11-7332 Faq PSV D Final PDF

FAQ: Pressure Relief Valve Sizing Utilizing
AspenTech Software
Frequently Asked Questions
Katherine Hird, Product Marketing, Aspen Technology, Inc.
Anum Qassam, Product Management, Aspen Technology, Inc.
2015 Aspen Technology, Inc. AspenTech, aspenONE, the Aspen leaf logo, the aspenONE logo, and OPTIMIZE are trademarks of Aspen Technology, Inc. All rights reserved. 11-7332-0515
FAQ: Pressure Relief Valve Sizing Utilizing AspenTech Software
Table of Contents
Introduction............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 1
Frequently Asked Questions: High-level Functionality................................................................................................................................. 1
Frequently Asked Questions: How to Utilize High-level Functionalities................................................................................................. 3
Frequently Asked Questions: Inlet/Outlet Line Sizing................................................................................................................................ 7
Frequently Asked Questions: API Standards/Compliance......................................................................................................................... 8
Frequently Asked Questions: Calculation Methodologies......................................................................................................................... 9
Frequently Asked Questions: Fire & Latent Heat . ...................................................................................................................................... 11
Frequently Asked Questions: Documentation ............................................................................................................................................12
Conclusion.............................................................................................................................................................................................................13
Additional Resources..........................................................................................................................................................................................13
Introduction
Process safety, specifically overpressure analysis, is of the highest concern to every process across all industries, as
accurate pressure relief sizing reduces the potential risk of damages to personnel, equipment, and production schedule.
Pressure relief analysis is not a trivial task, as workflows can consist of gathering pertinent data, identifying distinct
systems of a process, and analyzing all overpressure scenarios for each system. Each scenario requires calculating
pressure relief loads and pressure relief device orifice sizes, then determining the discharge of the relieving fluid, often
through a flare system. All of these steps, in combination with strict regulations requiring compliance and extensive
documentation reporting, provide a cumbersome and inefficient pressure relief analysis workflow.
AspenTechs Process Safety Solution helps to streamline this workflow from sizing pressure relief devices through the
design or rating of flare systems all within one software suite, requiring no manual data transfer. Introduced in Aspen
HYSYS V8.3 and Aspen Plus V8.6, the Safety Analysis Environment within both AspenTech Simulators provides tools
to add and rigorously size pressure relief devices. In combination with the simulator and Aspen Flare System Analyzer,
the Safety Analysis Environment completes the AspenTech Process Safety Solution. Since introduction of the Safety
Analysis Environment and through subsequent releases, a variety of enhancements have been made to this relief sizing
tool to further enhance the efficiency and accuracy of pressure relief analysis work.
The intent of this document is to answer common questions regarding the features, functionalities, and resources
available for the relief sizing tools provided through the Safety Analysis Environment. Should any additional questions
arise while referencing this document, do not hesitate to utilize the variety of materials hyperlinked throughout this text,
contact AspenTechs customer support staff at [email protected], or visit the customer support website at
http://support.aspentech.com/.
Frequently Asked Questions: High-level Functionality

1. In which versions are the Relief Sizing tools available?
The Relief Sizing functionality is available in Aspen HYSYS version 8.3 and greater. The functionality is also available in
Aspen Plus version 8.6 and greater.
2. What differentiates the Relief Sizing functionality between versions?

In Aspen HYSYS V8.3, you can determine the required relief load, calculate PSV orifice areas for single and two-phase
flow, determine the inlet and outlet pressure losses, and generate documentation pertaining to the analysis. Note that
an update to Aspen HYSYS V8.3 is available on the AspenTech Support Website. Please ensure that you have the latest
update to Aspen HYSYS V8.3.
In Aspen HYSYS V8.4, you have all the features of V8.3. You can also export the analysis results to Flare System Analyzer
V8.4. Note that an update to Aspen HYSYS V8.4 is available through the AspenTech Support Website. Please ensure
that you have the latest update to Aspen HYSYS V8.4.
In Aspen HYSYS V8.6*, you have all the features of V8.4. You can also analyze low pressure storage tank protection per
API 2000, rigorously calculate the external fire relief load, split required relief loads across multiple devices, and analyze
rupture disk adequacy. Note that an update to Aspen HYSYS V8.6 is available through the AspenTech Support Website.
Please ensure that you have the latest update to Aspen HYSYS V8.6.
In Aspen HYSYS V8.8*, you have all the features of V8.6. In V8.8 the new relief load calculation enhancements for
heat exchanger tube rupture, control valve failure, and fire emergency scenarios further utilize the integration with the
simulators to generate more automated and rigorous calculations.
* The Relief Sizing functionality was also introduced to Aspen Plus V8.6. Aspen Plus V8.6 and greater has exactly the
same features as Aspen HYSYS V8.6 and greater.
3. Are there follow-up instructional materials available?

