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Problem Statement: The output of a Multiply block is in the default units, not in the ones from its input. Why? | Solution: The input/output variables of a Multiply block use the <control_signal> variable type, which is a generic type with no units of measurement specified; the units of the variables will depend on the units of the connected model. If there is no connection, there will be no units.
In the attached V7.1. file B2 ca... |
Problem Statement: What causes the Server error in '/AtControlCharts' Application- Run time error for Adaptive Modeling error message when trying to view Adaptive Modeling results? | Solution: In Aspen Production Control Web Server, at times the below error message appears when trying to view in the Adaptive modeling case results.
One of the most probable reason for this problem is a system clock mismatch between Aspen Watch server and Aspen DMCplus Online server and the Aspen Production Contro... |
Problem Statement: Models which have been user customized in Aspen Dynamics 10.1 and contain OCX forms, e.g. the PID model, will still be pointing to the 10.1 definition of the OCX form when loaded in 10.2. As a result you may find that you cannot open the OCX form for the model instance in the flowsheet. You will get ... | Solution: Go to the customized model definition in the Simulation Explorer and look for the OCX form definition in the Contents of the explorer. Usually you will find the OCX form itself of a certain type, e.g. the Faceplate form of PID will be of type FP and then you will see listed FP itself of type Form Definition.
... |
Problem Statement: Is it possible to manually specify the scan time for a controller being collected on AspenWatch? | Solution: The AspenWatch collection for a controller is performed at the same frequency as the controller execution. However, it is not necessary that the AspenWatch collection time and the controller execution time are synchronized. The AspenWatch collection time is internally estimated based on when the user turn on ... |
Problem Statement: You have just installed AspenWatch, and because it is a new site, or for some other reason, you do not know the ultimate size and number of controllers, nor the number of Misc or PID tags that will be collected by AspenWatch. Under these circumstances, the spreadsheet is not particularly helpful in d... | Solution: is being written, this situation hasn't been evaluated with regard to it's impact on AspenWatch. Performance will still be a consideration. So, thisSolution should be considered applicable to versions up through AspenONE 2006.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: What is AV in the streams and how is it calculated ?
What is SLIP in the streams and how is it calculated ? | Solution: Av is defined as the availability of a stream.
For a flow driven simulation, instead of specifying the flowrate F, the required flowrate FR is specified.
The two variables are related by:
F = Av*FR;
If Av is equal to 1, F is simply equal to FR.
For feed streams, Av is fixed to 1.
For the case of a liquid stre... |
Problem Statement: Why Aspen Watch reports show ERROR: Record not found for REPORT NAME: <ReportName>? | Solution: Starting V7.3 CP2 using an ADSA name different to that of the Watch server name is allowed; however, the best-practice is to use the same name, i.e. if your Aspen Watch server name is AWSRV, the Data Source should be named AWSRC.
In case the Data Source is changed, the report configuration file (XML) needs to... |
Problem Statement: Aspen Watch maker gets a DBWrite Error if the Watch server is V8.4 or higher while Aspen DMC is a lower version like V7.2. The issue occurs because the lower version ccf is missing key internal validation parameters which were added in newer versions. | Solution: The structure of the CCF file has changed over the years, with new parameters being added to the CCF and some obsolete parameters being deleted. This introduces a compatibility issue between the CCF file from V7.2 (or earlier) and V7.3CP4 (or later). This could result in DBWrite Error / iGetLong_f ANTROP fail... |
Problem Statement: How do you model fire in Aspen Plus Dynamics (APD)? | Solution: Fire calculation is supported in several Unit operations block in Aspen Plus Dynamics such as Flash2, Flash3, Mixer and CSTR blocks. Each blocks are associated with required Fire Configure form. For example, to activate fire calculation in Flash2 model, one may need to go to Form || Configure || Vessel and cl... |
Problem Statement: Why does the RGibbs model in Aspen Dynamics get an error when components are removed from the component list? | Solution: The Rgibbs model in Aspen Dynamics actually calls the Aspen Plus model's routines. One side effect of this is that the component list cannot be changed when using the RGibbs model in Aspen Dynamcis. This is becuase the interface including the number of components is set up in the .appdf file that is generated... |
Problem Statement: How to move libraries and reports from one machine to another | Solution: For KPI Library, the user can copy the file from one machine to another.
This file is located under \Aspen Watch\Template\FormulaLibrary.cfg. It
contains all KPI items as built and custom added.
As for the custom report, we don't have a tool to do this transfer
automatically in version 2006.5. But a savvy I... |
Problem Statement: AspenWatch can store and monitor PID loops. This | Solution: deals with a possible problem in this mechanism.
PID loops must be associated with a specific DCS because the PID behavior is different from one vendors DCS to another's. These differences are addressed in an SQL procedure and a Configuration file for each vendor that is addressed. As thisSolution is written,... |
Problem Statement: How to take equipment thermal inertia into account in dynamic simulation? | Solution: This is best done in Aspen Plus, before you export the simulation to Aspen Dynamics, in the forms Dynamic HT Equipment. There you can specify the mass and heat capacity of the drum, column stages, and sump. Note that the drum should include the condenser, and the sump should include the reboiler.
