Inplant Explicacion de La Interface PDF

INPLANT® 4.
0
User Guide
INPLANT 4.0 Use of the INPLANT program, and its component parts and subsystems,
User’s Guide is governed by the terms and conditions of a separate written agreement
between your employer and Invensys Systems, Inc., its subsidiaries or
affiliates.
Copyright Notice Copyright © 2006 Invensys Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of
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copying, recording, broadcasting, or by any information storage and
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Inc.
Trademarks INPLANT, NETOPT, Invensys, SimSci-Esscor, and The Power of
Simulation3 are trademarks of Invensys plc, its subsidiaries, and affili-
ates. TACITE is a trademark of Institut Francais du Petrole (IFP).
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in Technical Data And Computer Software clause at DFARS 252.227-
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Printed in the United States of America, November 2006
Table of Contents
Chapter 1
Introduction
About This Manual. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
About INPLANT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
About SimSci-Esscor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
Where to Find INPLANT Documentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
Online Documentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
Online Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
Where to Find Additional Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Technical Support. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Chapter 2
Using the INPLANT GUI
Graphical User Interface. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
Menu Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Toolbar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10
Use of Color . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12
Chapter 3
Defining an INPLANT Problem
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
Input Preparation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
Defining Fluid Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Compositional Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Non-Compositional Fluids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
Pipe Global Defaults. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12
Pressure Drop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13
Calculation Methods. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14
User Guide TOC-1
Chapter 4
Building the INPLANT Flowsheet
Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Drawing a Flowsheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Connecting the Nodes With Links . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
Entering Node Input Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
Mandatory Node Input Data for Network Boundary Problems . . . . . 4-4
Mandatory Node Input data for Flare Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6
INPLANT Flare Problem Calculations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6
INPLANT Flare Problem Depressuring Vessel Calculations. . . . . . . 4-7
Entering Mandatory Compositional Data for Source Nodes . . . . . . . 4-10
Specifying Fluid Composition Directly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10
Specifying Fluid Composition via Reference to Another Source. . . . 4-11
Specifying Fluid Composition Via Distillation Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
Entering mandatory non-compositional data for source nodes. . . . . . 4-13
Entering Link Input Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
Adding devices to links. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
Deleting/Pasting devices from links: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-16
Copying Devices Within Links: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-16
Link Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17
Pipe Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-20
Equipment Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-21
Work Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-22
Heat Transfer Devices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23
Flowrate Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-24
Control Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-25
General DPDT Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-26
Pipe Fittings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-26
Coupling Fittings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-26
Entrance/Exit Fittings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-28
Control Fittings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-28
Chapter 5
Optional INPLANT Calculations
Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
Setting Up Case Studies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
Flare Network Sizing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Line Sizing Calculations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4
Relief Valve Sizing Calculations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5
Flow Device Schedule Databases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
Relief Valve Databases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8
TOC-2
User-defined Phase Splitting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Chapter 6
Running an INPLANT Problem
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
Running the Calculations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
Viewing INPLANT Output and Results. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Generating Excel Reports. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
Printing Reports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
User Guide TOC-3

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Chapter 1
Introduction
About This Manual

The INPLANT Graphical User Interface (GUI) manual explains
how to use version 4.0 of INPLANT from SimSci-Esscor on
computer using Microsoft® Windows® Operating Systems. This
manual begins with an overview of the hardware and software
requirements for installing the program and progresses through how
to quickly and easily enter data for any piping system or flare relief
system to be modeled. It concludes with a sample session where a
moderately complex example problem is entered and executed.
The purpose of this manual is to familiarize all users, novice to
advanced, with how to set up and run a problem using the GUI
windows environment. For more information on multiphase fluid
flow theory and the solution algorithms used in INPLANT, see the
INPLANT Input Manual. The User guide is divided into the
following chapters:
Table 1-1: Quick Reference for INPLANT Users
See… Which…
Chapter 1, Introduction Introduces the manual, the program, and SimSci-
Esscor.
Chapter 2, Using the Describes the features available in the menu bar and
INPLANT GUI tool bar.
Chapter 3, Defining an Describes the minimum data requirements needed to
INPLANT Problem properly define a problem and execute an INPLANT
simulation.
Chapter 4, Building the Describes how to position the nodes and connect
INPLANT Flowsheet them with links to form a network. This chapter also
describes the required data for the sources and sinks,
and describes the available link devices: pipes,
equipment devices, and pipe fittings.
INPLANT 4.0 User Guide 1-1

See… Which…
Chapter 5, Optional Describes the optional calculations available with
INPLANT Calculations INPLANT: case study, line sizing, and relief valve
sizing
Chapter 6, Running an Provides the information necessary to execute the
INPLANT Problem simulation after all of the required information has
been supplied by the user.
About INPLANT
The INPLANT program is a steady-state, fluid flow simulator for
designing, rating, and analyzing plant piping systems. Engineers
can quickly rate and analyze the safety of plant piping systems via
the INPLANT Graphic User Interface for Microsoft® Windows®
Operating Systems. INPLANT also enables the design of new
piping systems or the revamp of a wide variety of existing systems.
Applications range from simple, single pipe sizing and rating
calculations to large, multiphase fluid piping networks with
complex, nested-loop topology. INPLANT easily solves relief
system problems involving networks with single or multiphase
fluids at high velocities or in critical flow.
About SimSci-Esscor
For nearly 40 years, SimSci-Esscor has been a leader in the
development and deployment of process simulation software,
services, and complete solutions for oil and gas production,
hydrocarbon and specialty chemical processing and refining, and
fossil and nuclear power. Benefit from products that minimize
capital requirements, optimize facility performance, maximize ROI,
and produce assets for:
• Plant engineering design and simulation
• Integrated process engineering (FEED)
• Pipeline production analysis
• Asset model management
• Operational analysis
• Optimization
• Process control
• Dynamic simulation
1-2 Introduction
• Operator training
Design/Operate/Optimize a safe and profitable plant subject to ever
more stringent market and regulatory constraints. SimSci-Esscor
software solutions are indispensable tools in solving these three
increasingly complex challenges simultaneously. SimSci-Esscor is
a business unit of Invensys Process Systems, owned by
Invensys, plc.
Where to Find INPLANT Documentation

Online Documentation
Online documentation is provided in the form of .PDF files and .HLP
files. The .PDF files are most conveniently viewed using Adobe
Acrobat Reader or Acrobat Exchange. The .HLP files are viewed
using the standard Windows Help system or WinHelp. You can
install Adobe Acrobat Reader from the INPLANT CD-ROM. The
online documentation is installed to the INPLANT40\MANUALS
directory during the INPLANT installation process and no longer
requires the installation CD to be present in order to be viewed.
Online Help
INPLANT comes with online Help, a comprehensive online
reference tool that accesses information quickly. In Help,
commands, features, and data fields are explained in easy steps.
Answers are available instantly, online, while you work. All dialog
boxes in INPLANT GUI have help buttons and clicking on the Help
button will take you to the help content relevant for that feature.
You can also access the electronic Contents for Help by selecting
Help/Contents from the menu bar. A Road Map to Online Help will
be displayed where you can select the help document you wish to
view. From the desired online help document you can do a search
for the desired topic. If you choose a .HLP file, you can search by
selecting Help/Search for from the menu bar. If you choose a .PDF
formatted document, you can use all the available Acrobat Reader
search features to find the topic of interest. Please refer to Acrobat
Reader online help for information concerning Acrobat Reader
features.

Where to Find Additional Help
If you want to... See...
Learn how to install and simulate a simple This document
flowsheet using INPLANT
Obtain detailed information on the INPLANT User’s Guide
capabilities and use of INPLANT
Obtain basic information on INPLANT INPLANT Keyword Manual
keywords
Obtain basic information on INPLANT Online Help
calculation methods
Obtain more detailed information on INPLANT Keyword Manual
INPLANT calculation methods
Obtain detailed information of component SIMSCI Component and
and thermodynamic properties Thermodynamic Data Input
Manual
See simulation examples INPLANT Application Briefs
Manual
Technical Support
SimSci-Esscor and its agents around the world provide technical
support and service for PES products. If you have any questions
regarding the use of the program or the interpretation of output
produced by the program, contact your local SimSci-Esscor
representative for advice or consultation.
When calling one of the Technical Support Centers, be prepared to
describe your problem or the type of assistance required. Also, to
expedite your call, complete the following steps before calling
Technical Support:
• Have the installation CD and all the provided documentation
available.
• Determine the type of computer you are using.
• Determine the amount of free disk space available on the disk
on which the product is installed.
• Note the exact actions you were takinwhen the problem
occurred, as well as the steps you took leading up to that point.
• Note the exact error messages that appear on your screen, as
well as any other symptoms.
1-4 Introduction
Both new and experienced users will benefit significantly from
attending one of SimSci-Esscor’s regularly scheduled training
courses on PES products. If you would like to obtain a list of
courses available, or if you have any questions relating to the use of
a PES product, its methods, data, or technology, please call your
nearest SimSci-Esscor support office.
To contact your nearest SimSci-Esscor support office, select and
click Technical Support...from the Help menu. A Help desk page is
displayed. Click the Support Centres link to view the contact details
of your nearest support centre. The SimSci-Esscor support centres
are also hosted on our website. Please visit the following link:
http://www.simsci-esscor.com/us/eng/support/supportlocations/default.htm

Chapter 2
Using the INPLANT GUI
Graphical User Interface

The INPLANT program is divided into two distinct modules, the
Graphical User Interface (GUI) and the Calculation Module as
shown in Figure 2-1. The GUI provides the user a fast and easy-to-
use method of graphically entering and displaying the system being
modeled. The INPLANT GUI creates a keyword file, which is
passed to the Calculation Module. The Calculation Module runs
independently of the GUI, solving the network or flare simulation
and creating report and plot files. The report and plot files are then
transferred back to the GUI environment.
Figure 2-1: INPLANT Program Organization

Older versions of INPLANT required the user to create and edit an
ASCII keyword file, possibly containing hundreds of four-letter
abbreviations, to describe the problem. This was not easy even for
an experienced user, especially when modeling a complicated
network without a graphical representation of the flowsheet.
There are two major advantages to creating new problems from the
INPLANT GUI instead of editing a keyword file:
• First, the GUI provides a visual representation of the flowsheet
structure and allows the user to easily edit the input data and
view the output results.
• Second, the GUI provides extensive error checks to prevent
novice and part-time users from entering mistakes into the input
file.
Note: If you have existing INPLANT keyword files created outside

of the GUI environment, they can be imported into the GUI
database using the File/Import Keyword File...menu option.
The GUI stores the INPLANT problems by problem and project

name in separate DBASE IV database files for optimum data
storage. The number of database files does not change; the same
number of database files exist whether the directory contains one
problem or hundreds of problems.
Note: No one database file contains an entire problem; every

problem is divided between all of the database files. Each database
file contains a piece of every problem. When creating a new project,
it is a good idea to put the new database in a separate directory.
When running INPLANT, an input file (*.INP) and output file

