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Problem Statement: What does the following error message mean: >ERROR> 'CD - 1' ENTER EITHER %DFM OR %ADJ - %ADJ WILL BE IGNORED | Solution: This error message shows up when the user has specified two different fields for the Equipment Rental estimation in one or more contractors.
To remove this error, go to Project Basis View | Contractors, and open the Contractor Assignment Tree.
Open the contractor number shown in the error message (e.g. 'CD-1'... |
Problem Statement: Is there a way to change distillation data using Aspen Simulation Workbook (ASW)? | Solution: There is a way to change the distillation data via ASW, using Petroleum Assay Manager. Follow the steps below to connect and modify the data.
1. Go to a material stream on your flowsheet.
Select Petroleum Assay page from Worksheet tab. Then Create the input assay using the Single Stream Properties option as ... |
Problem Statement: Back to Basics: How do I build a multi-plant model (also called Global model or MPIMS)? What tables are required? | Solution: A global model links multiple local models together and allows for interaction between them. To set up a global model, follow the steps below:
1) You must first have the local models that are to be linked. Make sure each model is running and converging well and all execution log warnings have been addressed. ... |
Problem Statement: How can I restrict the members of each group that may modify event screens? | Solution: Table SCREEN_RIGHTS can be used to list events screens that members of each group may modify. If a screen is included for a particular group, then members of that group may change the screen, meaning that they may add or delete control variables and trends. When you add a new event screen, all member of that ... |
Problem Statement: How to model swing cuts in APS | Solution: APS does not have the function to optimize swing cuts as PIMS does for crude units. In APS, we need to provide input parameters for swing cuts, e.g. percentage, volume or FBP values.
And the input parameters can be used in the calculations set up in the logic unit for the crude units in Units excel workbook... |
Problem Statement: How properties are calculated and managed in APS and MBO? | Solution: This Tech Tip gives a brief description of how How properties are calculated and managed in APS and MBO.
APS calculates them based on the method defined for the property, while MBO will try to achieve the spec that is defined by the recipe Spec:
Calculation Method
Enter the calculation method for the selec... |
Problem Statement: I checked the Quick result of an operation. I opened the Operation and changed the purge gas used, but when I ran the Quick Results again and checked the results in the operation, the purge gas showing in the Quick Results was not what appeared in the Operation dialog box. | Solution: The Aspen Batch Process Developer database didn't have time to refresh because the buttons were clicked too quickly. Wait a moment after closing the Quick Results dialog box before opening the Operation.
Keywords: Quick results, missing
References: None |
Problem Statement: What are the supported ProII Versions for Aspen Basic Engineering? | Solution: The table below summarizes all the supported ProII Version for Aspen Basic Engineering.
ABE Version Supported ProII Version
V8.0 with CPs 5.01, 5.1, 5.11.1, 5.5, 5.55, 5.6, 5.61, 6.0, 6.01, 7.0, 7.1, 8.0, 8.1, 8.2, 8.3,9.0,9.1
V8.4 with CPs 5.01, 5.1, 5.11.1, 5.5, 5.55, 5.6, 5.61, 6.0, 6.01, 7.0, 7.1, 8.0, ... |
Problem Statement: When we use P-rows in submodel table, the 8th character could control the number of decimals reported.
While in T.ASSAYS, the 8th character controls not the numbers of decimals, but the logical unit that the P-row applies.
But if I want to control decimals in T.ASSAYS, how can I use P-row? | Solution: There is no way to control decimals for P-rows in T.ASSAYS. Since the 8th character in a P-row is the logical crude unit designation character, not a decimal.
There is a workaround to deal with this query.
We could create a dummy submodel which could use P-rows with decimals control. Meantime, we could add E-... |
Problem Statement: I have two competing reactions in my Reaction Editor dialog box. The first reaction goes to 95% completion. The second consumes the remaining raw material. However, when I simulate the Step, I have leftover reagent. Why? | Solution: Consider the following reaction scheme:
Reaction 1: A + B à C with 95% of A charged to the reactor converted to C.
Reaction 2: A + D à E with 5% of A charged to the reactor converted to E.
Consider how Aspen Batch Process Developer views this series of reactions. To model the case above, you could enter th... |
Problem Statement: Why is the pressure drop calculation using the Aspen HYSYS Pipe Sizing Utility not the same as using the Pipe Segment? | Solution: The reason why the pressure drop results are not the same is because the pipe segment always uses at least 2 elements, each of which will be evaluated at slightly different conditions, whereas the Aspen HYSYS Pipe Sizing Utility gives a pressure drop per unit length based upon the single set of specified cond... |
Problem Statement: How to model a reverse flow from a refinery to a terminal and why do I obtain Warnings W1086? | Solution: When modeling a reverse flow in APS you will obtain Warning W1086, this is because if a batch is pushed out in reverse direction if you are working with Long Pipelines, APS will report it as a warning.
