PIMS
The attached file is a zip of the entire Aspen PIMS directory. There are several folders in this directory that group the models into various categories.
Keywords: sample
model
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I Design/Rate/Simulate an Aspen Air Cooled Exchanger in Aspen HYSYS? | Solution: In Aspen HYSYS V2006.5 and later versions, users can use the Aspen Air Cooled Exchanger Design and Rating mode with in HYSYS using a utility associated with the Air Cooler operation. Based on the process information extracted from the Air Cooler, the utility uses Aspen Air Cooled Exchanger program to perform a detailed Design/Rating of the exchanger.
Note that Aspen Air Cooled Exchanger program must be installed on the client machine in order for this utility to function correctly.
In this solution users will find a startup file (starter.hsc) that will help them to Design/Rate/Simulate an Aspen Air Cooled Exchanger in Aspen HYSYS.
To Design a Aspen Air Cooled Exchanger through the Aspen HYSYS utility called Air Cooled Design/Rating Utility, follow the steps mentioned below:
Steps:
? Select Air Cooled Design/Rating Utility from Tools l Utility option and click Add Utility.
? Select the Air Cooler in the Connection page by clicking on the Select an air cooler...
? Set the Calculation Mode to Design and then click on the Run button in the ACHE Geometry page.
? When the utility is running the Run button will be de-activated and will be active again when the program completes the run.
? Design results are viewed by clicking on the Results button.
Alternatively users can click on the Export... button to save the file as a EDR file, which can be opened in the standalone Air Cooled Exchanger program to view the results.
To Rate a Air Cooler through the Air Cooled Design/Rating Utility, follow the steps mentioned below:
Steps:
? Select Air Cooled Design/Rating Utility from Tools l Utility option and click Add Utility.
? Select the Air Cooler in the Connection page by clicking on the Select an air cooler...
? Set the Calculation Mode to Rating and provide the required geometry in the exchanger.
? Alternatively if the user has a standalone EDR file, which has the geometry information of the Air Cooler that file can be imported by clicking on the Import... button.
? In this case we will use the previous Design run results to update the utility with the geometry and then Rate the exchanger.
? To do this open the Air Cooler Design.hsc file and click on the Update Design button and then Run button in the ACHE Geometry page.
? When the utility is running the Run button will be de-activated and will be active again when the program completes the run.
? Rating results are viewed by clicking on the Results button.
To use the Simulation mode in Air Cooler user has to select the mode under the Air Cooler operation, follow the steps mentioned below:
Steps:
? Open the starter.hsc file.
? Select the EDR - Air Cooler Design Air Cooler Model under Design | Parameters page of the Air Cooler AC-100
? Delete the Out stream Temperature and Pressure as the Air Cooled Exchanger program is going to calculate these values using the Simulation mode.
? Select the EDR - Air Cooler tab to provide the geometry of the exchanger.
? Alternatively if the user has a standalone EDR file, which has the geometry information of the Air Cooler that file can be imported by clicking on the Import... button (use the attached Geometry only.EDR file).
? Once the geometry file is imported the program will give the following message in the trace window (bottom right hand corner window in HYSYS) " AirCooled (Input Error 524) The total outside stream mass flow must be input " Please note that if any information is required or if the program generates any warnings or errors the trace window will display the messages and then user can troubleshoot the problem.
? As per the above message we need to provide the Air Mass Flow Rate for the Air Cooler to solve. Provide a 960000 lb/hr flow rate in the Rating | Sizing page of Air Cooler AC-100
? Now the Air Cooler will solve and the Simulation results are viewed by clicking on the EDR Results button.
Keywords: design, rating, simulation, air cooler, utility
References: None |
Problem Statement: Is there a sample for a Humidifier-Dehumidifier process? | Solution: The humidification-dehumidification process (HD) is a useful method for water desalination when the demand is decentralized. Although several other techniques are available (distillation, reverse osmosis), this method has several advantages such as flexibility in capacity, moderate installation and operating costs and the possibility of using low temperature energy.
The process is based on the fact that air can carry out an important amount of water in form of vapor. When the air is in contact with salt water, some of the water will be transferred to the gas phase, which can later be cooled down to obtain desalted water.