(*.OUT) are created, as well as several plot files (*.GR1 - *.GR5).
The input file (*.INP) contains all the required data for the problem,
but does not contain the graphical representation of the flowsheet
diagram. If the input file is imported into the GUI database, the
flowsheet diagram may have to be rearranged to be more
aesthetically pleasing.
All of the INPLANT functionality can be accessed through the GUI
menu bar. This includes file operations, defining the problem
definition and fluid properties, setting default values, choosing
calculation options, and accessing the on-line help system. The
toolbar buttons duplicate the most commonly used menu bar
options, for quicker and easier access.
2-2 Using the INPLANT GUI

The flowsheet diagram is constructed by pulling node icons from
the toolbar and placing them within the workspace. Links are
created by dragging the mouse between node icons. Input data is
entered by double clicking on a node or a link. If any node or link
data is missing or incomplete, this information is displayed visually
by that node or link turning red. When the entire flowsheet is blue,
the problem is ready to run.
Menu Bar
The Menu Bar is divided into six menu lists as shown in Figure 2-2.
Each menu list contains a group of related functions and
commands. Any menu option that is followed by an ellipsis (...)
brings up a dialog box for more information. Any menu option
without an ellipsis simply performs the desired command
immediately.
To open the menu list:
• Click the left mouse key on the menu name.
• Then click on the desired menu option.
To open the menu list from the keyboard:
• Hold down the Alt key and press the underlined letter corre-
sponding to the desired menu list.
• Continue holding the Alt key down and press the underlined
letter corresponding to the desired menu option.
Figure 2-2: INPLANT Menu Bar
The File menu, shown in Figure 2-3, contains items for accessing
the GUI database as well as the keyword input file. See Table 2-1
for a detailed description of each item. This menu allows the user to
import a keyword input file into the GUI database, edit the problem,
and then export the GUI problem as a keyword input file. This
keyword input file can then be run by the INPLANT calculation
module, which produces a keyword output file. Portions of the
keyword output file can be printed, saved to the clipboard, or the
converged results can be transferred into the initial guesses of the
GUI problem. Finally, the user can exit from the INPLANT GUI
when done.

Figure 2-3: File Menu List
Table 2-1: File Menu Items

File Option Keyboard Shortcut Description
New… <Alt+F><N> After closing the current problem, the
user will be prompted for the new project
and problem name. The user will be
automatically led through the input
dialogs required for defining a new
problem.
Open… <Alt+F><O> After closing the current problem, the
user will be prompted for the next project
and problem name to open.
Import <Alt+F> Converts an existing INPLANT keyword
Keyword input file into the GUI database format.
File… Because the keyword file does not
contain any graphical information, the
flowsheet diagram may need to be
rearranged.
Close <Alt+F><C> Closes the current problem. If the
problem has been modified, the user will
be prompted to save the problem.
Save <Alt+F><S> Saves the current problem.
Save As… <Alt+F><A> Saves the current problem under a

different project and problem name. The
new problem becomes the current
problem.
Run… <Alt+F><R> Runs the INPLANT problem and
converts the keyword output data to the
GUI. The keyword input file will be
automatically created if it does not exist.

File Option Keyboard Shortcut Description
Local <Alt+F><L> Allows local settings for all the
Settings… simulations opened by INPLANT on this
computer.
View Output <Alt+F><V> Allows viewing of the output file.
File…
View Keyword <Alt+F><K> Allows viewing of the keyword input
File… file.
Print… <Alt+F> Sends the keyword out file, flowsheet to

the printer. Also sends the selected
portions of the keyword output file and
the flowsheet either to the printer or to
the clipboard.
Exit <Alt+F><X> Closes the current problem and closes
the INPLANT GUI window. If the
current problem has been modified, the
user will be prompted to save the
problem.
The Edit menu, shown in Figure 2-4, contains items for

manipulating the flowsheet diagram. See Table 2-2 for a detailed
description of each item. For a current problem, this menu allows
pieces of the flowsheet (units and links) to be created, copied, and
edited. The user can also annotate the flowsheet by adding lines,
rectangles, ovals, and text.
Figure 2-4: Edit Menu List
Table 2-2: Edit Menu Items

Edit Option Keyboard Shortcut Description
Copy Unit… <Alt+E><N> Creates a copy of the selected node with
a new name. The coordinates for the new
unit must be specified, where
(1000,1000) represents the upper-right
corner of the flowsheet.
Copy Link… <Alt+E><L> Creates a copy of the selected link,
including devices, with a new name. The
FROM and TO nodes must be specified.
Edit Unit… <Alt+E><E> Edits the input data for the selected unit
using the keyboard. Can also create a
new node or delete an existing one.

Edit Option Keyboard Shortcut Description
Edit Link… <Alt+E><K> Edits the device data for the selected link
using the keyboard. Can also create a
new link or delete an existing one.
Move Node… <Alt+E><M> Selects the desired node and allows it to
be moved using the arrow buttons on the
keyboard.
Draw… <Alt+E><D> Allows the user to annotate the flowsheet
diagram. Elements include lines, ovals,
rectangles, and text.
The View Output menu, shown in Figure 2-5, contains options to

display the results of the converged solution on the flowsheet. From
the View Output menu, the user can also generate and view the
results of the simulation in an excel spreadsheet.
Figure 2-5: View Output Menu List
Table 2-3: View Output Menu Items

View Option Keyboard Shortcut Description
View PFD <Alt+V><V> Toggles between ON and OFF. When
Output turned ON, the converged solution
results of the units and links are
displayed.
Show PFD <Alt+V><S> Shows the display options available to
Options... view on the PFD.
Generate Excel <Alt+V><G> Allows the user to select and generate the
Report... reports required in an excel output.
View Excel <Alt+V><E> Allows viewing of the excel report.

Report
The General menu, shown in Figure 2-6, contains items for

describing the problem, establishing the type of problem, how the
input data is to be interpreted, how the output data will be
presented, the type of fluid being modeled, and the specific
equations and methods being used. See Table 2-4for a detailed
description of each item. The user can enter their name, the date,
and a description of the problem so that they can refer to the
problem later and understand what each problem was designed to
calculate. The input dimensions must be consistent throughout the

problem, and should be checked before each new problem. The
amount of output detail and types of output plots can be set, along
with the units used by the output report.
Besides choosing the calculation method, the fluid properties must
be completely specified. Different thermodynamic and transport
equations are available for compositional fluids, while non-
compositional fluids require only the fluid density. The user can
also determine how the pipes are broken into calculation segments,
which solution algorithm to use, and what convergence criterion to
satisfy. To simplify the creation of large problems, global defaults
can be established for pipes so that all new pipes start with common
piping system parameters such as inner diameter or detailed heat
transfer.
Warning: If you go back and change the input dimensions at a later
date, only the global default values are converted to the new units.
The node and device data are NOT converted to the new units.
Figure 2-6: General Menu List
Table 2-4: General Menu Items

General Option Keyboard Shortcut Description
Simulation <Alt+G><S> Allows the user to enter data
Description… descriptive of the problem: the date, the
user, the site, and a brief description of
the problem. (Required)
Simulation <Alt+G><D> Allows the user to define the simulation
Definition... type and fluid type used in the problem.
(Required)
Input Units of <Alt+G> Allows the user to define the base units
Measurement… of measure to be used throughout the
problem. (Required)
PVT Data... <Alt+G> Allows the user to define the fluid
density and phase behavior used in the
problem. (Required for non-
compositional fluids)

General Option Keyboard Shortcut Description
Component <Alt+G><C> Allows the user to select the pure
Library... library components and define the
petroleum pseudo-components used in
the problem. (Required for
compositional fluids)
Print Options... <Alt+G><R> Allows the user to control the amount
of detail reported in the keyword output
file. (Optional)
Output Units of <Alt+G><O> Allows the user to define the base units
Measurement… of measure to be used on the output
report. If not given, the Input
Dimensions will be used. (Optional)
Calculation <Alt+G><M> Allows the user to select the calculation
Methods... options and network methods used in
the problem. (Optional)
Global <Alt+G><G> Allows the user to set global defaults
Defaults... which are used on all devices in the
entire problem. (Optional)
The Special Features menu, shown in Figure 2-7, contains items for
optional calculation methods, such as running several problems
together as a case study or sizing the line diameters and/or relief
valves. See Table 2-5 for a detailed description of each item. The
user can also modify the relief valve database and the pipe schedule
database. For steam junctions, the preferential splitting at a tee
intersection can be defined.
Figure 2-7: Special Features Menu List

Table 2-5: Special Features Menu Items
Options Option Keyboard Shortcut Description
Case Study… <Alt+S><C> Runs the problem multiple times,
changing some parameter values in
between runs. This saves computation
time by using the previously
converged solution for the next run.
User Defined <Alt+S><T> Defines a phase split table for
Splitting… preferential splitting at steam
junctions.
User Database <Alt+S> Read or Write database files of
Settings... compressor and pump.
Compressor <Alt+S><M> Add, Edit, and supply compressor

Performance performance curves to the simulation.
Curves...
Pump <Alt+S> Add, Edit, and supply pump
Performance performance curves to the simulation.
Curves...
DPDT Curves... <Alt+S><D> Add, Edit, and supply DPDT curves
to the simulation.
Flare Network <Alt+S><F> Selects the smallest relief valves
Sizing... which satisfy the flowrate required at
each flare source.
Sizes the diameter of one, some, or all

sections of pipe to meet additional
boundary conditions. For Single link
problems, the source flowrate and the
pressure at both source and sink must
be specified. For Flare problems, the
back pressure at each flare source is
required. This option is not available
for Network problems, because
multiple solutions may exist.
Valve Database… <Alt+S><V> Defines a set of relief valves to
choose from when sizing relief
valves.
Flow Device <Alt+S><W> Defines a set of pipe schedules to
Schedule choose from when sizing pipes.
Database...
The Help menu, shown in Figure 2-8, contains items for accessing
the on-line hypertext help system. See Table 2-6 for a detailed
description of each item. The About INPLANT menu option shows
which version of the INPLANT GUI you are running. You should
note which version you have before calling for Technical Support.