There are 2 possible ways to resolve this issue, you can either use Short Pipelines or you can use a Desti... |
Problem Statement: How do I change the icon of an extension in the Model Palette? | Solution: When registering a new extension, it will be available on the Model Palette under External Model shown as a general extension icon.
With several extensions registered it may difficult to identify each one of them if the icon is the same. However, you can customize the icons and update the view by following ... |
Problem Statement: I have written scripts using run and pause commands separately in each, but the task calling them fails to be executed. Why? | Solution: The ‘Application.Simulation.Run’ and ‘Application.Simulation.Pause’ commands cannot work together in the same task.
Hence, if the user only wants the simulation to run dynamically for a small amount of time and then give control back to the script, then the simulation.step command (‘Application.Simulation.Ste... |
Problem Statement: Can I delete a Property Bias that have factor and constant values equal zero without having an impact on my model results? | Solution: Can I delete a Property Bias that have factor and constant values equal zero without having an impact on my model results?
A Property Bias is a value added to (positive) or subtracted from (negative) a property value. You can add a property bias to Products and Units
If the original bias setup has both fact... |
Problem Statement: Where can we give layer pattern in Aspen Plate Fin Exchanger Program? | Solution: We can provide the layer pattern in Exchanger Geometry>General > Layer Pattern.
Layer pattern can be specified as
–A BABABA C BABABA C BABABA C BABABABABABA C BABABA CB
–or
–A (BA*3) C (BA*3) C (BA*6) C (BA*3) C B
Keywords: Layer Pattern
References: None |
Problem Statement: Is it possible to model dual flow trays in Aspen HYSYS i.e sieve tray without a downcomer/weir? | Solution: Currently, dual flow trays i.e sieve tray without a downcomer/weir cannot be modeled in Aspen HYSYS.
If the user has plant data, he/she can tune some of the parameters such as aeration factor multiplier, system factor etc. to match their data. We will support dual flow trays in the future versions.
Keywords... |
Problem Statement: This | Solution: provides examples on how to execute stored procedures from a MSSQL Server using Aspen SQLplus and possibilities on how to retrieve the result.
Solution
EXEC and EXECUTE statement are used to execute queries on remote database, EXEC command will also return the return set. Since these commands can execute quer... |
Problem Statement: Why does my Object Palette only show some unit ops and not all as I've seen in the documentation? | Solution: The cause of this is that you are not in the Main Flowsheet, and you are currently in sub-flowsheet environment such as Column Environment, or Sulsim environment. To go back to the Main Flowsheet environment, you can click on Flowsheet/Modify tab > Go to Parent.
If this option is greyed out, it is likely tha... |
Problem Statement: Is it possible to make Standard Basis information from a single scenario available for use in all scenarios? | Solution: Follow the steps below to make the basis information from a single scenario available as a library item for all projects.
Open the scenario containing the modified standard basis information in Aspen Icarus.
Use Windows Explorer to browse to the following location, \Program Files(x86)\AspenTech\Economic Eval... |
Problem Statement: This article describes in details about the steps to put a query record under automatic schedule, in Aspen InfoPlus 21. | Solution: The primary requirement to automatically schedule a query is, to save the query in form of record in the InfoPlus21 database.
1. Save the query in form of record, in IP21 database.
In the below example, the query name is Query1 and is saved under QueryDef.
2. Initially the record status will be inactive as ... |
Problem Statement: What does level number indicate in PSCP Xpress Optimizer message? | Solution: PSCP will log a message in the execution log every time a text line is output by the Xpress Optimizer. The level number returned to the execution log indicates the type of output message:
1 information messages;
2 not used in execution log;
3 warning messages;
4 error messages.
Keywords: None
References: Non... |
Problem Statement: When using the Scale Up function, I get an error message stating that the Batch Size for the Step could not be calculated or is zero. How do I fix it? | Solution: First make sure that you have correctly specified the Key Output Intermediate for the Step. By default this is listed as Nitrogen.
To change this:
Click the Information button on the Process Explorer.
Change the Key Output Intermediate to whatever your key product in this Step is.
Make sure that your Step i... |
Problem Statement: How do I increase the accuracy of my gas_bed adsorption model? | Solution: The gas_bed dynamic model is spatially discretized. Increasing the number of discretization points can increase the accuracy of theSolution. Open the bed’s configure form and then the configure form for each layer. The number of nodes is under the general tab of each layer’s configure form. The default value ... |
Problem Statement: The desired product is not produced in my Step. The problem occurs in a React Operation. Why is my reaction not producing any product? | Solution: The problem may be that the reactant pure components do not exist in the same phase that is defined in the Reaction. Check that components that should occur in the liquid phase have been dissolved in a Charge or Heat operation or that the material was added to the process using the correct phase.