We have made instructional material available on aspenONE Exchange, available from within the software, as well as
through the AspenTech Support Website.
For material on Relief Sizing in V8.3 and V8.4:

Getting started guide:
http://support.aspentech.com/webteamcgi/solutiondisplay_view.cgi?key=138111
Computer-based training:
For material on Relief Sizing in V8.6 and greater:

Getting Started Guide:
Computer-Based training:
Multivalve Analysis:
New Fire Calculation Algorithm:
Low Pressure Storage Tanks:
4. Is there a complete course available through AspenTech?

Yes, we have a newly-created course available through our training group:
Pressure Relief Analysis Using Aspen HYSYS

This new course has been designed to teach you how to define overpressure systems using Aspen HYSYS in
accordance with API 520, 521, and 2000, and how to design single or multiple relief valves for all applicable
scenarios in an overpressure system.
You can sign up for this course through the AspenTech Training Center. A similar course for Aspen Plus customers is in
progress.
5. Does the Relief Sizing functionality account for vacuum relief? How so and in
what version?
Vacuum relief is currently determined only for low pressure storage tanks as part of the implemented API 2000
inbreathing calculations. This functionality is available in Aspen HYSYS version 8.6 and greater. It is also available in
Aspen Plus version 8.6 and greater.
6. Does Aspen HYSYS include a feature for blowdown valve sizing in high pressure
separators?
The Aspen HYSYS Dynamic Depressuring Utility is a time-tested and validated utility that we recommend for the sizing
of blowdown valves in high pressure separators.
7. Does the Relief Sizing tool use Aspen Plus or Aspen HYSYS Dynamics? What is
the link between the two?
The Relief Sizing functionality is primarily intended to determine the required orifice area for relief devices per API 520
and to provide a mechanism to document the relief analysis. We encourage you to use Aspen Plus and Aspen HYSYS
Dynamics to more rigorously determine the required relief loads for more complex scenarios. You can then use the
results of that analysis within the Safety Analysis environment.
Frequently Asked Questions: How to Utilize High-level

Functionalities
8. Can we import other simulator files (Pro-II) into Aspen Flare System Analyzer?
Youll need to contact other vendors to get a complete answer. Aspen Flare System Analyzer can import data from a
universal (.xml) format which the separate vendors have to provide.
In general, our goal is to create a highly functional integrated environment within the products that we offer, providing you
with the most efficient pressure relief workflow.
9. Can relief information be imported into another program (i.e. Siemens PPM)?
No, the format of the Siemens database is completely different from the AspenTech database.
10. Can ARC data be input to estimate relief sizing for runaway reactions? What is
the recommended methodology for handling scenarios with reactions?
To analyze runaway reactions, we recommend the use of the Aspen Plus PRD Rating Utility (PRES-RELIEF), which
provides the maximum relief flow required during a runaway reaction, as well as the composition at the peak required
flow rate. You can input ARC data directly into Aspen Plus, and then this data can be utilized in the Aspen Plus PRD
Rating Utility.
Once youve determined the composition and peak flow rate, you must then create a stream in the simulation
environment. You can then use that stream data in the Relief Sizing tool. You can access the PRD Rating Utility on the
Home tab of the Ribbon of Aspen Plus V8.6:
11. How can I enter equipment dimensions for calculating wetted surface areas?
In the External Fire scenario, there is a table to enter dimensions for Horizontal, Vertical, and Spherical vessels. To
account for any other specific geometry, you must manually specify the wetted area or include an additional area factor in
your calculation.
Note that in Aspen HYSYS V8.3, V8.4, and V8.6 and in Aspen Plus V8.6, vertical and horizontal vessels were assumed
to have 2:1 Ellipsoidal Heads. Beginning in Aspen HYSYS and Aspen Plus V8.8, you can now select the head type
(Hemispherical, Ellipsoidal, or Flat).
12. Does the rupture disk feature analyze hydraulic shock/water hammer?
Aspen HYSYS Hydraulics in dynamics mode can analyze the momentum of a hydraulic system to observe pressure
waves, but there are no specific tools or utilities to model hydraulic shock or water hammer.
13. How do you differentiate (calculation-wise) between different PSV types?