Figure 2-8: Help Menu List
Table 2-6: Help Menu Items

Help Option Keyboard Shortcut Description
Contents… <Alt+H><C> Accesses the table of contents for the
on-line help.
Search for… <Alt+H><S> Searches the chapter titles and sub-
headings of the on-line help for a
specific phrase.
Technical <Alt+H><T> Lists the phone numbers to call for
Support… technical support if you have trouble.
About <Alt+H><A> Shows the version number for the

INPLANT… INPLANT GUI you are using.
Toolbar
The toolbar contains command buttons which duplicate the most
commonly used features from the menu bar. As shown in
Figure 2-9, the toolbar is divided into four groups of command
buttons:
• File Manipulation buttons
• Unit Operation and Optimization buttons
• Component Library, Property and Calculation Options buttons
• Zoom, Refresh and Find buttons.
See Table 2-7 for a detailed description of each button. While the
mouse cursor is over each toolbar button, a brief description
appears in the message bar below.
Figure 2-9: INPLANT Toolbar

Table 2-7: INPLANT Toolbar buttons
Toolbar Button Description
Creates a new problem. This is the same as the File menu
option New.
Opens an existing problem. This is the same as the File menu
option Open.
Imports a Keyword Input file.
Saves the current problem. This is the same as the File menu
option Save.
Run the problem. While the program is running, the icon will
“run in place”. This is the same as the File menu option Run.
Generates an excel report of the results. This is the same as
the View Output menu option Generate Excel Reports.
Print the selected output summary reports or send them to the
clipboard. This is the same as the File menu option Print.
or Adds a source node to the flowsheet diagram. After clicking
on the button, simply click again in the flowsheet where you
want the source. The icon changes to a flare source for flare
problems.
or Adds a sink node to the flowsheet diagram. After clicking on
the button, simply click again in the flowsheet where you
want the sink. The icon changes to a flare sink for flare
problems. If the icon color is dark yellow, then no more sinks
are allowed.
Adds a junction node to the flowsheet diagram. After clicking
on the button, simply click again in the flowsheet where you
want the junction. If the icon color is dark yellow, then no
more junctions are allowed.
Adds a manifold unit to the flowsheet diagram. The unit helps
in creating a stable network model.
Adds a calculator to the flowsheet diagram. The calculator is
used to perform calculations on the information from the
flowsheet and transfer the results to other unit operation on
the flowsheet.
Adds a hydrate unit to the flowsheet. The Hydrates unit
predicts the pressure and temperature regime in which the
fluid at a node (source, sink, or junction) is vulnerable to
hydrate formation.
Displays the input units of measurement window to define
units at a global level.
Displays the component library window to specify component
data for compositional fluids.
Displays the fluid property data window to specify the
thermodynamic or PVT data.
Displays the network calculation methods window to enter
the network calculation data.
Displays the Pipe Global Defaults window to enter the global
defaults for the pipe.

Toolbar Button Description
Zoom in. Select an area on the flowsheet to be zoomed, then
the flowsheet will be magnified to fill the screen.
Zoom out. Enables you to zoom out of the flowsheet.
Zoom 100% flowsheet. Enables you to display the entire

simulation in the main window.
Enables you to refresh the flowsheet.
Enables you to find, view/edit a device or an object in a

flowsheet.
Use of Color
Color is used on the flowsheet diagram to indicate the status of the
input data for each node and link, as listed in Table 2-8. If all nodes
and links are blue, then the problem is fully defined. Any red node
or link is missing data and will prevent the problem from running.
The currently selected node or link is green.
Table 2-8: Use of Color in INPLANT Application Windows
Color Meaning
BLUE This indicates that all required data has been supplied for the node
or link and the program will be able to execute the simulation.
RED This indicates that there is required data still remaining to be
completed for the node or link before the program will be able to
execute the simulation.
GREEN This indicates the currently selected node or link on the main
screen. Any commands (such as delete or copy) will be performed
upon all of the selected nodes or links.
GRAY This indicates that the node or link is disabled and will not be
included when executing the simulation.
Dialog boxes use a combination of black and gray text to inform the
user which options are available and which are not, as listed in
Table 2-9. All black items are immediately available. If an edit field
or command button is gray, then it is not available. With groups of
radio buttons, the fields associated with the non-selected radio
buttons are usually unavailable, and are grayed out. To activate
some items, it may be necessary to change a setting on another
dialog box.

Table 2-9: Use of Color in Dialog Boxes
Color Meaning
BLACK A black item is available to the user for selection.
GRAY A gray item is currently unavailable to the user. Either the current
problem definition does not allow that option, or another action is
required. For example, a paste button may not be active until
something is cut and transferred into the paste buffer.

Chapter 3
Defining an INPLANT Problem
Overview
The INPLANT Graphical User Interface (GUI) is designed to
minimize the time required to create a problem, run it, and view the
output. By drawing a flowsheet diagram on the screen, the engineer
can easily define and analyze a complex problem. Input data is
entered and output data is viewed simply by double-clicking on a
node icon or a link line. INPLANT input preparation proceeds in
the following fashion.
Input Preparation
Defining an INPLANT problem
1. Define problem type.
2. Define input dimensions.
3. Define fluid properties.
4. Draw flowsheet.
5. Enter node and link data.
For construction of new problems, the first three steps of this
process will automatically be accessed by the program. Once the
problem definition is complete, the flowsheet diagram can be
completed in any order. The flowsheet can be completely drawn
before entering data, or data can be entered as nodes and links are
added to the flowsheet.
Upon entering the program, you must first choose between opening
an existing problem or creating a new one. INPLANT simulations
files are stored in the standard Windows directory and file structure.

To open an existing file, select File > Open… or click on the Open
Existing Simulation toolbar button. (The names and function of
each tool bar button is displayed in a tooltip when you hover over
button.) This accesses a standard Windows Open File dialog
(Figure 3-1).
Figure 3-1: Open Existing Problem
Creating a new INPLANT simulation

1. Select New... from the File menu or click on the New File tool-
bar button. The New File dialog box, shown in Figure 3-2. is
displayed.
2. Choose a directory of your choice to save the problem.
3. Enter a new Name.
4. Click the Open button.
3-2 Defining an INPLANT Problem

Figure 3-2: New File.
Updated graphic goes here
After the simulation names has been properly defined, it is

necessary to define the simulation type and the fluid type. The
Simulation Setup Wizard GUI will automatically prompt you to
select the simulation type, fluid type, phase designation for
compositional fluids, and default units of measurement. The
available types of INPLANT problems are listed in Table 3-1.
Defining the INPLANT simulation type and fluid type

1. A Simulation Setup Wizard is automatically prompted after
entering a file name in the New File dialog box, shown in
Figure 3-2. Click Next.
2. Select a Simulation Type from the available options. If the
problem type is Flare, then a Flare Option must also be
selected. Click Next.
3. Select a Fluid Type from the drop-down list box. If the fluid
type is Compositional, then the Phase Designation must also be
selected. Click Next.

Table 3-1: INPLANT Problem Types
Problem Type Description
Network A problem with multiple sources, sinks, and/or junctions.
The link connections may form loops.
Flare A gathering system with multiple sources and only one sink.
No loops are allowed. Three types of flare calculations can
be performed: depressuring vessel, flare gathering, and both
combined. Depressuring calculations determine the
maximum vent rate of a vessel in case of a fire. Flare
calculations determine the ability of the flare piping system
to handle the specified flowrates.
PVTGEN Creates a flash table to interpolate fluid properties. The
filename *.PVT may be copied to other problems to speed
up the calculations.
Four fluid types are available with INPLANT: compositional,

single-phase gas, single-phase liquid, and steam. Compositional
fluids may be further defined as single-phase gas or liquid, or as a
multiphase fluid. Compositional fluids use rigorous
thermodynamics to calculate the phase behavior and physical
properties. If a compositional fluid is single-phase gas or liquid, the
flash calculations for phase behavior are unnecessary. Single-phase
gas and liquid fluids use empirical correlations based on the fluid
density to estimate the physical properties. Steam fluids use
extensive steam tables to determine the phase behavior and physical
properties.
Defining the input dimensional units for an INPLANT problem
INPLANT requires the user to define a set of input dimensional
units, which are used throughout the program. If you have a set of
units of measurement that you use frequently, which is not
represented by one of the default systems, you can save your own
set.
Warning: If the input dimensions are changed after data has been
entered, the node and link data are not converted to the new input
dimensions.
1. After selecting a fluid type, click Next.
2. Select a System of dimensional units from the available
options. The choices are: Petroleum, English, Metric, SI. Click
Next.
3. Confirm your selections. Click Finish to exit the Simulation
Setup Wizard.

By default, the output report uses the same dimensional units as
defined on the Input Dimensions menu. The output dimensions may
be set to different units than the input dimensions, if desired. The
Output Dimensions dialog box functions the same as the Input
Dimensions dialog box, except for a radio button between Add and
Replace. By default, the new output units will be used in the output
report, replacing the original units. If desired, a second report can
be added, using the new output units.
Defining Fluid Properties

The next step in defining a problem involves defining the fluid
properties. For compositional problems, this means defining the
components to be used and the thermodynamic methods used to
calculate the physical properties. For non-compositional problems,
this means setting the density, from which an empirical correlation
will estimate the physical properties of the fluid.
When creating a new problem, the GUI will automatically prompt
the user by opening the appropriate dialog box. If the new problem
is compositional, the GUI will open the Component Data dialog
box. If the new problem is non-compositional, the GUI will open
the Fluid Property Data dialog box to add the first property set. For
compositional problems, the Thermodynamic Data options may
also be changed.
Compositional Fluid
Follow the steps below on the Component Data dialog box, shown
in Figure 3-3, to select the components. More than 1750 pure
library components are available from SimSci's extensive
thermodynamics database. Petroleum pseudo-components may also
be defined for crude oil systems where the hydrocarbon fluid spans
a wide range of molecular weights. Several petroleum methods are
available, each of which uses a different empirical correlation to
estimate the physical properties of the petroleum pseudo-
components.
Choosing the components for a compositional INPLANT prob-

lem
1. Add all of the desired Library Components by clicking on the
Add… (Library Components) button.
2. Add all of the desired Petroleum Pseudo-Components by click-
ing on the Add… (Petroleum Fractions) button.

3. Click OK.
Figure 3-3: Component Data
Specific pure component properties such as critical pressure,

critical temperature, density, and molecular weight, may be
overridden by selecting the component and clicking the Edit button
or by double-clicking the component. If assay data are being used to
calculate petroleum pseudo-component parameters, then the
temperature range for each pseudo-component can be specified by
selecting the TBP Cuts (Temperature Boiling Point) button. The
component list may be rearranged by using the Cut and Paste
buttons and obscure components may be given an easier-to-
remember name using the Edit Alias button. Once a component list
has been constructed, the set may be saved for later use by selecting
the Save Set button.
The Library Component Data dialog box, shown in Figure 3-4, can
be opened by clicking on the Add… (Library Components)
command button. Follow the steps below to select the desired pure
library components. The default component family list is the
Standard Production Set, which contains water, common gases, and
the hydrocarbons C1 through C20. Other components are grouped
by chemical type. If you have trouble locating the desired
component, you can search the component database by the number
of carbon atoms, by the library ID, or by the chemical formula.