It is also p... |
Problem Statement: How do I create a Custom Table? | Solution: To create a Custom Table:
1. Click New form button and give a title. New Form can also be accessed from Tools menu.
2. Open the form that contains the variables to be copied. Select the variable name, drag the variable and drop it into the table created.
You can also create a list of variables to... |
Problem Statement: AW collection for a controller deployed through APC Builder stays at Initial and never creates a data collection. | Solution: When an APC controller is first deployed with AspenWatch option, it is automatically added to the AspenWatch Maker list. When that controller is started collecting data in AspenWatch, a script in the background is ran to build the rest of the records associated with the controller.
If, for some unknown reaso... |
Problem Statement: How to store Aspen online controllers prediction history using Aspen Watch? | Solution: The procedure to store the prediction error(s) is using Aspen Watch, through Aspen Production Control Web Server.
1. Make sure that the controller is configured in Aspen Watch for data collection.
2. In PCWS, go to the History tab -> Plot list (left hand pane) -> Add tags
This will show up the tag s... |
Problem Statement: Securing an IP21 Database associated with Aspen Watch may cause not licensed status in AspenWatch Maker | Solution: AspenWatch (AW) IP.21 database is installed without any default security permission. It is possible to add permission to the database to make it more secure. Here is an example of an IP.21 data base with some form of security configuration.
Once the database is secured, the AW Maker status for all controlle... |
Problem Statement: How to model a fire in a reactor tank | Solution: To model a fire in a reactor tank:
1. Before starting the dynamic run, right-click the RCSTR block.
2. On the menu that appears, click Forms | Configure.
3. Activate the fire modeling equations by selecting the Perform Fire Calculations check box on the Vessel tab (Configure | Vessel).
4. Clic... |
Problem Statement: Calculator block and other Flowsheeting Options results are not transferred from Aspen Plus to Aspen Plus Dynamics. What should should be done? | Solution: During export to Aspen Plus Dynamics, results of Calculator blocks and other Flowsheeting Options are not available unless there is a result variable in the stream, corresponding to the input variable that is being calculated. Therefore, before exporting to Aspen Plus Dynamics, you should ensure that the resu... |
Problem Statement: How to get daily and monthly aggregate AspenWatch data with different starting time than the default starting time. | Solution: Daily aggregate AspenWatch data are being calculated at midnight for the previous 24 hours.
Monthly aggregate AspenWatch data are being calculated at midnight of the first date of the month for the previous months.
If a different starting time is desired, there are three options.
1) Use the PCWS web interfac... |
Problem Statement: Why does Aspen Watch need multiple TSK_IQx configured? | Solution: For a regular IP.21, it is recommended to have only one TSK_IQ according to KB 143860. While this advice may hold true for many IP.21 installations, Aspen Watch installations are better optimized with multiple IQ tasks. Aspen Watch run various additional queries and processes and is typically accessing histo... |
Problem Statement: I have defined a Heater model in Aspen Plus where I have chosen as Heat Transfer option LMTD for exporting to Aspen Dynamics.
When I look at the values in aspen Dynamics, I notice that the LMTD calculation does not match my hand calculation of the log mean temperature difference for the inlet and out... | Solution: Heater assumes a perfectly mixed process side and for the process stream the temperature is made equal to the outlet temperature. As a result you do get a different value from what you were expecting if you were using the inlet process temperature in the LMTD calculation.
The heater block has no dynamic featu... |
Problem Statement: Aspen Watch (AW) historizes and makes available all the entries that are associated with controller variables by default. The user is able to define specific entries that may be meaningful to him in his installation, but are really specific to only his installation. What can be done to make the value... | Solution: There is a file named UserEntryTags.txt that is automatically created by Aspen Watch Maker when you load a controller. It contains information appropriate for creating miscellaneous tags corresponding to all the tags that are not recognized as normal entries for the variables. i.e. user defined entries.
The i... |
Problem Statement: Why is IIS needed on the Aspen Watch server? | Solution: The Aspen Watch server requires IIS because it now uses SQLPlus Reports which requires access to the SQLPlus Reports web site.
Keywords: watch, aspen, reports, iis, internet, information, manager, 2006.5
References: None |
Problem Statement: AspenWatch Inspector did not get installed with 2006.5 | Solution: Inspector functionality is now found on the Productin Control Web Server, provided that is also upgraded to 2006.5.
The Inspector page for DMCplus Controllers displays a table of numerical data for all controller applications or for all variables within an application. You can choose to view the data as Raw... |
Problem Statement: Does Aspen Plus Dynamics solve the transition from 2-phase relief to liquid only relief? | Solution: Aspen Plus Dynamics does not support the transition from 2-phase relief to liquid only relief.
Keywords: Aspen Plus Dynamics, 2-phase, relief
References: None |
Problem Statement: What is the benefit of removing unused components in Aspen Plus Dynamics and how to do it? | Solution: The calculation of the properties of unused components (with mole fraction of 0) can lead to convergence problems. Also removing unused components will make the Dynamics file size smaller and, hence improves run time.
Unused components can be removed either from Aspen Plus or Aspen Plus Dynamics.
