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ProMax® Training

User Reference Guide

Bryan Research & Engineering, LLC.


Chemical Engineering Consultants
P.O. Box 4747 Bryan, Texas 77805
Office: +1 979-776-5220 Fax: +1 979-776-4818
sales@bre.com or support@bre.com

© 2020 BRE Group, Ltd.


BRE Group, Ltd.
Copyright 2020

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
ProMax User Interface ................................................................................................................................................................. 5
Overview ............................................................................................................................................................................ 5
Visio Menus ....................................................................................................................................................................... 5
ProMax Ribbon Menu ........................................................................................................................................................ 6
General .......................................................................................................................................................................... 6
Execute .......................................................................................................................................................................... 6
Tools .............................................................................................................................................................................. 6
Options .......................................................................................................................................................................... 6
Help ............................................................................................................................................................................... 7
ProMax Shapes .................................................................................................................................................................. 7
Project Viewer ................................................................................................................................................................... 8
Contents ........................................................................................................................................................................ 8
Color Convention ........................................................................................................................................................... 8
ProMax Message Log ......................................................................................................................................................... 9
Creating A Process Model .......................................................................................................................................................... 10
Defining Environments .................................................................................................................................................... 10
Drawing the Flowsheet .................................................................................................................................................... 11
Defining Streams/Blocks .................................................................................................................................................. 12
Unit Conversions in ProMax ............................................................................................................................................ 24
Defining an Oil ................................................................................................................................................................. 24
Creating New Flowsheets ................................................................................................................................................ 26
Available Analyses in ProMax .......................................................................................................................................... 26
Ideal Stage and Mass + Heat Transfer Column Types ...................................................................................................... 28
Export / Append Project .................................................................................................................................................. 29
ProMax Reports ............................................................................................................................................................... 29
Gibbs Minimization Reactors in ProMax ......................................................................................................................... 30
Utilizing Short Monikers and the Moniker Clipboard ...................................................................................................... 31
Optimizing A Model ................................................................................................................................................................... 32
Overview .......................................................................................................................................................................... 32
Excel Interactions............................................................................................................................................................. 32
Import/Export from Excel ............................................................................................................................................ 32
Using the Scenario Tool™ in ProMax ........................................................................................................................... 33
Using Calculators in ProMax ............................................................................................................................................ 34
Using Simple Specifiers in ProMax .............................................................................................................................. 34
Using Simple Solvers in ProMax .................................................................................................................................. 35
User Defined Variables .................................................................................................................................................... 36

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Equipment Sizing & Rating Overview ........................................................................................................................................ 37
Overview .......................................................................................................................................................................... 37
Separator sizing ............................................................................................................................................................... 37
Column Sizing .................................................................................................................................................................. 38
Depressurization and Relief Valve Sizing ......................................................................................................................... 39
Control Valves .................................................................................................................................................................. 39
Heat Exchanger Rating..................................................................................................................................................... 40
GIS Tool ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 41
Overview .......................................................................................................................................................................... 41
Importing Data................................................................................................................................................................. 41
Network Connectivity ...................................................................................................................................................... 44
Tips for Calculating Connectivity ..................................................................................................................................... 46
Plot Window .................................................................................................................................................................... 47
Network Details ............................................................................................................................................................... 48
Drawing ProMax Models ................................................................................................................................................. 48
Flowsheet Tool ................................................................................................................................................................ 49
Help & Troubleshooting............................................................................................................................................................. 50
ProMax Help .................................................................................................................................................................... 50
Web Tutorials .................................................................................................................................................................. 50
Basic Specifications for ProMax Blocks ............................................................................................................................ 50
Convergence Help Guide ................................................................................................................................................. 51
Diagnosing Error Messages ............................................................................................................................................. 52
Visio Hotkeys ................................................................................................................................................................... 56

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ProMax User Interface
OVERVIEW
The ProMax interface is built around the Microsoft Visio® package. Therefore, it inherits many of the benefits of this
package (e.g., shape sizing, transformation, text annotations, etc.). Starting ProMax will automatically start Visio with the
entire ProMax interface included.

ProMax Ribbon Bar provides quick


access to all ProMax functionalities and
options.

ProMax Shapes contains all


blocks, streams, and other shapes
used in building the simulation.

ProMax Message Log displays the status,


Multiple flowsheets warnings, errors, and other information
can be created within when the simulation is run.
the same project.

VISIO MENUS
Visio Ribbon Menu options are fully available within the ProMax project by selecting the “Home”, “Insert”, “Design”,
“Review”, “View” or any additional Ribbon Menu options available. Ribbon Menu options can be adjusted through the
Visio Options dialog from the “File” menu.

Some useful options within the Visio Ribbon Menus include shape alignment, pointer tool options, drawing page size,
background borders or titles, image or text box insertion, and layer assignments.

Visual Basic for Applications can be accessed within the Developer Menu. It may also be accessed by pressing Alt-F11 if the
Developer Menu is currently hidden.

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PROMAX RIBBON MENU

General
Project Viewer – Opens the ProMax Project Viewer, which contains all project information. More details on the
Project Viewer can be found on page 8.
Active Environment – Displays and manages the Environment in use on the current flowsheet. A drop-down
menu provides access to all available thermodynamic Environments in the project.
Active Flowsheet – Displays information about what Environment is assigned to the active flowsheet. A drop-
down menu provides access to manage all available flowsheets within the current project.
Oil – Displays and manages all defined oils in the project, including Single Oils, Curve Oils, and blends.
Warnings – Displays all warnings currently found within the project.
Report – Opens the report window to publish the results for the project into a document or worksheet.
Add Excel Workbook – Embeds an Excel workbook to the current project. Once a workbook is added, data can
be exchanged between ProMax and Excel. Information on embedding an Excel workbook can be found later
in this guide.
Message Log – Displays information during execution such as block status, current solver error, column
iterations, warnings, and errors.
Moniker Builder – Provides a method of creating “Short Monikers” for use within the project. Information on
“Short Monikers” can be found later in this guide.

Execute
Execute Project – “Runs” the complete project, including all flowsheets and calculators.
Execute Flowsheet – “Runs” the current, displayed flowsheet only.
Execute Block – “Runs” any selected block(s).
Abort – Stops the execution.
Clear Calculations – Clears any stored calculated data. User inputs, column solutions, and recycle streams are
not updated, reset, or cleared.
Pause – Temporarily stops the execution.
Continue – Resumes a paused execution.

Tools
GIS Tool – The GIS tool is a comprehensive pipeline GIS data visualizer, data editor, and importer for ProMax
models, allowing users to upload GIS data in various formats to automatically draw an accompanying ProMax
model consisting of pipeline blocks, process streams, and mixer blocks. Also contained in this feature is the
Flowsheet Tool, which provides a consolidated interface to view and edit the properties of all pipeline blocks
and process streams on a specific ProMax flowsheet.

Options
Unit Conversion Drop-down – Allows on-the-fly unit conversions for the entire project. No user inputs or
calculated data are changed.
Project Options – The icon displayed next to the word “Options” opens the dialog to customize atmospheric
pressure, reference temperature, displayed properties, and other items

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Help
ProMax Help – Provides parameter definitions, simulation setup help, common operating conditions, etc.
About ProMax – Displays the current version and build number of ProMax, as well as contact information, and
some licensing and security device information.
Scripting Help – Reference documentation for JScript and VBScript.
Contact Support – Opens the BR&E Support website.

PROMAX SHAPES
ProMax Shapes are a collection of blocks, streams, and other items used in building
the flowsheet. Shape functions in ProMax can be thought of as including:

1. Unit operations – heat exchangers, pumps, columns, etc…


2. Streams – process and energy
3. Simulation specific blocks – recycles, make-ups, etc…
4. Data presentation blocks – callouts and tables

Only ProMax Shapes are loaded when ProMax starts. Other Visio shapes can be
loaded but will not interact with ProMax. This means that other Visio shapes can be
drawn on the flowsheet for display purposes, but they will not act as ProMax objects
with ProMax capabilities. Shape groups can be opened and closed as needed. To
close a group, right click on the group title and choose Close. To open a group, go to
More Shapes > then choose the desired group to open.

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PROJECT VIEWER
The Project Viewer is the primary graphical interface to input and retrieve information within ProMax. The Viewer provides
access to the majority of the information in a project, and provides additional shortcuts to running ProMax.

Contents
File / ProMax / Window Dropdown Menus – Contains options for the ProMax Project specific to the Project Viewer,
including the option to open additional Project Viewer windows for simultaneous viewing.

Toolbar – Provides easy access to common ProMax


operations (e.g., Environment, Execute, Report) and
navigational buttons.
Navigation Tree – Includes a detailed list of all
Flowsheets, Process and Energy Streams, Blocks,
Calculators, and other objects contained in the Project.
All of the various objects can be accessed by double-
clicking directly in the navigation tree.
Upstream/Downstream Arrows – Provides a
convenient method to navigate successive streams
and blocks.
Data Display – The information displayed here
depends on the selection. If a process stream is
selected, the Viewer will have a “Properties” tab
showing the stream properties, a “Composition” tab
showing the composition of that stream, an “Analysis”
tab, showing any analyses requested for that stream,
and a “Notes” tab for user-added notes. An energy
stream will have only a “Specifications” tab for the
energy rate and a “Notes” tab. Similarly, a different set of information is displayed for the different blocks.
Message Log – Similar to the ProMax Message Log but displays messages related to the selected item only.

Color Convention
The data displayed in the Project Viewer cells are color-coded for easy identification as follows:

Project Viewer Cell "Convention" Explanation

White Cell Background with No Text Available parameter, can be user-specified


White Cell Background with Blue Text 100 User-specified parameter

White Cell Background with Black Text 100 Calculated or default parameter, can be overwritten

Gray Cell Background 100 Calculated parameter, unavailable for specification

Blue Cell Background 100 Value from a solver, specifier, or import from Excel

Red Cell Background 100 Parameter not applicable, calculation failed


Yellow Cell Background 100 Parameter value extrapolated or approximated

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PROMAX MESSAGE LOG
The ProMax Message Log provides a running source of information about the status of a project and whether the execution
is proceeding as desired. This provides an opportunity to see if any column solutions are approaching a solution, the ability
to see if a recycle or solver is converging, and the chance to follow many additional aspects of a project during execution.

Additionally, any warnings are presented in blue, and failures are shown in red. The text provides the object in the project
that is failing (e.g. ProMax:ProMax!Project!Flowsheets!Gas Processing!Blocks!VLVE-100 indicates the object “VLVE-100” on
the “Gas Processing” flowsheet) and in many circumstances alerts the user to why the failure occurred.

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Creating A Process Model
ProMax provides freedom and flexibility when building a simulation. A simulation is started by defining the Environment
and adding components or by drawing the flowsheet. During this process, changes can be made on any item as required.

When a new project is created, ProMax will create a flowsheet (Flowsheet 1) and assign an empty Environment
(Environment 1) to that flowsheet. Flowsheets and Environments can be added, deleted, or modified at any point.

DEFINING ENVIRONMENTS
In ProMax, the term Environment is used to refer to the
thermodynamic package, components, reaction sets, and oils specific
to the simulation. The Environment dialog provides access to these
properties. Multiple flowsheets can utilize the same Environment, or
each may be unique.

To define an Environment, choose the “Edit Environments…” item


from the drop-down options on the ProMax Ribbon Menu. This will
open a window containing all project Environments. The dialog allows
the user to create a new Environment, duplicate an existing
Environment, or edit an existing Environment.

The Environment dialog has several tabs. The most commonly used
tabs are the “Property Package” and “Components” tabs. The
Property Package tab provides a list of thermodynamic equations that
can be selected directly for use on a flowsheet. Alternatively, the user
can modify options by selecting the “Use Custom Package” option. In
this case, the user has the freedom to assign the desired
thermodynamic model for each physical property.

Once a Property Package is set, components can be added to the


Environment under the Components tab. Components may be added
to the Environment by either manually searching in the components
list or by using any of the filtering options provided. For example, to
add methane to the components list, type “methane” in the Name
filtering box and hit the “Enter” key. Many components have multiple
aliases to choose from (e.g. CH4, C1, carbane, and r-50 are different
aliases available for methane).

Choosing the correct Property Package is critical in obtaining reliable


results. The table on the next page gives general guidelines on which
packages apply to which applications. Refer to the ProMax Help for
more information.