Adding Library Components to a compositional INPLANT
problem
1. Select a Family List of Components from the list box.
2. Select Specific Components by clicking the components from
the Available list box.
3. Add the selected Library Components to the Component list
box by clicking the Add Components button.
4. Click OK.
Figure 3-4: Library Component Data
Petroleum pseudo-components can be specified by selecting the

Add… (Petroleum fractions) button and following the steps below
on the Petroleum Pseudo-Component Data dialog box, shown in
Figure 3-5. A minimum of two out of three physical properties must
be supplied: density, molecular weight, and normal boiling point
(NBP). If only two properties are supplied, the third is estimated
from the other two parameters. Empirical correlations are used to
calculate the critical constants which are then used to determine the
phase behavior of the component.

Adding Petroleum Pseudo-Components to an INPLANT prob-
lem
1. Enter a name for the Petroleum Pseudo-Component.
2. Enter at least two out of three physical properties: Density,
Molecular Weight, and Normal Boiling Point.
3. Click OK.
Figure 3-5: Petroleum Pseudo-Component Data
For compositional fluids, follow the steps below to change the

thermodynamic and transport systems on the Thermodynamic
Methods dialog box, shown in Figure 3-6. The thermodynamic
method used for four physical properties can be changed: K-value,
enthalpy, liquid density, and vapor density. In addition, the K-values
can be reset for each flash and the saturation of the water phase can
be set. The methods used for three transport properties can be
changed: viscosity, conductivity, and surface tension. The mixing
rule for oil/water systems can also be set. Once the thermodynamic
and transport properties have been defined, the system may be
saved as a SET for later use.
Note: Unless otherwise specified, the Soave-Redlich-Kwong
(SRK) thermodynamic equation of state will be used.
Choosing the Thermodynamic and Transport Methods

1. From the General menu, select the PVT Data… option.
2. Select an existing Property Set from the Fluid Property Data
dialog box, or create a new Property Set by clicking New. Then
click Edit.
3. Select a Thermodynamic System from the drop-down list box.
4. Override any of the physical properties by selecting the desired
method from a drop-down list box.
5. Select a Transport System from the drop-down list box.

6. Override any of the transport properties by selecting the desired
method from a drop-down list box.
7. Click OK.
Figure 3-6: Thermodynamic and Transport Methods
Non-Compositional Fluids
For non-compositional problems, fluid property sets are input
through the Fluid Property Data dialog box, shown in Figure 3-7.
This dialog is opened by selecting the PVT Data option under the
General menu. For new, non-compositional problems this dialog is
automatically opened and a new fluid property set is added.
INPLANT allows up to 99 property sets to be defined, each of
which should have a unique set of fluid property data.

Figure 3-7: Fluid Property Data
The only required data for non-compositional fluids (gas, liquid,

and steam) is the fluid density. For the Steam PVT Data dialog box,
the water gravity is the only data input. For the Single Phase Gas
PVT Data dialog box, the gas gravity is required and optional input
includes: gas contaminants (N2, CO2, and H2S), the specific heat
ratio, the viscosity correlation, and the compressibility correlation.
The Single Phase Liquid PVT Data dialog box requires the liquid
gravity and optional input includes: fluid type (water or
hydrocarbon), viscosity (fixed or 2-point Antoine), the heat
capacity, and the viscosity correlation. PVT data may also be set for
compositional fluids to override the liquid viscosity. This may be
necessary when the petroleum pseudo-components are not accurate
enough to represent the heavy tars present in crude oil. The
Compositional PVT Data dialog box allows the viscosity to be set
(fixed or 2-point Antoine) for the hydrocarbon phase, the water
phase, or the total liquid phase.
For compositional problems, the computation time may be
considerably reduced by using a PVT table to interpolate vapor/
liquid equilibrium, instead of performing flash calculations. If the
problem type is PVTGEN or Use PVT File option is selected,
INPLANT will generate a *.PVT file (* is the problem name). For
PVTGEN problems, this DOS file can be copied to other problem

names, and used again and again. If the PVT Table is generated for
a specific compositional problem, the *.PVT file will be deleted
afterwards.
Note: To save computer time using a *.PVT file, all sources must
have the identical composition. Once two different fluids are mixed,
INPLANT reverts back to performing flash calculations.
On the Thermodynamic Methods dialog box shown in Figure 3-6,

check the Generate PVT Table... option and click the button to enter
data in the Generate Compositional PVT Table dialog box, shown
in Figure 3-8. If the problem type is PVTGEN, the GUI will
automatically open this dialog box. Follow the steps below to
specify the temperature and pressure values used for the PVT table.
Selected property values for enthalpy, density, conductivity,
viscosity, fraction, mole weight, and surface tension can be printed
and plotted for each phase.
Generating a Compositional PVT Table

1. Select an existing Source Name where the composition has
been defined.
2. Specify the Temperature values. These may be evenly spaced
from an Initial Value to a Final Value, or they may be unevenly
Spaced.
3. Specify the Pressure values. These may be evenly spaced from
an Initial Value to a Final Value, or they may be unevenly
Spaced.
4. Click OK.
Figure 3-8: Generate Compositional PVT Table

Pipe Global Defaults
Before constructing a flowsheet and inputting the data for each pipe
section, it is good practice to determine what parameters the pipes
in your flowsheet have in common. By setting global defaults for
pipes, each new pipe will start with the common parameters. This
can save considerable data entry if, for example, all of the pipes in
your flowsheet are 10 inches in diameter and have 2 inches of
insulation. Once the pipe global defaults have been set properly, the
only required data for each pipe section is its length.
The other advantage of using global defaults is that if you want to
change a pipe parameter, all you have to do is change the global
default value. All pipes using the default values will be
automatically updated. Any pipes where the default values were
overridden will remain unchanged. The available pipe parameters
on the Pipe Global Defaults dialog box are shown in Figure 3-9. To
enter Pipe Global Default data, select Global Defaults from the
General menu. The default pipe inside diameter may be set as an
actual value or as a nominal size and Schedule. The pipe roughness
may be set in Absolute dimensions or Relative Dimensions
(fraction of the pipe diameter).
Figure 3-9: Pipe Global Defaults
A global default for the heat transfer from the pipe can be set by
providing the ambient temperature and the heat transfer conditions:
above ground, below ground, underwater, or a constant heat transfer
coefficient. Unless otherwise specified, the ambient temperature
will be 80°F and the heat transfer coefficient will be 1 Btu/hr-ft2-F.
The overall heat transfer coefficient (U-value) can always be

changed. If the ambient heat transfer conditions are set to soil, air,
or water, INPLANT will calculate the heat transfer coefficient
based on the heat transfer through the pipe and to the ambient.
If the Default Heat Transfer conditions are changed to soil, air, or
water, enter the ambient conditions by pressing the appropriate
command button. For soil, the burial depth of the pipe and the
ground conductivity must be provided. For air or water, the
conductivity, viscosity, density, and velocity of the ambient must be
provided. All three options (soil, air, or water) use the same Pipe
Heat Transfer Defaults. The thickness and conductivity of the pipe
and up to five layers of insulation can be entered by checking the
box in front of the Pipe Heat Transfer Defaults command button.
Conditions for different environments can be set simultaneously, so
that the heat transfer conditions on the pipe device can be changed
just by selecting the desired option. To activate an additional heat
transfer option, check the box in front of the command button. If a
heat transfer option is activated without entering data, the initial
values for that option will be used.
Pressure Drop
Unless otherwise specified, the method used to calculate the
pressure drop is Beggs & Brill - Moody (BBM) for multiphase flow
and Moody for single-phase flow. Overall, BBM is applicable over
a wide range of flow conditions and smoothly transitions to the
Moody correlation when the flow is single-phase. For high velocity
and critical flow systems, use the Beggs & Brill - Moody High
Velocity (BMHV) model. See Appendix A in the INPLANT
Keyword Manual for more information on the available pressure
drop methods.

Figure 3-10: Pressure Drop Defaults
The pressure drop can be adjusted using the Flow Efficiency to

match field data. Unless conditions such as severely corroded pipe
exist, other parameters such as the pressure drop method and the
pipe roughness should be adjusted to match field data. Other
parameters that can be set are: Hazen-Williams (HW) Coefficient
(only for single-phase liquids), the Reynolds number for the
laminar/turbulent transition, and Palmer correction factors for
liquid holdup.
Calculation Methods
The Calculation Methods option under the General menu is used to
control how the INPLANT calculations are performed. The
available calculation parameters for the Calculation Methods dialog
box are shown in Figure 3-11. If the minimum or maximum
pressure or temperature is exceeded, INPLANT will abort the
calculation. Calculation aspects such as heat transfer or the pressure
drop due to acceleration may be neglected.

Figure 3-11: Network Calculation Methods
Each pipe device is divided into calculation segments; the more

segments, the more accurate (and time-consuming) the solution.
The Pipe Segment Length and the maximum number of segments
can be specified. Normally the fluid physical properties are
calculated at the midpoint of each segment, using the average
pressure and temperature. The Shortpipe Algorithm calculates the
fluid physical properties at the inlet of each segment, requiring just
one flash calculation. The Shortpipe Algorithm saves computer
time, but is less accurate for long pipe segments.
For network problems, the initial pressures are estimated based on
the pressures at the sources and sinks. Two options are available for
estimating the initial flowrates: Diameter and Total Resistance. For
Diameter, the flowrates leaving a junction are normalized according
to the relative diameters of each pipe. For Total Resistance, the
flowrates are normalized according to the frictional resistance of
each link. The number of network iterations can be changed, as well
as the minimum Pressure Tolerance (default 2 psi) required for
convergence. If the network iteration is overshooting the solution
and not converging, a Flowrate Damping factor can be used to limit
the maximum flowrate change between iterations.
Note: Complicated networks may diverge instead of converge,
requiring a Flowrate Damping factor to reach a converged solution.