You can use ... |
Problem Statement: The Aspen PIMS Execution Log shows different information when using PIMS AO (Advanced Optimization), versus PIMS DR (Distributive Recursion). The convergence criteria is also different in the two technologies.
A description of the main items in the Execution Log and the differences is included here. | Solution: Execution Log with DR
An excerpt of the Execution Log using DR shows the following information:
Convergence Criterias with DR
When DR is used, PIMS converges on one or two criterias:
1) Properties
a. Changes to property values between recursion passes must be smaller to either ATOL or RTOL (defined in Models... |
Problem Statement: When activating an SQLplus script (named “calc_something” in this example) that itself is calling another stored procedure record (named “debug_write” in this example), the following error message is observed:
Expecting FUNCTION or PROCEDURE, found end of file
at line 1, record: debug_write
Running ... | Solution: For a SQLplus script that calls another stored procedure or compressed query, when debugging using the Step Into option (F8 function key), the SQlplus Query Writer will open the appropriate sql text file found in the $COMPRESS_SOURCE folder.
Typically, $COMPRESS_SOURCE folder resolves to: C:\ProgramData\Aspen... |
Problem Statement: What should I check when my column complains of finding two liquid phases on one of the stages? | Solution: The normal HYSYS columnSolution algorithms cannot rigorously handle two liquid phases on the column trays.
If you have a steam stripped hydrocarbon column where the second liquid phase is water and it is forming on the top stages of the column, you may be able to add a water draw to the stages to remove the ... |
Problem Statement: The drawings from Aspen Shell and Tube Mechanical don’t match the drawings from Aspen Shell and Tube Thermal program | Solution: The thermal program has a layout written by HTFS. The mechanical program has a layout written by BJAC. These are two different programs coming from past software. Consequently, these layouts will always be different.
If the geometry is identical, you should select the most appropriate layout.
When the data i... |
Problem Statement: Sometimes, the administrator of the Aspen InfoPlus.21 database may have a need to start the database without starting the History Repositories.
For example,
1. They may want to make some configuration changes to the Repositories or History Filesets.
2. Another possibility is that problems with Histor... | Solution: than for the third possibility.
Solution
1. To bring up the Aspen InfoPlus.21 database without History, and allow somebody to view and or modify the History configuration, the administrator should manually start very selective tasks only!
NOTE: By manually starting a task we mean that one would double-c... |
Problem Statement: How can I get oxygen and nitrogen to appear in my Excel material balance report? | Solution: Click the Tools | Options | Excel Reports tab.
On the Step Material Balance list, click the last option: With Vent Streams, With Gas Phase Streams in by Stream, as shown below.
Keywords: Excel report, material balance
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I bring in equipment from another project into an Aspen Batch Process Developer simulation? | Solution: Navigate to the folder in which source project file is present. Notice file <Projectname>.eqm available in the same folder. This file is created when you save an Aspen Batch Process Developer project.
In the target project file, on the Main Menu, click Data | NetworkSelect | Equipment
Browse the directorie... |
Problem Statement: How is the heat duty calculated in the Dry and Air-Dry operations? | Solution: For the Dry operation, the heat duty of the utility is calculated based on the heat of vaporization and temperature change in the vessel contents.
The heat duty for Air Dry is calculated based on the drying gas flowrate (either user specified or an Aspen Batch Process Developer default value), and the temper... |
Problem Statement: Simulation failed during a dynamic run at 0 hours, and now it no longer can initialize. How to fix the problem? | Solution: This can happen if you do not rewind to your initial conditions before trying a dynamic run again. Even if a dynamic run fails at 0 hours, the solver has already changed variable values. It is necessary to revert back to correct initial values before trying another dynamic run.
Keywords: Adsorption, rewind, i... |
Problem Statement: What to do if dynamic run fails at time t = 0? | Solution: Accurate initial conditions are crucial to successfully start a dynamic simulation.
Were the compositions of connected units initialized to be the same? For example, a bed, and its tank voids might have different default initial compositions from the corresponding bed boundary conditions, which is not physic... |
Problem Statement: How can I make changes to Aspen Online exported files (tags and variables) using Excel? | Solution: In Aspen Online, users may need to do make changes to a large number of variables or tags. You can accomplish this task by following these steps in Microsoft Excel:
Opening the Aspen Online Exported file in Excel
Export the variables or tags text file in Aspen Online using the normal methods. If unfamiliar w... |
Problem Statement: This article explains how to solve: Xpress licensing error 1: The license file (C:\Program Files(x86)\AspenTech\Aspen PIMS\xpauth.xpr) could not be read. No such file or directory. Please ensure you have installed it according to the instructions in the FICO Xpress READMEs.
This error indicates ... | Solution: The error message appears when xpauth.xpr is missing from the Aspen PIMS folder.
Go to C:\Program Files(x86)\AspenTech\Aspen PIMS and verify xpauth.xpr file is there.
If the file is missing, you can request it from AspenTech’s Support Center but problem might persist if other files are missing.