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Process Property Package Suggestion
Acid Gas Injection Systems SRK or Peng-Robinson
Air Separation SRK or Peng-Robinson
Amine Sweetening Amine Sweetening / Electrolytic ELR
Ammonia Absorption Refrigeration Tillner-Roth and Friend NH3 + H2O
Caustic Treating Caustic Treating
Chemicals (e.g. separation of Acetone/Acetic Acid/Acetic Any non-Electrolytic Gibbs Excess/Activity Coefficient
Anhydride) (e.g. DUNIFAC, TK Wilson, UNIQUAC, etc.)
Crude Oil Distillation/Fractionation SRK or Peng-Robinson
Dehydration/Hydrocarbon Removal Using MeOH SRK Polar or Peng-Robinson Polar
Fractionation SRK or Peng-Robinson
Gas Processing with MeOH SRK Polar or Peng-Robinson Polar
Glycol Dehydration SRK or Peng-Robinson
HC Dew Point Control w/ DEPG SRK or Peng-Robinson
Heavy Hydrocarbon Systems PR, SRK, Braun K10, Chao-Seader, Grayson-Streed
(SRK or PR must be used if aqueous phase present)
Hot Oil System Heat Transfer Fluid
Hot Potassium Carbonate Caustic Treating
Hydrocarbon - Water Separation SRK-Kabadi-Danner
Lean Oil Absorption SRK or Peng-Robinson
LNG Processes GERG-2008, SRK, Peng-Robinson
Methanol-Water Distillation (Binary System) NRTL
Natural Gas Processing SRK, Peng-Robinson, GERG-2008
Physical Solvent Acid Gas Removal w/ NMP or MeOH SRK Polar or Peng-Robinson Polar
Physical Solvent Acid Gas Removal w/ DEPG or PC SRK or Peng-Robinson
Refrigerant Systems (e.g. R13/R22, Propane, etc.) SRK or Peng-Robinson
Sour Water Stripping Amine Sweetening / Electrolytic ELR
Steam Systems NBS Steam Tables
Sulfur Recovery Sulfur or Sulfur ASRL

DRAWING THE FLOWSHEET


To draw the flowsheet, click and drag any shape from the Shapes Stencils and drop it on the page at the desired location.
Shapes can be connected with process or energy streams at the Connection Points. Connection Points in the shape are
indicated by a small “x” as shown in the figure. These can either be process connections or energy connections, which are
not interchangeable. The number and type of connections for each shape can be viewed in the Project Viewer.

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Once a block or stream is present on the flowsheet, it can be manipulated using standard Visio techniques. After a block or
stream is created, its process parameters can be defined within the Project Viewer by double clicking on the desired block
or stream.

In Visio 2010, solid red indicates a connected stream outlet and a red outline
indicates a connected stream inlet. Solid blue indicates an unconnected stream
Visio 2010: Connected inlet outlet, and a blue outline indicates an unconnected stream inlet.
stream, unconnected outlet
stream.

This convention is changed in Visio 2013, 2016, and 2019. A green circle indicates
a connected stream outlet, and a circle with a green dot indicates a connected
inlet. A light gray square indicates an unconnected outlet, and a white square
Visio 2016: Connected inlet indicates an unconnected inlet.
stream, unconnected outlet
stream

The Visio Connector Tool provides a convenient way to draw several streams quickly.
This option can be found from the Visio “Home” Ribbon. The user should switch
Tip back to the Pointer Tool when not drawing streams.

DEFINING STREAMS/BLOCKS
To run any part of the simulation, all the information needed by ProMax to perform the required calculations must be
provided. The information is entered as parameters for process streams, energy streams, or blocks. Keep in mind that the
properties of the streams and blocks are interrelated, which gives the option to either specify the property of a stream
directly or to specify how the block affects the process stream. For example, the temperature at the outlet of a heat
exchanger may be placed in the outlet stream or calculated from a change in temperature from the inlet stream.

ProMax uses color-coding for streams and blocks to help the user along the way. The following table summarizes the color
conventions used within the flowsheet:

Color Block Status Stream Status Comments


Stream: specification(s) missing
RED Unconnected Not ready Block: stream connection(s) missing
Block has the minimum number of connections
BLUE Unsolved N/A
required
MAROON N/A Unsolved Stream is fully specified and ready for execution

GREY Zero Flow Zero Flow Stream or block has zero flow

MAGENTA Failed N/A Block attempted to execute and failed


Properties inside a stream or block may also be
ORANGE Approximate Approximate orange, which generally indicates a calculation
outside the correlation range
GREEN Solved Solved
ProMax allows for specifications to be made both upstream and downstream of most blocks, giving the user flexibility to
specify properties in the most convenient fashion. The guide below provides a list of all available ProMax shapes along with
specification recommendations.

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Auxiliary Objects
Divider – This block can be used to split any percentage of any specific components from the main process stream. This
is often useful in cases where a full simulation is unnecessary, such as a dehydration unit that does not need a
rigorous simulation. There must be one inlet and at least one outlet, although typically two are used. An energy
stream should also be connected to keep the simulation in both heat and material balance. The desired component
splits must be set within the block itself.
Pipeline – The pipeline block can rigorously solve for many properties of single- or multi-phase flow in a pipe of any
alignment. Ambient losses can be calculated based on pipe and ground material if an energy stream is connected to
the pipeline block. Multiple pipe and fitting segments can be modeled in a single pipeline block.
Make-up/Blow-down – If there are losses in a process, material must be made up to keep a steady circulation rate. The
make-up/blow-down block allows the user to set a desired flow rate to be maintained (set in the outlet stream).
The block will calculate how much to add to maintain this flow rate on an ongoing basis. When applicable, this
block also allows the user to set a desired outlet concentration (such as what weight percent the amine should be at
leaving the make-up/blow down block).

Saturator – This block can saturate a stream with any component to whatever saturation level is desired. The
temperature and pressure of the stream being saturated remain unchanged. Generally, multi-phase streams should
be separated before feeding a single phase to the saturator block. Please see the Help for additional information.
Membrane Separator – A Membrane is a selective barrier that permits the separation of certain species in a fluid by
sieving and sorption diffusion. The Membrane Separator simulates an asynchronous vapor phase separation. The
Membrane Separator requires one Process Stream inlet (Feed Stream) and two Process Stream outlets (Retentate
Stream and Permeate Stream).
Flare Tip – This block is designed to produce the desired destruction and/or combustion efficiency of the maximum
specified relief gas flow in a flare system. Smokeless operation can be achieved using steam, air, or high pressure
water. The Flare Tip calculates flow rate, pressure drop, outlet compositions, stack height, allowable distance from
stack, and other related parameters based on procedures outlined in API Standard 521, 6th ed.
Seal Drum - A Seal Drum in a flare gas system serves to stop flame propagation from flare tip back to flare headers by
quenching the flame with a barrier of liquid – usually water. It operates as a non-return device preventing
interaction from the outlet to the inlet of the drum, and also operates as an upstream pressure relief valve
preventing gas flow from the inlet to the outlet until a particular upstream pressure is reached. The Seal Drum block
calculates parameters such as the liquid volume, vessel diameter or dip leg height, and other related values based
on procedures outlined in API Standard 521, 6th ed.

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AutoKinetic Reactors

ProMax can perform simulations for a variety of catalytic processes including Isomerization, Catalytic Reforming,
Hydrodesulfurization, Hydrocracking, Hydrodewaxing, Hydroisomerization, Hydroskimming and Hydrofinishing for a range
of oil fractions spanning from light naphthas to heavy vacuum gas oils.
Oil Speciation – This block estimates the composition of a mixture of species that represents the bulk properties of a
given oil sample. The user defines the species list to be used and the block estimates a composition to fit the
specified oil assay.
Kinetics Calibrator – This tool provides an easy-to-use graphical interface to calibrate kinetic parameters from plant
data.
TBP Splitter – The TBP Splitter provides a quick, perfect separation of an inlet stream into as many as 10 cuts based on
TBP spreads. This represents the maximum quantities of each cut that could be produced.
Cut Point – A block for determining the performance of a fractionation unit. The block estimates the Cut Point
Temperature and the degree of cross contamination between the two streams connected to it.
Catalytic Fixed Bed – A block for modeling a complete fixed particle bed reactor vessel.
Top Bed – A block for modeling a fixed particle bed located at the top section of a reactor vessel.
Bed Section – A block for modeling a fixed particle bed located in a middle section of a reactor vessel.
Bottom Bed – A block for modeling a fixed particle bed located at the bottom section of a reactor vessel.

Distillation Columns

There are predefined distillation columns available from the stencil set that can be used for most common applications.
More complex arrangements may be setup by manually drawing the desired configuration.

ProMax provides two fundamental methods of calculating the column results: Ideal Stage and Mass + Heat Transfer. Ideal
stage modeling can be used for any application to simulate VLE, LLE, and VLLE columns. Ideal stage models use tray
efficiencies or HETP values to model trayed and packed columns using ideal stages. Column internals are generally not
required for Ideal Stage modelling, although they are required for amine absorbers as described in the following paragraph.

Most Ideal Stage model applications will use the “General Ideal Stage” Column Type, with exceptions for amine sweetening.
Amine absorbers will use the “TSWEET Kinetics” model, and amine regenerators will use the “TSWEET Stripper” model. The
“TSWEET Kinetics” model requires tray and column information to calculate the residence time on a tray to fully model the
reaction kinetics. Typical initial design input values are 70% flooding, a Real/Ideal Stage Ratio of 3, a system factor of 0.8,
tray spacing of 2 ft [0.6 m] and weir height of 3 in [7.6 cm]. These values are input in the Hardware grouping on the Stage
Data tab of the absorber column. Please see the ProMax Help for additional information on tower hardware specifications.

Mass + Heat Transfer-based modeling can also be used for all VLE applications. Mass + Heat Transfer models use the actual
number of trays in a column. Additionally, with the Mass + Heat Transfer model there is no need to assume an HETP for
packing as the actual packing height may be entered. However, column internals are required for all Mass + Heat Transfer
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modelling. Mass + Heat Transfer models account for departures from equilibrium temperatures between the phases.
Matching operating data may be easier with these models due to mass transfer correlation options.

For help with Mass + Heat Transfer column specification, please see the ProMax Help.

All columns must have a pressure profile set (i.e., pressure drop, or top and bottom pressure, etc…). In addition, each
condenser, reboiler, draw or pump-around adds a degree of freedom. Each degree of freedom requires a specification,
chosen from the following options.

By default, ProMax will solve to zero degrees of freedom. The “Allow over-specification” permits the selection of more
specifications than can be solved exactly, and ProMax will solve to the closest solution it can find based on a least-squares
methodology.

Available Column Specifications


Boiling Curve Gap – The difference between boiling curve temperatures at specified fractions for selected stage(s) and
phase(s). For example, the user can specify that the bottoms liquid from a distillation tower should have a 200°F
(110°C) gap between the 10% and 90% boiling curve temperatures for an ASTM D86 test.
Boil-up Ratio – The flow of vapor returned to the column from the reboiler divided by the flow of bottom product
(molar basis).
Component Flow/Composition – The flow rate or fraction of one or more of the available components in one of the
streams exiting the distillation column.
Component Ratio – The ratio determined by specifying a numerator, the flow of one or more components; and a
denominator, the flow of one or more other components.
Component Recovery – The ratio of the flow rate or fraction of one or more of the available components in one of the
streams exiting the column to the flow rate of the same selection in the total feed to the column.
o If a flow unit is chosen, this designates the fraction of the selected components from all feeds that will be sent
to the specified stream.
o If a fractional unit is chosen, the value is a dimensionless ratio of the fraction of the components in the
specified stream to the fraction of the components from all feeds. For example, if the feed to a deethanizer
contains 7.28 mol% ethane and the bottoms contains 14.45% ethane, then the ethane fraction recovery in the
bottoms is 14.45/7.28 = 1.985.
Cut Point – The boiling temperature of the oil at a certain percentage distilled for the specified stage and phase. All
distillation curves are calculated on a dry basis.
Draw Rate – The flow rate in one of the draw streams from the column.
Draw Recovery – The ratio of the flow rate of one of the streams exiting the distillation column to the flow rate of the
total feed to the column.
Duty – The duty associated with an unspecified energy stream attached to the distillation column. The value should be
positive for heat injected into the column (and the energy stream arrow points towards the column) and negative
for heat removed from the column (and the energy stream arrow points away from the column).
Flow Ratio – The ratio of the flow in a draw stream or on a stage to the flow in another draw stream or on another
stage.