Chapter 4
Building the INPLANT Flowsheet
Overview
Your INPLANT flowsheet is drawn on the main application
window workshops and is made up of nodes and links.
In this chapter you will learn how to:
• Draw the nodes and connect them with links
• Enter input data for nodes and links
The nodes and links may be drawn on the flowsheet before entering
any input data, or the input data may be entered as each piece of the
flowsheet is added.
Drawing a Flowsheet
The nodes are icons that represent sources, junctions and sinks. The
types of nodes, their icons, and restrictions on their use are listed in
Figure 4-1. New source, sink, and junction nodes can be created
directly from the toolbar.
To add a node to the flowsheet:

• Click on the toolbar icon representing the desired node.
• Then click again on the flowsheet to drop the node onto the
flowsheet.
Depending on the problem type (Network, Flare, or PVTGEN), the
number and types of nodes available on the flowsheet may be
limited. If you have specified a PVT type problem, only a single
source node is allowed and INPLANT will automatically position it

on the flowsheet. A flare problem may have multiple flare sources
and junctions, but only one flare sink is allowed. In addition, the
flowsheet must be a gathering system, with only one link allowing
fluid to leave each junction. There are no restrictions on a network
problem.
INPLANT keys off the problem type and is able to monitor and
limit the number of nodes used in your simulation. If the toolbar bar
icon for a given type of node is dark yellow instead of bright
yellow, then no additional nodes of that type can be added to the
flowsheet.
To move a node around the flowsheet:

• Click on the node icon on the flowsheet.
• While holding down the left mouse button, drag the icon to the
new location and release.
To move the node using the arrow keys:

• Select the node by clicking on it.
• Move the node with the arrow keys.
To delete a selected node from the flowsheet:

• Select the node by clicking on it. Hit the delete key. This will
also delete any links attached to the node.
Connecting the Nodes With Links

Each node icon contains a small square for attaching links. Click
once on a node icon. The node icon will turn green and the
attachment squares will be revealed.
For all problems, source and sink nodes are only allowed one link.
The flow direction is indicated by arrows on the line segments. For
source nodes the flow must be outgoing; for sink nodes the flow
must be incoming. Network junctions should have at least three
links, with at least one incoming link and at least one outgoing link.
Flare junctions are limited to just one outgoing link, but may have
any number of incoming links.
To create a link between two nodes:

• Click on the attachment square where the flow originates and
drag the cursor to the sink node.
4-2 Building the INPLANT Flowsheet

• Click again on the sink node to draw the link.
Note: It is not necessary to click on the sink node's attachment
square; anywhere on the node will do. After starting the link and
dragging the cursor, the allowed attachment squares of all the other
nodes will appear.
To connect a link to a different node:

• Select a link by clicking on it. The link will turn green.
• Pick the link up by clicking and holding the mouse button down
on one of the link handles.
• Drag the cursor to the connection box on another node.
• Release the mouse button. The link will connect with the new
node.
Links can also be created, copied or deleted by selecting Edit >
Edit Link...
If a link is not allowed between two nodes, the link will snap back
to its original location. Restrictions on the allowable number and
directions of links for a particular node are summarized in
Table 4-1.
Table 4-1: Node Quantity and Direction Restrictions
Node Allowable Number of Links Direction of Link
Source Node one-link outgoing
Sink Node one-link incoming
Network Junction any number ingoing, outcoming
Flare Junction any number incoming, one outgoing
Entering Node Input Data

When a source or sink node is first created, the red outline indicates
that the mandatory data for that node has not been supplied. After
the mandatory data is entered, the node on the flowsheet will turn
blue. Any node that remains red is still not fully defined. When all
nodes and all links are blue, the simulation is ready to be executed.
Portions of the flowsheet may be mothballed (turning gray), by
checking the disable check box on the dialog box for the respective
node or link.
Junction nodes do not require any mandatory data and are always
blue.

To edit the input data associated with a node:
• Click the Edit Unit... option under the Edit pull-down menu and
double-click on the desired node label or simply double-click
on the desired node on the flowsheet. Once selected, the node
will turn green. The window shown in Figure 4-1 appears for
compositional source nodes.
Figure 4-1: Compositional Source Input Data Window
• Enter the necessary data and click the OK button.

After the minimum required amount of data has been entered for the
node, its color will change from red to green (selected) to blue.
Mandatory Node Input Data for Network Boundary

Problems
The mandatory data required for each type of node varies with the
category of problem as is summarized in Table 4-2.
Table 4-2: Mandatory Input Data
Problem Type Node Type Mandatory Data
Network problem source P and F fixed or estimated, T
sink P and F fixed or estimated
In addition to those stated above there are a number of restrictions

to the overall amount and type of data required for optimal problem
solution.

These include:
1. If there are a total of N sources and sinks in the flowsheet, then
N parameters (pressures and flowrates) must be fixed and N
must be estimated. This does not mean that each source and
sink is required to have one parameter fixed and one parameter
estimated. One source/sink may have both pressure and flow-
rate fixed, while another source/sink may have both parameters
estimated.
Note: Junctions can be ignored when determining boundary
conditions because the pressure is always estimated and the
total change in flowrate is always zero (fluid in - fluid out = 0).
2. At least one pressure must be fixed to establish a baseline pres-
sure.
3. You may not enter fixed values for the flowrates of all the nodes
(including source and sinks).
4. You may not enter fixed values for the pressures of all the nodes
(including source and sinks).
How The Node Input Data Determines Calculation Method

It is important to understand that INPLANT will select a calculation
method best suited to the configuration of the data you enter. We
will illustrate this with two examples:
Example #1: Source is completely known and the sink is
completely unknown.
Calculation Method (selected by INPLANT):
Forward Calculation
Network Problems:
Sink pressure and flowrate are estimated
Source pressure and flowrate are fixed
Calculation Approach:
INPLANT starts at the source conditions and calculates the
pressure drop across the link to determine the sink condi-
tions. This type of problem can be solved with a single cal-
culation, requiring no iterations.
Example #2: Pressure is known at both the source and sink, but the
flowrate is unknown.

Calculation Method (selected by INPLANT):
Capacity Run Calculation
Network Problems:
Sink pressure is known and flowrate is estimated
Source pressure and flowrate are estimated
Calculation Approach:
Network Solution: INPLANT uses the PBALANCE algo-
rithm (see Chapter 6, Technical Reference, in the
INPLANT Keyword Manual), where the pressure and
flowrate are adjusted simultaneously. Any combination of
boundary conditions is allowed, as long as there is one
unknown parameter for each source and sink node. The
only restriction is that at least one pressure must be fixed
(or at least one flowrate must be estimated).
Mandatory Node Input data for Flare Problems

Table 4-3 summarizes the mandatory input data for flare problems.
Table 4-3: Mandatory Flare Input Data
Problem Node Node Mandatory
Type Type Data
Flare source depressuring vessel P fixed, T
vessel geometry,
vessel initial conditions,
vessel operating parameters
not a depressuring vessel F, P, T fixed
sink -------- P fixed
INPLANT Flare Problem Calculations

The source and sink icons are different for flare calculations than
for network problems to emphasize the different type of calculation
being performed. With a flare problem, you do not have the
freedom to choose arbitrary combinations of fixed or estimated
boundary conditions. The sink pressure must be given, and the
source flowrates must be known (or calculated from a depressuring
vessel). INPLANT then uses a mass balance to find the flowrate at
the sink, and calculates the pressure drop across each link in the
gathering system to find the pressure at each source.

The flare source dialog box, shown in Figure 4-2, is very similar to
the compositional source, requiring the same input data for the
composition and the temperature. The main choice for a flare
source is whether to specify the flowrate leaving the vessel, or to
calculate the amount of fluid vented by the relief valve as heat input
from a fire raises the pressure above the relief pressure (a
depressuring source). If the flowrate is specified, the temperature
and pressure are used to calculate the enthalpy of the fluid. If the
flare source is a depressuring vessel, the temperature and pressure
are used as the vessel initial conditions.
Figure 4-2: Flare Source Input Data Window
INPLANT Flare Problem Depressuring Vessel

Calculations
If a flare source is designated as a depressuring vessel, then red
triangles representing flames appear on the source icon.
To enter data for the depressuring vessel:
• Check the radio button next to Depressuring Vessel and click
the button in the Vessel Discharge region of the Flare Source
window. The Depressuring window appears as shown in
Figure 4-3.
• Enter all mandatory data for this vessel, which includes
• initial vessel conditions

• relief pressure
• maximum vessel pressure
• duration of the simulation
• time increments for the calculations.
Figure 4-3: Depressuring Vessel Input Data Window
The depressuring vessel starts with a known amount of liquid at an

initial pressure and temperature. The fire is simulated over a
specified time duration by adding heat according to one of several
heat input models. The type of heat input model and the individual
coefficients can be changed to simulate different emergency
conditions. When the vessel pressure exceeds the relief pressure,
the relief valve opens and gas is vented to the flare gathering
system. If the liquid phase is vented in equal proportion to the gas
phase, the 'Homogeneous' option can be chosen for the Vented
Phase.
If an Initial Rate is not specified, INPLANT will assume a vent rate
of 5% of the vessel volume per time increment. If this vent rate is
too small, the calculated vessel pressure will continue rising until
the Maximum Pressure is exceeded. INPLANT will continue to
lower the vent rate until the vessel pressure no longer exceeds the

Maximum Pressure within the time specified for the Simulation
Duration. The Initial Rate and the Rate Increment can both be set by
the user.
The vessel shape and volume as well as the initial amount of liquid
is entered on the Depressuring Vessel Data window, shown in
Figure 4-4.
To enter the Depressuring Vessel Data window:

• Click the Enter Vessel Data... button on the Depressuring win-
dow.
Required data depends on the vessel shape and volume as
summarized in Table 4-4.
Table 4-4: Required Data for Vessel Shape and Volume
Vessel Geometry Required Dimensions
Spherical and Vessel Dimensions + Volume Factor + Liquid Volume
Cylindrical
Unspecified Shape Vessel Volume + Liquid Volume
Note: If an API heat input model is being used, the wetted area
must also be given.
Figure 4-4: Depressuring Vessel Input Data Window

If the volume or height of liquid in the vessel is not given,
INPLANT will perform a flash calculation at the initial pressure
and temperature conditions to determine the gas and liquid volumes
in the vessel. The total specific heat of the fluid can be overridden
by entering both the specific heat of the fluid and the total weight.
Entering Mandatory Compositional Data for Source

Nodes
Compositional fluids may be specified in any of the INPLANT
problem categories. Compositional data must be supplied for all
compositional sources. For all such sources, as demonstrated in
Figure 4-5. for the case of a source node, either the percentage of
each component must be specified, distillation data must be
provided, or the composition must be copied from another source.
In addition, fixed or estimated temperature, pressure and flowrate
must be provided.
Figure 4-5: Compositional Data Input Window
Specifying Fluid Composition Directly

The composition of the individual components can be given either
in mole percents or in weight percents. If the sum of the
compositions does not add up to 100, the compositions will be
normalized to 100 percent.

To enter compositions directly:
• Check the radio button next to Define Composition… and
click the button. The spread sheet used to enter composition
data appears as shown in Figure 4-6.
• Enter the percentage or amount of each individual component
on the General Spread Sheet.
• Click OK.
Figure 4-6: Source Composition Spread Sheet
Specifying Fluid Composition via Reference to Another

Source
To save time entering the problem, the composition can be
referenced to another compositional source. The source
temperature, pressure, and flowrate can also be referenced. Any
changes made in the first source will be relayed to all subsequent
sources. The source composition may also be imported from a
PRO/II stream.
To enter compositions via reference to another source:

• Check the radio button next to Use Composition From and
click the button in the composition region of the source node
window. The window in Figure 4-5 appears.
• Use a source from the INPLANT Network source or from a
PRO/II stream.