To solve the i... |
Problem Statement: How OBJFN values are calculated in PPIMS model using Distributive Recursion (not PIMS-AO) | Solution: In PPIMS model that is not using PIMS-AO, the OBJFN value is calculated in following method:
OBJFN = Sp(LENp * OBJFNp)
LENp represents the length of each period.
OBJFNp represents the objective function value of each period.
For example, in the 3-period PVOLSAMP sample model:
OBJFN = 31*OBJFN001 ... |
Problem Statement: Why I cannot change the elevation on the pipelines in BLOWDOWN? | Solution: The only pipe that you can change the elevation value in BLOWDOWN is on the tailpipe boundary. This is because the pressure drop is only calculated on this pipe. There is no pressure drop calculation in any other pipe.
Keywords: Pipe, BLOWDOWN, elevation
References: None |
Problem Statement: How can I automate splitting events in APS, as part of event reconciliation? | Solution: To do this, there is an automation call named SplitEvent(). This call requires the Event ID and the split time to be passed as inputs. The user can gather the required unit operation event IDs from event automation and then split each of them using the above call.
Attached is a sample model that illustrates ... |
Problem Statement: Vessel pressure is increasing unexpectedly. What could be the cause? | Solution: If the pressure is increasing through the Charge or other operations, first check the Run History under Notepad Results for operations occurring earlier in the recipe to see if the vent on a vessel was closed as part of an operation.
For example, the vent on a vessel is closed if a blanket of gas is specifie... |
Problem Statement: Is there a way to dynamically modify the Pipe connectivity through VSTA? | Solution: You can use the Connect Pipe function to dynamically modify the pipe connectivity: ConnectPipe(Pipe ID, From, To)
This function allows you to dynamically change the From element and the To element for pipes.
Parameter(s) Type
Description
Notes
Pipe ID Integer User-specified pipe Must exist in the flow diagram... |
Problem Statement: Is there a way to turn off/hide the pipe labels? | Solution: Starting from V10 CP5, the show diagram connection labels option in the User Settings menu can be used to toggle on/off the pipe labels.
Key words
pipe labels
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: This | Solution: describes the recommended method for preparing time-series historian data for import into Aspen Mtell using the “CSV Imported Tags” historian option.Solution
Aspen Mtell’s “CSV Imported Tags” Plant Historian option expects the data file in the format of one reading per row, with the tag name, tag value, tag t... |
Problem Statement: How can I ensure that I don’t overfill a reactor (or underfill it below the minimum stir volume for operations that may require agitation, such as reactions)? | Solution: First, make sure that you have specified a Maximum Fill Factor and/or Minimum Stir Volume for appropriate pieces of equipment in your equipment database. In order to check whether you are meeting the Min/Max requirements, you can take the following actions.
Generate the Equipment Contents Excel report by cl... |
Problem Statement: I specified Comments or Ranges in my Aspen Batch Process Developer Operation, but they do not appear in the text recipe. Why? | Solution: You need to specify which (if any) Comment types or Range types will appear in the text recipe.
To specify comment types to display on Text Recipe view:
Click Tools | Options | Text Recipe tab.
Click Comments in the Text Recipe view.
On the Comments drop down list, click the types of comments you want to ha... |
Problem Statement: Are binary interaction parameters (BIPs) estimated when pseudocomponents are generated from assays? From documentation, it is stated that there are API methods available for estimating RKSKBV. However, when I go to Methods | Parameters | Binary Interaction | RKSKBV-1, I don’t see any value for the ps... | Solution: Aspen Plus does not display all the property parameters on the parameters form, so first we need to go the Home Ribbon and select Tools | Retrieve Parameters. After that, the RKSKBV parameters will be available under Methods | Parameters | Results | Binary Interaction | T-Dependent. See example attached.
Ple... |
Problem Statement: Is General Foreman cost included in Direct Field Labor? | Solution: There is only one Foreman associated with each crew. General Foreman are not available in Direct Field Labor. There is no distinction made between General Foreman and Foreman. The Foreman is paid either a fixed rate or a percentage multiplier of the highest paid craft in each crew.
Keywords: Foreman, General... |
Problem Statement: How do you enter limits for MIP (Mixed Integer Programming) variables in MPIMS?
For example, you might want to define the purchase of a stream as a semi-continuous variable (i.e. either buy zero, or buy more than a threshold value). This limit could be either at a specific plant, or for all the plant... | Solution: To enter MIP (Mixed Integer Programming) specifications in MPIMS, you need to use the global table MIP under the global model's Miscellaneous branch, and the global variable names as used in the matrix.
For example, to define the purchase of stream NC4 as a semi-continuous variable in ALL models, you need to ... |
Problem Statement: How can I design the orifice size by using the blowdown analysis? | Solution: Design orifice size by using blowdown analysis requires to add the adjust block. We can add orifice diameter as the adjusted variable and blowdown vessel final pressure as the target variable. HYSYS will try to run blowdown analysis several iterations to find the adequate valve size for the target pressure.