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Fraction Vapor – The percentage of vapor in the total distillate or bottoms product. This specification is intended to be
used for a column with a partial condenser including a liquid draw from the reflux, or a reboiler with a vapor draw
from the vapor return stream. The column automatically calculates the liquid draw rate for the condenser or vapor
draw rate for the reboiler to meet the specified value. Note that this specification does NOT decrease the degrees
of freedom for the column; instead, it sets the percent split in the splitter involved.
Fuel Property – A fuel property for any phase on any stage. These properties are calculated on a dry basis, and include
the following options:

Cetane Index Naphthenic Mole Percent C:H Weight Ration


ASTM D93 Flash Point Aromatic Mole Percent ASTM D86 10% Cut Point
ASTM D611 Aniline Point Research Octane Number ASTM D86 50% Cut Point
Absolute Viscosity at 100F ASTM D97 Pour Point ASTM D86 90% Cut Point
Absolute Viscosity at 210F Refractive Index ASTM D1322 Smoke Point
API Gravity 60F/60F Watson K ASTM D2500 Cloud Point
Paraffinic Mole Percent Kinematic Viscosity at 40C
Phase Property – A phase property for any phase on any stage in the column. Select the desired property from the
drop-down list which includes all standard properties available for a stream (e.g. Temperature or Flow Rate) along
with the Reid Vapor Pressure and True Vapor Pressure.
Reflux Ratio – The flow of liquid from the condenser returned to the column divided by the flow of vapor and liquid
overhead products.

The following items are available through the specifications tab of the column but will not fulfill a degree of freedom.
These items are used as either an initial estimate for iteration purposes, or to report back values for parameters of interest.
Lean Approach – The equilibrium composition of the selected component for the specified stage and phase divided by
the calculated composition of the selected component for the same stage and phase. This specification is useful for
determining "Lean End Pinch" for amine sweetening absorbers, and also for determining the approach to
equilibrium water content in glycol dehydration contactors.
Pump-around Estimate – An estimate sometimes required for pumparound loops. Options are:
a. Fraction Feed Entering Column – If the pump-around path contains a mixer followed by a splitter, the
fraction of added material that reaches the column should be given as the estimate. For example, 100
mol/h of material is added to a 900 mol/h pump-around via a mixer, and 50 total mol/h of material is
subsequently removed from the pump-around via a splitter. The "Fraction Feed Entering Column" would
be 95% since 95 mol/h of the 100 mol/h feed reach the column. (5 mol/h or 10% of the 50 mol/h removed
via the splitter is attributable to the feed). If the splitter has a % split specified instead of an outlet flow
rate, this estimate is not required.
b. Fraction Draw Returned – If any stream between the draw and the return contains a splitter, the fraction
returned to the column should be given as an estimate. For example, if the pump-around draw is 1000
mol/h and 150 mol/h is removed from the pump-around via a splitter, then the "Fraction Draw Returned"
is 85%. If the splitter has a % split specified instead of an outlet flow rate, this estimate is not required.
c. Pump-around Duty – If duty is added to a pump-around by a heat exchanger (other than a condenser or
reboiler) or pump, an estimate may be required for the total pump-around duty amount (positive if
energy is added to the system). If the duty itself is specified, this estimate is not required.

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Rich Approach – The calculated concentration of a selected component in the liquid exiting a specified stage divided by
the equilibrium concentration based on the specified lean feed. Select either: "Maximum Loading", which reports
the rich approach as a percentage of the highest loading attainable (equilibrium), or "Excess Solvent", which reports
the rich approach as the percentage solvent flow in excess of the flow required for max load. This specification is
useful for determining "Rich End Pinch" for amine sweetening contactors.
Side Column Estimate – An estimate sometimes required for side columns. Estimate options are:
a. Fraction Feed Entering Column - If either path between the main and side columns contains a mixer followed
by a splitter, the fraction of added material that reaches the column should be given as the estimate. For
example, if 100 moles of material are added to the path from the main column to the side column via a mixer,
and 40 moles of material are subsequently removed from the same path to the side column via a splitter, the
"Fraction Feed Entering Column" would be 60%.
b. Fraction Draw Entering Column - If any stream between the main and side column contains a splitter, and
there is not a mixer like was mentioned above, the fraction that is returned should be given as the estimate.
For example, if the draw from the main column to the side column is 100 moles and 15 moles are removed
from the path to the side column via a splitter, then the "Fraction Draw Entering Column" is 85%.
c. Side Column Duty – If duty is added to the path from the main column to the side column, or from the side
column to the main column via a heat exchanger, the amount should be given as an estimate (positive if
energy is added to the system).

Fluid Drivers

All fluid drivers (blowers, compressors, expanders, and pumps) should have either an efficiency or performance curve
designated. An outlet pressure or change in pressure should also be defined. Recommended practice is to set the pressure
in the outlet stream, as doing so will maintain the set pressure even if the upstream pressure is changed.

Heat Exchangers

Pressure drops or outlet pressures must be supplied for each side of an exchanger. A pressure drop is more commonly
specified and is generally recommended.

Having pressure drops set on each side of a single-sided or two-sided exchanger leaves 1 degree of freedom around the
exchanger. This should be specified based on outlet stream temperatures, exchanger duty, UA, or approach temperatures.
Exchangers with more than two sides will have more than 1 degree of freedom, with the degrees of freedom being equal to
the number of sides minus 1.

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Mixers/Splitters

Mixers may have an unlimited number of streams mix together into one outlet stream, while splitters may have as many
outlet streams as needed from a single inlet. In splitters, the user may designate the percent splits within the block or the
flow rates in the outlet streams. Each inlet connection point on a mixer can accept multiple inlet streams. Mixers and
splitters have a default pressure drop of zero, but this may be changed if necessary. The outlet pressure of a mixer is equal
to its lowest inlet stream pressure minus any pressure drop designated in the mixer. Tees and wyes allow pressure drops
through the block to be calculated by specifying branch diameters, based on correlations found in Idelchik (2008).

ProMax Property Stencil

The ProMax Property Stencil is designed to add customizable functionality to ProMax, giving an option to embed and share
VBScript-based calculations. Many examples are available for use and modification. The Property Stencils may be found in
the “More Shapes” menu.

Single Line Property – Displays any single piece of information from the project on the flowsheet.
Property Input – Displays any user-defined parameter from the project on the flowsheet. The value may be modified
directly on the flowsheet by typing in the new value and pressing enter.
Property Connector – Connects to another property stencil, such as the “Property Calculator”, to allow the user to
quickly change a variable within that other stencil. This essentially changes the value of the variable within the
stencil to match whatever stream the other end of the “Property Connector” is attached to.
Property Calculator – Allows a user to write script calculations based on variables within ProMax. The results are
displayed directly on the flowsheet. Any number of variables can be defined by double-clicking in the grid area and
browsing through the tree diagram. Click on “Edit Script Function” to define what will be displayed on the
flowsheet.
Stream’s Cn+ GPM – Displays the potential Cn+ from any single stream in standard gallons per MSCF (thousand standard
cubic feet). The “n” may be modified by double-clicking on the shape, selecting “edit source” and then double-
clicking on the “intMinCAtoms” value and replacing the number (5 is the default).
Sum I/O Property – Displays the sum of a selected property across all input streams, if an input stream is selected; sums
the property across all outlet streams if an outlet stream is selected; or sums the property across all internal (non-
outlet/inlet) streams if an internal stream is selected.
API Vapor Relief Area – Deprecated (Use stream “Relief Valve Sizing Analysis” instead)
API Steam Relief Area – Deprecated (Use stream “Relief Valve Sizing Analysis” instead)

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Data Exchange – Allows bi-directional specifications between an embedded Excel workbook and ProMax. This feature is
most useful when writing compositions from Excel into ProMax.
Solver/Specifier Example – A shell that supplies a value to a script based ProMax Calculator (solver or specifier) with
appropriate VBScript edits. Allows the user to write solvers and specifiers with VBScript.
Cn+ GPM Solver – This stencil works identically to the [Cn+] solver on the following page except that the units solved for
will be standard gallons per MSCF.
Cn+ Flow/Frac. – Displays the total flow rate or fraction of any single stream of all components containing the minimum
carbon atoms. By default, it calculates the flow rate of C3+. It can report in molar, mass, normal vapor, standard
liquid or vapor, or volumetric units.
Flow Duplicator – Copies a reference stream’s composition and sets target stream flow rate. Pressure and temperature
are not set, and must be designated by the user. The target stream MUST be connected to a block, even if it is a
valve with 0 pressure drop. The flow rate will NOT update otherwise.
UA Wizard – Creates a solver on a selected variable to solve an exchanger to a user-specified UA, LMTD, Approach
Temperature, or percent over design.
Elemental Flow Example – Displays the total flow of a given element in a selected process stream.
Copy Stream – Copies a reference stream by transferring molar enthalpy, pressure, component mol fractions, and molar
flow rate. Target stream MUST be connected to a block, even if it is a valve with 0 pressure drop. The flow rate will
NOT update otherwise.
[Cn+] Solver – Manipulates a selected variable to achieve a desired Cn+ fraction or flow rate in a selected target stream.
A blank Simple Solver must be created on the manipulated variable prior to placing the stencil on the flowsheet.
The connector on the shape should then be placed on the target stream. The desired fraction or flow rate should
be defined by double-clicking on the shape and changing the value.
Pipeline Mach Number – Solves for a specified Mach number through the pipe. By default, it will change the flow rate
of the fluid until the Mach number is 1. The user should set an inlet flow rate as an initial guess for the solver. A
desired Mach value can be specified by double-clicking on the shape.
Flow Multiplier – Copies a reference stream’s molar enthalpy, pressure, and composition, then modifies the reference
stream’s flow rate by a multiplier. Default = 2x. Target stream MUST be connected to a block, even if it is a valve
with 0 pressure drop. The flow rate will NOT update otherwise.
Membrane – Solves for asynchronous vapor separation in a membrane. Permeability values and available membrane
area is defined in the block.
Membrane Permeabilities Example – Displays component permeability values directly on the flowsheet.
Orifice Plate – This can simulate either an orifice plate or a nozzle/venturi. It is capable of solving outlet pressure, inlet
pressure OR mass flow, depending on what is specified in the inlet and outlet streams. Double-click on the shape to
specify parameters.
Salt Example – Double-click on the shape to specify the stream in which an aqueous salt is desired. Then, select the
desired salt and the mass percent of the salt in the solution. The tool will then add the required acid and base to
the Environment, calculate the required amount of each in the stream, and define the composition based on this.
Chart – Allows the user to generate simple plots such as the column temperature profile or the temperature at each
increment through a heat exchanger. These plots can be generated using the Plots tab of these blocks, but the
Chart version can be conveniently placed on the flowsheet.
Component GPM – Displays the standard gallons per MSCF of any single selected component.
Date Example – Displays the project name and the created, saved, modified, and solved dates and times. This can be
modified by changing the solver scripts.
Phase Envelope – Displays the phase envelope of a selected stream on the flowsheet. The current stream conditions
are shown on the diagram with a red “X”.
Heat Transfer – Displays the heat transfer chart of a selected exchanger on the flowsheet.
Sum Component Flow/Frac. – Displays the sum of flows or fractions of components selected by the user. Many pre-
defined groups are available, such as BTEX and Greenhouse Gases, but any components in the selected stream may
be summed by choosing User Defined in the drop-down list.
GWP Calculator – Displays the global warming potential of a selected stream in mass flow of equivalent CO2.
Emission Factor – Calculates the emissions factor for pollutants in lb/bbl for a user-specified vapor and liquid Process
Stream. Pollutants include VOCs, Benzene, Toluene, Ethylbenzene, Xylenes, n-Hexane, and 2,2,4-Trimethylpentane.