The basic process consists of a heat source, a humidifier column where air comes in contact with the salt water and a dehumidifier unit where the air gets in contact with a cold surface and the fresh water is recollected. Water with higher salt concentration is obtained as residue.
Attached is a sample of this process modeled with Aspen HYSYS. The Humidifier is modeled with a contactor block while the humidifier is modeled with a combination of a one pass heat exchanger and a separator block.
Also attached is a sample of a multi-service HD desalination process.
Keywords: Brine desalting fresh water
References: s.
K. Bourouni, M.T. Chaibi, L. Tadrist. ?Water desalination by humidification and dehumidification of air: state of art?, Desalination no. 136 (2001). |
Problem Statement: How can I model a water boiler with combustion on one side in Aspen Plus? | Solution: You can use a reactor block (RSTOIC in this example) for the combustion reactions. Take the hot outlet from the reactor and feed it to a heater block connected with an energy stream to another heater block where water is fed. An example file is attached .
A Design-spec is included that fixes the combustion gases temperature to 180C by varying the degrees of superheating of the boiled water.
Keywords: Boiler, Combustion
References: None |
Problem Statement: Sample file for CO2 capture using K2CO3 using Aspen HYSYS (ELECNRTL) | Solution: Refer to the attached Aspen Plus backup file, PDF documentation and the Aspen HYSYS file.
Note:
1. Aspen Properties ELECNRTL is used to model it within Aspen HYSYS. These features are new to Aspen HYSYS. Users can open the attached file in V7.3 and later only.
2. The HYSYS file predicts close results with Aspen Plus file. The Aspen Plus bkp file was used to import the thermo and chemistry information into Aspen HYSYS. Then the reactions (Kinetic and Equilibrium) was added separately. Then the flowsheet was rebuilt in Aspen HYSYS simulation environment.
Note: Change the valid phases option on the product streams (RICHOUT and ACID Gas) to Liquid Only (as in Aspen Plus) ? to have a close match with A+ file.
Current results:
Aspen Plus
Aspen HYSYS
RICHOUT
CO2
1.32E-06
1.57E-06
H2O
0.98308321
0.983081272
ACID GAS
CO2
0.01130965
1.14E-02
H2O
0.98869035
0.988588753
Keywords: CO2, Carbon dioxide, Pottasium Carbonate
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do you regress solubility data for a salt such as Na2SO4 that forms different hydrates at different temperatures? | Solution: The salt are regressed separately. Aspen Plus can handle multiple hydrates.
Attached is an example of regressing solubility data for Na2SO4. From 0 C to 30 C, the hydrate with 10 water molecules (Glauber salt) forms. From 40 C to 100 C, the anhydrous salt forms.
The following data is from Perry's Chemical Engineering Handbook, 6th edition, p.3-99.
Temp
Na2SO4*10H2O
Na2SO4
C
g/100g water
g/100g water
0
5
10
9
20
19.4
30
40.8
40
48.8
50
46.7
60
45.3
80
43.7
100
42.5
The following basic procedure is used:
1. Enter water (H2O) and sodium-sulfate (Na2SO4) on the Components | Specifications form.
2. Click on the Electrolyte Wizard button to create the Chemistry. Make sure that both salts are in the Chemistry. The True-component approach must be used in order for the precipitated and dissolved salt concentrations to be reported separately.
3. Review the parameters.
4. From the Setup | Specifications for select a Run type of Data Regression.
5. Enter the Tx data on the Properties | Data forms. The data should be entered as two separate sets. The values are converted from g/100g water to mass fraction. The salt that is formed is entered on the Constraint tab.
6. Enter a regression case for each salt. Apparent component data has been entered; hence, the apparent approach needs to be used in the regression case. The K-SALT parameters are regressed. The equilibrium constant has the form: ln(K)= A + B/T + C*ln(T) + D*T where A is element 1, B is element 2, etc.
7. After doing the regression, the values for K-SALT must be copied manually to the Reactions | Chemistry form.
8. The Run Type on the Setup | Specifications form can be changed from Data Regression to Flowsheet to build and run a flowsheet.
9. It is helpful to create a Property Analysis to confirm that the results are as expected after the regression. The Analysis will run in Data Regression, Flowsheet, or Analysis Run type.