In the Safety Analysis Environment, you can select between a Conventional, Balanced Bellows, and Pilot-Operated relief
valve. Calculation-wise, the difference between the valves is the limit for the Maximum Allowable Backpressure (MABP).
You can adjust the default values for the MABP in the Default Valve Settings dialog box.
14. Is database information necessary before starting PSV calculations?

We use a runtime Access Database, so you dont need to set one up. Some basic information is required before beginning
your analysis. The process conditions for normal operating conditions, an idea of the pressure profile in the system, and
how that profile reacts to different scenarios, is the level of information required before beginning the analysis of PSVs.
15. Can I specify vendor-specific factors for the PSVs?

Yes, you can specify vendor-specific orifice areas, the vendor-specific Kb, and the vendor-specific Kd.
The vendor-specific orifice area can be specified in the Custom Orifices dialog box, as shown below.
The discharge coefficient Kd is scenario-specific, and can be specified in the Scenario Setup form, as shown below.
The backpressure coefficient Kb is scenario-specific, and it can also be specified in the Scenario Setup form, as shown
below.
16. Can I complete calculations in EN/SI units, and is this functionality

version-specific?
You can complete all calculations in either EN or SI units beginning with Aspen HYSYS V8.3 and Aspen Plus V8.6.
Reports generated in HYSYS V8.3 are only available in SI units.
In Aspen HYSYS V8.4, reports generated from the Documentation Builder are available in both SI and EN units. However,
these reports can only be export to Excel in SI units.
In Aspen HYSYS V8.6 (with the latest update installed) and greater, the Built-In HYSYS Reports and the reports from the
Documentation Builder are both available in EN and SI units.
The reports can be accessed from the Reports tab of the main Ribbon:
Frequently Asked Questions: Inlet/Outlet Line Sizing

17. Is there a warning if 3% inlet line losses are exceeded?
Yes, the software will warn the user when the inlet pressure drop exceeds the specified constraints. Additionally, you can
customize the inlet line loss criteria in the Line Design Preferences Dialog box.
18. Will the software notify the user when the outlet line pressure loss exceeds 10%?
Yes, as with the inlet line losses, the software will warn the user when the outlet pressure drop exceeds the specified
constraints. You can specify the outlet pressure loss design criteria by clicking the Valve Defaults button in the Customize
tab of the main Ribbon.
You can also specify the inlet loss design criteria by clicking the Line Design Preferences button.
19. Is V8.4 considered correct when filtering inlet/outlet flange to verify API
requirements?
Yes, V8.4 selects the inlet and outlet PSV flange based on the set pressure and design temperature of the relief device.
The flange size is based on the lowest inlet and outlet rating available for that orifice at that temperature.
For example, a T orifice at set pressure of 115 psiG and 350 F will have a 350 x 150 flange rating, whereas a T orifice at
35 psiG and 350 F will have a 150 x 150 flange rating.
20. How can we calculate the Mach number and recommended a line size for the PSV
outlet line?
The exit velocity is calculated in the Line Sizing tab of the PSV analysis.
21. Can line sizing calculations be done for different scenarios?