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Flammable Limit – Estimates the upper and lower flammability limits for a hydrocarbon mix in ambient air.
Reversipator – This reverse separator calculates the pressurized liquid and flash gas compositions and flow rates by
supplying the temperature, pressure, flow rate, and composition of a condensate stream, and the temperature and
pressure of the pressurized liquid stream. Assumes that the condensate and pressurized liquid streams are at their
bubble point.
Oil/Water Emulsion – This will modify the properties of an existing Single Oil to create an emulsion, and save this new
component into the current Environment. The water volume fraction is then specified by double-clicking on the
shape.
Depressurization Example – This tool estimates an orifice diameter required to depressurize a vessel to a given pressure
in a given amount of time. The user should set the vessel volume, vent pipe diameter, vessel initial pressure and
temperature, downstream pressure, target pressure, time to reach target pressure, etc.
Latent Heat Example – This example estimates the latent heat of a stream from one vapor fraction to another at
constant pressure.
Heat of Vaporization – An alternative method of estimating the heat of vaporization of a stream.
P/H Diagram – Displays the Pressure/Enthalpy diagram of a selected stream on the flowsheet. The current stream
conditions are shown on the diagram with a red “X”.
P/S Diagram – Displays the Pressure/Entropy diagram of a selected stream on the flowsheet. The current stream
conditions are shown on the diagram with a red “X”.
Inline Flow Multiplier – Transfers a process stream’s conditions and composition from one connected stream to
another. The flow specification is set from the source stream and multiplied by the Flow Multiplier parameter. The
user has the ability to select which properties to transfer to the target stream.
HTRI Data Transfer – This shape is designed to facilitate direct data transfer from a ProMax heat transfer unit operation
to an HTRI ® input file. A licensed copy of the HTRI software must be installed on the computer to use this tool. The
data transferred from ProMax to HTRI includes inlet and outlet conditions for the heat transfer, along with the
thermodynamic property data required by HTRI.
Calculator Callout – Displays calculator related information directly on the PFD.
Stream’s Component Ratio – Displays a stream's user-defined component ratio.
Tank Losses – Follows the AP-42 methodology for calculating the rate and composition of volatile losses from a liquid
storage tank. Working losses, breathing losses, loading losses, and flashing losses are calculated for liquid storage
tanks operating at or near atmospheric pressure, and are suitable to calculate the average annual or monthly loss
rate for environmental reporting applications.
Liquid Dielectric Constant – Estimate the liquid dielectric constant for a process stream.
Block Calculator – Creates a new stencil that is based on an existing block from the flowsheet. The stencil saves user
defined properties (e.g., temperature on an outlet stream) and specifiers or solvers associated with the block. The
values can be changed from the dialog for each user defined property. A “Master Name” should be selected for
the stencil name, and then “Store in Stencil” selected to save the shape. Once stencils have been saved, the
“Save” button in the top right-hand corner of the stencil will save the stencil for future use. Both this saved stencil
group and the ProMax property stencil set must be open to use these created stencils.
Shape Converter – Modifies any Visio object into a ProMax shape. Connection points can be added from the
connection point tool (in the same group as the connector tool); block type and connection point assignments are
made in the stencil. Once both the shape and stencil set are saved, the shape may be used in any project.
Shape Swap – Drag this shape out and drop it on a ProMax shape to switch it with another compatible ProMax block
shape.

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Updating the Property Stencil
The ProMax Property Stencil occasionally has updates in between Promax patch updates. To update this tool:
1. Obtain a copy of the new version from the files from BR&E Support.
2. Save the ProMax Property Stencil file to the following location and overwrite the previous version:
In ProMax version 5.0:
C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\Bryan Research & Engineering LLC\ProMax5\AddOns\Visio\en\
ProMax Property Stencil.vss

In ProMax version 4.0:


C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\Bryan Research & Engineering Inc\ProMax4\AddOns\Visio\en

3. Open the ProMax Property Stencil.vss file and if prompted about macros, click the “Trust All from Publisher” button.
If no prompt appears, continue to the following step.
4. Close this file.
5. In ProMax, open the stencil by clicking on More Shapes.

The new Property Stencil set will be displayed with a new version number.

Reactors

There are several options for reactors in ProMax, including Conversion, Equilibrium, Gibbs Minimization, Plug Flow, Plug
Flow with Mass Transfer, Stirred Tank, and Stirred Tank with Mass Transfer. The reactors discussed in this training are
generally designed for sulfur recovery units, so this section will focus on the Gibbs Minimization option. The other options
require reaction sets to be defined and used; for more information on these reactors and reaction sets, please see the
ProMax Help.

Within the Gibbs Minimization choice there are “Gibbs Sets” options that are explained below. Each step of the sulfur
recovery process has a corresponding Gibbs Set, with many constraints and reactive species predefined.

General – This option can be used for any general reactor type for which the Gibbs Minimization option will be used.
This does not include any constraints and all species are reactive.
Acid Gas Burner – This set includes constraints on COS and CS2 production during the burning of acid gases, and should
be used when modeling a burner that has either H2S or CO2 in the feed. The NSERC correlations are valid for an
8%-98% (mol) H2S composition and 0.1%-5% (mol) CO2 composition.
Burner – This model has no constraints set by default, and all components are Gibbs Reactive (i.e. all components are
included in the reaction). Can be used to model incinerators, Reducing Gas Generators (RGGs), or fuel gas burners.
Claus Bed – For all typical Claus beds, this choice is best. All species involved in the Claus reaction are reactive. Note:
COS and CS2 are not reactive at typical conditions for the Claus reactors.

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Equilibrium Hydrolyzing Claus Bed – As opposed to the “Claus Bed” option, the “Hydrolyzing Claus Bed” allows the COS
and CS2 to react, as this bed is designed to be operated at higher temperatures and with a specialized catalyst to
destroy these species.
GPSA Hydrolyzing Claus Bed – This option adds constraints to the destruction of COS and CS2 in concordance with the
correlations from Section 22 of the GPSA Data Book.
Reaction Set Only – A reaction set should be created for this option, otherwise no reactions will occur. Gibbs Reactive
components are selected to match the reaction set, and cannot be overridden.
Sub-Dewpoint Claus Bed – This choice best models those Claus beds that are operated where sulfur condenses directly
on the catalyst and the bed undergoes a regeneration cycle.
Sulfur Condenser – The Sulfur Condenser allows further reactions for sulfur redistribution at the cooling temperatures,
but no other reactions.
Sulfur Direct Oxidation – This selection is for sulfur recovery units that utilize direct oxidation methods typically used
where the H2S concentration is too low for combustion, even with a split flow configuration.
Sulfur Hydrogenation – The hydrogenation option models the reactions of the tail gas with an oxidizing stream to
recreate H2S as the stream is passed on to an amine tail-gas treating unit.
Sulfur Partial Oxidation – The "Sulfur Partial Oxidation" or SUPERCLAUS® type Reactor uses a special catalyst for
"selective oxidation" that converts almost all of the H 2S directly to sulfur and is usually the final bed in a Claus unit.
In ProMax, Sulfur Direct Oxidation mainly converts H 2S to SO2, whereas Sulfur Partial Oxidation converts the H 2S to
elemental sulfur.
Sulfur Redistribution – This option is used to represent the second pass of the waste-heat boiler in a typical Claus
burner-WHB setup. The only reactions allowed in this Gibbs set are for the redistribution of the sulfur species; no
other species are allowed to react. This can also be used to model reheaters more accurately.
Sulfur Thermal Reaction Zone – This is used to model the first pass of the waste-heat boiler. Constraints are added to a
few components that cease reacting once the temperature has cooled below a set temperature.

Recycles

Process Recycle – This block is used when any downstream material is recycled back into the process upstream.
Analyzing the flowsheet to reduce the number of recycles necessary by combining as many as possible is typically
encouraged, as this will reduce the execution time.
o The stream exiting the recycle block must be fully user-defined, including temperature, pressure,
composition, and flow rate. This guess provides ProMax a place to begin its execution, and is overwritten
each time the recycle iterates. This block is considered “solved” when the stream entering the recycle
block is the same, within tolerances, as the stream exiting.
o All recycle blocks default to a priority of 1 but priority should be adjusted to match the necessary solve
order. Priorities may be set as any integer number with higher priority numbers solved first.
Q-Recycle – This block is used when energy is taken from somewhere downstream and applied to an upstream location.
Often this occurs with a glycol reflux coil, as the amount of cooling that occurs in the coil is generally dependent
upon the specification of the distillation column, and the outlet temperature of the rich glycol is not directly
controlled, even though it is upstream of the column. This case is demonstrated in later in this guide.
o The initial guess for a Q-Recycle is provided in the block itself, unlike with the Process Recycle. This guess
is provided as the “Calculated Value” on the Process Data tab. Priority, zero by default, should be
adjusted to match the necessary solve order. Higher priority numbers solve first. Bounds and step size
are optional, and typically not recommended.
Propagation Terminal – The propagation terminal is a specialized recycle block designed to be used in closed-loop
systems where no material enters or leaves the loop, such as those found in refrigeration loops and hot oil loops.
o The terminal allows chosen properties to propagate through the block, unlike a recycle block that will
break all propagation. Two properties should be selected, typically pressure and temperature, but this
depends on how the loop is specified. Please read the ProMax Help or review the ProMax example files
for more information on how to use a propagation terminal.
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Separators

Two Phase Separator – This block allows the separation of liquid and vapor phases of a process stream. There may be
multiple inlet streams attached to the separator but only two outlets: one vapor and one liquid. A pressure drop or
outlet pressure must be specified. Energy streams may also be attached. If this is done, an additional degree of
freedom is given, and should be specified as an outlet temperature or fraction vapor in the separator.
Three Phase Separator – This block is similar to the two-phase separator, except that the three-phase separator allows
separation of vapor, light-liquid, and heavy-liquid phases. On the Process Data tab, there is an option for the “Main
Liquid Phase”. This allows the user to specify whether the liquid phase should use the light- or heavy-liquid outlet if
there is only one liquid phase predicted by ProMax.
Entrainment – This property may be set within a separator for any phase into any other phase, on a variety of bases.
The values are user-defined.

Streams

Process Stream – ProMax is a stream-based simulator; therefore, process streams typically contain most of the
specifications. For a stream to be fully specified, two “flash variables” (these include temperature, pressure, mole
fraction vapor, and enthalpy), a flow rate, and a composition should be known or propagated from upstream or
downstream.
Energy Stream – These are dotted streams representing the energy input or removed from blocks such as compressors,
pumps, some heat exchangers and separators, etc.
Cross Flowsheet Connector – These allow stream information to cross from one flowsheet to another. If a process
stream is connected, then pressure, enthalpy, and molar fractions are transferred. Since Property Packages may
change between flowsheets, warnings can be set for any variation in these values from one flow sheet to another.
The user also has the ability to choose not to transfer components that are below a specified mole fraction in the
stream. This gives the ability to limit the number of components in the new Environment to decrease the
execution time.

Valves

JT Valve – The valve has several icons available, but all are identical in their operation. Typically, a pressure drop across
the valve or an outlet pressure is specified. In some rare cases, an outlet temperature or fraction vapor may be
specified. Valves may additionally be utilized to model a control valve or differential flow meter, allowing ProMax
to estimate the pressure drop for the block based upon correlations for these operations.

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UNIT CONVERSIONS IN PROMAX
A drop-down list of various unit sets is available from the ProMax Ribbon Bar or the ProMax Project Viewer. This selection
will update the default units displayed for all streams and properties in the current project.

If a single property is to be displayed in a different unit, most properties have a drop-down menu available where the
current unit assignment is displayed. Selecting in this cell will provide new unit options as demonstrated below.

If a particular unit is not available in the dropdown menu, it can be typed directly into the unit box. The ProMax Help lists
acceptable abbreviations for all units available in ProMax.

ProMax will automatically convert any value if the assigned units are changed. Thus, the user should set the correct units
before manually entering a value for an individual property. Alternatively, the user can type a value followed directly with
its desired units when specifying a property value.

DEFINING AN OIL
ProMax has two oil classifications: Single Oil and Curve Oil. These can be created from the “Oil” option on the ProMax
Ribbon. A description for creating the oils can be found below. A Single Oil is treated as a single component and can be
used to model a single hypothetical component, such as a C6+ fraction. A Curve Oil is treated as a collection of several
“cuts” and is used to model a crude oil with a large boiling range, typically defined by a TBP curve or D86 curve. Unlike a
Single Oil, a Curve Oil may be fractionated in a distillation column.

After creating an oil, it must be added to the desired Environment(s) from the Environment dialog, under the components
tab.

Single Oil
To define a Single Oil, one of the following combinations must be
provided at a minimum:

• Volume Average Boiling Point


• Molecular Weight AND Specific Gravity
• Molecular Weight AND API Gravity

All other information can be estimated by ProMax using common


correlations. These correlated values may be overwritten; every
additional piece of information provided by the user will improve
the prediction accuracy as the correlations are updated.

Once added to the Environment, the Single Oil is found in the


component list as a single component, with the properties that
were previously specified.

24
Curve Oil
To define a Curve Oil, a boiling point curve must be provided to
ProMax. This curve can be on several bases, with the most
common being D86 and TBP curves. If it is available, the TBP
curve is preferable because ProMax will first convert other
curves into an estimated TBP curve before creating the oil.

Independent curve data for Specific Gravity, Molecular Weight,


and High and Low Temperature Viscosity may also be provided
to better define the oil, if available.

Once the curve data is entered, ProMax will calculate additional


properties of the oil. If any of these bulk properties, such as the
API gravity or molecular weight, are known the ProMax’s
predictions can be overwritten.

The second tab, “Cut Points”, provides a preview and allows


modification to how ProMax plans to cut this oil into individual components. The number of cuts ProMax should take in a
given temperature range may be specified.

The predicted properties of each cut point are given in the table on the Cut Points tab.

The “Light Ends” tab allows the user to designate whether there are any light ends involved with this Curve Oil. These
components, typically hexanes, heptanes, and other known hydrocarbons in the oil, will have better properties and
interactions if ProMax can use the pure components instead of estimates from a Curve Oil. The options are:

• Light Ends Free – This sets no light ends in the oil.