In Aspen Plu... |
Problem Statement: How do I model a pipe with varying diameter along the length? | Solution: To model a pipe with varying diameter along the length, you need to right click on the model and click configure.Check pipe diameter varies along the length option from Dimension tab. The Model probably will be under-specified by one variable. You may need to go to the all variables table and change the spec ... |
Problem Statement: With a new installation of AspenWatch, Inspector fails with message Failed to create empty document. Aspen Process Explorer may also fail with an attime error. | Solution: Under some circumstances ATtime.dll might not get registered properly. When this happens, re-registering the ATtime.dll will fix the problem.
One way to re-register:
Open a DOS window and CD to the directory containing the .dll (you can do a search to find it if you don't know where it is)
Then type:
regsvr32... |
Problem Statement: Is it possible to use Aspen Custom Modeler to modify and add to my Aspen Dynamics simulation?
You may want to do this in order to:
Edit and extend an existing Aspen Dynamics model, stream, variable type...
Add your own custom models to Aspen Dynamics simulations | Solution: You can run Aspen Custom Modeler and Aspen Dynamics in the same window at the same time, if you have a license for both products.
To use Aspen Custom Modeler and Aspen Dynamics at the same time, you need to do the following:
Open either Aspen Custom Modeler or Aspen Dynamics.
Select the Tools drop-down menu... |
Problem Statement: Try to add a controller, and it says Controller already loaded.
This is frequently because of an unsuccessful attempt to update a controller, and the user has decided to simply delete and re-add the controller... accepting the fact that doing this will cause history to this point to be lost.
This pro... | Solution: If the version of AspenWatch is AMS 6.0.1, there are some updated queries that deal with problems parsing gain multipliers inSolution 114194.
If your version of AspenWatch is from an AspenONE release, do not useSolution 114194. Newer versions of these queries are in all AspenONE versions.
If your version of A... |
Problem Statement: When launching AspenWatch Inspector, after connecting to the database, there is a message no data available - failed to open %SETCIMLINKS%. An attempt was made to open AMS 6.x database, and the AWEvents probably caused confusion. | Solution: There may be a number of causes for this message, one of those being when there is a mismatch between the snapshot version and the version of the running AspenWatch application. A snapshot from an AMS 6x version of AspenWatch, loaded into an AspenONE version of the product for instance will cause such a messa... |
Problem Statement: Is it possible to split a control signal to model the output of a PID controller that actuates two valves? | Solution: You can use the SplitRange model from the Dynamics / ControlModels library for Aspen Dynamics. Alternatively, the same model is available in Aspen Custom Modeler under the Modeler / Models library.
The SplitRange model allows you to take an input control signal over a specified range and create two output con... |
Problem Statement: Aspen Watch uses the standard Cim-IO client program for InfoPlus.21 (cimio_c_client.exe) to retrieve Miscellaneous and PID tag data. There are four of these clients configured by default when Aspen Watch is installed. Each of these clients are associated with one and only one logical device (IODEV1, ... | Solution: Create additional Cim-IO Clients for Misc and PID tags.
In Aspen Watch, there are four Cim-IO clients that are created by default with the installation of Aspen Watch. These are standard Cim-IO clients for IP.21, but with specific names: TSK_M_IODEV1 through TSK_M_IODEV4.
Every TSK_M_IODEVx task is mapped... |
Problem Statement: How to apply a sine disturbance? | Solution: You have several options to do this:
tasks
flowsheet constraint
custom model
Task
You can use the SRAMP function to specify a sine-shape ramp.
Task move_B1 runs when time >= 0
base as realparameter;
ampli as realparameter;
period as realparameter;
base : 1;
ampli : 0.2;
period : 1;
sramp(blocks... |
Problem Statement: A condenser is modelled using HeatX. Phase specific heat transfer coefficients are used in a simulation and get as results an overall heat transfer coefficient U=408 W/m2/K. However, when the file is exported to Dynamic, the value of U changes to 385 W/m2/K.. A similar problem is observed when using ... | Solution: What is happening is that in Aspen Plus you use the rigorous calculation mode, which gives you multiple heat transfer coefficients calculated for each zone. In this specific case, we have two zones, e.g. down to dew point of hot side for desuperheating, then condensation of hot side. The average heat transfer... |
Problem Statement: Known Issue: Install Database Configuration utility can fail to complete with a CRDBSETC: Error in CreateDBSharedMemoryObjects error message if Aspen Transition Manager processes are running.
Description: The Install Database Configuration (IDC) procedure of Aspen Watch Performance Monitor can fail... | Solution: Before running IDC, look in Windows Task Manager for any processes that begin with ATM_. If you see any, then use the Services control panel to stop the Aspen Transition Manager Server service (if the service is not running, start it first, then stop it). Verify that all the ATM_ processes are stopped in task... |
Problem Statement: I need to change the dimensions of a mixer block. However, I don't want to go back to Aspen Plus and have to re-export the file to Aspen Dynamics. I would prefer to make the change directly in Aspen Dynamics. How can I do that? | Solution: In some cases, the only option is unfortunately to go back to Aspen Plus and re-export the file to Aspen Dynamics. In version 2006 we have improved the file import capability in Aspen Dynamics, which hopefully should address some issues with the workflow.