Yes, but in order to do this, you must select a scenario as the sizing case, and complete the line sizing analysis for that
scenario. Then, select the next scenario of interest, and complete the line sizing for that scenario as well. Continue this
process for each scenario of interest. Each line sizing calculation is independently stored and can be individually reported.
No information is lost by switching the sizing case.
Frequently Asked Questions: API Standards/Compliance

22. Are all calculations API compliant for liquid, vapor, and two-phase?
Yes, all calculations are API compliant liquid, vapor and two-phase flows.
23. How can I use the API 2000 7th edition Annex A for low pressure storage tank
analysis in Aspen Plus and Aspen HYSYS V8.6?
Please ensure that you have the latest updates installed for Aspen Plus and Aspen HYSYS V8.6. With the latest updates
installed, you will see a dropdown box in the Normal Venting tab of the storage tank form which allows you to select the
API 2000 version of interest.
24. Are the scenarios specific to API standards or are they usable for application in
Europe or other regions?
All defaults in the Safety Analysis environment are currently based on the API standards. However, the user can adjust all
parameters to customize their analysis as needed to accommodate European (or other global) standards.
25. What curves do you use for backpressure correction factor (Kb)?
Figure D-2 in the 7th Edition of API 520 is used to calculate the BP correction factor. The user can manually input the
backpressure correction factor by reading the value from the vendor-specific curve, if available.
Frequently Asked Questions: Calculation Methodologies

26. Do you have tools available to calculate scenario relief loads?
Yes. In Aspen HYSYS V8.3 and V8.4, the Safety Analysis environment offers simple calculation tools to calculate the
required relief load for thermal expansion, heat exchanger tube rupture, control valve failure, fan failure, reflux failure, and
fire.
Aspen HYSYS V8.6 and Aspen Plus V8.6 introduced more rigorous fire relief load calculation methodologies.
In addition to the rigorous fire relief load calculations of Aspen Plus and Aspen HYSYS V8.6, Aspen Plus and Aspen
HYSYS V8.8 introduced more rigorous control valve and tube rupture relief load calculation methodologies.
27. Can the backpressure be calculated?

A preliminary backpressure can be calculated in the Line Sizing tab of the Relief Sizing tool. For a more rigorous
backpressure calculation, we recommend using Aspen Flare System Analyzer, another product part of the AspenTech
Process Safety Solution.
28. What is the Direct Integration Homogeneous Equilibrium Model (HEM)? Why is
the Direct Integration HEM method preferred over others? When should I consider
other methods?
A good background on two-phase relief device sizing is available here. As described in that paper, the HEM method
assumes that (1) the two phases are well-mixed and that (2) both phases are in thermodynamics and mechanical
equilibrium. This assumption is generally true for turbulent, high velocity fluid flow along long segments of pipe, which is
usually the case in relief analysis.
The reason that the direct integration methodology is preferred over others is because other methods have to make
simplifying assumptions. The direct integration methodology iteratively flashes the fluid isentropically across the path
from relief pressure to the backpressure to find the maximum nozzle mass flux. The results are as accurate as the
thermodynamic package used to model the fluid. The direct integration methodology can handle odd fluid behavior (like
retrograde condensation), as well as supercritical fluids. These are the reasons why the Direct Integration HEM method is
preferred for calculating the required orifice area.
You should consider other methods (like models which include slip, for example) when the assumptions described above
do not hold.
29. Does the software use the API Omega Method or the Direct Integration HEM
method for two-phase orifice area calculations?
The software provides both the API Omega Method and the Direct Integration HEM method for calculating the orifice
area for two-phase relief flows. It is up to the user to decide which methodology is consistent with their companys relief
analysis guidelines.
30. Which equations do you use to size gases for the choked flow condition? Where
can I find this information?
The API 520 8th Edition critical vapor flow orifice sizing equations are implemented within the software. Details on this
and other calculation methodologies are available inside the software. You can access the Technical Reference for the
Safety Analysis Environment by clicking the Help icon in the upper right corner, in the Resources tab of the ribbon, or by
clicking F1.
31. What is the basis to predict chatter?