The results are shown below:
LIQUID
SOLID
SOLID
MASSFRAC
MASSFRAC
MASSFRAC
Temp
WATER
SODIU(S)
GLAUB(S)
C
g/100g water
Massfrac Na2SO4
Massfrac H2O
(Aspen)
(Aspen)
(Aspen)
0
5
0.047619048
0.952380952
0.953015
0
1
10
9
0.082568807
0.917431193
0.914223
0
1
20
19.4
0.162479062
0.837520938
0.84319
0
1
30
40.8
0.289772727
0.710227273
0.70785
0
1
40
48.8
0.327956989
0.672043011
0.67251
1
0
50
46.7
0.318336742
0.681663258
0.681139
1
0
60
45.3
0.311768754
0.688231246
0.687796
1
0
0.692851
1
0
80
43.7
0.304105776
0.695894224
0.696637
1
0
0.699433
1
0
100
42.5
0.298245614
0.701754386
0.701477
1
0
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: I am working on liquid liquid extraction of clarified slurry oil to produce de-aspahlted oil by removing asphaltene using pentane as solvent but I am having problems defining key components when using an assay or blend by defining boiling curve data. | Solution: The following solution provides the necessary steps for defining key components from an assay or blend using boiling curve data.
1. Start a new simulation using the metrics template from the Aspen Plus User Interface menu.
2. In the components list create a list of the components you will use within the simulation: In this instance we will use pentane and we will create an assay type component by calling the assay a particular name, in this instance, asphalt. Change the component type to assay in the type column. (See inset screenshot)
3. Next we need to provide the required basic data for the assay/blend. To do this we need to navigate to Components>Assay/Blend> Basic Data Sheet and enter in the following properties for the assay/blend:
? Bulk gravity value. Either Specific Gravity or API Gravity.
? Percent Distilled and the corresponding boilong point temperatures. These should be in ascending order from the lowest values at the top of the column to the bottom of the column as shown:
4. Next we need to generate the pseudocomponents for the assay/blend by navigating the Components > Petro Characterization > Generation Folder and creating a new generation object. Accept the default generation ID or rename to a more specific name.
5. On the Specifications tab of the newly created generation ID select the Assay/Blend ID and give it a weighting factor of 1 as shown:
6. On the Cuts tab we need to enter the 'Range and Increments' or specify a 'List of Cuts'. Select the pseudocomponent generation option as either 'All' or 'In Range'. Enter the temperature range and number of cuts for the each range for 'Range and Increments' or specify the 'List of Cuts' data for 'All' or 'In Range'.
7. Select the property method and create the required flowsheet components for your simulation.
8. In the feed stream to your flowsheet specify the mole/mass fractions for your components including the assay and all the additional required process information. An example file is attached.
Keywords: Liquid-Liquid Extraction, Pentane, Pseudocomponents generation, Asphalt, Key Components
References: None |
Problem Statement: The enthalpy of a stream in Aspen HYSYS is calculated by three parts: The ideal gas enthalpy, the enthalpy basis offset and the enthalpy departure. The description of the calculation for these parts is presented on solution 108891.
For a better understanding of these calculations, this solution document presents a detailed example on how each of the different parts comprising the enthalpy of a stream are being calculated. | Solution: Solution 108891 shows that the parts for the calculation of the enthalpy of a stream are
1. Ideal Gas Enthalpy
2. Enthalpy Basis Offset
3. Enthalpy Departure
The attached HYSYS file (Enthalpy calculation.hsc) includes a methane stream at 122A? C and 50 psia.
The detailed calculations are included on the attached Excel file (Enthalpy calculation.xls) and will be described below:
1. Ideal Gas Enthalpy: As this stream is not at 25A?C, this enthalpy should be calculated as the change of temperature and determined by the following equation:
H= a+bT+cT^2+...+fT^5
A
You can find this parameters on the "Tdep" tab page of the pure component view
2. Enthalpy Basis Offset: This term refers to the change of reference states between the Ideal Gas Enthalpy equation at 0 K and the reference state of Idea Gas in Hysys which is 25A?C. This term is called ''Enthalpy Offset'' and you can find itA on the "Point" tab of a pure component.