In some specific cases, the change can be implemente... |
Problem Statement: I am using the Process Data Excel Addin and selecting the SQL+ function, I have selected to use the SQLplus Entry and Entered query as shown: | Solution: This is a know problem and is discussed in KB134687 also. The problem is that the use of a datasource with a name which is also a valid Excel cell reference will force the Addin to look in cell MAN5 for the name of the datasource.
To avoid this issue, please put quotes around the datasource name, in this inst... |
Problem Statement: Is it possible to use the AspenTech Excel Addins for either Aspen ProcessData or Aspen Batch.21 with Excel v2007 ? | Solution: For all versions up to and including v2006, if selected during installation, AspenTech distributes an Aspen Batch.21 and an Aspen Process Data *.XLA file. These are the files that are loaded into Excel to enable the AspenTech Excel Add-ins for those products.
Excel-2007 requires a new modified *.XLA file for ... |
Problem Statement: DMCplus Context server fails without error messages. No obvious problems, such as mis-matched configuration files (see | Solution: 115467)Solution
Pending discovery of the cause, the work around for this issue is to set the recovery options for the DMCplus Context Service to Restart the Service for the First failure:, Second failure:, and Subsequent failures:
This work around has proved successful for several clients.
It is possible, tha... |
Problem Statement: AspenWatch PID Record Name drop down box only allows one to select from among the first ~100 loops that have been added to the database. | Solution: Open Aspen PID Watch
Tools - > Options -> Configuration Options --- AW PIDDef Record Search - Maximum Tags option
The default is set to 100 tags, this can be modified as needed.
Keywords: PID Watch, tags, list, drop, down
References: None |
Problem Statement: There is no log left in TSK_AW.out and TSK_AW.err file when TSK_Aw crashed with application error. | Solution: Use debug diag as command line parameters for TSK_AW task.
And, as an option, setting debug diag verbose (without the quotes) on the command line for TSK_AW task will provide lots of information and it may tell where things are failing.
AWCollect Debug file configuration sample
1. Start InfoPlus.21... |
Problem Statement: Aspen Watch model verification may hung-up by submitting several cases in succession. And, its status keeps to be Request or Running. This status would not be changed even after the machine reboot. | Solution: Work around procedure is as follows.
1. When you see that the status for your model verification task is not updating (e.g. it stays in Running status). Use Task manager on the Aspen Watch Server machine and kill any SIMDriver.exe processes.
2. Use Aspen InfoPlus.21 Administrator and navigate to t... |
Problem Statement: What are snapshots in the dynamic model? How do we maintain and use them in simualtions? | Solution: Snapshots for the current simulation structure are recorded as the Current Snapshots for the simulation. To access these snapshots:
In the All Items pane of the Simulation Explorer, click Simulation and then in the Contents pane, click the camera icon. Tools---> Snapshots Pull down menu
By default, the curren... |
Problem Statement: App folder, CCF and MDL were removed and now the AspenWatch controller cannot be deleted from maker. | Solution: On the AspenWatch machine, recreate the folder for the controller and populate with CCF and MDL file.
Open Aspen Watch Maker and identify the controller that cannot be deleted, and notice it's ID from the ID column.
Open Infoplus21 Administrator, expand the machine name and navigate down to and open the Def... |
Problem Statement: How to modify the global limit of state variables in Aspen Plus Dynamics? | Solution: One can specify Lower limit of temperature under Aspen Plus SIM_OPTIONS for global LOWER/UPPER limits of temperature (in the Aspen Plus user interface, Setup | Simulation Options | Flash Convergence). This enhancement helps to be more consistent, and Aspen Plus Dynamics users are no longer need to modify and ... |
Problem Statement: Guidelines for sizing the event historian. | Solution: First, one must realize that the number of events that will be generated will vary greatly depending on circumstances. In general, use of the spreadsheet that helps calculate tsk_dhis, and then infer a 1:10 ratio for the aggregate historian is *fairly* reliable. There will be variation, but within manageable ... |
Problem Statement: How do I diagnose dynamic model with respect to the model equations and variables? | Solution: User should be able to analyze the sensitivity of the model equations to the value of any of the variables in the equation. By analyzing sensitivity of the equations, one may be able to find particular model residual or equations that may be hard to satisfy during convergence. To do this, you need to go to To... |
Problem Statement: When the RTE Service is restarted for Aspen APC Controllers being monitored in Aspen Watch Performance monitor, the ONSTS handling reverts to the default even after changing ONSTS for several calculations and saving them. How do I retain the ONSTS handling changes that were made? | Solution: The UPDATE action for your controller is being triggered on the Aspen Watch side when a restart of the RTE Service occurs. This is by design in case the controller configuration changed while the RTE Service was unavailable. The standard list of KPIs (and their settings - including ONSTS Handling) that get ap... |
Problem Statement: Aspen Watch Performance Monitor - all versions | Solution: The directory structure on the Aspen Watch machine should match the Aspen DMCplus server with no subdirectories between the App folder and the controller folders. If the directory structure does not imitate what is on the Aspen DMCplus server do the following:
Stop the collection in AspenWatch Maker.
Go to th... |
Problem Statement: In a non-feed stream, the variable vf is not active. How can I find the vapor fraction of these streams? | Solution: In A+ Dynamics, streams are not flashed and therefore vapor fraction (vf) is not available for non-feed streams. However, in most cases, the vapor fraction of a product stream can be found from the upstream block (model/unit op), i.e., the block that the source of the stream is attached to.
