Flaresim Getting Started

COPYRIGHT The copyright in this manual and its accompanying software are the property of Softbits Consultants Ltd with all rights reserved. Both this manual and the software have been provided pursuant to a License Agreement containing restrictions on use. Softbits Consultants Ltd reserves the right to make changes to this manual or its accompanying software without obligation to notify any person or organisation. No part of this manual may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system or translated into any other language in any form or by any means, or disclosed to third parties without the prior written consent of Softbits Consultants Ltd. WARRANTY Softbits Consultants Ltd or its agents will replace any defective manual, program disks within 90 days of purchase of the product providing that proof of purchase is evident. Neither Softbits Consultants Ltd nor its agents or dealers make any warranty, implied or otherwise, with respect to the software or results generated by the software. This program is intended for use by a qualified engineer to aid the design and analysis of flare systems. The results calculated by this program may not be reliable if the input data has not been appropriately specified or if the program is used without regard to its documented limitations. It is the responsibility of the user to interpret the results generated by this program. Softbits Consultants Ltd shall bear no liability for special, indirect, incidental, consequential, exemplary or punitive damages arising from use of this software. The governing law of this warranty shall be that of England. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Softbits Consultants Ltd would like to thank Mr. John F. Straitz III and the National Airoil Company and GBA Ltd of Slough for assistance with some algorithms within the software. Windows XP, Vista and Windows 7 are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. Copyright Softbits Consultants Ltd, 1989, 1990, 2002, 2006, 2008, 2010 Table of Contents 1 Introduction.................................................. 1-1 1.1 1.2 1.3 Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4 Program Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7 Documentation Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13 2 Installation.................................................... 2-1 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 Installation Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3 Installing Flaresim-Single User . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4 Installing Flaresim - Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-25 Flaresim File Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-40 3 Getting Started............................................. 3-1 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 Simple Flare Stack Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4 Sonic Tip Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-18 Two Tip Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-23 Working With Isopleths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-26 Welltest Burner Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-36 Gas Dispersion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-47 1 2 . . . . 10 Documentation Overview . . . . . .2 1. . .7 1. .1 Features . 9 Running a Model . . . . . . . . . .1 1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 1. . .2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 1-1 . . . . . . . 7 Object Definition .Introduction 1-1 1 Introduction Page 1. . .2. . . . . . . . . 4 1.2 Program Overview . . . . . . . . . .2. . . . . . . . .3 Flaresim Objects . . . . . . . 1-2 1-2 . The reports also include graphical output where appropriate. Flaresim provides a user friendly interface with program actions accessed by menu and toolbar options. 1-3 . Data entry is through a series of data views controlled from an overall Case Navigator view. Engineers new to flare system design should work through the examples in the Getting Started section of the manual after first reading this chapter. Experienced flare system engineers should read the remainder of this chapter for an overview of the way that Flaresim performs calculations. However we would advise study of the manual to become familiar with the full range of options and recommendations for using the program. The examples provide a step by step guide to using Flaresim for flare system design and highlight some of the critical parameters that must be determined. Output from the Flaresim is highly customisable with the user having the freedom to select summary or detailed output.Introduction 1-3 Flaresim is a computer program designed to assist professional engineers in the design and evaluation of flare systems. It also performs dispersion analysis of the combustion gases or relieved fluid in flame out conditions. Context sensitive help is available at all points to assist the user in the use of the program and selection of appropriate design parameters. The program calculates the thermal radiation and noise generated by flares and estimates the temperatures of exposed surfaces. They may then find that they will be able to use the program with assistance from the help system without further reference to the manual. For assisted flares the quantity of steam or air required for smokeless operation can be calculated. • Jet dispersion model to analyse flammable gas concentrations close to flare in flame out conditions. gas plants.1-4 Features 1. 