Smith & Burgess published a paper, in which they assessed that if the required capacity [of the relief device] is nominally
more than 60% of the relief device rated capacity, the pressure will increase as the PSV slowly opens to the specified
pressure. This ensures proper valve stability. The warning is to notify the user that the valve could be better designed to
ensure stable operationchattering itself may not be a concern until the required capacity is less than 25% of the rated
capacity.
10
Frequently Asked Questions: Fire & Latent Heat

32. What is the recommended method to determine the fire relief load for
multicomponent mixtures?
There are several recommended methodologies to assess the fire relief load requirement for vessels containing a
multicomponent mixture. We implement two common methodologies: the Wetted (API) methodology and the SemiDynamic flash methodology recommended by both the American Petroleum Institute and the Center for Chemical
Process Safety. Details on these methodologies are available within the Technical Reference in the F1 Help.
The Wetted (API) methodology is available in Aspen HYSYS version 8.3 and greater. It is also available in Aspen Plus
version 8.6 and greater. We have enhanced the functionality with each version.
The Semi-Dynamic flash calculation is available in Aspen HYSYS and Aspen Plus version 8.6 and greater. Each version
offers incremental enhancements to cater to more efficient workflows.
33. Is it possible to calculate latent heat of vaporization directly in the Safety Analysis
environment?
Yes, you can calculate the latent heat of vaporization directly in the Safety Analysis environment in Aspen Plus and Aspen
HYSYS version 8.6 and greater.
34. You suggest that a supercritical rigorous calculation method is available to

determine the fire relief load for dense phase fluids at elevated temperatures and
pressures. How does this supercritical rigorous calculation method in the External Fire
scenario work? What increments are used?
The details of the calculation are available in the Help section (accessible by clicking F1 when the simulator is open). In
order to use the methodology, the engineer must be aware that they are working with a dense phase fluid, and the fluid
must be identified as a vapor by the thermodynamic property package.
The supercritical rigorous calculation follows the methodology outlined in the paper published by Ryan Ouderkirk. The
pressure increments used are 2% increments, as outlined in that paper.
35. For a vessel, you can create multiple flash stages to determine the relief load and
latent heat for the fire analysis. Can the same be done for tanks?
In API 2000, the American Petroleum Institute has outlined different venting requirements for storage tanks during a fire
than for vessels during a fire. The venting requirements specified in API 2000 are the ones implemented for low pressure
storage tanks within the tool.
11
36. How does the simulation size relief devices when a PSV protects multiple pieces
of equipment for the fire case?
The Unwetted and Wetted fire calculation methods can calculate the total wetted area for up to three vessels. However,
the calculations do not account for varying operating conditions or varying composition across the vessels. For a more
detailed analysis, we recommend using Aspen HYSYS Dynamics or Aspen Plus Dynamics to more accurately calculate
the required relief load for this situation. You can then use these results within the Safety Analysis environment to then
size the relief device.
37. Does the fire case procedure also account for the fact that some of the fire heat
duty goes into heating up the liquid?
In Aspen Plus and HYSYS V8.6, new methodologies to analyze the fire relief load were introduced.
In the Wetted (API) calculation method in Aspen HYSYS V8.6+ and Aspen Plus V8.6+, you can calculate the latent heat,
as opposed to manually entering the latent heat as required in Aspen HYSYS V8.3 and V8.4. In Aspen Plus and Aspen
HYSYS V8.6, this latent heat estimation excludes sensible heat (as recommended by API 521). In Aspen HYSYS V8.8 and
Aspen Plus V8.8, you have the option to include or exclude the sensible heat from the latent heat estimation.
The Semi-Dynamic fire calculation method was introduced in Aspen Plus and HYSYS V8.6. This methodology includes
sensible heat in the analysis of the relief load.
Frequently Asked Questions: Documentation

38. Is reaction force included in the documentation?
Yes, reaction force is reported in the Calculation Sheet.
39. How do I document the sizing calculations and methods used?

We recommend printing out the Technical References section of the F1 Help to document the calculation methodologies
used in the Safety Analysis environment.
12
40. Can documentation be customized with company logos and formats?