• Light Ends Generated – ProMax will generate an estimate of the amount of each light end that is in the oil. The
user must designate which components are present.
• Light Ends Supplied – The user must provide information on which components are present and how much of each
component is in the oil.

The “Correlations” tab provides information on all of the correlations ProMax is using for each property of the oil. Many of
these correlations have alternatives that can be selected for more accurate predictions if the default predictions are not
close enough.

The “Plots” tab provides several charts of the physical properties of the oil as a visual aid. These should be used to verify
that the expected results are achieved.

25
Speciated Oil
The most advanced oil characterization method available in ProMax is through the Oil Speciation tool. This tool provides a
composition of a mixture of species that represents the bulk properties of a given oil sample, and provides a complex
mixture from assay data. Look for more in-depth information in the ProMax Help, or at an advanced training course.

CREATING NEW FLOWSHEETS


ProMax allows the user to have as many flowsheets in a project as desired. Each flowsheet may have a separate
Environment to allow multiple processes to be modeled in the same project. Additional flowsheets can be added using the
ProMax “Flowsheets” menu option.

Alternatively, the user may right-click on the flowsheet tabs area below the flowsheet and “Add Flowsheet…”.

Note: The  symbol and “Insert” options will insert a Visio page, not a ProMax flowsheet. These can be useful for certain
types of drawings, but are not capable of executing ProMax calculations. ProMax objects drawn on a Visio page will display
in black and white.

When creating a new flowsheet, the assigned Environment can be an existing Environment, a duplicate (copy) of an existing
Environment that can then be modified, or a new Environment to be fully defined.

Once the flowsheet is created, a cross-flowsheet connector may be used to have a process or energy stream flow from one
flowsheet to another. This block will appear on both of the two connected flowsheets as an arrow shape to indicate the
process or energy flow direction. The process or energy flow directions must agree on both sides of the connector (e.g. an
input on one sheet must be an output on the other).

AVAILABLE ANALYSES IN PROMAX


Analyses can be added to any stream in ProMax by clicking on the “Analyses” tab from the Project Viewer and selecting
“Add Analysis…” towards the bottom of the screen. The options are:

Amine Analysis – Presents information on carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, and total acid gas loading in an amine stream.
It also shows the pH and Molarity of the stream.

Choke Analysis - After the Choke Analysis has been added to a stream, the Pipe Diameter and one of the following: Throat
Diameter, Maximum Downstream Pressure, or Mass Flow can be specified to calculate choke parameters.
26
Combustion Analysis – Determines the required combustion oxygen for a stream, as well as various heating values, the
Wobbe Index, Motor Octane Number, Methane Number, and Heat Release value.

Composition Subset – Calculates properties and flow rates on selected component “groups” within a stream, e.g. “C3+
Hydrocarbons”, “BTEX”, “Kerosene”, “Sulfur Components”, etc. User-defined grouping is also available.

Control Valve – Estimates many properties of a selected control valve for use in a process stream. Tables and plots of the
valve Cv, choked pressure drops, and choked mass flow may also be produced.

Differential Pressure Flow Meter – Calculates the pressure drop, flow resistance, flow coefficient, and other properties for
orifice, nozzle, and venturi flow meters. Other flow meter types may be modeled by specifying the permanent pressure
drop ratio and discharge coefficient. A resistance coefficient calculated from the analysis may also be used as an input for a
fitting segment in a pipeline.

Distillation Curves – Presents a table and plot of a distillation curve based on TBP, ASTM D86, ASTM D1160, ASTM
D2887/SD, or EFV on either a wet or dry basis of the selected stream.

Freeze Out, Hydrate, H2O Dew Point – Determines the solids formation temperature, water content, and water dew point
for any stream phase, including multiple hydrate points, structures and regions. This last point may be useful if operating
below the highest hydrate point, but not in the hydrate region.

Fuel Properties – Predicts fuel properties of the stream, including the Flash Point, high- and low- temperature viscosity, API
gravity, various ASTM cut points, and the smoke or cloud point.

Gas Well IPR Analysis – Calculates relationship between production rate and flowing bottom hole pressure. Calculations are
based on Beggs (2012).

Ionic Information – Presents information on the ions present in the stream if an electrolytic Environment is being used,
including ionic and salt compositions, and pH values.

Line Sizing – Calculates the required nominal pipe size based on a limited gas velocity, pressure drop, or both. Inputs can
include the inclination angle, pipe schedule, pipe roughness, material of construction, corrosion allowance, and other
variables.

Mixed Species Analysis – The Mixed Species Analysis allows the user to display the actual stream composition for streams
containing non-proprietary Mixed Species components.

Oil Well IPR Analysis - Calculates relationship between production rate and flowing bottom hole pressure. Calculations are
based on Beggs (2012).

Phase Envelope – Generates a plot and table from a stream on either a wet or dry basis. By default, a bubble/dew point
curve is created, but this can be modified. ProMax automatically matches the bubble-point curve if the dew-point curve is
requested, and similarly will match the 90% curve with the 10% curve, etc… A Hydrate Curve, Dry Ice Curve, or Ice Curve can
also be included.

Pipe Leak Analysis – Calculates either Mass Flow out of a hole in a pipe if the Hole Diameter is specified, or the Hole
Diameter if the Total Mass Flow Through Hole is specified.

Relief Valve Sizing – Estimates a relief valve size by following a chosen standard, with the default being the ASME API
RP520. Relief Temperature and Pressure, Set Pressure, Over Pressure, Back Pressure, Flow Rates, Coefficients, and
Corrections are all available for specification. The stream Latent Heat can also be found on this analysis as defined by the
standard.

Salt Deposition Analysis – Calculates the deposition temperatures of specific salts or other pure solids present in
the stream.
Shortcut Distillation - Estimates ideal stage requirement, feed location, and minimum reflux ratio for a process
stream.
Vapor Pressure, Dew, Bubble Point – Calculates Bubble and Dew Point pressures and temperatures on a wet or dry basis.
The True Vapor Pressure (TVP) at 100°F and the Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) can also be calculated.

27
IDEAL STAGE AND MASS + HEAT TRANSFER COLUMN TYPES
ProMax offers both Ideal Stage (equilibrium-based) and Heat + Mass Transfer (non-equilibrium-based) calculation models.
Both models are powerful tools for examining column performance.

Ideal Stage
Ideal Stage models are often used in the design process when determining column configuration, optimum reflux, and
other operating conditions. Since the calculations are relatively simple, the ideal stage models solve quickly, and generally
give consistent results. These models can be used for all applications, with no need to research correlations for unusual
systems or limitations against two liquid phases.

There are 3 column types available when using ideal stage models:

General Ideal Stage – A general equilibrium-based tower type for most distillation types.

TSWEET Kinetics – Designed for amine absorption of acid gases, this model accounts for the rate-dependent kinetic effects
of the slower reaction rate of CO2 with amines and is required for accurate predictions. Some column hardware
information must be user-defined.

TSWEET Stripper – Created for amine regeneration, this model assumes a 50% efficient column, operating with a condenser
and reboiler, at reasonable pressures and temperatures. No hardware is required to be user-set, however the number of
stages should be set keeping in mind the 50% efficiency inherent to the model. If using a thermosiphon reboiler, or
operating at unusual conditions, please see the Promax Help or contact Support for assistance.

Mass + Heat Transfer


Mass + Heat Transfer models account for non-equilibrium behavior in a column. This model type allows the user to specify
the actual number of trays or height of packing, without making assumptions on the HETP or column efficiencies.
Correlations for many applications are available within ProMax. Mass + Heat Transfer columns provide multiple correlation
options and adjustable parameters for matching operating data and adjusting predicted performance. This model requires
detailed column hardware information for all trays and packing columns.

There are 2 column types available when using Mass + Heat Transfer models:

General Mass + Heat Transfer – A general Mass + Heat Transfer model for most distillation types.

TSWEET Absorber / Stripper – Created for amine absorption and regeneration kinetics.

28
EXPORT / APPEND PROJECT
ProMax has the ability to export entire projects to be appended to other
ProMax projects. This is a simple two-step process that will import all
streams, blocks, specifications, calculators, Environments, User Value Sets, and
other information from one project into another project.

1. Within the project to be exported, select the “Export Project”


option in the “File” menu. Save the file as a “.pmxexp” file type.

2. With the destination project open, select the “Append Project”


option in the “File” menu and browse for the desired
“.pmxexp” file.

This process will import the entire project to the new project.

If this option is used often for specific processes, it is recommended to have single flowsheets for each
Tip process so they can easily be combined into the new project.

PROMAX REPORTS
ProMax provides several options for generating a report after a project has been completed. The Report Options window
shown below is accessed by clicking the “Report” button in the ProMax Ribbon.

2
1
3

1. Optionally supply a Client Name, Location and Job. This will be added to the first page of the report.

2. Choose the output file type, most commonly Word or Excel format. “Template” allows the use of a customized report
designed in Excel. Information can be found in the Help, or by asking BR&E Support.

3. Units configuration should be set here. By default, ProMax will override any unit changes that have been made in
streams and blocks so that the same units will be displayed throughout the report. If the “Override Units” checkbox is
29
unselected, unit changes made for individual streams or blocks will stay as the selected units for the report. This
section also allows the report to be displayed based on Fraction or Percentage and Absolute or Gauge pressures,
regardless of how the project was created.

4. The tree control diagram allows the user to select which pieces of information are included in the report. To report
the entire project, check the top-most box. A user may select individual flowsheets, process streams, Environments,
User Value Sets, or almost any other desirable combination to report.

5. Which stream properties to report are selected here. The selected properties may be rearranged into any order.
Selected options are “checked” and found at the top of the list. The composition bases available are listed to the
right.

6. Block options are available below the stream options. The selections here will vary depending on the project, but can
include various plots or analyses that the user may want included in the report based on the blocks in the project.
Heat exchanger specification sheets can be created from the options, and are available if the Word report format is
selected and a rated exchanger is included in the simulation.

7. If the user would like either the drawing of the flowsheets or the warnings summary included with the report, they
can select the corresponding options in the window.
Select “OK” when the selections are complete. ProMax will then open a dialog asking for a file save location, and then
the report will be created.
The “Report Navigator” tool will appear when the Report is opened, and can assist in finding information from a
generated report. This navigator does not use a license, but is only available on computers with ProMax installed.

GIBBS MINIMIZATION REACTORS IN PROMAX


Defining Reactors
This course will focus exclusively on Gibbs Minimization reactors in ProMax. Stoichiometric equations are not required for
this reactor type; rather, equilibrium is determined by minimizing the product free energy. This is a good estimation when
there is sufficient energy available for the reactions to overcome any activation energy barriers and go to equilibrium. In
ProMax, select “Gibbs Minimization” from the “Type” field to enable these estimations.

In many cases, reactors do not have sufficient energy for all possible reactions to occur that are predicted by Gibbs
Minimization estimations. To account for this, ProMax has a family of Gibbs Set constraints, with each member designed
for specific purposes (see Page 18 for a complete list of Gibbs Sets).

Along with choosing the correct Gibbs Set, all reactors need a pressure drop to be defined.

The “Bypass Fraction” setting reflects the percent of material that passes through the reactor without reacting. This value
can be used to estimate reactor efficiencies as well as the effects of catalyst deactivation over time.

30
UTILIZING SHORT MONIKERS AND THE MONIKER CLIPBOARD
A moniker in ProMax is essentially the name given to each object or property within the project. As seen throughout the
program, such as when adding variables in solvers and specifiers, finding these monikers in ProMax often leads the user to
expand through a “tree” diagram with (+) signs opening to sub-categories.

Two shortcuts are available to find a moniker.

The first option copies the moniker value to a clipboard within the
project. This is performed by right-clicking on the property (e.g.
stream flow rate or temperature) to be used in a specifier, solver, or
property table within the project. Select the “Copy Moniker to
Clipboard” option from the context menu.

Later, when selecting this variable, choose the “Clipboard” option at the
top-right above the tree diagram. Note that only one moniker may be on the
clipboard at a time.

The second option creates a named local variable that is stored within
the project and can be referenced later. This is performed by right-
clicking on the property to be used, and selecting “Add to Short
Moniker List”. Name the variable in the dialog and “Add/reset” the
moniker.

Once created, this local variable can be accessed from any moniker
location by choosing the “Short Moniker” option located above the tree
diagram. Note that not all variables, such as compositions, can be added
as short monikers or to the clipboard using the right-click feature.

The Moniker Builder button in the ProMax ribbon (pictured at right) allows the user to
create short monikers and add variables to the clipboard using the tree diagram as opposed
Tip to right-clicking on the desired variable. With this button, short monikers can be made for
any variable, including compositions.