... |
Problem Statement: I transferred out 50% of my reactor contents with one Transfer Operation and the other 50% with a second Transfer Operation. However, I still have material in my reactor. Why? | Solution: If you intend to have two equal Transfers of product out of a reactor (each Transfer being half of the total reactor contents), you need to specify:
The first Transfer is for 50% of the reactor contents.
The second Transfer is for 100% of the reactor contents.
You must do this because these are sequential ... |
Problem Statement: How to model a reactor with a condenser? | Solution: The ‘React-Distill’ model can be used for modeling a reactor with condenser. It has both options – reaction and distillation. If you do not want to model distillation (separation), then you can change the parameters in the ‘Standard Separation’ tab accordingly and basically turn the separation characteristics... |
Problem Statement: How can I implement constraints for stream transfers between local models in MPIMS? | Solution: The column naming convention for transfer streams in MPIMS is following:
TxxxABM: Transfer of Material xxx from source plant A to destination plant B via mode M
Therefore you need to identify your column names and introduce the new constraint via T.ROWS in the global model.
Please refer to below example:
Str... |
Problem Statement: Report Wizard reports are created based on cached memory, not the published database. Only for comparison purpose, here we list database tables, which contains same category of data as those created from Report Wizard. | Solution: Report Wizard Sections Reported Information
Blending Information Blending events information
Same as Type 17 events in Table _EVENTS
Crude Consumed Crudes consumed in each crude unit on daily basis
Same as values in Table _CRDRUNS
Crude Inventory Crude tank inventory at each time stamp, which is snapshot valu... |
Problem Statement: What are the differences between simple staggering blowdown and rigorous staggering blowdown? | Solution: Users can use Blowdown Technology to model multiple blowdown valves release staggeringly. There are two approaches to achieve that.
Simple staggering blowdown: Simple Analysis generate the volume flow plot by adding each blowdown valve release curve together. The superimposed volumetric flow based on blowd... |
Problem Statement: This technical guide is intended to show the user how to develop custom Excel Spreadsheets for reporting results of a Dynamics model using Aspen Simulation Workbook. | Solution: This tutorial explains the use of several features in Aspen Simulation Workbook and how to take advantage of them to report and manipulate variables in a HYSYS Dynamics simulation.
The user will learn:
How to access Aspen Simulation Workbook
How to connect an Aspen HYSYS model to Aspen Simulation Workbook
How... |
Problem Statement: Why is the heat from the Fired Heater not changing with the air temperature? | Solution: At steady state, Aspen HYSYS Fired heater assumes that the process streams in the radiant zone are heated through combustion only, no other forms of heat transfer between fuel mixture and the process stream. Hence, the air temperature is not considered in the model to calculate the heat. The model only takes ... |
Problem Statement: When I try running the Excel reports in Aspen Capital Cost Estimator (ACCE) I get the following error: Error#-2147319779 Method '~' of object '~' failed. What does this error mean and how can I get around it? | Solution: There are a number of possible causes for this error message:
1. ACCE was not installed by a user with administrator privileges.
2. Corrupted installation of Microsoft Office.
3. ActiveX is not enabled in Internet Explorer.
4. Microsoft Office security settings are set as High.
5. The scrrun.dll file has... |
Problem Statement: What does the plate thickness in the LNG exchanger in Aspen HYSYS refer to? | Solution: The plate thickness refers to the plate that goes in between layers. This is the same to all the layers.
This is also called Parting Sheet. This is the value located in line 10 TEMA sheet.
Keywords: plate thickness, parting sheet
References: None |
Problem Statement: User experienced unusual slow performance to load and display Aspen Unified PIMS Web UI application. | Solution: This could occur when the user accesses the application under a Domain account with bad or slow network connection to Domain controller. By default, UnifiedPIMS settings are to use Windows Authentication (Negotiate/NTLM).
The recommendation is to switch to use Basic Authentication for such cases.
Configure ... |
Problem Statement: How do I print the Phase Envelope plot? | Solution: In order to print the Phase Envelope plot:
Right-click on the plot and select the Print Setup.
From the Print Setup window, select the printer as Microsoft Print to PDF (you can select this or any other PDF generator software). When you finish, click OK.
Finally, right-click again on the graph and ... |
Problem Statement: How do I specify the diameter of a Tee block in Aspen Flare System Analyzer? | Solution: The size of a Tee operation in Aspen Flare System Analyzer (AFSA) is not directly specified inside the object form. Instead the tee will be able to use the same diameter as the pipes that are connected to it.