Yes, you can customize the reports by going to the Documentation Builder and clicking the Reports and Project
Customization button.
Conclusion
Utilize AspenTechs Process Safety Tools to streamline your pressure relief analysis work. By leveraging the relief device
tools of the Safety Analysis Environment within Aspen Plus and Aspen HYSYS, in combination with these rigorous
simulators, provides the ultimate tool for relief device sizing. Complete this analysis with additional process safety tools
including Aspen Flare System Analyzer, dynamics simulation, and Depressuring tools to provide the optimal workflow
youre your safety studies.
Additional Resources
Public Website
http://www.aspentech.com/products/engineering/pressure-relief-analysis/
Online Training
http://www.aspentech.com/products/aspen-online-training/
AspenTech YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/user/aspentechnologyinc
13
About AspenTech
AspenTech is a leading supplier of software that optimizes process manufacturingfor energy,
chemicals, engineering and construction, and other industries that manufacture and produce products
from a chemical process. With integrated aspenONE solutions, process manufacturers can implement
best practices for optimizing their engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain operations. As a result,
AspenTech customers are better able to increase capacity, improve margins, reduce costs, and become
more energy efficient. To see how the worlds leading process manufacturers rely on AspenTech to
achieve their operational excellence goals, visit www.aspentech.com.
Worldwide Headquarters
Aspen Technology, Inc.
20 Crosby Drive
Bedford, MA 01730
United States
phone: +17812216400
fax: +17812216410
[email protected]
Regional Headquarters
Houston, TX | USA
phone: +12815841000
So Paulo | Brazil
phone: +551134436261
Reading | United Kingdom
phone: +44(0)1189226400
Singapore | Republic of Singapore
phone: +6563953900
Manama | Bahrain
phone: +97317503000
2015 Aspen Technology, Inc. AspenTech, aspenONE, the aspenONE logo, the Aspen leaf logo, and OPTIMIZE are trademarks of Aspen
Technology, Inc. All rights reserved. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.
11-7332-0515
For a complete list of offices, please visit

www.aspentech.com/locations

11-7332 Faq PSV D Final PDF

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

11-7332 Faq PSV D Final PDF

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

11-7332 Faq PSV D Final PDF

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

FAQ: Pressure Relief Valve Sizing Utilizing

FAQ: Pressure Relief Valve Sizing Utilizing AspenTech Software

FAQ: Pressure Relief Valve Sizing Utilizing AspenTech Software

Frequently Asked Questions: High-level Functionality

2. What differentiates the Relief Sizing functionality between versions?

FAQ: Pressure Relief Valve Sizing Utilizing AspenTech Software

3. Are there follow-up instructional materials available?

For material on Relief Sizing in V8.3 and V8.4:

For material on Relief Sizing in V8.6 and greater:

4. Is there a complete course available through AspenTech?

Pressure Relief Analysis Using Aspen HYSYS

FAQ: Pressure Relief Valve Sizing Utilizing AspenTech Software

Frequently Asked Questions: How to Utilize High-level

FAQ: Pressure Relief Valve Sizing Utilizing AspenTech Software

13. How do you differentiate (calculation-wise) between different PSV types?

FAQ: Pressure Relief Valve Sizing Utilizing AspenTech Software

14. Is database information necessary before starting PSV calculations?

15. Can I specify vendor-specific factors for the PSVs?

FAQ: Pressure Relief Valve Sizing Utilizing AspenTech Software

16. Can I complete calculations in EN/SI units, and is this functionality

FAQ: Pressure Relief Valve Sizing Utilizing AspenTech Software

Frequently Asked Questions: Inlet/Outlet Line Sizing

FAQ: Pressure Relief Valve Sizing Utilizing AspenTech Software

21. Can line sizing calculations be done for different scenarios?

Frequently Asked Questions: API Standards/Compliance

FAQ: Pressure Relief Valve Sizing Utilizing AspenTech Software

Frequently Asked Questions: Calculation Methodologies

27. Can the backpressure be calculated?

FAQ: Pressure Relief Valve Sizing Utilizing AspenTech Software

31. What is the basis to predict chatter?

FAQ: Pressure Relief Valve Sizing Utilizing AspenTech Software

Frequently Asked Questions: Fire & Latent Heat

34. You suggest that a supercritical rigorous calculation method is available to

FAQ: Pressure Relief Valve Sizing Utilizing AspenTech Software

Frequently Asked Questions: Documentation

39. How do I document the sizing calculations and methods used?

FAQ: Pressure Relief Valve Sizing Utilizing AspenTech Software

40. Can documentation be customized with company logos and formats?

For a complete list of offices, please visit

You might also like