A
3. Enthalpy Departure: This term can be calculated as the difference between property packages. This will show the enthalpy departure of the fluid from ideal gas behavior at the same temperature and pressure, including latent heat, as well as heat of mixing if an equation of state model is used.
A
Finally the enthalpy calculation is:
H= Hideal + Hoffset + Hdeparture
A
Keywords: Enthalpy calculation, example
References: None |
Problem Statement: Compute Isentropic Expansion Coefficient Using User variable in Aspen HYSYS. | Solution: Aspen HYSYS could not directly report Isentropic Expansion Coefficient, k.
Based on the equation Definition: -V/P(dP/dV)T*Cp/Cv, we could get numerical derivative of dP/dV at equal temperature condition.
Mole volume and Cp/Cv are reported in Properties page at actual condition. You can calculate the Isentropic Expansion Coefficient k. In this solution, a user variable is provided for your reference.
Note: These examples are provided for academic purposes only and as such are not subject to the quality and support procedures of officially released heritage Aspentech products. Users are strongly encouraged to check performance and results carefully and, by downloading, agree to assume all risk related to the use these examples. We invite any feedback through the normal support channel at [email protected].
Keywords: User variable, Isentropic Expansion Coefficient, Automation.
References: None |
Problem Statement: Aspen HYSYS SQP Optimization - A Practical Guide | Solution: Aspen HYSYSTM SQP optimizer uses a steady state simulation of the process built using HYSYS software. There are a number of optimization algorithms in Aspen HYSYS. This document only focuses on the Hyprotech SQP method.
This document provides information for the following:
? Those wishing to gain basic information about SQP optimization using Aspen HYSYS.
? Those requiring in depth knowledge in analysing the results from the optimization.
This guide covers the following main aspects of optimization:
? Configuring a derivative utility for a SQP optimizer, running the optimizer and viewing the results.
? Configuring a HYSYS spreadsheet to organize optimizer inputs and results.
? Performing derivative analysis and noise calculation to diagnose the optimizer setup.
? Analyzing the results to ensure that the optimizer recommendations are justifiable.
? Improving the optimizer predictions through analysis of derivative and reducing noise in the simulation.
? Using optimizer as a tool to perform What-If case studies exploring new strategies in design and process operation.
A simple Aspen HYSYS simulation is used to cover the topics listed above. It is assumed that the readers are familiar with the necessary steps required to build the optimizer in Aspen HYSYS.
See the attached files:
Aspen HYSYS SQP Optimization - A Practical Guide V1.0.pdf
SQP Optimizer Demo.hsc
For further details please refer the following documents.
1. Aspen HYSYS Operations Guide - AspenHYSYSV7_0-Ops.pdf
2. Aspen HYSYS Real Time Optimization
Keywords: Hyprotech SQP, Derivative Analysis, Noise Analysis, Spreadsheet Configuration, Error tolerance, Case Study
References: Guide - AspenRTOV7_0-Ref.pdf
These documents are supplied with the installation disks; alternatively the registered user can download these documents from AspenTech Support Centre at
http://support.aspentech.com
Version Update:
The following modifications were made in Aspen HYSYS v7.1 and higher.
1. Different perturbation factor can be specified for each variable.
2. The objective function can be set "Maximize" or "Minimize". This is available in the Optimizer main page. If this flag is set appropriately then it is not required to specify a negative price for the objective function. |
Problem Statement: How to regress solubility data for Na2CrO4 at different temperatures. | Solution: Attached is the example of regress solubility data for Na2CrO4 at different temperatures. Data is taken from Perry's Chemical Engineering Handbook from the section Physical and Chemical Data.
T
Na2CrO4.10H2O
Na2CrO4.4H2O
0
31.7
10
50.17
20
88.7
30
88.7
40
95.96
50
104
60
114.6
In the component specification, specifyA the Na2CrO4A and 4H2O . Now using Electrolyte wizard create chemistry. Now go to the data folder and create two data set D1 and D2 forA Na2CrO4.10H2O and Na2CrO4.4H2O respectively .
As apparent component data has been entered thus apparent component approach to be used in the regression case.