Keywords: vapor fr... |
Problem Statement: How do I determine the record name associated with a recid and translate the error code?
In AspenWatch Maker, the status of a collection is reading DB_Write error.
Inspecting the .out file for the TSK_AWxx associated with the collection, the following message is observed:
Write to DB (IND Group 3... | Solution: In order to determine the record name associated with Recid 5447, open SQLplus and execute the following query:
select name from all_records where recid=5447 (This provides the record name for record id 5447)
If you want to get the definition along with the name, execute the following:
select name,definitio... |
Problem Statement: How is controller input calculated for direct and reverse action? | Solution: The controller input is calculated depending on the specified controller action. If the action is set as Direct, input is calculated as SP - PV. When we manually increase the set point, the input will be increase, resulting in a higher output value. If the action is Reverse, input is calculated as PV-SP. When... |
Problem Statement: Sometimes, the output does not appear to be a result of simple division or multiplication operation. How do Divide and Multiply block calculate the output? | Solution: The answer is that the simple division or multiplication operation is sandwiched by unit conversions. Internally, Aspen Plus Dynamics uses Metric units, and the division in Divide or multiplication in Multiply unit is always performed in Metric units. Before the division or multiplication, the inputs are conv... |
Problem Statement: The AW_FORMAT field of the AW_MSCDef record defaults to F10. 4. This makes many of the numbers on Process Explorer trends have too many significant figures. I would like an automated method for changing AW_FORMAT to another value (e.g., F 6. 1). | Solution: The AW_FORMAT field was defined during the record creation time. The following SQL statement can easily change ALL the AW_MSCDef defined record to use F6.1 as AW_FORMAT.
UPDATE AW_MSCDef
SET AW_FORMAT = 'F6.1';
After you run this sql, all the AW_MSCDef defined records will all use F6.1 to present the va... |
Problem Statement: How can you troubleshoot SQL queries used in AspenWatch? | Solution: A lot of ApsenWatch feature,s utilitize SQL queries to accomplish their objectives. Sometimes due to an error in configurations or bugs in the query, the query may not run.
To see the error in the query, go to the query in Infoplus.21, examine the status and output.
-Go to Start>All Programs>AspenTech>Aspen M... |
Problem Statement: Why can I not see free variables for input control stream connections? | Solution: When controlled streams are brought into flowsheet, each streams and blocks are highlighted with multiple ports. You are able to control which ports to show for available connections. Normally, you would see only fixed variables are available for control stream connections. There is a button called Only F... |
Problem Statement: When using drag and drop from Tag Browser (from both Aspen Process Explorer and Excel Add-in), the following error message is presented:
Run Time error '-2147467259' (80004005) Method '~' of object '~' failed | Solution: The first time a user launches Aspen Process Explorer and opens the Aspen Tag Browser, the system automatically creates some entries in the HKEY_CURRENT_USER registry section under the following tree:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\AspenTech\Aspen Tag Browser\Options.
This is where the Aspen Tag Browser stores it... |
Problem Statement: Can Aspen Plus Dynamics handle vapor phase polymer components? | Solution: Vapor phase polymer components are not supported in Aspen Plus Dynamics. Aspen Flash calculations treats polymers as non-volatile components. If Aspen Plus simulation flashes even trace amount of polymer appearing in the vapor stream of flash operations (Flash2, Flash3), the dynamic simulation will be under s... |
Problem Statement: 1. Is there a VB program example with code for adding tags and scooters, and deleting tags and changing timespan using VB?
2. Is there a recommended way of saving a tag list from a VB Form? | Solution: Answer # 1:
An example is installed with Process Explorer. It is called TrendForm.apx and is located in the
<install drive>:\Program Files\Aspentech\APEx\Samples\ProcessExplorer\VBForm directory.
Answer # 2:
The above example form does not allow saving the tags in the form and have them reloaded with the ne... |
Problem Statement: What is the maximum number of tags that Process Explorer can display in a trend plot? | Solution: While there is no hard coded upper limit, the maximum number of tags that can appear in a trend plot depends on these factors:
Speed of your client or data source
Amount of memory on your client system
Type of data presentation
Amount of data returned from your database
Overall size of your database
Data sour... |
Problem Statement: If you have exhausted the options in KBs 107955 and 110698 to resolve problems like Connection Failure is Fatal, IP.21 is not currently running, NAN or ****** displayed in the tag Value field in the Process Explorer Legend,
you can use the information in this KB article to help you confirm if Aspen... | Solution: An Aspen Process Explorer clients use TCP to communicate with Aspen InfoPlus.21 through a Remote Procedure Call (RPC) server named TSK_APEX_SERVER.