This is controlled by selecting the Body type of the Tee. There are four options available to configu... |
Problem Statement: How PIMS sets up material balance rows in PPIMS model | Solution: In a PPIMS model that is not using PIMS-AO, material inventories need to be considered in the material balance calculations, and the material balance rows are setup for each of the periods, e.g. VBALp or WBALp
In general, the material balance rows are:
(Production)p + (Consumption)p – (Inventory)... |
Problem Statement: Why is the Acid Gas page not available inside a column when the Acid Gas Package is used in the simulation? | Solution: The Acid Gas page doesn't appear because Specify Efficiencies is checked (Parameters | Efficiencies). In this case, Aspen HYSYS will use the user-specified efficiencies and will not re-calculate the CO2, H2S efficiencies. After un checking Specify Efficiencies, the acid gas page will appear.
Keywords: Acid Ga... |
Problem Statement: How MAXPASS1 setting will impact model performance in PIMS DR | Solution: MAXPASS1 setting is used to identify the maximum number of recursion passes allowed before invoking MIP constraints in the model. MIP constraints are entered in Table MIP, BLNMIP.
The default value of MAXPASS1 is set to be 10 and based on performance users can tune MAXPASS1 setting value to improve model perf... |
Problem Statement: Unit conversion of temperature difference values in EDR | Solution: EDR reports several temperature differences (e.g. Overall effective MTD, LMTD, one pass counterflow MTD).
Because these are “differences” and not “absolute” values, none of them follow the regular unit conversion rules. Any temperature reference will be ignored and only the multipliers will be accounted for.... |
Problem Statement: What is the physical meaning of the Gradients reported for Pipe Segments under Performance | Profile? | Solution: The gradient results are evaluated per each increment in the pipe and represent loss in pressure per unit length between all these segments. The number of increments can be entered and controlled from the Rating | Sizing section of the Pipe Segment unit.
The definition of each gradient is the following:
Fri... |
Problem Statement: There are times when your flare system network may become too large to print in one single paper sheet and you may choose to print only small a section of it. This article describes how you can print a certain selection of your flowsheet in Aspen Flare System Analyzer. | Solution: Suppose you have a flowsheet similar to the one from the illustration below and would like to print only the part within the red box.
To print this selection, follow the steps described next:
1. Drag the mouse from a blank space within your flowsheet passing it over the objects you would like to in... |
Problem Statement: What does the perforation percentage field in the LNG exchanger in Aspen HYSYS represent? | Solution: The perforation percentage is the percentage of perforation with respect to the total fin area. Hence, it cannot be 100%. In Aspen Exchanger Design and Rating, it is called porosity.
For perforated fins, Aspen Exchanger Design and Rating gives a rule of thumb value of 5%. This only applies to perforated fins... |
Problem Statement: This article explains what is 'Engineer Request' entry in PCWS control page. | Solution: Each variable in an Aspen APC controller has the concept of 'In Service' or 'Out of Service', it allows the variable to be turned OFF for the controller, but not at the DCS level.
'Engineer Request'is the service switch for an variable. It permits engineers to assign any of the following modes that determine... |
Problem Statement: How can I solve a memory error in PSCP? | Solution: When facing a memory error in PSCP, we can try following methods to solve the problem:
1. Run PSCP on a 64-bit operating system with at least 4 GB of RAM. More RAM would improve performance but will not give PSCP more than 4 GB of virtual memory, which is a limitation for 32-bit applications. Users can also t... |
Problem Statement: Starting for V9.1 a new feature called Alerts has been released in AspenONE Process Explorer (A1PE). At a certain point customer could ask where the list of tags that they are subscribed is saved. This | Solution: explains it.
Solution
The AspenONE Process Explorer List of alerts that a user is subscribed to is saved in Aspen InfoPlus.21 database. A new family records was introduced in V9.1 called AlertUserDef.
The list of subscribed tags is by A1PE user and the record will be named in the same way as the user.
Keywo... |
Problem Statement: How do I add a new utility inside Aspen HYSYS? | Solution: Energy streams in Aspen HYSYS can be mapped to a process utility, which can allow the user to calculate which would be the required mass flow of this utility. Mapping these utilities can also help to refine an Economic Estimate and Carbon Emission analyses.
The list of available utilities can be found by clic... |
Problem Statement: How does a Process in the Production Plan work? | Solution: In Aspen Batch Process Developer Production Plan, you can select Steps or Processes to build a plan. Aspen Batch Process Developer calculates how many batches of each step are required to meet the target.
For example, assume Process A – Input Intermediate X, Output Intermediate Z – contains three steps:
Ste... |
Problem Statement: Troubleshoothing SPARSE messages in Aspen Custom Modeler | Solution: When you get SPARSE lines in the Message Panel, that is just a very generic error message. SPARSE is the name of the solver, which is a variant of Newton method.
This type or error just means that the solver failed to solve the non-linear equations. To troubleshoot the problem, you can try a couple of things... |
Problem Statement: I am modeling the Free-Radical polymerization of a defined monomer. I want to obtain the results for the z-average molecular weight (MWZ), the polymer weight average molecular weight (MWW) and the polymer number average molecular weight (MWN).