31
Optimizing A Model
OVERVIEW
There are extensive optimization options available within ProMax. ProMax simulations can interact with Excel to import &
export data between the two programs, and can also be used along with ProMax to run case studies or sensitivity studies to
help understand and predict a unit’s behavior. Microsoft VBA coding provides additional opportunities for project
customization.

Calculators can be used to automate simulations and optimize process conditions. Simple Specifiers are used to set the
value of a property based on the value of other known variables or constants. Simple Solvers automatically adjust a
parameter to maintain a spec or goal elsewhere in the process. User Value Sets can be created to store user-defined
variables for additional calculations.

EXCEL INTERACTIONS
ProMax has several methods to interact with outside programs, most notably Microsoft Excel. The following pages outline
how to use the two most popular Excel applications: Import/Export and Scenario Tool™.

Import/Export from Excel


The simplest Excel interaction is the import/export functionality that is available between ProMax and an embedded Excel
workbook.

To embed a workbook, select the “Add Excel Workbook” option from the ProMax Ribbon. This workbook is embedded
within ProMax and will open, close, and save with the project. It is not available outside of the ProMax project unless a
copy is created in another Excel workbook that is not connected with ProMax.

Once an Excel workbook is embedded, right-


clicking on most properties in ProMax will give
an option for “Export to/Import from
Excel”. Selecting this allows the user to
choose the preferred unit set to be
transferred with the value, along with the cell in
Excel where the property will be
connected.

Both exporting and importing are allowed if there is no value in the ProMax field; however, if there is a value in the ProMax
field then importing options will be disabled and only exporting will be allowed. To delete an incorrect or unwanted
Export/Import connection, right-click on any property and select “Delete Exporting to/Importing from Excel” to bring up a
list of all existing Export/Import connections.

Compositions are exported as an array from the top of the components list down. Select a range of
cells that corresponds to the number of components to export. For example, if the component list has
15 items and only 5 cells in Excel are selected, the top 5 components will be exported. Individual
Tip component’s composition within the list cannot be exported with this tool, as selecting one cell will
always export the top component in the list. Individual components can be exported using the
Scenario Tool, which is explained on the following page.

32
Using the Scenario Tool™ in ProMax
ProMax includes an Excel Add-in that allows the user to create case studies for any unit created in ProMax. The Scenario
Tool™ may be used in either an embedded or external Excel workbook. This tool provides access to all of the functionality
of Excel, such as creating graphs or using “in-house” worksheet formulas for manipulating and interpreting data.

1. Open Excel (can be an embedded or external Excel workbook) and look for the tool under the ProMax ribbon.

If the Scenario Tool is not already available under the ProMax ribbon in Excel it can be added manually by double-
clicking the ProMax Scenario Tool.xla file at the following default locations:
ProMax 5.0: C:\Users\Public\Documents\Bryan Research & Engineering LLC\ProMax5\AddOns\Excel\
ProMax Scenario Tool.xlam
ProMax 4.0: C:\Users\Public\Documents\Bryan Research & Engineering Inc\ProMax4\AddOns\Excel.
2. Start the Scenario Tool in Excel by clicking on the “Scenario Tool” option.
3. Select from the drop-down list the appropriate ProMax file to be used. A name can be given to the scenario, and the
“Manage Scenarios” button to the right allows for handling multiple scenarios.

4. Organize in Excel the input parameters to be supplied to ProMax and the output locations to display the calculated
results.

5. Add the Input variables to the Tool by using the “Add Variable” button in the ProMax Inputs section. Use the “Select
ProMax Object” button to select the desired ProMax variable. Name the variable, select the desired Excel range for
this variable, and verify the units are correct.

6. Add the Output variables by using the “Add Variable” button in the ProMax Outputs section.
7. Run the tool, selecting which set of “runs” to execute.

The EZ Setup Tool opens a “wizard” to help set up a scenario step-by-step, and the 2D Grid Setup Tool
Tip is designed for easily setting a grid with two input variables and one output variable, respectively.

33
USING CALCULATORS IN PROMAX
Using Simple Specifiers in ProMax
A Simple Specifier is used to set the value of a property based on the value of other known variables or constants. To set a
specifier, right-click on the property to be calculated, then select Create Simple Specifier.

1. Name the Simple Specifier.

2. Write the expression that defines the specified variable. This must be a single-line expression, but can have
multiple independent variables. Note that the independent variables must be known and calculated prior to the
specified variable being used.

3. A unit selection is also made. ProMax will maintain this selection even if project units are altered.
4. Select the Add button to add the Independent Variables to be
used in the specifier. The Property Moniker dialog box, as shown
to the right, will appear.

5. From the variable selection dialogue, begin expanding the tree


through the project, flowsheets, stream or block, down to the
desired independent variable. When a valid selection is picked,
the gray box below the tree will fill in with a moniker string.
6. Upon selecting the variable, type a unique name to briefly identify
the value. This name must not include any special characters, with
the exception of the underscore (_); a space will be replaced with
an underscore. The name must not start with a number and is
case-sensitive.
7. Select Add when finished, and repeat for as many variables as
required for the specifier. When an independent variable has
been selected, it will appear in the Independent Variables list with
its name, value, and units as shown below.

Selecting the “Hold” check box in the Property Moniker dialog box will keep the dialog open after
Tip adding the current variable, simplifying the process of adding multiple independent variables.

34
Using Simple Solvers in ProMax
A Simple Solver is used to adjust one variable in order to hit a goal or spec on another variable in a process. A Simple Solver
must be used if ProMax will need to iterate to find the desired solution.
For example, if the goal is to adjust the flow rate of air fed to a Claus unit to achieve a set tail gas ratio of H2S to SO2, a
Simple Solver could be placed in the inlet air flow rate field. ProMax will use the solver criteria to iterate on the air flow
rate until it achieves the desired tail gas ratio.
To create a Simple Solver, right click on the property that the solver is to adjust and select Create Simple Solver.
1. Name the Simple Solver.

2. ProMax will iterate the Calculated Variable until the equation written here is equal to zero, so the equation must
be written with this in mind.

3. Select the Add button to open a tree dialog as shown in the Specifier example on page 34. Add the Measured
Variable to be used. This is the value ProMax will measure to see if it meets the goal (in this case, the tail gas
ratio).

4. A guess for the “Calculated Value” must also be supplied to give the solver a starting point. Upper and lower
bounds may be set, though this is usually not necessary and will cause the solver to fail if the solution is outside of
the given bounds.

5. A Priority must be set if multiple solvers are present in the simulation for acceptable execution time. It is
suggested that the solvers be prioritized to solve sequentially, with loops solving from the “inside out”.

Writing the Simple Solver Expression:


1. For this example, the Tail Gas Ratio should equal 2 when solved: TailGasRatio = 2
2. Since ProMax expects to solve at zero, this is rewritten: TailGasRatio – 2 = 0
3. ProMax needs only the function written, so the “0 = ” is omitted: TailGasRatio – 2

While writing the function as “TailGasRatio – 2” is acceptable, it is highly recommended that each
Tip Simple Solver expression be “normalized” to aid in convergence. Normalizing the above expression
results in the following: “TailGasRatio/2 – 1”

35
USER DEFINED VARIABLES
ProMax provides a method to define a variable that it does not calculate otherwise. These variables are stored in User
Value Sets, so they may be grouped together as desired. To add a new user-defined variable:

1. Open the Project Viewer and select (double-click) the User Value
Set from the tree diagram in which to add the new variable. If a
new User Value Set needs to be created, right-click on the “User
Value Sets” option in the tree diagram of the Project Viewer and
select “Add”.

2. It is recommended to change the name of the User Value Set to


something descriptive.
3. Select “Add…” to create the new variable.
4. From the new dialog box that appears, tell ProMax what type of
unit this variable will have associated with it. There are three
choices:
a. User Defined Units – Define units for this variable based
on units ProMax can understand, but in an unusual
sequence that is not available in the “Standard Units”
list (e.g. kW*h/ft2). ProMax can perform unit
conversions from these defined units.
b. Unrecognized Units – Define units for this variable
based on something ProMax cannot understand, such
as monetary units (e.g. $, £). Unit conversions are not
available.
c. Standard Units – Select from the list which set of units
this variable will have. ProMax will provide a dropdown
list of available units as normal.

5. Choose whether to associate this variable with a new Simple


Specifier. Choose to associate with a Simple Specifier if any
information must be taken from within the project to calculate
this variable’s value (e.g. flow rates, compositions, horsepower,
etc…). If the value for this variable will be set directly by the
user, leave this unmarked (e.g. setting an ambient temperature
for use in the project).
6. Name the variable and select “OK”.
7. If the user has selected to associate this with a Simple Specifier,
it will create an undefined specifier. Right-click on the blue box,
select “Show Calculator” and define the requirements. Please
see Using Simple Specifiers in ProMax on page 34 for further
details.
8. If there is not a specifier associated with this variable, the user
types the desired value for this variable directly into the
parameter box.
9. Lower and upper bounds are optional, but may be set. If the
“Enforce Bounds” box is selected, a warning message box will be
generated if the variable falls outside either of these bounds.

36
Equipment Sizing & Rating Overview
OVERVIEW
ProMax provides sizing and rating capabilities for many different types of equipment. A variety of separator types can be
sized for adequate separation. Column internals can be designed or existing column information can be specified. Relief
valve sizing can also be performed within ProMax, along with depressurization calculations for a variety of scenarios. In
addition, control valve types can be selected within a ProMax valve block to calculate the pressure drop over the valve.

Heat exchanger internals can be input into a simulation to determine if an existing exchanger will provide sufficient heat
exchange. Expected pressure drops through the exchanger are calculated according to the actual exchanger internals.

The following sections provide basic information on sizing applications available within ProMax. These topics are discussed
in greater detail in the BRE 232 “Equipment Rating and Sizing” course as well as in the ProMax Help.

SEPARATOR SIZING
Separator sizing can be performed within ProMax to calculate the required size of a separator for adequate separation.
Sizing for the following types of separators is available: Horizontal 2 Phase, Vertical 2 Phase, Vertical 3 Phase, Horizontal 3
Phase, Horizontal 3 Phase with Boot, Horizontal 3 Phase with Weir, Horizontal 3 Phase Boot & Weir, or Horizontal 3 Phase
Bucket & Weir.

To enable separator sizing, double-click on the separator to be sized and select the “Include Separator Sizing” option on the
Process Data tab.

With this enabled, a new Sizing tab is created where sizing information will be calculated. Separators are sized to give the
vapor and liquid(s) adequate time to fully separate into their respective phases. Theoretically, there are many different
separator sizes that could achieve the desired separation. By default, ProMax calculates the diameter and length
combination that will give the smallest overall size required to achieve thorough separation. The diameter can be user-
defined, in which case the necessary length will be calculated according to the set diameter.

37
Refer to the “Separator Sizing” web tutorial online for an example of how to size a 3-phase separator or refer to the ProMax
Help for definitions and explanations of separator sizing parameters.

COLUMN SIZING
Column sizing can be performed for any ideal stage or mass transfer column. Sizing information is found within the
Hardware grouping under the Process Data tab of the column. Within the General section, the user can select whether the
column uses trays, random packing, or structured packing. For an existing column a diameter can be specified, from which
the fraction flooding will be calculated. Alternatively, for column design cases, a fraction flooding can be set and ProMax
will calculate the necessary diameter for the specified amount of flooding. A system factor is set to account for the
expected foaming within the tower.

For Ideal Stage models, a Real/Ideal Stage Ratio is specified to illustrate the conversion of real trays into theoretical ideal
stages. For example, a ratio of 3 would mean that it takes 3 real trays to match 1 ideal stage. For both ideal stage and mass
transfer models, tray and packing information can be specified. Two types of trays are available: Sieve and Round Valve.
Many types of random and structured packing are available. User-defined packing types can also be input into the
simulation.

For packed columns, the Ideal Stage model utilizes a Height Equivalent to the Theoretical Plate (HETP) value to convert a
height of packing into an equivalent number of ideal stages. Mass Transfer modelling allows the user to directly input the
total packing height into the tower internals. The total height is broken into increments (represented as stages) whereupon
the calculations are performed.

For additional information on column internals, including differences between ideal stage and mass transfer models,
contact Technical Support.

38
DEPRESSURIZATION AND RELIEF VALVE SIZING
Depressurization events can be modelled with the Depressurization Example stencil inside the ProMax Property Stencils.
This stencil allows the user to calculate the orifice diameter necessary for depressurization along with the maximum flow
rate through the orifice. For a known orifice size, this stencil can also calculate the time required for depressurization or
the amount of depressurization that would occur given a specified amount of time. Heat input can be accounted for,
including fire case calculations defined by API 521.

Relief valve sizing for blocked flow cases can be performed within any stream using the Relief Valve Sizing analysis. The
analysis calculates the required effective discharge area based on the stream composition and user-specified parameters
such as valve type, relief temperature, relief pressure, and back pressure.