The error messages described above could mean that the Aspen Process Explorer client is unable to communicate with the task TSK_APEX_SERVER in the InfoPlus.21 sys... |
Problem Statement: There are several applications whose presence conflicts with the functionality of the Aspen Tag Browser when installed on the same machine. Some of them are: Crystal Info, Hummingbird, and a few older DOS applications. A common symptom of the conflict is that the Tag Browser Server icons are missing ... | Solution: to this problem is described in AspenTech Knowledge Base Article # 107949. However, on some rare occasions theSolution won't work. In those cases, the only way to troubleshoot the problem, other than reinstalling Process Explorer (which often doesn't work either), is to replace, one by one, the dll's responsi... |
Problem Statement: Have you ever wondered when looking at 'something' in Aspen Process Explorer that involved manipulating the raw historical values stored in the database, whether the math calculations were performed on the client where Aspen Process Explorer (or Web Server running Aspen Web.21) is running, or on the ... | Solution: Most calculations, especially when choosing one of the 'Types' from 'Tools => Options => Sampling' in Process Explorer, are performed on the Server side. That is, they are performed on the machine where the AspenTech Database is running, and the newly calculated values are sent for plotting by Aspen Process E... |
Problem Statement: What-if simulation use current values feature does not report steady state target which match the online controller steady state target for some controllers with ramp variables. Please note that these are values generated by the simulation even before performing a what-if calculation. The values coul... | Solution: What-if simulation (WIS) is not an exact duplicate of the behavior seen in online controller and the purpose of what-if simulation is to perform simulation and to get a quick understanding of the response of applications for limit adjustments. The following explanation on working mechanism provides informatio... |
Problem Statement: I have created a model in Aspen Custom Modeler. How can I use this model in Aspen Plus Dynamics? | Solution: Go to Start Menu -> AspenTech -> Process Modeling (V8.4) -> Aspen Plus Dynamics. Open a dynamic file and check Tool -> Custom modeling
Open the ACM file where we have built the model.
Now you can drag and drop model to the flowsheet. Please make sure you are using right component list.
Keywords: Model,... |
Problem Statement: Why Aspen Process Explorer keys are no longer distributed with AspenWatch Server/Desktop or RTOWatch? | Solution: The Aspen Process Explorer key was originally included with these products to facilitate plotting within the Aspen Watch Inspector desktop tool. With the migration of the Aspen Watch Inspector functionality to the Aspen Production Control Web Server in V2006.5, the need for a Aspen Process Explorer license w... |
Problem Statement: Unable to find the counters inVariable Binding | Solution: In 2006.5, changes were made regarding how the counter value is calculated. Here are steps to configure a KPI with counter:
1. On Custom Calculation Configuration page, select Summation as Calc Type from the pulldown list;
2. Then select a Var Group (MVs, CVs, FFs,etc);
3. On Variable Binding page, select V... |
Problem Statement: Aspen Watch Model | Solution: To test to see what model file is found in the context, you can use Cim-IO Test API to fetch the MDLNAM entry for the controller (see below).
If the name in the context shows the old name, try re-starting the DMCplus Context Service and also the dmcp_viewsrv on the DMCPlus machine. Perhaps the context the Cim... |
Problem Statement: Not able to see custom tags when using Matrikon OPC client after upgrade to v7.3 | Solution:
Keywords:
References: None |
Problem Statement: How does Aspen Watch Maker calculates the threshold for a new baseline case? | Solution: Starting with V7.1 when you generate a new Baseline Case, the calculated threshold is = MAX(0.5, 3*Sigma Deviation).
If you review your results you will see a lot of 0.5 values for the threshold, however you can manually change this values:
1. On Aspen Watch Maker go to Tools / Baseline Management select ... |
Problem Statement: When trying to configure a Miscellaneous tag in Aspenwatch Maker, V7.3 w/updates and he configures an IOGETDEF, it tells him to go back and configure as a IOLONGGETDEF. When he configures as an IOLONGGETDEF, it tells him to reconfigure as an IOGETDEF. | Solution: Because of the architecture we have in place for IO Get records, we have to prevent mismatch between IOGetDef and IOLongTagGetDef records being accessed by the same IO-Group tag (IODEV1, IODEV2, etc.). We did not begin enforcing this rule until recently.
If you've been using the IOLongTagGetDef records before... |
Problem Statement: Heating Value Sensor to show Gross heating value and net heating values | Solution: Steam sensor now allows user to calculate the gross and net heating values. To activate, right click on a material stream, select Forms|ConfigureSensor and then select Low Heating Value from available properties view to right side. See attached example for the QVALGRS and QVALNET values associated with SSenso... |
Problem Statement: Aspen Dynamics does not map Aspen Plus design specifications, Fortran blocks, optimization blocks, sensitivity blocks or balance blocks to the dynamic simulation. This is because a dynamic simulation is always a rating mode calculation, not a design calculation, so these design specifications and blo... | Solution: To avoid the initialisation failure or an initialisation to a different condition where the system will not be at steady state, you should use Reconciliation in Aspen Plus, then remove or hide any design specifications and model analysis blocks that vary a structural parameter, run the steady-state simulation... |
Problem Statement: AspenWatch 2006.5 w/CP1
How to configure additional IODEVs beyond the default 4 | Solution: Download and refer to the attached IODeviceConfig.doc
Keywords: Watch, IODEV, configure, new
References: None |
Problem Statement: Each Aspen Watch has 3 external task TSK_PID[n] (n=1~3). But, what they do are not documented. | Solution: TSK_PID[n] external task handles the performance and history aggregation calculation for PID tags.