Results show that the value of MWZ is lower than the valu... | Solution: The attribute MWZ is a class 0 attribute used to specify the polymer z-average molecular weight. MWZ is calculated as the average segment molecular weight (MWSEG) multiplied by z-average degree of polymerization (DPZ).
The degree of polymerization is a class 0 attribute used to specify the polymer weight ave... |
Problem Statement: How does Aspen Batch Process Developer calculate Henry's constant? | Solution: When calculating Vapor Emissions for an Operation, in the Operation Editor it is possible to use Aspen Properties for the calculation:
Values calculated by Aspen Batch Process Developer (ABPD) will then be reported in the Quick Results summary:
However, these results may be different from those calculated i... |
Problem Statement: How can I force multiple operations to begin at the same time (run in parallel) in Aspen Batch Process Developer? | Solution: To specify that operations are in parallel, use the Edit | Insert Parallel command to add the following structure to your recipe:
Start Parallel
Series
Operation 1 (or a set of Operations)
Series
Operation 2 (or a set of Operations)
End Parallel
Keywords: Parallel, ABPD
References: None |
Problem Statement: Prior to V10, users could not initiate Aspen PIMS-AO Parametric Analysis runs via automation. | Solution: V10 added an automation code to allow running PIMS-AO’s Parametric Analysis. The detailed syntax of the automation call are:
RunParametricAnalysis(long nCase, long nInputSolution, bool bWriteDB, bool bGenerate)
Argument
· nCase -- The PIMS Case.
· nInputSolution -- The inputSolution file number.
... |
Problem Statement: User may find data collection of certain controller in Aspen Watch Maker has stopped on its own. After checking the collection task of that controller, the task has stopped without any logs in Windows Event Logs. Hence, it is a good practice to set Aspen Watch collection tasks in IP.21 Manager to 'Au... | Solution: In Aspen Watch Maker, we can check which tasks is used for the controllers.
Open Aspen Infoplus.21 Manager, we can find all the tasks used for data collection, check the 'Auto Restart' box. We can also modify the restart options.
This will make TSK_AW01 ~05 auto restart after any failure.
Keywords: Aspen Wa... |
Problem Statement: Why can I not connect to workspaces due to broker login error? | Solution: This error occurs due to loss of broker login information. You also might see the following error during the installation:
Error starting AZ191Broker due to Login failure.
<AZError Desc=The service did not start due to a logon failure. Src=CMainFrame::OnFileOpenWorkspace HR=0x8007042d />
<AZError Desc=The ser... |
Problem Statement: Tips on modeling the depressurization of a filled vessel using the Dynamic Depressuring Utility. | Solution: Since a small change in the vessel holdup of a filled vessel impacts the pressure of the vessel significantly, the first and foremost requirement of performing the depressurization calculation of a liquid filled vessel using the dynamic depressuring utility is to use a smaller time step. The time step should ... |
Problem Statement: What standard is used by EDR to calculate the shell-to-bundle clearance? | Solution: EDR uses TEMA standards for this purpose. TEMA starts with shell to baffle OD clearance (See Table RCB-4,3), then considers enough to be able to build the bundle and remove the bundle when removable. Typical fabricator clearances tube-OD-to-shell-ID is 1/2 on diameter (1/4 on radius) for fixed tubesheet units... |
Problem Statement: Is it possible to model Electrolyte Chemistry and Pseudocomponents? How are binary parameters generated? | Solution: The NRTL and UNIQUAC binary parameters for water and pseudocomponents are intended for use in LLE calculations, as water and hydrocarbons tend to form two liquid phases. These interaction parameters are estimated from the mutual solubility data. The solubility of water is estimated from one of the methods des... |
Problem Statement: The drawings from Aspen Shell and Tube Mechanical don’t match the drawings from Aspen Shell and Tube Thermal program | Solution: The thermal program has a layout written by HTFS. The mechanical program has a layout written by BJAC. These are two different programs coming from past software. Consequently, these layouts will always be different.
If the geometry is identical, you should select the most appropriate layout.
When the data i... |
Problem Statement: Sometimes, the administrator of the Aspen InfoPlus.21 database may have a need to start the database without starting the History Repositories.
For example,
1. They may want to make some configuration changes to the Repositories or History Filesets.
2. Another possibility is that problems with Histor... | Solution: than for the third possibility.
Solution
1. To bring up the Aspen InfoPlus.21 database without History, and allow somebody to view and or modify the History configuration, the administrator should manually start very selective tasks only!
NOTE: By manually starting a task we mean that one would double-c... |
Problem Statement: What are the best practices while coding in VSTA? | Solution: Aspen Technology recommends implementation of the following as an absolute minimum for best coding practices:
Commenting- Helps another modeler understand the underlying principles of the code's purpose. Comments also help you when you return to the code after not seeing it for some time.