CONTROL VALVES
Control valve specifications can be input directly into a valve block. Control valve calculations are performed by selecting
“Control Valve” as the Pressure Drop Method on the Process Data tab and then specifying the valve Type, Identifier, and
Opening. ProMax calculates the resulting Valve Cv and Pressure Drop for the specified control valve.

39
HEAT EXCHANGER RATING
Heat exchanger internal information can be specified in ProMax for rating existing exchangers in a simulated process. The
following heat exchanger types are available for rating: Shell & Tube, Fin Fan, Compact, Double Pipe, and Plate Frame
exchangers.

To enable a rating for an exchanger, double-click on the desired exchanger, go to the Process Data tab, and then select the
Enable checkbox at the bottom of the Heat Transfer grouping.

A new Rating tab is created where the exchanger internals are input and the results are displayed. The type of internal
information required depends on the type of exchanger (number of tubes for shell & tube exchanger, number of layers for
compact exchanger, etc.). A fraction over design (FOD) will be calculated for all types of exchangers to compare the
currently simulated conditions with the actual capacity of the exchanger. A negative FOD means the existing exchanger is
insufficient for achieving the stream conditions set in the simulation. Often a Simple Solver is placed on an exchanger duty
or outlet temperature to achieve an FOD of 0%, resulting in a properly fit heat exchanger.

Exchanger rating also provides essential information specific to each side of the exchanger, such as an expected pressure
drop calculation for each side. The user also has the ability to enter a fouling resistance for each side to help account for
the prolonged use of an exchanger.

The exchanger rating feature can also be used for basic heat exchanger design. Please refer to the “Heat Exchanger Sizing”
web tutorial online for an example of how to design a heat exchanger using ProMax rating capabilities.

40
GIS Tool
OVERVIEW
The GIS Tool is a comprehensive pipeline GIS data visualizer, data editor, and importer for ProMax models. Included in the
GIS Tool is the Flowsheet Tool, which provides a consolidated interface to view and edit the properties of all pipeline blocks
and process streams in a ProMax flowsheet. Clicking on each icon in the top left will switching between the two tools.

GIS data is comprised of paths containing points, which can be imported into the GIS tool. ProMax will then create nodes at
path endpoints and combine these nodes to form a single network. Each path will ultimately become a pipeline block with
one inlet and one outlet process stream, while each node internal to the network will ultimately become a mixer/splitter
block:

Points
Path
Line/Path Node Mixer/
Pipeline, Splitter
PStreams
From left to right: GIS terminology, GIS Tool terminology, ProMax terminology.

IMPORTING DATA
GIS Data can be in many different file formats and coordinate reference systems (CRS). For Google Earth (*.kmz, *.kml) files,
importing data is straightforward. For shapefiles (*.shp) and Excel files, there are a few more steps to ensure the data is
properly imported. Files are imported into the GIS Tool by selecting the “+” icon to bring up the Windows file open dialog.
Multiple files can be selected and imported at the same time. Clicking on the down arrow next to the “+” icon brings up a
secondary menu that allows for easy import of the example GIS files that come installed with ProMax as well as importing
geographic information into the background.

41
File Formats
The GIS Tool will accept Google Earth (*.kmz, *.kml), shape (*.shp), and xyz (*.xyz) files. Google Earth and shapefiles are
commonly used GIS file formats, while xyz is a tab-delimited text file useful for importing data from non-standard sources
such as Excel. Google Earth files have a standard Coordinate Reference System (CRS) and will not require CRS selection
during import. Google Earth files should contain elevation in meters; please select the correct units from the options prior
to importing the file.

Shapefiles are generated by third-party programs and should be accompanied by *.dbf, *.shx, and *.prj files. Tab-delimited
text files with the xyz extension should contain one or two lines at the beginning of the file denoting the CRS, for example
WGS 84 or UTM 13. After this each separate path should be arranged as one line denoting the path name followed by each
data point on a separate line. Pins can be specified instead of a path by a one-line label followed by a single point. Each
point should comprise three numbers separated by tabs, spaces, or commas. The first field is either longitude (e.g. °) or
easting (e.g. m, ft), depending on the CRS. The second field is either latitude (e.g. °) or northing (e.g. m, ft), depending on
the CRS. The third field is elevation. For projected coordinate systems, the unit for northing, easting, and elevation should
correspond to the CRS standard. The elevation units for the data contained in *.shp and *.xyz files must be set on import
and cannot be changed without removing and adding the file. Coordinate transformations may distort the elevation data if
the wrong units are used on import.

This is an example of an xyz file:

WGS 84

Path 1
-96.28068753 30.67477431 307.9364
-96.28446241 30.67531513 320.8448

Path 2
-96.28036252 30.67477369 306.9257
-96.28081928 30.67696309 311.6145
-96.28085415 30.67720971 312.1072
-96.28085394 30.67727139 312.1989

Path 3
-96.27689686 30.67220686 298.0969
-96.28054365 30.6746763 307.3481

Path 4
-96.27666181 30.67210517 297.7853
-96.2741704 30.67426326 297.0542

Inlets
-96.2829481347582 30.6768090302733

Outlet
-96.2739004456393 30.6735559620074

42
Coordinate Reference Systems (CRS)
The field of GIS contains thousands of different CRS for storing and referencing spatial data. These systems can be
latitude/longitude, such as WGS 84, which is the reference system for Global Positioning System (GPS) data. This is the
default for Google Earth and many other online mapping tools. Many other widely used systems are projected reference
systems using northing and easting distances from a point of origin. Identifying the CRS is critical for importing *.shp or
*.xyz data correctly. Importing a shapefile will display a preview of the *.prj file:

The preview pane shows that the projection is “WGS 84 World Mercator”. Performing a search gives the correct CRS,
referenced by name and European Petroleum Survey Group (EPSG) identification number:

By either double-clicking on the WGS 84 / World Mercator [3395] entry or selecting it and clicking the down arrow, the file
EPSG Code and units fields are populated. Clicking “OK” will import the file using these parameters.

43
NETWORK CONNECTIVITY
The GIS Tool can be used to calculate the connectivity of a pipeline network. This feature automatically determines how
pipes are connected based on some user specifications and the proximity of pipe end points to one another. The GIS Tool
maintains 5 different types of connectivity that a path or node can have:

Inlet Path: only one end connected to additional paths, with a direction pointing towards the
connected end.
Node: only one connected path, with a path direction pointing away from the node.
Outlet Path: only one end connected to additional paths, with a direction pointing away from the
connected end.
Node: only one connected path, with a path direction pointing towards the node.
Medial Path: both ends connected to additional paths.
Node: multiple paths connected.
Unknown Path/Node: unspecified connectivity type.
Failed Path/Node: undetermined connectivity type after calculate connectivity is run. Further action is
needed to help the GIS Tool determine the path type, taken through Setup or Adjustment.

To specify network connectivity:

1. Provide information about system inlets and outlets. Either check the boxes in the Connectivity/Setup section of
the GIS Tool or right-click on the paths in the plot window and choose the correct option under “Set Path
Connectivity”.
Notes:
a) Setting the flow direction is not required in most cases; the GIS Tool will often detect the correct
direction for flow based on the inlet/outlet specifications.
b) If the “Determine automatically” radio button is selected in Setup/Connectivity, only system inlets
must be identified.
c) Paths can be excluded from all connectivity calculations by checking the “Exclude” checkbox for the
corresponding path.

44
2. Click the Calculate connectivity button, and the GIS Tool will attempt to automatically determine path connectivity
and direction.

3. If errors occur, they are reported in the GIS Tool status bar and message log. Paths which cannot be resolved will
have their connectivity type changed to failed and may need further attention.
4. When connectivity is successfully calculated, the plot window will display a network with all paths and nodes
defined as inlet, outlet, or medial.

Note: Only nodes that are connected to more than one path are shown in this plot.

5. Failures can be resolved by using several tools available in the plot window, such as moving points, reversing flow
direction, or splitting paths. These options are available by right-clicking on a path and selecting the corresponding
item from the pop-up menu. Drawing new paths is possible by clicking the pencil icon at the bottom right of the
plot window to enter drawing mode. Users may also modify the distance threshold for attaching paths in the
Connectivity/Adjustment section.

45
TIPS FOR CALCULATING CONNECTIVITY

Connectivity/Adjustment
When the connectivity fails, the first thing to review is the Connectivity/Adjustment section. If the distance used for
connecting two paths together is set manually to a small or large value, try using “Determine Automatically” to allow the
GIS Tool to attempt to calculate an optimal value. If the maximum value of “Determine Automatically” is set on the same
order of magnitude as the path lengths, double-check the network to ensure that the results make sense.

No Connection Point
Paths can only combine at endpoints. If a path intersects another path in the middle, split the path to create endpoints at
the desired connection point:

Cannot Can
connect connect

Path Retrace
Occasionally a path can be created with points that are out of order. If this occurs, the connection point will be in the
middle of the path. Splitting the path at the real endpoint, deleting duplicate points if necessary, and re-joining each smaller
path can fix this issue.

Double Path
Two paths may be on top of each other, either by design or on accident. When this happens the GIS Tool may not be able to
automatically detect the correct direction. Removing one path or switching and locking the flow direction of both paths
using the right-click menu from Network Details/Paths will solve this issue.

Automatic Outlet Detection


If the GIS Tool finds a network with no outlet, it is impossible to calculate flow directions. In these cases, it can be helpful to
enable “Determine Automatically” for Outlets in Connectivity/Setup, which can identify areas of the system that are not
connected.

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PLOT WINDOW
The plot window allows easy visualization and manipulation of imported GIS data. There are three sections in the plot
window: (1) The main plot area, (2) the elevation plot pane, and (3) the sidebar pane. The elevation plot and sidebar are
both collapsible using the chevron triangles in the bottom right or top right of the main plot area. The elevation plot is
resized by dragging the border between the elevation plot and the main plot area.

Main Plot Area

The main plot mode can be changed using the four buttons in the bottom left of the main plot:

• Pan (CTRL+1) allows the visible area to be moved to different longitude and latitude ranges.
• Select (CTRL+2) allows drag selection of multiple paths.
• Measure (CTRL+3) is used to calculate distances between two or more points on the plot.
• Draw (CTRL+4) allows the creation of new paths by creating multiple new points or pins by creating a single
new point.

No matter the current plot mode, controls to move and zoom the main plot area via mouse-click are always enabled and
can be found in the bottom left of the main plot area. The center icon will zoom to fit all paths loaded into the main plot
area. The directional arrows will move the visible area and the “+” and “-“ icons zoom in and out.

Within the plot window, common GIS Tool functions are accessible by right clicking on the background, a path, a point, or a
pin to bring up a context menu. Options for plot modes, connectivity, saving the plot as an image, and deleting items can all
be found in these context menus.

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Sidebar Pane
The sidebar pane contains four sections:

1. World map – Displays a world map. The current main plot area is denoted either with crosshairs or a box denoting
the current view, depending on the zoom level.
2. Connectivity – Displays a summary for the current network connectivity. When connectivity is fully resolved, the
unknown or failed paths and nodes will be zero.
3. Selected Items – Displays general information about the currently selected path or paths.
4. Viewing Options – Lets the user control what types of items are displayed in the main plot area and allows for
customization on how to display those items.

Elevation Plot Pane


The elevation plot pane displays elevation profiles of selected paths. The mouse wheel is used to zoom in and out and click-
and-drag can be used to pan inside the plot. Bounds can be reset by clicking the icon at the bottom left of the pane. Display
options are available inside the right-click context menu, including the ability to enable or disable display of GIS elevations,
satellite elevations, and individual points.

NETWORK DETAILS
Network Details contains detailed information on elements of the network:

1. Points – Displays properties and statistics about each of the points within each path. This section also contains the
Data Reduction tool, which allows for reducing the number of points in each path, therefore lowering the
computation time of the resulting ProMax model. The data reduction tool uses elevation and slope thresholds to
combine adjacent points without losing the total length while preserving the shape of the elevation profile. To
ensure preservation of detail, some points that fall within the threshold may not be combined.
2. Paths – Displays a list of non-excluded paths and their properties. The “Data” tab contains basic information about
paths including number of points, connectivity information, and path length. The “Extended Data” tab contains
additional statistics about length, elevation, latitude, and longitude. The “Attributes” tab displays any xml
information loaded (for *.kmz files only).
3. Nodes – Displays general information about the connection point location and connected paths.
4. Pins – Shows basic information about single-point pins which can contain text descriptions of a particular point
(e.g. compressor station, system outlet, etc.).

DRAWING PROMAX MODELS


The ProMax model created from the GIS Tool is created by transforming paths into pipeline blocks with inlet and outlet
PStreams, and internal nodes into mixer/splitter blocks. Selecting Create flowsheet brings up the drawing options dialog.