1-4 . These include integrated multipoint methods and the Chamberlain (Shell) method in addition to the Hajek/Ludwig and Brzustowski/Sommer methods which are described in the API guidelines for flare system design. • A wide range of algorithms for calculation of thermal radiation.1 Features The following features highlight the main capabilities of Flaresim. • Liquid flaring systems can be handled. • Calculation of purge gas flows required for tips. • Calculation of combustion gas composition. pipeflare tips and steam or air assisted tips. • A number of correlations are provided to predict the fraction of heat radiated from flames of a range of hydrocarbon fluids with different types of flare tip. • Full three dimensional flame shape analysis with complete flexibility in specification of the location and orientation of multiple stacks. refineries and chemical plants. • Data may be entered and reported in the users choice of units and may be converted at any time. • Equally applicable to the design of flare systems for offshore platforms. • Correlations are available for modelling a range of flare tips including sonic tips. 1-5 .Introduction 1-5 • Gaussian dispersion model to analyse longer distance dispersion of the relieving fluid or combustion gases. area. • Modelling of water curtains or solid shields to reduce radiation and noise transmission. orientation and initial temperature. • Sizing of stack or boom length to meet radiation. • Calculation of radiation. noise or surface temperature limits at defined receptor points. specific heat. • Ability to define multiple receptor grids in multiple planes for calculation of radiation. • Ability to define multiple environmental scenarios to allow rapid evaluation of flare system performance under different wind speeds and directions. emissivity. noise or surface temperatures. noise spectrum and surface temperatures at multiple receptor points. absorbtivity. • Plotting of grid results as isopleth contours for sterile area definition. • Receptor point characteristics for calculating surface temperatures include mass. • A setup wizard to allow new users to set up an initial model rapidly with appropriate defaults. • A range of options for defining and analysing the noise spectrum generated by flare systems including user defined spectra. • Multiple stacks/booms each accomodating multiple flare tips. • Calculation of radiation variation with wind direction and speed at a point and display of results on a wind rose chart. 1-6 Features • Expert mode to control access to less commonly used options. Softbits Consultants Ltd are always interested in continuing product development to ensure that Flaresim meets the needs of our clients. • Customisable HTML reports • Customisable graphic reports • Multiple Flaresim cases can be open at the same time. If the request is reasonable we will endeavour to include it in future releases of the program. While we have tried to prevent the use of the more obvious problems we have also tried to allow flexibility for “one off” situations. • Multiple reports can be created and compared as updates are made to a model and the data corresponding to any report can be saved. As with all engineering computer software. Should you wish to see any feature incorporated in Flaresim. The wide range of calculation options available within Flaresim may lead to the possibility of selecting inappropriate correlations for a particular combination of fluid type and flare system configuration. 1-6 . • Import of files from Flaresim 2.com.0 and later. Flaresim is a tool which cannot replace sound engineering judgement. • Quality Assurance options are included in the reports. please feel free to contact us at support@flaresim. 