Dynamic Process Simulation When Do We Really Need It

Dynamic Process Simulation: When do we really
need it?
Introduction
Process simulation is the representation of industrial processes by means of the application of
mathematics and first principles (i.e. conservation laws, thermodynamics, transport phenomena
and reaction kinetics). Steady State models have been widely used in the industry, becoming a
common or even more, a required practice. Steady state modeling is key for process
conceptualization, design and evaluation and it is indeed a mature technology tool. However, the
steady state is an idealistic definition used by engineers as a representation of “design” conditions
which are not always accomplished due to change in raw materials, product specification, change
in capacity due to marketing requirements, and the inherent dynamic behavior of processes. This
article will help the reader to easily identify typical engineering problems where dynamic modeling
would be an ideal tool to answer their questions.
What is a Dynamic Model?
Similar to a steady state model, dynamic models are based on first principles that cannot be
violated. Conservation laws, phase equilibria, heat and mass transfer, and kinetics are also applied
in dynamic models. The most significant difference between steady state and dynamic simulation
is that steady state assumes that variables are constant with respect to the time. This means that
in steady state there is no accumulation in the system so the overall mass and energy input
matches its output. Conversely, dynamic models take into account the mass and energy rate of
accumulation within the system, which allows one to determine the how long it would take to
reach a stable condition starting from a specified initial state. Figure 1, below, represents the
simulation scope for steady state and dynamic simulation models.
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Figure 1. Comparison of Steady State and Dynamic model scopes
Why use dynamic simulation?

The industrial application of dynamic simulation was limited decades ago, however, with the
development in the computing sciences and the improvement of computer processor speeds
those limitations have been overcome. Now, we can incorporate a high level of detail in modelling
and we can also develop fairly large models. Some application areas of this technology are:
Process design is a task that can be performed by using dynamic simulator. Since dynamic
models consider equipment holdup, equipment size is required for running simulations. In
the case of a new design, an initial sizing can be obtained by means of a steady state
simulation and then it can be optimized based on its dynamic behaviour. Significant reduction
in CAPEX is possible using dynamic simulation in different types of equipment, such as
pressure vessels, tanks, control valves, etc.
Process evaluation and de-bottlenecking involves performance evaluation of an existing piece
of equipment or facility running under process conditions different from the design case(s).
If the analysis shows that its capacity is limiting the process then the “bottleneck” has been
identified. The use of a dynamic model will quickly allow the engineer to determine the
optimum design, if equipment resizing is an option, stream rerouting options (change in
topology), and storage capacities among other options.
Safety analyses (what-if) can be easily run with dynamic models which allow the
determination of unsafe and hazardous conditions during operation. The impact of
equipment malfunction scenarios, such as distillation column overpressure, heat exchanger
pipe ruptures, valve leakage, pump failure, indicator drift, and many others can also be
studied.
Distribution and gathering system piping network studies can be also carried out due to the
nature of the “pressure-driven” solver typically implemented in dynamics simulators, which
allows a more accurate representation of real processes in which hydraulics and fluid
mechanics are of vital importance (Luyben, 2002). Flow and fluid velocity estimation, change
in production rates, pressure specifications and evaluation of pigging scenarios are some of
the features available in this sort of model.
Relief and blowdown systems is a specific application where dynamic simulation can improve
design. Blowdown valves and pressure safety valves may be oversized if API 521 is applied.
The application of dynamic simulation leads to more precise calculations of relief loads.
Consequently there would be decreased flare loads, with reduced CAPEX. Dynamic
simulation also allows the study of controlled blowdown procedures to avoid unnecessary
flowrate peaks especially in the initial stages.
Batch and semi-batch processes can only be successfully modelled in dynamic simulators.
Examples of these processes are: batch distillation, batch reactors, catalyst regeneration
processes, delayed coking process, etc.
Process control strategies can be evaluated and compared in order to determine the best,
most cost-effective solution. Traditional and advanced process controllers can be easily “pre-

tuned” using dynamic simulation models saving hours of expensive steps tests performed in
plants. A current trend is to test Distributed Control Systems (DCS) using these models.
Anti-surge controller evaluation on centrifugal compressors is a major area of this
application.
Start-up and shutdown procedures can developed, tested and optimized with dynamic
models. Tens or hundreds of hours of stabilization time and tons of out-of-spec products
can be saved by the determination of optimum start-up/shutdown sequences, in addition to
the identification of potential hazardous conditions during these activities.
Operator training is an area that has been gaining an important place in engineering practice.
Complete replication of the control room is commonly installed on site to help train operators
before plant experience. Operator Training Simulators (OTS), for which a dynamic simulation
is essential, include grading methodologies which allow for certifying operators before they
face routine (normal operation, start-up and shutdown) and non-routine (equipment
malfunction) scenarios in real plants.
Drain Tank Pressure Evaluation Project

This simple example involved a dynamic study performed for a Process Ecology client. By using
dynamic simulation, a process evaluation was completed and a design solution was provided. The
study consisted of the depressurization of a condensate pipeline into a drain tank as pictured in
Figure 2. Since the condensate (RVP = 101.3 kPa @ 38.7 °C) initial temperature was 60 °C, as
soon as the drain valve opened, an important amount of vapour is expected to be flashed which
would increase the Drain Tank pressure. The technical question was: Will the pressure buildup in
the drain tank exceed the design pressure?
Figure 2. Practical Example Scheme
A dynamic model was built in Aspen HYSYS® V8.6 to determine whether or not the design
pressure in the drain tank would be exceeded. Piping size and elevation data were included in the
model. Figure 3 shows the results of the dynamic model. This was run at initial conditions for 10
seconds, then the drain valve was instantaneously opened fully (worst case scenario). The
condensate flowed from the pipeline to the drain tank which was at ambient pressure.
Condensate started flashing and then vented into the atmosphere (through the vent line). The
original vent diameter was 6 inches and as can be seen it would have caused vapours to
accumulate creating a buildup in pressure in the drain tank which would have exceed the design
pressure (green curve) causing damage to the drain tank. Several configurations and designs
were tested with the model. In the end, the best, most cost-effective solution was to increase the
vent diameter up to 8 inches (see Figure 3, blue curve).

Figure 3. Drain Tank Pressure Results
Final Remarks
Dynamic simulation provides a higher level of process analysis. This allows the process engineer
to answer difficult questions that may be complex if not impossible to answer with traditional
steady state simulation. It is the proper tool for processes which involve transient conditions, real
time behaviour and batch and semi-batch process. Remember there is no such as thing as
“steady state”, the world is always changing!
Try to identify your case with the list provided above to determine whether or not dynamic
simulation will provide benefits for your project. If you have any further queries, please do not
hesitate to contact us here. Process Ecology will be glad to help you get one step ahead!
Bibliography
Aspen Technology Inc. (2015, May 5). Retrieved from Oil and Gas Process Simulation Software:
http://www.aspentech.com/hysys/
Luyben, W. (2002). Plantwide Dynamic Simulators in Chemical Processing and Control. New York:
Marcel Dekker, Inc.

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Dynamic Process Simulation: When do we really

What is a Dynamic Model?

© C opyright 2017 P rocess Ecology Inc. All rights reserved 1 Page 1

Why use dynamic simulation?

© C opyright 2017 P rocess Ecology Inc. All rights reserved 2 Page 2

Drain Tank Pressure Evaluation Project

Figure 2. Practical Example Scheme

© C opyright 2017 P rocess Ecology Inc. All rights reserved 3 Page 3

© C opyright 2017 P rocess Ecology Inc. All rights reserved 4 Page 4

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