Indenting- Left just... |
Problem Statement: Modifications to the cycle are not being carried out during the dynamic run | Solution: After making structural changes in the cycle organizer, you must regenerate the task for those changes to be implemented. So-called structural changes include adding a step or adding a manipulated variable. Changing the numerical value of a variable is not a structural change. Check the status at the bottom o... |
Problem Statement: For different OPC servers, the maximum Cim-IO list size may need be changed from default value. | Solution: The Cim-IO list size determines the number of lists into which the collection tags are divided.
For example, for Cim-IO to CM50S, if there are 304 collection tags, and the listsize is specified to be 100; then, internally, the tags will be divided into four internal lists. Three of the lists will contain 100 ... |
Problem Statement: How does EDR account for Expansion Joints? | Solution: In Shell & Tube Mechanical, the consideration of Expansion Joints in fixed tubesheet designs can be changed directly in the program. Under Input | Exchanger Geometry | Expansion Joints, there are 3 options:
Program: This is the default option. The program will check and add expansion joints if necessary.
Yes:... |
Problem Statement: This article explains what is 'Service Request' entry in PCWS control page. | Solution: Each variable in an Aspen APC controller has the concept of 'In Service' or 'Out of Service'
'Service Request 'is the operations service switch for an variable. It permits operations (or other e.g. engineer) personnel to assign any of the following modes that determine whether the variable is included or exc... |
Problem Statement: When using multiple steps to model a process, how do I get material to flow from one step into the next? | Solution: First, make sure that you check the Transfer total amount of Output Intermediate from previous Step in Process check box in the Simulation Batch tab of the Tools | Options menu.
Then simulate the Steps sequentially. If you later make changes to a Step, you must re-simulate it and then re-simulate all subse... |
Problem Statement: How do I save the CAP_REP.cpp file after an evaluation of a project scenario? | Solution: There is no Save/Save As options included in the Report Editor due to issues with MS Rich Edit Control with the ccp file splitting.
If you need to retrieve the ccp file, you can find it in the cache directory. For typical installations, the cache is located in:
C:\Users\<UserName>\AppData\Local\AspenTech\E... |
Problem Statement: What to do if the Rewind button is grayed out? | Solution: Open Run/Run Options and enter 0 into the Time now field.
The Rewind button can be used now.
Keywords: Adsorption, rewind
References: None |
Problem Statement: How can I ensure that I don’t overfill a reactor (or underfill it below the minimum stir volume for operations that may require agitation, such as reactions)? | Solution: First, make sure that you have specified a Maximum Fill Factor and/or Minimum Stir Volume for appropriate pieces of equipment in your equipment database. In order to check whether you are meeting the Min/Max requirements, you can take the following actions.
Generate the Equipment Contents Excel report by cl... |
Problem Statement: I specified Comments or Ranges in my Aspen Batch Process Developer Operation, but they do not appear in the text recipe. Why? | Solution: You need to specify which (if any) Comment types or Range types will appear in the text recipe.
To specify comment types to display on Text Recipe view:
Click Tools | Options | Text Recipe tab.
Click Comments in the Text Recipe view.
On the Comments drop down list, click the types of comments you want to ha... |
Problem Statement: Are binary interaction parameters (BIPs) estimated when pseudocomponents are generated from assays? From documentation, it is stated that there are API methods available for estimating RKSKBV. However, when I go to Methods | Parameters | Binary Interaction | RKSKBV-1, I don’t see any value for the ps... | Solution: Aspen Plus does not display all the property parameters on the parameters form, so first we need to go the Home Ribbon and select Tools | Retrieve Parameters. After that, the RKSKBV parameters will be available under Methods | Parameters | Results | Binary Interaction | T-Dependent. See example attached.
Ple... |
Problem Statement: What are the differences between efficiencies model and advanced model in Acid Gas Column Modeling? | Solution: Efficiency Model: Column tray and packing information can be defined to calculate component efficiencies. Efficiency approach only calculates efficiencies for CO2 and H2S.
Advanced Modeling: Column calculations can be converted from the default Efficiency-based calculation to an “Advanced Modeling” approach... |
Problem Statement: Will related equipment affect equipment availability?
Note: Related Equipment refers to equipment listed on the Related Equipment tab under the Data | Equipment dialog box. | Solution: Related Equipment will not be used for equipment availability checking. For models such as Vesselpak, if the related agitator and jacket are not specified for the main vessel, Aspen Batch Process Developer checks the related equipment to see if they are specified. These pieces of equipment are listed in the E... |
Problem Statement: Are light gases not reported in the emission results? | Solution: The Emissions calculations concern the maximum composition of the liquid components going into the vapor. If these components do not appear in the liquid phase, then they are not reported in the Emissions results.
A component charged to equipment will be assigned to the phase defined by the Phase parameter f... |
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