2 Program Overview The Flaresim program has been developed to provide great flexibility in modelling by breaking down the flare system into a number of objects such as fluids. Case Summary view Required object present and ready Required object missing or not ready Optional object Permanent object Object ready Object not ready Object ignored 1-7 . see Figure 1-1. tips etc. stacks. Case Navigator Icons Figure 1-1. These individual objects are then linked together to define the complete system. that shows a tree structure of all the objects that have been defined in a given model and provides a rapid overview of which ones are currently complete and in use. Flaresim provides a Case Navigator view.Introduction 1-7 1. Only one environment object can be active for a set of calculations. Fluids may be defined either by entering bulk properties or by defining the composition of the fluid to allow calculation of its properties from pure component data. dimensions and stack location data and the flow and selection of the fluid being flared. Tips Multiple tip objects can be defined and set active or ignored in a set of calculations.2. Each object describes the physical properties of a fluid to be flared such as density. A single fluid can be flared through multiple tips.1-8 Program Overview 1. lower explosive limit etc. Receptor point data includes 1-8 . Stack data includes length. Each stack may support multiple flare tips. Receptor Points Multiple receptor point objects can be defined and then set active or ignored in a set of calculations. The variation of wind speed with direction can also be defined to support wind rose calculations. humidity etc. Stacks Multiple stack objects can be defined which may be active or ignored in any set of calculations. Environment characteristics can also be defined for use in dispersion calculations. Tip objects provide access to flame shape and other tip specific results such as combustion gas composition and purge gas requirements. direction. lower heating value. Fluids A model can contain multiple fluid objects.1 Flaresim Objects The objects that can be defined are:Case Summary Each model contains a single Case Summary object which defines descriptive information. Tip data includes tip type and associated calculation methods. Environments A model can contain multiple environment objects each of which describes a combination of wind speed. location and orientation. location and coarseness data as well as characteristics for surface temperature calculations. Receptor grid data includes orientation. Dispersions Multiple dispersion objects may be defined to model the dispersion of combustion gases and flare fluids over long distances using a Gaussian dispersion model. surface temperature and gas dispersion.Introduction 1-9 location. The transmissivity of water sprays can be specified by the user or calculated using an internal correlation. Receptor point objects provide access to results calculated for the point. Receptor Grids Multiple receptor grid objects can be defined and then activated or ignored in a set of calculations. noise. 1-9 . Overlays Overlay objects allow simple drawings to be created to act as background pictures for contour plots produced by the Receptor Grid and Dispersion objects. characteristics for surface temperature calculation and constraints for sizing calculations. Data includes assist fluid type and calculation method to be used. Either concentration contour plots for a single pollutant or a downwind plot for multiple pollutants can be calculated. Receptor grid objects provide access to their calculated results including contour plots of radiation. The effect of wind speed and direction on the radiation can also be calculated and displayed as a wind rose plot. Shields can also be defined to model burn pits or protective locations. Shields Multiple shield objects may be defined to model the reduction in radiation and noise through the installation of water sprays and solid shields. Assist Fluids Multiple assist fluid objects may be defined and selected for one or more flare tips. Component Management A component library manager object allows maintenance of the pure component database. Fluids.2 Object Definition Flaresim objects are created by selecting the branch in the Case Navigator view and then clicking the Add button. When the Case Navigator is closed existing objects can be displayed by selecting them in the View dropdown menu. Results. Noise Input. Flame Shape. Location & Dimensions.2. Existing objects can be updated by double clicking them in the Case Navigator view or selecting them in the Case Navigator view and clicking the View button. Combustion Results and Purge Gas. Emissions. heat transfer options to be used for temperature calculations and default emissions data.1-10 Program Overview Calculation Options A single calculation options object defines the correlations to be used in the calculations. 