A
The K-SALT parameters are regressed. The equilibrium constant has the form: ln(K)= A + B/T + C*ln(T) + D*T where A is element 1, B is element 2, etc.
Result is summarize in the following table.
Temp (oC)
g/100g water
Mass-fraction (Na2Cro4)
Mass-fraction(H2O)
0
31.7
0.2406986
0.7593014
10
50.17
0.334088
0.665912
20
88.7
0.4700583
0.5299417
30
88.7
0.4700583
0.5299417
40
95.96
0.4896918
0.5103082
50
104
0.5098039
0.4901961
60
114.6
0.5340168
0.4659832
Copy the value of the regressed chemistry parameters for both salts to the forms as shown in the following screenshot in order for them to be used a simulation.A
Keywords: Solubility, Regression
References: None |
Problem Statement: New in V7.3 - Usability Improvements and New Example Cases for Rate-Based Distillation in HYSYS | Solution: The use of rate-based distillation models for sour gas cleaning applications was first introduced within Aspen HYSYS in V7.2. V7.3 introduces improvements in both its usability and new industrial-scale example models for a variety of amines.
Easier Accessibility of the Rate-Based Distillation Unit Operation Model
The rate-based distillation unit operation model is now available on the standard HYSYS model palette, and can be included within any HYSYS flowsheet.
The use of the rate-based distillation model with HYSYS does require the availability of licenses for both Aspen Rate-Based Distillation and Aspen EO Modeling Option.
New ?True to Apparent? Transition to Facilitate Consistent Transfer of Compositions
The physical property model used within the rate-based distillation column model uses the true component approach, tracking individual ion species (e.g., H3O+, OH-, HS-, S--, etc.). To facilitate consistent transfer of data from the rate-based column to downstream unit operations that use the apparent compositions, a new transition called ?True to Apparent? has been added.
New Library of Ready-to-Use Examples
A new library of ready-to-use examples is now distributed with Aspen HYSYS V7.3. These industrial scale examples of sour-gas cleaning applications cover a variety of the common amines packages, and include the property package files (reaction sets and improved thermo properties parameters) for amines absorption modeling, making it easier to get started.
Keywords: Rate Based Distillation, What's New, Examples, Sour Gas, Amines
References: None |
Problem Statement: New in V7.3 - Create a GOSP Model Using the Conceptual Design Builder - Advanced Features | Solution: V7.3 introduces the Conceptual Design Builder tool within Aspen HYSYS. The Conceptual Design Builder allows a user to quickly build a steady-state HYSYS model of a gas-oil separation plant (GOSP).
Data for the reservoir fluids and process design preferences are entered in a series of templates within the Conceptual Design Builder. A HYSYS model is then automatically built within minutes based on your selections.
The resulting HYSYS model can then be evaluated for capital and operating costs using the integrated economics workflow available within HYSYS.
The Conceptual Design Builder will build a HYSYS model that utilizes the new Aspen HYSYS Upstream V7.3 black oils functionality to define the reservoir fluids. So, a license to Aspen HYSYS Upstream is required for the Conceptual Design Builder.
This tutorial covers:
? Part 2 ? Advanced Features of the Conceptual Design Builder
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: Customers reported Aspen Infoplus.21 crashing with the following error:
Usually this error occurs when Aspen InfoPlus.21 Access Service is not running in Windows services. | Solution: 1. Bring up Microsoft Windows Services Console by pressing the ?Windows Key? + the ?R? key, type services.msc and hit Return key
2. Check if the Service is running, if it's not, start it
3. To prevent it from stopping automatically, you can set the 'Recovery' tab of the service to restart on subsequent failures.
4. Also, if you are using Windows 2008 server, set the service to Automatic (delayed start) just to make sure the database starts up before the service starts.
Keywords: InfoPlus.21.21
Communication Object
System.ServiceModel.Channels.ServiceChannels
References: None |
Problem Statement: Installation of MS .NET Framework 4.0 changes the PathWWWRoot Registry keys to the default C:\inetpub\wwwroot which causes Aspen IP.21 Process Browser to stop working for those customers who install their IIS server on the drive other than C:\. | Solution: To resolve this issue, you must manually change the PathWWWRoot Registry keys to point to your actual IIS location.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: What are the units associated with setVariableValues and getVariableValues on the Aspen Custom Modeler OLE interface? | Solution: The units associated with this pair of functions are not documented in online Help.