• Click OK.
Figure 4-7: Entering Composition By Reference To Another Source
Specifying Fluid Composition Via Distillation Data

If the composition of the fluid is not completely known, INPLANT
can estimate the petroleum pseudocomponent parameters that best-
fit the available distillation data.
The mandatory data for the Source Distillation Data window,
shown in Figure 4-8, are the average density of the fluid, the type of
distillation performed, and a distillation curve of percent vapor
versus temperature.
To enter compositions via Distillation Data:

• Check the radio button next to Distillation Data and click the
button in the Composition region of the source node window.
• Enter fluid composition and select Save from the Worksheet
pull-down menu.
Often, the vapor phase is analyzed and the composition of the light
ends can be entered, along with the weight percent of the vapor
phase. If gravity data or molecular weight data were taken during
the distillation, those curves may also be given. If the petroleum
pseudocomponents do not accurately capture the viscosity of the
heavy tars in the fluid, the viscosity may be overridden using a PVT
property set.

Figure 4-8: Source Distillation Data Input Window
For more information on specifying compositional fluids see

Chapter 4, Defining an INPLANT Problem.
Entering mandatory non-compositional data for source

nodes
For non-compositional sources, a valid PVT property set and
temperature (or steam quality for steam) are mandatory data.
Note: If the problem is an adiabatic network, then the temperature
is used only to set the initial enthalpy. The source temperature is
then adjusted according to the source pressure to maintain a
constant enthalpy at the source.
The only other required data are the pressure and flowrate boundary
conditions, either of which may be fixed or estimated.
Entering Link Input Data

To view the data pertaining to a link, simply double-click on that
link to bring up the Link Device Data window as shown in
Figure 4-9. The Link Device Data window has a central workspace
for the device icons, a toolbar on the left containing eight command
buttons, and an icon palette on the right containing an icon for each
available device. When editing a new link, only the start and

destination nodes appear in the workspace. These nodes cannot be
edited from here, but are a visual reminder of which link is being
edited.
Figure 4-9: Link Device Data Window
The toolbar on the left can be used to save or cancel the changes, or
make more changes. The function of the individual toolbar buttons
are listed in Table 4-5. The toolbar buttons can also be accessed
from the keyboard by typing the underlined <letter>; this is
different from selecting a menu bar option because the <Alt> key is
not needed. A device can be edited either from the toolbar or by
double-clicking on the device icon. Any device icon selected by a
single mouse click appears with a green border, and can be deleted
or copied to the buffer.The arrow keys can also be used to move
between device icons. Information on the currently selected device
is displayed in the status bar at the bottom of the window.

Table 4-5: Toolbar Buttons on the Link Device Data Window
Button Function
OK Saves the changes made in the link devices. If any device contains
incomplete data (red border), then the link will become red.
Cancel Cancels the changes made in the link devices. A message box will
appear asking if you are sure before deleting the changes.
Help Accesses the on-line hypertext help system.
Reverse Reverses the direction of flow in a link, changing the To node to
From and vice versa.
Cut Deletes the currently selected device icon. This can also be
performed by pushing <Del>. Any device that is deleted will be
placed in the paste buffer.
Copy Places the currently selected device icon in the paste buffer.
Paste Pastes the device in the paste buffer after the currently selected
device in the link. The starting node may be selected so that a
device can be pasted into the first device of the link.
Link Opens a dialog box allowing the user to change the link name, set
a flowrate estimate, turn off the print options for the link, and to
disable the link.
Sizing Sizes the diameter of one, some, or all sections of pipe to meet
additional boundary conditions
View Profile A plot of the pipeline profile defined for the link can be viewed.
In this section we will begin by discussing how to add, delete and

copy devices and finish by describing each device type.
Adding devices to links

Devices can be added to a link by editing the link.
To add a device to link:

• Double-click on the link. The Link Device Data window
appears for that link. This window will display the link with any
devices already assigned.
• Click on the device icons desired from the palette of icons on
the right hand side. For each device chosen, a window will
appear to enter device specifications.
• Enter data and click OK. The device will appear on the main
workspace area over the link.
• Click OK on the Link Device Data window to complete editing
of the link.

Deleting/Pasting devices from links:
Devices can be deleted/pasted from a link by editing the link.
To delete/paste a device:
• Double-click on the link. The Link Device Data window
appears for that link. This window will display the link with any
devices already assigned.
• Click on the device icon on the link that you wish to delete to
highlight it.
• Click Cut on the toolbar to remove the device.
• The deleted device is placed onto the INPLANT clipboard
• If the delete was unintentional, restore the device by clicking
the Paste button. By default the device will be pasted after the
selected rows device if not indicate otherwise.
• Select the row above the cut row to paste the device back into
its previous position.
• Click OK on the Link Device Data window to complete editing
of the link.
Copying Devices Within Links:

Devices can be copied from one location to another within a link.
When a device is copied to the buffer, its icon appears on the
toolbar and can be pasted back anywhere within the link. Any
device pasted back to the link is placed immediately after the
currently selected device. Note that the starting node can be
selected, but not edited, so that a device may be placed at the
beginning of the link. Other toolbar features include setting a
flowrate estimate for the link and accessing the on-line help system.
To copy a device:
• Double-click on the link. The Link Device Data window for the
link. This window will display the link with any devices already
assigned.
• Click on the device icon that you wish to copy to another loca-
tion on the link.
• Click Copy on the toolbar to copy the device to a buffer.

• Click OK on the Device Data window to complete editing of
the link.
Link Devices
The icon palette on the right side of the window contains 22 device
icons: one pipe device, ten pipe fitting devices, and eleven
equipment devices. A brief description of each device, what its icon
looks like, what data is required, and any restrictions on its use are
listed in Table 4-6. Pipes and pipe fittings are always available.
Depending on the problem type and fluid type, some equipment
devices may not be available.
For comprehensive technical information regarding these devices,
consult the Inplant Keyword Manual.
Table 4-6: Device Data Window Icons
Icon Device Description
Pipe Device
Pipe The pipe device models the pressure drop across
a length of pipe. The pipe length, diameter, and
elevation change are required.
Pipe Fittings - Coupling Fittings

Bend The bend device models the pressure drop
across a pipe bend or elbow. The diameter of the
bend is required.
Tee The tee device models the pressure drop across a

tee intersection. The diameter and orientation of
the tee is required.
Contraction The contraction device models the pressure drop

as the pipe decreases in diameter. The inlet and
outlet diameter are required.
Expansion The expansion device models the pressure drop

as the pipe increases in diameter. The inlet and
outlet diameter are required.

Table 4-6: Device Data Window Icons (cont.)
Pipe Fittings - Entrance and Exit Fittings
Entrance The entrance device models the pressure drop as
fluid enters a pipe from a larger vessel. The
outlet diameter is required.
Exit The exit device models the pressure drop as

fluid exits a pipe into a larger vessel. The inlet
diameter is required.
Nozzle The nozzle device models the pressure drop

across a nozzle. The pipe diameter and nozzle
diameter are required.
Pipe Fittings - Control Fittings

Venturimeter The venturimeter device models the pressure
drop across a venturimeter. The pipe diameter
and throat diameter are required.
Valve The valve device models the pressure drop

across one of fourteen different valves. The
valve type, inlet diameter and outlet diameter are
required.
Check Valve Check valves that allow flowrate only in the
direction specified on the Link window. The
check name and orifice diameter are mandatory
data for a check valve. The Discharge
Coefficient is optional.
Orifice The orifice device models the pressure drop
across one of two types of orifices. The orifice
type, the pipe diameter, and the orifice diameter
are required.
Equipment Devices - Control Devices
Choke A choke is an equipment device which restricts
the flowrate. The choke diameter is required.
Regulator A regulator is an equipment device which limits

the maximum pressure in the flowline. The
maximum downstream pressure is required.

Table 4-6: Device Data Window Icons (cont.)
Equipment Devices - Work Devices
Expander An expander is an equipment device which
recovers energy from a steam system while
lowering the pressure. The power recovered or
the outlet pressure is required. Only allowed for
steam systems.
Compressor A compressor is an equipment device which
performs work on a gas. The power, outlet
pressure, or compressor curve is required. Not
allowed for steam systems.
Multi-Stage A multi-stage compressor is a equipment device
Compressor similar to the compressor. The curves,
efficiencies and other parameters can be
specified for different stages in a compressor.
Pump A pump is an equipment device which performs
work on a liquid. The power, outlet pressure, or
pump curve is required.
Equipment Devices - Heat Transfer Devices

Heater A heater is an equipment device which adds heat
to a stream. The outlet temperature or heater
duty is required. Not allowed for steam systems.
Cooler A cooler is an equipment device which removes

heat from a stream. The outlet temperature or
cooler duty is required. Not allowed for steam
systems.
Equipment Devices - General DPTP Device
DPDT A DPDT is a general equipment device which
models any device which changes the pressure
and/or temperature of a stream. A curve of
pressure and temperature differences versus
flowrate is required.
Equipment Devices - Flowrate Devices
Separator A separator is an equipment device which splits
some or all of the different phases of a
multiphase stream. The percent or rate removed
must be specified for each phase. Only allowed
for compositional fluids. Only one separator is
allowed in flare problems, and it must be the
first device in the last link.
Injection An injection device re-introduces a stream that
has been separated, or injects the flow from a
lateral source. The separator or source name is
required. Only allowed for compositional fluids.

Pipe Device
The Pipe device is used to transport fluid from one point to another,
and is the only device with length. All other equipment devices and
pipe fittings are simulated as point devices, with no volume or
length associated. Pipe lengths should always be calculated to the
center of the equipment device or fitting device. If an equipment
device does have a significant vertical or horizontal displacement,
this should be accounted for by adding an equivalent length of pipe.
For example, the outlet stream of a separator may be several feet
higher or lower than the inlet stream. If this vertical distance were
improperly accounted for, the pressure imbalance due to gravity
could cause network convergence failure.
The only data that must be entered into the Pipe window, shown in
Figure 4-10, is the Pipe Length. The elevation change defaults to
zero, and default settings are available for all other parameters from
the Global Defaults... option under the General menu. To change
the inside diameter from the global default, either type in the actual
diameter or select a nominal size and pipe schedule. If the nominal
size and pipe schedule that you want does not exist, the Flow
Device Schedule Database... option under the Special Features
menu can be updated.
Figure 4-10: Pipe Device Window