The Task ID of Tag Maintenance Tool Input file determines which TSK_PID[n] external task handles the performance and history aggregation calculation for PID Tags.
Keywords: TSK_PID[n]
PID
Task ID
Tag Maintenance... |
Problem Statement: How are sump and tray modeled in steady state and dynamic model? | Solution: Sump is the bottom of the column to which the bottom product and boil up stream are connected. It is similar to a vessel with liquid and vapor phase in equilibrium. Tray is where upward vapor flow, downward liquid flow and optional feed meet.
In a steady state model, only the equilibrium relationship between ... |
Problem Statement: Aspen Watch Disc Size Calculation spreadsheet included in aspenONE 2006.5 Documentation DVD is not correct. It says that AW_AGGH total size is 1/4 the size of TSK_DHIS. As a matter of fact AW_AGGH consumes as much disk space as TSK_DHIS. | Solution: Use Aspen Watch Disc Size Calculation spreadsheet included in aspen ONE 7.1 Document DVD.
Keywords: AW_AGGH
TSK_DHIS
Aspen Watch Disc Size Calculation spreadsheet
WatchDiskSizeCalcs.xls
References: None |
Problem Statement: how do you include cumulative total flow over the dynamic run in the stream report? | Solution: One can report total cumulative flow in a particular stream to estimate total fluid transferred through feed or product line over the period of dynamic run. To do this, please follow the following procedure:
1) Right Click on any stream and configure sensor
2) Check to calculate phase Properties
3) on the add... |
Problem Statement: Task TSK_IQ# (#=1,2,...) does not start and the following error is encountered when starting up an InfoPlus.21 database after a shutdown.
Error creating event object, error code=183 | Solution: TSK_IQ4 is executing 2 query records, namely, AW_RunCVAnalysis and AW_CVASched. Both query records are calling on the executable called PerformAnalysis.exe program.
This issue normally will be resolved by simply rebooting the entire machine. However, this is not necessary. It can be resolve by performing as f... |
Problem Statement: Sometimes, a user selected STEP-GROWTH type of reaction to model polymer system. After exporting from Aspen Plus and opening the model in Aspen Plus Dynamics, the reaction data cannot be found. | Solution: Users cannot access the reaction parameters for STEP-GROWTH type reactions in Aspen Plus Dynamics, because Aspen Plus Dynamics is calculating STEP-GROWTH type reactions through a procedure call to Aspen Plus via the appdf file.
If you want to change the kinetic parameters, you have to go back to Aspen Plus, c... |
Problem Statement: How do I minimize the token / license consumption, when Aspen DMCplus Controller is started?
By default, a DMCplus CCF as AspenWatch and SmartStep enabled. When the DMCplus application is started, it will check out the appropriate tokens / licenses for all three products.
There may also be a configur... | Solution: There are 3 entries for DMCplus optional module license request.
           AWENB : Aspen Watch Performance Monitor
           AMENB : Adaptive Modeling
           SMSTENB: SmarStep
If these entries are 0 (NO), no additional token license is consumed.Â
If these entries are... |
Problem Statement: Can Aspen Watch Performance Monitor V7.2 collect Aspen Nonlinear Controller information? | Solution: Yes, Aspen Watch V7.2 can collect Aspen Nonlinear Controller information if it is imported into the Advanced Process Controller environment and run as an Advanced Process Controller application.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I prevent Miscellaneous Tags from showing Data Unavailable status? | Solution: 1. Go to Aspen Watch / Tools Menu / Tag Maintenance / Miscellaneous Tab, check the failing tags and theirs IO Device associated (IODEVxx)
2. Go to IP21 Administrator InfoPlus.21 / Node-Computer Name / CIM-IO / IODEVxx / Get transfers / AW_G0000SSSSDU / IO_#TAGS, make sure that the IO_DATA_PROCESSING... |
Problem Statement: How to change the format type for custom reports?
By default the reports generated in Aspen Watch are in HTML format and saved in C:\ProgramData\AspenTech\SQLplus\output directory.
However you can use the AW_CUSTOM_DATA SQLplus procedure to generate the reports in HTML, CSV or XML format. | Solution: Once you define an Aspen Watch report (via Maker), you can call the AW_CUSTOM_DATA SQLplus procedure (examples below...) and request the data in the format you need (HTML, CSV or XML).
AW_CUSTOM_DATA(REPORTNAME CHAR(24), ENDTIMESTR CHAR(24) = '',
HISTTYPE CHAR(8) = '', DELTA INTEGER = 1, OUTPUTTYPE CHAR(4)=... |
Problem Statement: I installed Aspen Plus V7.3.2. While working with Aspen Plus Dynamics, I am facing the following issue while transferring to Dynamics: the dynamic file is created but while opening it can not load the properties file.