When setVariableValues is called from a client application, variable values are passed from the client application to ACM. The values have to be in internal units.
When getVariableValues is called from a client application, variable values are passed from ACM to the client application. The values are received in current units.
This non-symmetrical behavior of this pair is not normally expected. The functions will be updated in future release.
Keywords: setVariableValues, getVariableValues
References: None |
Problem Statement: Are any CAPE-OPEN examples available?
Some of the older CAPE-OPEN projects no longer compile. | Solution: Starting in V7.2, we will not be providing example CAPE-OPEN models.
We recommend that customers go to http:\\www.colan.org for example CAPE-OPEN models.
Keywords: None
References: : CQ00405788 |
Problem Statement: What are the units associated with setVariableValues and getVariableValues on the Aspen Custom Modeler OLE interface? | Solution: The units associated with this pair of functions are not documented in online Help.
When setVariableValues is called from a client application, variable values are passed from the client application to ACM. The values have to be in internal units.
When getVariableValues is called from a client application, variable values are passed from ACM to the client application. The values are received in current units.
This non-symmetrical behavior of this pair is not normally expected. The functions will be updated in future release.
Keywords: setVariableValues, getVariableValues
References: None |
Problem Statement: Is it possible to open V7.3.2 files in earlier versions? | Solution: Even though it was possible to open V7.3 files in V7.2, it is not possible to open V7.3.2 files in earlier versions. This is due to a section in the backup file that starts $_APWNSHELL_SETTINGS. If this section is removed by editing the backup file as a text file, the file will open though new features will be lost.
Keywords: backward compatibility, earlier versions
References: : CQ00462997 |
Problem Statement: When running the same file in V2006.5 and V7.3, there are different results for the RadFrac distillation column block reboiler temperature. In V2006.5, the temperature is 89.4°C and in V7.3, without any input change, the value for the reboiler temperature is 90.7°C. When simulating a reboiler, 1°C of difference is important for the evaluation of the reboiler process side physical properties (heating curves). What is the explanation for the difference? | Solution: We made some changes to the thermosiphon reboiler, which caused different results between 2006.5 and V7.3. When the return liquid from the thermosiphon reboiler is mixed with the liquid from the last stage, there might be some vapor generated from the mixing. This is not considered in 2006.5, but was taken into account in V7.3. The results in V7.3 should be more accurate.
The V7.3 TPFQ Results show a vapor feed to the n-1 stage and a vapor product to the n stage. The 2006.5 file shows neither.
Keywords: None
References: : CQ00531677
KeyWords
thermosyphon |
Problem Statement: When I open a xlsx spreadsheet in Excel with the Aspen Process Data Addin loaded I receive the error message "Excel found unreadable content in xlsx document" and when I click through to open the document any charts I had created are not displayed. | Solution: This issue has been reported and is under investigation under CQ00447669. It has been noticed that this problem is linked to the use of a "," comma separator within the regional settings of the operating system. If you change this to a "." full stop then the problem is no longer witnessed.
Keywords: Excel found unreadable content
xlsx
regional settings
References: None |
Problem Statement: Why codes like BLOCKS("FLASH_LC").PV.isConnected does not work in Newer Aspen Plus Dynamics? | Solution: We no longer support coding structure such as BLOCKS("FLASH_LC").PV.inputvariable.isConnected in script for control signal variables for version V 7 and onwards.
Please change it to: BLOCKS("FLASH_LC").PV.isConnected) to get the expected behavior. In the older version, we used to support former coding structure. This is the documented way to do this. See the help topic Modeling Language
Keywords: IsConnected, Control Signal
References: , Modeling Language Concepts, Built-In Type Definitions, Built-In Variable Type for details. |
Problem Statement: Incorrect inventory calculation in Aspen Adsorption. | Solution: We have found a discrepancy in the inventory calculation. The values currently calculated in V7.3 should be:
Gas inventory: correct value is the displayed value multiplied by the total voidage (Eb).
Adsorbed inventory: correct value is the displayed value divided by the total voidage (1-Eb).