Besides the pipe diameter and roughness, the pressure drop across a
length of pipe depends on the correlation method used. The
pressure drop correlation and other parameters which affect the
pressure drop calculations can be specified by clicking the
Pressure Drop Method… button. See Appendix A of the
INPLANT Input Manual for the fluid conditions under which other
pressure drop methods than the default BBM (Beggs-Brill &
Moody) are recommended. If the field data cannot be matched by
varying the correlation method and/or the pipe roughness, the flow
efficiency can be adjusted using Palmer correlation factors, which
modify the calculated amount of liquid in the pipe.
The heat transfer from the pipe is determined by the ambient
temperature and the overall heat transfer coefficient (U Value). The
heat transfer may be turned off, the U Value can be set, or
INPLANT will calculate the appropriate U Value for the specified
surrounding ambient conditions: air, water, or soil. To calculate the
overall U coefficient, the thickness and conductivity of the pipe
must be specified. Up to five layers of insulation may be added
around the pipe. The resistance to heat transfer of each layer is
summed and combined with the heat transfer from the surface of the
pipe.
The default heat transfer conditions can be set from the Global
Defaults... dialog under the General menu. The default heat transfer
conditions can be changed for an individual pipe by selecting the
appropriate thermal calculation from the drop down list in the Pipe
window and clicking the Heat Transfer Data… button. For buried
pipes, the heat transfer from the surface is calculated from the burial
depth and the soil conductivity. For pipes in air or water, the heat
transfer from the surface is calculated from the conductivity,
viscosity, density, and velocity of the surrounding ambient.
Equipment Devices
INPLANT has eleven equipment devices, which can be grouped
into five categories: work devices, heat transfer devices, flowrate
devices, control devices, and a general DPDT device. Work devices
include pumps for liquids, compressors for gases, and expanders for
steam systems. Heat transfer devices include heaters and coolers.
Flowrate devices include sales devices to remove fluid, separators
to remove specific phases of the fluid, and injection devices to
reintroduce separated phases or inject a lateral source stream.
Control devices include a regulator to bleed off excess pressure and

a choke to restrict the flowrate. The general DPDT device sets the
pressure and temperature change as a function of flowrate and can
be used to simulate many types of devices.
Work Devices
Pumps and compressors are used to increase the pressure in liquid
and gas systems, adding work to the fluid. The temperature increase
through a pump/compressor depends on the flowrate, the fluid heat
capacity and the adiabatic efficiency; any work that does not
increase the system pressure is added directly to the fluid enthalpy.
On the pump dialog box, shown in Figure 4-11, the outlet
conditions can be set in three different ways: the pump horsepower,
the outlet pressure, or a pump curve can be defined. To define a
pump curve, the differential head and adiabatic efficiency must be
given for a range of flowrates.
Figure 4-11: Pump Device
Note: Be careful when fixing the outlet pressure of a pump or

compressor. This adds an extra boundary condition and makes the
upstream pressure undetermined.
Cutoff values can be set for the maximum outlet pressure and the
maximum pump power. If the outlet pressure or pump power
exceeds the cutoff value, then the cutoff value is used as the new
outlet condition. The Number of Stages for the pump can be

specified as well as the adiabatic efficiency. Pumps and compressor
are not available for steam systems, while expanders are only
available for steam systems.
Steam expanders are small turbines that are used for energy
recovery when feeding high-pressure steam into a low-pressure
line. The steam expander recovers work in the process of lowering
the pressure. The outlet conditions for the steam expander can be
set in four different ways: the expander power, the outlet pressure,
the pressure drop across the expander, and the pressure ratio across
the expander. A minimum pressure cutoff value can be set as well
as the adiabatic efficiency. A temperature estimate and convergence
tolerance for the iterative calculation can also be specified.
Heat Transfer Devices

Heaters and coolers are used to increase or decrease the temperature
of the fluid. On the Heater window, shown in Figure 4-12, the
outlet conditions can be set in two different ways: the outlet
temperature or the heater duty. Cutoff values can also be set for the
maximum heater duty and the maximum heater temperature. The
pressure drop across the heater can be set, either as a constant or as
a flowrate dependent equation. Heaters and coolers are not
available for steam systems.

Figure 4-12: Heater Device
Flowrate Devices
Flowrate devices are used to add or subtract fluid from the system.
The separator device, shown in Figure 4-13, removes a portion of a
specific phase, either vapor, total liquid, water, or hydrocarbon. The
fluid removed can be defined either by the total flowrate or as a
percentage of the fluid phase. If the liquid phase is separated into a
water phase and a hydrocarbon phase, an amount may be specified
for both phases.
Note: If water is being separated, it must be the first component on

the list.

Figure 4-13: Separator Device
The injection device has two uses: to inject fluid from a lateral
source stream, or to reinject a separated stream. A lateral source is
defined by defining a source without attaching the source to the
system with a link and is only allowed for single-link problems. The
injection device is then used to set the injection point of the fluid.
When a separated stream is reinjected, the separator name and the
fluid phase must be specified. By default the fluid enthalpy is
calculated at the pipe pressure and the separator temperature. If
desired, the pressure and temperature used to determine the fluid
enthalpy can be changed. The separator device and injection device
are only available for compositional fluids.
Control Devices
Control devices include the regulator device which releases excess
pressure, and the choke device which restricts the flowrate. For a
regulator device, the maximum downstream pressure must be
given; if the pressure exceeds this value, then it is reset to the
maximum value. This can help in network convergence by
preventing large oscillations in the pressure. For the choke device,
the choke diameter must be given. The pressure drop across the
choke is a strong function of the flowrate and the choke diameter.
The pressure drop calculation can be modified by changing the
resistance coefficient.

General DPDT Device
The DPDT device is a general device which specifies a pressure
change curve and a temperature change curve as a function of
flowrate. This can be used to model any of the other equipment or
fitting devices which do not involve altering the flowrate. The
DPDT device is most often used to model a part of the system for
which detailed data is not available. For example, a detailed
description of a heat exchanger is not necessary to model the
pressure/flowrate behavior. The heat exchanger pressure drop and
temperature change versus flowrate can then be modeled using a
DPDT device.
Pipe Fittings
INPLANT calculates the pressure drop associated with ten different
pipe fittings, which can be grouped in three categories: coupling
fittings, entrance/exit fittings, and control fittings. Coupling fittings
include pipe bends, pipe tees where the flow splits or merges, and
contraction and expansion fittings used to connect two different
diameters of pipe. Entrance/exit fittings include the entrance of
fluid into a pipe from a vessel or storage tank, the exit of fluid from
the pipe into a vessel, and the exit of fluid through a nozzle. Control
fittings include the venturimeter which measures the flowrate, and
orifices and valves which restrict the flowrate.
Coupling Fittings
Coupling fittings are used to connect pipe sections together, either
changing the pipe direction (bend), adding a third pipe (tee), or
changing the pipe diameter (contraction/expansion). For the Pipe
Bend Fitting window, shown in Figure 4-14, the inside diameter is
required, either in actual units or defined in the pipe database as a
nominal diameter and schedule. Both the inside diameter and
roughness take the pipe global default parameters from the Global
Default... window under the General menu. A standard elbow or
mitre bend can be chosen for angles between 0 and 90 degrees. For
bends greater than 90 degrees, the angle and curvature (R/D) can be
specified.

Figure 4-14: Pipe Bend Fitting
The pressure drop is calculated from the resistance coefficient (K),

which is equal to the K-Multiplier multiplied by the friction factor.
The K Multiplier is multiplied by the pipe diameter to calculate an
“equivalent” pipe length, for which the pressure drop is calculated.
INPLANT will calculate the appropriate K-Multiplier for the type
of bend that is selected. If other data are available for the resistance
coefficient, the K-Multiplier or the K-factor itself can be specified.
The coefficients for the Two-Phase Flow Model, which are used to
calculate the pressure drop, can also be modified. The tee fitting is
similar to the bend fitting; instead of specifying the type of bend,
the type of tee is given, either a straight run or a branch.
For contraction and expansion fittings, both the inlet diameter and
the outlet diameter must be given. The resistance coefficient (K) is
calculated from the angle the contraction/expansion makes going
from the inlet to the outlet diameter. This angle may also be
described by the length of the transition. If other data are available,
the value of K itself can be specified directly, as well as the
coefficients for the two-phase flow model. If the fitting exists in
more than one place, then the number of identical fittings can be
specified, requiring only one pipe fitting device to be added to the
link.

Entrance/Exit Fittings
Entrance/exit fittings are used to calculate the pressure drop when
fluid enters or exits the piping system from a vessel or storage tank.
Besides entrance and exit fittings, this also includes the nozzle
fitting. The only input required for the entrance and exit fittings is
the diameter of the pipe connected to the vessel or storage tank. The
resistance coefficient and the two-phase flow model coefficients
may also be changed from the default values. For the nozzle fitting,
the nozzle diameter is also required. The specific heat ratio of the
fluid may also be specified.
Control Fittings
Control fittings include the orifice fitting which has a fixed
opening, the venturimeter fitting which measures the flowrate, and
the valve fitting which is used to control the flowrate. The required
data for the orifice and venturimeter fittings is similar to the nozzle
fitting, requiring the pipe diameter and the orifice/venturimeter
diameter. The resistance coefficient, specific heat ratio, and two-
phase flow model coefficients can be changed from the default
values. For the orifice fitting, a thin or thick orifice plate can be
specified.
Fourteen different types of valves are available on the Valve Fitting
window, shown in Figure 4-15. Both the inlet and the outlet
diameters of the valve must be given. The default K-multiplier
depends on the valve type chosen; some valve types have a range of
K multipliers, depending on the specific valve details. If other data
are available, the K multiplier or the value of K itself can be
specified directly, as well as the two-phase flow model coefficients.
For gate valves, ball valves, and tilting disc check valves, the angle
of the valve can be specified. For velocity-dependent valves, the
minimum velocity to keep the valve open can be supplied.

Figure 4-15: Valve Fitting

Chapter 5
Optional INPLANT Calculations
Overview
This chapter contains information on the optional calculations
available with INPLANT. These include the Case Study, Flare
Network Sizing (Line Sizing and Relief Valve Sizing), as well as
specifying alternative pipe and valve databases. The user-defined
Phase Splitting at steam tee junctions can also be specified.
In this chapter you will learn how to:
• Set up and run multiple case studies
• Perform line sizing and relief valve sizing calculations
• Specify and modify the valve and pipe databases
• Specify steam phase splitting.
Setting Up Case Studies

You can use the INPLANT GUI to set up multiple case studies, i.e.,
variations on the base case problem you have defined. INPLANT
allows you to change many flowsheet parameters e.g., the source
pressure or composition, or a pipe diameter or heat transfer
coefficient.
To set up a case study:
• Select the Case Study option from the Special Features menu.
The Case Study window appears as shown in Figure 5-1.