It seems it is because of the following reason
1) The dynamic file created f... | Solution: There is a utility program installed when A+ V7.3.2 is installed that controls what version of Aspen Properties is used for V7.3 Aspen Plus Dynamics (APD) or any Aspen Custom Modeler (ACM) based product. The utility program is accessed from the Start menu in the Process Modeling V7.3 folder for APD, ACM, etc... |
Problem Statement: Aspen Watch database that contains Smart Step controller cannot be upgraded to ver. 2006.5 without damaging the database snapshot. Not all the records are not migrated. And, the associated history cannot be shown. | Solution: Remove SmartStep controller from database using Watch Maker. And, upgrade database snapshot followingSolution 112062 (How to upgrade Watch database snapshot using InfoPlus.21 Database Upgrade Wizard?). And, followSolution 117762 (Procedure to move Aspen Watch data between computers while upgrading to a newer ... |
Problem Statement: | Solution: ?The method of instantaneous properties to calculate MWD is not valid when you have significant chain transfer to polymer . This is why we have the distribution tracking feature turned off for the LDPE example. When the calculated PDI values reported on the curves are not in agreement, it usually means there ... |
Problem Statement: How to incorporate the effects of liquid static head on the outlet pressure of any model with a liquid holdup. | Solution: Effects of liquid static head can be applied to liquid hold-up models such as Decanter, Flash2, Flash3, Mixer, PetroFrac, RadFrac and RCSTR. These models allow for not only the effects of static but also the effects of height difference between the outlet of the model and the inlet of the downstream block.
... |
Problem Statement: Collection Status is Old RunTime: Waiting History page shows -9999 for all values. | Solution: The Aspen InfoPlus.21 database Time Format has been changed from DD-MMM-YY to DD/MM/YY (the snapshot carries along all the time format options).
Aspen Watch relies on the timestamp being the default format. When the time format is anything other than
DD-MMM-YY, the collection status in Maker will show Old Run... |
Problem Statement: TSK_MSC[n] are added to Aspen Watch 2006.5. But, no documentation explains what they do. | Solution: TSK_MSC[n] external task handles the performance and history aggregation calculation for miscellaneous tags.
The Task ID of Tag Maintenance tool Input file is ignored and only TSK_MSC1 is assigned to each miscellaneous tag.
Keywords: TSK_MSC[n]
Task ID
References: None |
Problem Statement: Event log in Aspen Watch Performance Monitor does not track all operator changes | Solution: When Aspen Watch sees the frequent re-occurrence of an event, it creates an event exception rule automatically and stops logging events for that condition. This is a housekeeping measure to prevent excessive logging of the same event over and over. You can check for this by opening IP.21 Administrator and nav... |
Problem Statement: Install Data Base Configuration tool hangs, does not complete | Solution: Rename the current InstallDBConfig.bat in C:\Program Files\AspenTech\Aspen Watch\etc\cfg
Move the InstallDBConfig.bat contained with thisSolution to C:\Program Files\AspenTech\Aspen Watch\etc\cfg
Run new InstallDBConfig.bat.
Keywords: update, IP21, database, IDBC, aspenwatch, upgrade
References: None |
Problem Statement: Why is there no effect to the change in polymer reaction parameters in Aspen Plus Dynamics? | Solution: Free Radical and ZN kinetics in Aspen Plus Dynamics (APD) can be run in 'open' (equation) mode and in 'closed' mode. The closed mode uses the reaction model 'as is' from the APPDF file. If you are using the closed form models, you will not be able to see the effect of changing any kinetic parameters in APD... |
Problem Statement: Which Aspen Plus Dynamics models can be used to simulate reverse flow? | Solution: These following models can be used to support reverse flow:
Heat Exchangers: Heaters, HeatX and MHeatX
Manipulators: Mult
Mixers/Splitters: FSplit and Mixer
Pressure Changers: Pipe and Valve
Pressure Relief: Bursting Disk, Expansion, Orifice, PSV, TValve, DeltaP
Reactors: RCSTR
Separators: Decanter, Flash2 (D... |
Problem Statement: In 2006.5, we made changes on how the counter value is calculated, how to configure a KPI with counter. | Solution: Here are steps to configure a KPI with counter:
1. On Custom Calculation Configuration page, select Summation as Calc Type from the pulldown list;
2. Then select a Var Group (MVs, CVs, FFs,etc);
3. On Variable Binding page, select Variable/Tags as Scope;
4. If you want to summarize all the values for a spec... |
Problem Statement: How to add/remove generation of controllers while exporting from Aspen Plus to Aspen Plus Dynamics? | Solution: By defaults, Aspen Plus generates Pressure and Level controllers for unit operations before it is exported to Dynamics. You can uncheck the options for controllers in Dynamics > Controllers form
You can also manually delete the controllers in Aspen Plus Dynamics.
Key Words
Controllers, Level, Pressure
Keywo... |
Problem Statement: How do I create a CAD file from an Aspen Plus Dynamics flowsheet? | Solution: Aspen Plus Dynamics supports the creation of .DXF ( Data Exchange Format) file. This data format was developed by Autodesk and used for CAD (computer-aided design) vector image files, such as AutoCAD documents; similar to the .DWX format.
The DXF format is an ASCII (text) based file. It was developed as a uni... |
Problem Statement: What is the workflow to link Aspen Plus Dynamics with OPC (OLE (object linking and embedding) for Process Control) server via On-Line Link (OLL)? | Solution: A representative Aspen Plus Dynamics model need to be developed of the process configuration. OPC server needs to store the variable values from process plant as Tag Variables.
The workflow to establish link between Aspen Plus Dynamics and OPC Server is described in the attached document. An example file is a... |
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