Keywords: Voidage, Inventory
References: None |
Problem Statement: This Knowledge Base article shows the basic steps for how to set up the Aspen Excel Add-in V7.3 service for publishing to MS SharePoint 2007 (MOSS 2007). | Solution: Please download and review the attached document titled: ExcelAddin_MOSS_User_Guide.docx
Keywords: Excel Add-in
User Guide
Addin
References: None |
Problem Statement: AspenTech SQLplus ODBC driver를 시스템 DSN (system DSN) 에 추가한후 Microsoft Excel 2007 에서 DSN를 이용하여 데이터를 import 하려면 아래와 같은 오류 발생: | Solution: 본 오류는 데이터 연결 마법사( Data Connection Wizard) 때문에 발생하는 문제입니다. 데이터 연결 마법사는 OLEDB provider를 사용하는데 SQLplus 는 ODBC provider만 사용이 가능합니다.ODBC provider를 사용하여 InfoPlus.21의 데이터를 성공적으로 Import하기 위하여 Microsoft Query를 대신 사용하여야 합니다.
Microsoft Query를 사용하기 위하여 아래와 같은 작업이 필요합니다.
1. 데이터 탭 클릭
2. 기타 원본 (From Other Sources) 클릭
3. Microsoft Query 선택
4. 원본 선택(Choose Data Source) 대화창에서 이미 생성한 시스템 DSN (System DSN) 선택
Keywords: The Data Connection Wizard cannot obtain a list of databases from the specified data source
KR-
References: None |
Problem Statement: Installing Aspen SCM Patch 6. Where are the shared library files located? | Solution: There are no libraries for SCM Patches. Shared libraries are installed only for CAPS and not Aspen SCM.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: You are trying to install Aspen SCM via the .MSI file on the installation disk on a Vista or Windows 7 operating system. How is this done? | Solution: Installing Aspen SCM directly from the .MSI file is not supported and will not work for the Vista or Windows 7 operating systems.
However, you can use the .MSI to install via the Aspen Silent Install or 3rd party distribution software.
To use the .MSI file via Aspen Silent Install or 3rd party distribution software you must first create an .XML file.
1. Setup the Registry.
Regedit> HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE>Software>AspenTech>Setup
Create a new record - Enter ?Record Response? with a value of ?1?.
2. Run DVDBrowser.exe from the installation disk, this will create the .XML file.
Note: When creating the .XML file on a computer, it will capture the pathnames of that computer. When using the .XML file on another computer it will say the path is not available, but you will still be able to complete the install.
The user specific path is not required. The response recorder looks at the .MSI file and records all available settings into the .XML file. If you have concerns in recording the user specific path (folder names) in the .XML file, logon to the recording computer as the local administrator with a generic looking user id and record the response.
Keywords: Silent install
msi
xml
References: None |
Problem Statement: When I try to change my screen resolution to 1680 X 1050 or 1920 X 1200, the settings do not take. The current setting field will display the setting I want but the in the table display (lower part of the screen) the current resolution displays something different. | Solution: Aspen SCM Configured Applications (CAPs) support the four following screen resolutions:
1024 X 768
1280 X 1024
1400 X 1050
1600 X 1200
All control positions (buttons, option menus, labels, etc.) and size (Geometrics) are based on these 4 resolutions, which are defined in the SCRGEOM table.
Keywords: Screen size
References: None |
Problem Statement: How can I make one set equal to another in Aspen SCM? | Solution: Use the following efficiency trick for making one set equal to another:
Instead of this:
SET1 = 0
SET1 = SET2
Use this:
GETCAT &1 = SET2 COUNT
SET1 = 0
SET1 = &1
FILL SET1(,C) = SET2(,C)
FILL SET2(,D) = SET2(,D)
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: My rule/macro is returning the message "end of set with no condition". What does this mean? | Solution: The "end of set with no condition" is a result of a rule which is incomplete. The easiest way to identify the problem is to run a debug on the particular rule or macro that is failing. To run a debug in MIMI, simply place an exclamation mark (!) in front of the statement you want debugged on the command line. For example:
!<RUNMACRO
The output of the debug will go to a file in your c:\MIMI\bin directory. The name of the file is stdout.txt and it can be viewed using any standard file editor. However, you must exit out of MIMI before you will be able to view the contents of that file.