Figure 5-1: Case Study Window
• Click on the check box beside Perform Case Study Calcula-

tions.
You are now able to add new case studies or edit, cut, or paste
previously defined case studies. Each new case study will use the
solution from the previous case as the initial guess. If you want to
use the original solution as the initial guess, check the Restore Base
Case Solution box. This resets all parameters back to the base case
values. Otherwise, case study changes are cumulative.
To add a case study:
• Click the Add button. The Case Study Changes window
appears as shown in Figure 5-2. Optionally, you can provide a
description for the case study in this window.
Figure 5-2: Case Study Changes Window
5-2 Optional INPLANT Calculations

• Click the Add button to change flowsheet parameters. The
Case Study Parameter window appears as shown in Figure 5-3.
Figure 5-3: Case Study Parameter Window
In this window you can change source, sink, or device parameters to

a new value. For devices, all parameters with a specific value can be
changed globally to a new value.
To change a case study parameter:
• Select the Source Name, Sink Name, or Device Type to change.
For devices, you can either change just one device or all devices
with a given parameter value.
• Select the Parameter to be changed. If globally changing a
device parameter, the From value must be given.
Note: When globally changing a device parameter, only devices

where the parameter value is equal to the From value will be
changed.
• Specify the To value for the Parameter. If changing a source

composition, click the Composition… button.
Flare Network Sizing

The Flare Network Sizing is used to perform sizing on pipes and
relief valves in the flare network.

Line Sizing Calculations
Network Line sizing is only available for flare problems. For looped
network problems, multiple solutions may exist. For flare
problems, the back pressure at each relief valve should be given.
Based on the known flowrates and pressure drops, INPLANT will
calculate the minimum pipe diameter for some or all pipes. An
additional constraint of the maximum fluid velocity can be set. By
default, the erosional velocity will be used as the maximum
velocity. The maximum velocity can also be defined as a curve
based on the pipe diameter or the fluid density. For flare problems,
the maximum velocity can also be specified as a percent of the
critical velocity. The available pipe diameters can also be changed.
By default, INPLANT will use the API schedule 40 pipe diameters.
To set up line sizing calculations:
• Click the Flare Network Sizing... option from the Special Fea-
tures menu. The Flare Network Sizing window appears.
• Click the Network Line Sizing… button. The Line Sizing win-
dow appears as shown in Figure 5-4.
Figure 5-4: Line Sizing Window
• Click the Activate and/or Enter Line Sizing Data check box.
• Select your sizing options, either Maximum Erosional Velocity
or a Velocity Curve. For flare problems, the Approach to Criti-
cal Velocity, Approach to Critical Velocity and Velocity Curve is
also available.

• Enter the appropriate constant or curve for the sizing option
selected.
• Select the pipes to be sized by clicking the Select Devices to be
Sized... button. By default, all pipes will be sized.
• To reduce computation time, the available pipe diameters can
be specified, either in actual dimensions or as nominal sizes. By
default, the API schedule 40 pipe diameters will be used.
Relief Valve Sizing Calculations

For flare calculations, you can size some or all of your sources as
relief valves. Based on the flowrate through the relief valve and the
calculated pressure drop, INPLANT will calculate the minimum
cross-sectional area of the relief valve. Using a relief valve
database, INPLANT will choose the relief valve large enough to
handle the flowrate.
To set up relief valve sizing calculations:
• Click the Flare Network Sizing... option from the Special Fea-
tures menu. The Flare Network Sizing window appears.
• Click the Relief Valve Sizing… button. The Relief Valves to be
Sized window appears as shown in Figure 5-5.
• Click the Size Relief Valves check box.
• Select the source to be sized as relief valves.

Figure 5-5: Relief Valve Sizing Window
Flow Device Schedule Databases

The INPLANT GUI allows you to easily modify a customized pipe
database. You can use the industry standard pipe database,
DIAMDATA, provided by SimSci, or you can create and edit your
own pipe database.
To create a pipe database:
• Click the Flow Device Schedule Database...option from the
Special Features menu. The Flow Devices Database window
appears as shown in Figure 5-6.

Figure 5-6: Pipe Database Window
• Click the New… button to bring up the Flow Devices Database

Definition window as shown in Figure 5-7.
• Enter an 8-character pipe database Name and a Description of
the database. The database Name will be used as the ASCII file-
name with .DAT extension.
• Add as many entries as desired by clicking the Add button. The
required data is a 4-character schedule name, the nominal size,
and the actual diameter.
• Click the Set Default button to change the default database
from DIAMDATA to user defined pipe database.
Figure 5-7: Flow Devices Database Definition Window

Relief Valve Databases
The INPLANT GUI allows you to create or modify the relief valve
database for flow calculations. The API standard relief valve
database for conventional and bellow valves, VC01, VC02, cannot
be edited or deleted.
To create a new relief valve database:
• Click the Valve Database... option from the Special Features
menu. The Relief Valve Database window appears as shown in
Figure 5-8.
Figure 5-8: Relief Valve Database Window
• Click the New… button to bring up the Valve Data window as

shown in Figure 5-9. The valve Class Description and Class
Name are required.
• Specify the valve type, discharge coefficients, liquid and gas
pressure curves, and the relief valve sizes.
• Click the Set Default button to change the default database
from VC01 to user defined valve database.

Figure 5-9: Valve Data Window
User-defined Phase Splitting

The User-defined Phase Splitting option is only available for steam
systems. For steam problems, the liquid/vapor phase split at a tee
junction can be specified as a function of the fluid Reynolds
number.
To specify a User-defined Phase Split:
• Click the User-Defined Splitting... option from the Special Fea-
tures menu. The User-defined Steam Phase Splitting window
appears as shown in Figure 5-10.

Figure 5-10: User-defined Steam Splitting Window
• For each Reynolds number, enter a curve of entering liquid

weight percent versus leaving gas weight percent.

Chapter 6
Running an INPLANT Problem
Overview
After you have prepared the data for the problem as described in
Chapter 3, Defining an INPLANT Problem and Chapter 4, Building
the INPLANT Flowsheet, you are ready to perform the calculations.
The INPLANT calculations obtain all input data from a keyword
input file. If you entered data through the GUI, INPLANT will
create the input file before running the calculations. If you need to
edit the keyword file, you must first create the input file.
Running the Calculations

If all input data have been provided via the GUI, the user can run
INPLANT by performing the following actions:
• Select the Open... option under the File menu or click on the
File Open button. A standard Windows Open File dialog is dis-
played.
• Browse for the INPLANT problem (*.IPZIP) you want to exe-
cute or run. Click Open.
• The INPLANT GUI is loaded with the flowsheet.
• Select the Run... option under the File menu or click on the
Right Arrow button. A Run Simulation and View Results win-

Figure 6-1: Run Simulation and View Results
• Select the run and action type from the respective drop down
lists.
• Click the Run button. The status of the simulation run is shown
in the Run Status window. If the simulation run is successful,
the same is indicated in the Run Status window. If the input data
entered is wrong, during the simulation run, errors and warn-
ings are notified in the Run Status window. The error and warn-
ing messsages can be viewed in the output file.
If you have created an input file entirely using keyword entry, or if
you have modified an existing keyword file, you can import the
keyword file into the GUI database and run the calculations.
Viewing INPLANT Output and Results

INPLANT offers various user-selectable options for viewing and
printing your output. The results of the each node or link may be
viewed on the flowsheet, or some or all of the output file may be
viewed using an editor.
Whenever a problem is run, an input and output file are generated.
To view the output file or generate and excel report for the problem
which is currently opened:
6-2 Running an INPLANT Problem

• Select the Run... option under the File menu or click on the
Right Arrow button. A Run Simulation and View Results win-
• In the Run Simulation and View Results window, select the
report you want to view and click the View button. The report is
displayed using the default Programmer’s File Editor.
Generating Excel Reports

• To generate excel report for the current problem, click the
EXCEL button. The Excel Reports dialog box as shown in
Figure 6-2 is displayed. The dialog box lists different Summary
and Line report options available for generation.
Figure 6-2: Excel Reports
• Select all the options under Run Options. Click Run Current
Network. This will generate an excel report for the current
problem and for the options listed under Run Options.
Note: Uncheck the Run Simulation option under Run Options, if

you have already run the simulation through the Run Simulation
and View Results dialog box.
Printing Reports
• Click the Print button in the Run Simulation and View Results
dialog box. The report for the current problem is printed.

Alternately, to view an output file or generate an excel report or
print a report for an INPLANT problem existing in the database, the
options in the File menu and View Output menu can be used.
• Select View Output File... option from the File menu, to view
an output file existing in the database.
• Select Generate Excel Report... or View Excel from the View
Output menu to generate or view an excel report for the current
problem.
• Select Print... option from the File menu to send the complete
OFD or part of the PFD to the printer.
6-4 Running an INPLANT Problem

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INPLANT® 4.

User Guide TOC-3

About This Manual

INPLANT 4.0 User Guide 1-1

Where to Find INPLANT Documentation

INPLANT 4.0 User Guide 1-3

INPLANT 4.0 User Guide 1-5

Graphical User Interface

Figure 2-1: INPLANT Program Organization

INPLANT 4.0 User Guide 2-1

Note: If you have existing INPLANT keyword files created outside

The GUI stores the INPLANT problems by problem and project

Note: No one database file contains an entire problem; every

When running INPLANT, an input file (*.INP) and output file

2-2 Using the INPLANT GUI

Figure 2-2: INPLANT Menu Bar

INPLANT 4.0 User Guide 2-3

Table 2-1: File Menu Items

Save As… <Alt+F><A> Saves the current problem under a

2-4 Using the INPLANT GUI

Print… <Alt+F><P> Sends the keyword out file, flowsheet to

The Edit menu, shown in Figure 2-4, contains items for

Figure 2-4: Edit Menu List

Table 2-2: Edit Menu Items

INPLANT 4.0 User Guide 2-5

The View Output menu, shown in Figure 2-5, contains options to

Figure 2-5: View Output Menu List

Table 2-3: View Output Menu Items

View Excel <Alt+V><E> Allows viewing of the excel report.

The General menu, shown in Figure 2-6, contains items for

2-6 Using the INPLANT GUI

Figure 2-6: General Menu List

Table 2-4: General Menu Items

INPLANT 4.0 User Guide 2-7

Figure 2-7: Special Features Menu List

2-8 Using the INPLANT GUI

Compressor <Alt+S><M> Add, Edit, and supply compressor

Sizes the diameter of one, some, or all

INPLANT 4.0 User Guide 2-9

Table 2-6: Help Menu Items

About <Alt+H><A> Shows the version number for the

Figure 2-9: INPLANT Toolbar

2-10 Using the INPLANT GUI

INPLANT 4.0 User Guide 2-11

Zoom 100% flowsheet. Enables you to display the entire

Enables you to find, view/edit a device or an object in a

2-12 Using the INPLANT GUI

INPLANT 4.0 User Guide 2-13

INPLANT 4.0 User Guide 3-1

Figure 3-1: Open Existing Problem

Creating a new INPLANT simulation

3-2 Defining an INPLANT Problem

Updated graphic goes here

After the simulation names has been properly defined, it is

Defining the INPLANT simulation type and fluid type

INPLANT 4.0 User Guide 3-3

Four fluid types are available with INPLANT: compositional,

3-4 Defining an INPLANT Problem

Defining Fluid Properties

Choosing the components for a compositional INPLANT prob-

INPLANT 4.0 User Guide 3-5

Figure 3-3: Component Data

Specific pure component properties such as critical pressure,