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This brings up the options panel:

1. Name: Used to name the newly created flowsheet.


2. Environment: Select an Environment from the ProMax project
or choose to create a new one.
3. Elevation source: Choose GIS, Satellite, or no elevation profile
4. Points to use: Selection of original drawn/imported points, or
only points remaining after using the Data Reduction tool.
5. Size: Set the ProMax flowsheet size either manually or
automatically based on a minimum mixer/splitter block
distance. A page margin may also be set to add a border of
whitespace around the drawn ProMax blocks and streams.
6. Include QStreams: include QStream connection to each
pipeline block to enable heat transfer calculations.
7. Pins: Creates text boxes for pins in the ProMax model.

FLOWSHEET TOOL
The Flowsheet Tool provides a consolidated interface to view and edit the properties of all pipeline blocks and PStreams on
a specific ProMax flowsheet:

Changing any value in the Flowsheet Tool will change the linked property inside of the ProMax flowsheet. The pipeline
block and PStream tables are divided into separate sections, with navigation between the two on the left-hand side. Right-
clicking on any row in these tables brings up a shortcut to open that object in the ProMax Project Viewer.

Components are populated from the ProMax Environment used in the flowsheet and cannot be added or removed from the
PStream section here. The “Composition” tab offers the option of editing the composition on “All…” or “Selected…” inlets in
a dialog window. As with the ProMax composition dialog, the composition of all streams must be set and normalized in
order to successfully change the compositions.

49
Help & Troubleshooting
PROMAX HELP
Inside the ProMax software, the ProMax Help is the most complete and thorough guide for understanding
the ProMax software. It can be accessed by selecting the blue question mark icon in the ProMax Ribbon, or
by pressing F1 while inside the Project Viewer.

The ProMax Help contains property definitions, equipment diagrams, and step-by-step instructions for
utilizing different ProMax tools and capabilities.

WEB TUTORIALS
An ever-expanding library of tutorial videos is available online. Topics include explanations of ProMax blocks, how-to
demonstrations on different ProMax tools, discussions on commonly simulated processes, and much more! These web
tutorials can be found at https://www.bre.com/Support-Tutorials.aspx.

BASIC SPECIFICATIONS FOR PROMAX BLOCKS


Each block within ProMax gives the user some freedom to specify what is occurring around that block. There are many
possibilities of what can be specified within and around each type of block, not all of which are covered here. The following
is a list of the most common types of specifications:

• Inlet Streams The user must fully specify inlet streams. This generally means providing the following four
specifications: Temperature, Pressure, Flow Rate (molar, mass, or volumetric flow), and Composition.
• Pumps/Compressors/Expanders: An efficiency and outlet pressure are the most common specifications.
• Heat Exchangers: A pressure drop is required within every heat exchanger. For multi-sided exchangers a pressure
drop is required for each side. Along with the pressure drop, a single or double-sided heat exchanger allows for
one temperature-related specification to be set. Most commonly, one of the outlet temperatures is set, but
occasionally a duty or Minimum End Approach Temperature may be set instead.
• Separator: A pressure drop or outlet pressure is required. If an energy stream is attached to a separator (such as
with a condenser) then an outlet temperature is also specified.
• Valves: An outlet pressure (most common) or pressure drop must be specified.
• Columns: Columns are allowed one specification for every energy source to the column (Reboiler, Condenser,
etc.). The specifications the user chooses to use will vary greatly depending on the process. Regardless of
configuration, all columns need a user-specified pressure profile.
• Process Recycles: Process recycles allow the user to estimate what is happening at a particular point in the process
to allow ProMax to iterate towards the final solution. For these blocks, the recycle outlet stream must be
completely user-specified just like an inlet stream (temperature, pressure, flow rate, composition).
• Q (Energy) Recycles: Energy recycles require the user to estimate how much energy is being recycled. This energy
estimate is user-specified within the block itself.

*Note that operating conditions (temperature, pressure, etc.) are specified in streams. Equipment conditions
(efficiency, pressure drop, etc.) are specified in blocks.

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CONVERGENCE HELP GUIDE

Are there bright


red streams or
YES blocks? NO

The block is missing


Are the red . Does the See the Diagnosing
connections. Check the BLOCKS YES
shapes blocks or unsolved block Error Messages section
Connections tab within
streams? ( fix contain an error for ideas on how to fix
the block to see which
blocks first) message? many common errors.
connection is missing.

STREAMS NO

The stream requires Is there a Inside the column s


more specifications. column not YES Process Data tab, make
Check the stream or its solving & it has sure any condensers
preceding block for no error and/or reboilers have
unspecified info. message? been included.

NO

Verify the Solver


General Tip: Work sequentially Are there any expression is correct,
YES
When trying to find the source of an issue, start Simple Solvers variables have been
created in this added without spelling
at the inlet streams (and recycle streams) and project? errors, and an initial
move downstream until you find an object that estimate is given.
does not solve.
NO

Need help? Do not hesitate to contact the Contact the BR&E


BR&E Technical Support Team! Technical Support
Team
(979)776-5220
support@bre.com

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DIAGNOSING ERROR MESSAGES
✓ Click the “Warnings” button in the ProMax Ribbon to bring up a list of all the errors and warnings currently in the
ProMax project. Users should always check the Warnings list, even if the simulation is fully converged.

✓ The Message Log records information about convergence during execution. When troubleshooting, look at the most
recent information at the bottom of the Message Log by right-clicking in the log and selecting “Page End”.

✓ Most “Errors” prevent a simulation from converging. “Warnings” appear when the simulation has converged but there
are certain parts of the simulation that are outside normal operations or normal simulation practices. Thus, the user
can determine whether or not a warning needs to be addressed.

Interpreting ProMax Monikers


Every object and property within ProMax has a “moniker” that acts as an identifier for that object (similar to a web
address). Error messages include the object moniker which identifies where the error occurred. Every moniker for a
stream or block follows this pattern:

ProMax:ProMax!Project every moniker begins with this reference meaning it is an object found in the ProMax
project

Flowsheets!Gas Processing the moniker mentions which flowsheet it is looking at (a flowsheet named “Gas
Processing” in this case).

PStreams!16 this portion mentions which object the moniker is referring to (a process stream named
“16” in this case). PStream stands for process stream. QStream refers to energy
stream, and Block refers to any block.

*THE FOLLOWING IS A NON-EXHAUSTIVE LIST OF POTENTIAL ERROR MESSAGES*

Columns

Inside a column, at the very bottom of the Project Viewer, it will say “Under Specified” when there are degrees of freedom
available to the column that have not been used.

This error occurs when the pressure profile has not been configured within the tower. This means that, on the Stages
grouping within the Process Data tab, either a pressure change or top/bottom stage pressures need to be set.

OR

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OR

OR

A column turns orange (meaning it is approximating a solution).

These errors mean the column could not find a solution. First, verify that all the column inlet streams and column
specifications are correct. If these are correct, go to the Convergence tab in the column and change the Enthalpy Model
and/or the Inner Loop Model. Sometimes a different model can find a solution when the default did not.

If none of these combinations work, click the “Delete Last Solution” button within the Convergence tab and again try to
execute the column. Adding a K Damping factor (0-10) can help with oscillation issues. Checking the “Boston-Sullivan Kb”
option or changing the MESH Method can also help with convergence. Lastly, the max number of iterations can be
increased by going to the “Solver” grouping under the Convergence tab.

This warning occurs when an amine absorber is run as the incorrect column type. On the Process Data tab in the Column
grouping, make sure “TSWEET Kinetics” is selected for the Ideal Stage Column Type.

This warning occurs when an amine stripper is run as the incorrect column type. On the Process Data tab in the Column
grouping, make sure “TSWEET Stripper” is selected for the Ideal Stage Column Type.

OR

All columns must have vapor entering on the bottom stage and liquid entering the top stage in order to converge.

This error message means a duty estimate is required for a column pumparound loop. If duty is added to a pumparound by
a heat exchanger (other than the condenser) or pump, an estimate may be required for the total pumparound duty
amount. This estimate can be made within the column by adding a “Pump-around Estimate” on the Specifications tab.
Estimate a negative duty if energy is being removed from the loop.

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Heat Exchangers
Always check inside the exchanger to make sure a Pressure Drop is specified. If it is a double-sided exchanger, then it will
require a Pressure Drop on both sides of the exchanger.

This error message means there is a temperature cross in the exchanger, indicating that the specified heat transfer is
thermodynamically impossible. While the exchanger will converge, any attempt to rate it will fail. Adjust any duty or outlet
temperature specification until there is no longer a negative approach temperature for the exchanger.

This error means the exchanger is overspecified. Most likely either both exchanger outlet temperatures have been
specified or one outlet temperature plus a Minimum Approach Temperature have been specified.

Pumps

This error occurs when ProMax calculates a pump efficiency greater than 100%. This usually occurs when the user specifies
an outlet temperature from the pump. Generally, it is recommended to not specify the pump outlet temperature; rather,
specify an efficiency inside the pump and allow ProMax to calculate the outlet temperature.

This error means the pump is overspecified, likely due to both a pump outlet pressure and temperature being specified.
Generally, it is recommended to not specify the pump outlet temperature; rather, specify an efficiency inside the pump and
allow ProMax to calculate the outlet temperature.

Recycles

This error message means that the recycle block was not able to converge to a solution after performing the set maximum
number of iterations. The first thing to do is verify that there is a reasonable estimate in the recycle block outlet stream.
The maximum number of iterations can be increased inside the Recycle block under the Solver grouping on the Converge
tab.

Simple Solvers

This message indicates that a variable written into the Solver/Specifier equation is undefined. This means either a) the
variable has not been added to the Measured/Independent Variable list or b) the name written in the equation does not
match the name given to the Measured/Independent Variable. Make sure the variable is listed and that the names match,
keeping in mind that names are case-sensitive and no spaces are allowed in a variable name.

54
This message indicates that a Solver initial guess has not been set. Inside the solver, make sure an initial estimate has been
entered into the Calculated Value cell. ProMax will adjust this initial guess until it reaches a solution.

Solver/Recycle Priorities
When there is more than one solver and/or recycle in a simulation, priorities tell ProMax the order in which to solve the
different solvers/recycles. ProMax will solve from the highest priority found in the simulation on down. Poor priority order
can lead to significantly longer convergence times and even prevent a simulation from solving. Consider the following:

• Give higher priorities to solvers that come first in sequence. Example: solvers/recycles on an amine unit should
solve before (and therefore have higher priorities than) solvers/recycles on a downstream dehydration unit.

• Nested, inner loops should be solved before outer loops. Example: solvers within a recycle loop should solve
before the loop’s recycle block.

• The exact number value of a priority is unimportant; it is only the comparison of priorities from highest to lowest
that matters. Example: if a recycle has a priority of 10 and a solver has a priority higher than 10 (11, 20, 100, etc.),
ProMax will solve the solver and then the recycle.

• A list of solvers/recycles in a project, including their priorities, is found in the Solver Summary within the Project
Viewer.

Streams

This error means that either the calculated temperature or pressure of a stream is outside the max/min allowable values.
The most common cause is a duty in an exchanger that is impossibly high for the given stream’s flow rate.

OR

These warnings appear for any stream that is near or below a temperature where hydrates could form. Similar warning
messages appear for ice and dry ice formation. This means that solids could potentially form at this part of the process and
the user should consider running at higher temperatures, removing water (or CO2 for dry ice) from the system, or injecting
a hydrate inhibitor such as methanol or ethylene glycol.

55
VISIO HOTKEYS
Microsoft hotkeys are available within any ProMax project. In addition, users can create custom hotkeys through VBA
programming. Below is a list of commonly used Visio hotkeys (based on Visio 2016):

Ctrl + A Select All

Ctrl + D Duplicate Selected Shape (creates a new, blank shape)

Ctrl + C Copy and Paste Selected Shape(s)

Ctrl + V (User-defined properties in streams and blocks will be copied


with the shapes in ProMax 5.0.19263. Can also be used on
Callouts and Property Tables.)

Ctrl + H Flip Shape Horizontal

Ctrl + J Flip Shape Vertical

Ctrl + S Save File

Ctrl + 1 Toggle to Pointer Tool Mode (regular mouse cursor)

Ctrl + 3 Toggle to Connector Mode (for drawing streams)

Ctrl + L Rotate Selected Shape Counterclockwise

Ctrl + R Rotate Selected Shape Clockwise

Ctrl + Click Select Multiple Shapes

Ctrl + Wheel Zoom In / Out

Shift + Wheel Scroll Flowsheet Right / Left

Shift + Arrow Nudge Selected Object Right/Left/Up/Down

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