KeyWords
RULE
MACRO
END
SET
CONDITION
DEBUG
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: If I have a problem typing in Chinese characters in activity editor in Aspen SCM running on Citrix, how do I resolve this? | Solution: This is window locale setting related issue.
To save/display Chinese char in SCM(CAPs) , user needs to change his/her Windows Locale to ?Chinese (PRC)?. (Picture 1)
After that, you can save Activity Editor fields with Chinese. (Picture 2)
Picture 3 below is to set ?Facility? modifiable in AEOMFG.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: As a part of Server Auding and hardening the server, you are tasked with disabling/removing settings which are not required. Does the ` Sentinel RMS License Manager? service require the `Allow Service to interact with desktop? setting?
. | Solution: The only supported configuration for this service is to retain the "Interact with Desktop" feature enabled. Disabling could potentially cause issues.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: I get the error message "the view could not be created for one of the......" when I am displaying two workspaces. How can I resolve this? | Solution: Close the first workspace before you display the new workspace. You can close the workspace via the DESTROY command.
example: DESTROY $GUI
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: What's New in Aspen Shell & Tube Mechanical V7.3 - Horizontal support design per ASME 2010 Div 2 Part 4.15 | Solution: Aspen Shell and Tube Mechanical V7.3 contains the support-induced shell stress analysis (Zick) calculation per ASME Division 2 part 4.15, Design Rules for Supports and Attachments. This calculation provides for a published well documented design procedure not yet available in Division 1 for the evaluation of stresses on vessel shells caused by horizontal supports.
The input option is selected here:
Four new detail output pages have been created to show the results of this calculation.
Keywords: Horizontal support design, ASME 2010 Div 2 Part 4.15
References: None |
Problem Statement: When attempting to start the Aspen Security Web Server console, the page fails to display, and an error message like the following is displayed:
Description: An unhandled exception occurred during the execution of the current web request. Please review the stack trace for more information about the error and where it originated in the code.
Exception Details: System.Runtime.InteropServices.COMException: Failed operation 'CSecManager::get_Authentication( ).
Reason - Class not registered. | Solution: To troubleshoot this issue, Microsoft's Procmon tool was used. In the Procmon log, when the website was opened, an Access Denied for the w3wp.exe process was shown. Checking the Properties of the event, the w3wp.exe process, running under the NT AUTHORITY\NETWORK SERVICE account was the process getting denied:
To resolve the issue, NETWORK SERVICE was granted default rights (not Full Control) to the inetpub folder and all its child subfolders. This was enough to resolve the issue, with no IIS reset necessary (since it was a file access issue, and not an IIS configuration issue.)
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: What's New in Aspen Shell & Tube Mechanical V7.3 - ASME 2010 Code and Material properties Update | Solution: Aspen Shell and Tube Mechanical has been updated with the 2010 ASME code and materials update. New materials were added and obsolete materials were deleted. The code and material standard year is shown as follows:
Keywords: ASME 2010, Code, Material properties, Update
References: None |
Problem Statement: Aspen Framework / Aspen Local Security locks up on multiple cpu systems. The lockup causes poor performance for the applications, such as the Production Control Web Server. | Solution: Replace the current afwsecclisvc.exe in the AspenTech \ BPE directory with the one attached to this solution.
Steps:
(1) Open Services from Control Panel
(2) Right mouse click the service ?AFW Security Client Service? and select Properties
(3) Click the Stop button and stop the service.
(4) Change Startup type to Disabled and click Apply.
Note: Disabling the service prevents it from being started by another process and preventing the replacement of the updated file.
Do not close this dialog yet as we need to restart the service after replacing the file
(5) Start Windows Explorer and go to the folder <Program Files>\AspenTech\BPE\ and make a copy of the afseecclisvc.exe.
(6) Extract the updated afwsecclisvc.exe from the attached zip file into this folder <Program Files>\AspenTech\BPE\ replacing the original afwsecclisvc.exe.
(7) Change Startup type to Automatic and click Apply. Start the AFW Security Client Service.
The version number of the updated file should be 5.0.0.528 or later.
Keywords: AFW
Local Security
PCWS
References: None |
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