1-10 . It also provides for control of stack sizing options. Alternatively the Add dropdown menu in the Case Navigator can be used. A data fitting option is also available. Creation of an object automatically opens its view to allow its data to be entered. When all the required data has been entered the status text at the bottom of the view will indicate Ready as shown in Figure 1-2. Noise Results. Individual tabs are selected by clicking on their name. Some objects have more data items than will fit on a single form so their views have been divided into multiple tabs. 1. For example the Tip view as shown in Figure 1-2 has tabs for Details. • Fluid object • Environment object • Stack object • Tip object While this is sufficient to perform calculations this will not calculate any radiation.2. noise or surface temperature results without addition of at least one active Receptor Point or Receptor Grid. Calculations are started by clicking the button at the top of the Case Navigator.3 Running a Model In order to run calculations a Flaresim model must contain at least one of each of the following objects in an active and ready state.Introduction 1-11 Figure 1-2. This button is also used to display the progress of 1-11 . Tip View 1. Receptor Point view or Receptor Grid view. Once complete a case can be saved using the Save buttons in the Case Navigator tool bar. When the Case Navigator is closed the icon can be clicked to run the model.1-12 Program Overview calculations and the status of the model. Results may be viewed in tabular or graphical format where appropriate. 1-12 and Save As . Alternatively results can be viewed and printed through the Print or Print Graphic Report buttons in the Case Navigator tool bar. Progress of calculations and any problems encountered are reported in the right hand Message window at the bottom of the Flaresim screen. Results from the calculations may be viewed through the appropriate tabs in the Tip view. Chapter 3 . Menu structure. Chapter 14 . Chapter 13 .Concepts. Chapter 7 .Calculation methods.Fluid and Assist Fluid views. Log Panels and File Dialogs.3 Documentation Overview The printed Flaresim manual contains the following chapters:Chapter 2 .Shield view.pdf contains this material and the following additional chapters which provide a full detailed description of the program features. Chapter 8 .General Setup including Case Navigator.Tutorial with detailed worked examples.Software Installation and License Activation.Calculation Options view. Chapter 6 . Chapter 12 . Chapter 10 .Dispersion view.Introduction 1-13 1. Chapter 5 . Chapter 16 . Chapter 9 .Graphic Report Layout File Definition 1-13 .Receptor Point and Receptor Grid views. Appendix A .Stack view. Flaresim Interface.Overlay editor view. Chapter 11 . Chapter 15 . Case Summary. The electronic documentation in the file Flaresim.Tip view.Report options including Print Reports and Graphic Reports. Chapter 4 .Environment view. Preferences and Component Management. 1-14 1-14 Documentation Overview . . . . . . .2.4 Package Requirements . . . . . . .2 2. . . . . . . . . . . . 25 32 36 37 38 Flaresim File Locations . . 41 Install Locations on Windows 7 . . .3 2. . .1 2. . .2. . . . .2. . . . . . . . . 13 Standalone License File Installation . .7 2. . . . .1 2. . . 17 Obtaining A License File .3 Install Locations on Windows XP .4 2. . . . . .2. 3 Installing Server Software . . . . . . . . . .Net Framework . . . . . . Trouble Shooting Flaresim Client. . . . . . .4.2. . . . Installing Server License File . . .5 2. . . . .2 2. . . . . . . . .2. .3. . . . . . . .Network . . . .3 2. 5 Running Flaresim Installation. . . .4 2. .3 2. . . . .3. . 22 Installing Flaresim . . . . . . . . . . . . .1. . . . . Troubleshooting License File Installation Installing Flaresim Clients. . . .3. . . . 4 Installing .5 2.1. .1 2. . . . . .2 2. . . .1 2. . 40 Install Locations on Windows Vista .3 Starting Flaresim Software Installation . 19 Troubleshooting Standalone Installation. .2 2. . 25 2. 3 System Requirements .4. . . . . . . . . . 7 Installation of Sentinel Drivers . 40 2. . . . . . . . .4. 4 2. . . . . . .Installation 2-1 2 Installation Page 2.6 2. 41 2-1 . . . . . .2 Installing Flaresim-Single User.2.1 Installation Requirements . . . . . .3. . . .3. 2-2 2-2 . 1 Installation Requirements 2.1.1.2 System Requirements The following system requirements must be met to allow installation of Flaresim.Net framework if not already installed and you are using the Flaresim download package. (or legacy 25 pin parallel port key) • License File • Getting Started Guide The License File will be sent to you separately by e-mail as an attachment. You should save the file to a temporary location so that it is ready when required by the installation process. Windows Vista or Windows 7 Disk space .Flaresim program ~45 MB Disk space . 2.Sample files (opt) Computer ID key device port Flaresim install files Internet Access ~2MB USB port (opt 25pin parallel port) Supplied on CD Rom or download package For 280 Mb download of . check that you have the following elements of the Flaresim package. 2-3 .1 Package Requirements Before installation..Installation 2-3 2. Item Operating system Requirement Windows XP.Net framework ~290 MB Disk space . • Program CD Rom or Flaresim Download Package • USB Computer ID Key. 2-4 . Either: Insert the Flaresim CD Rom into your CD or DVD drive. First the software must be installed. locating the Setup.2 Installing Flaresim-Single User The single user version is where usage of the program is controlled by a license file installed on the PC on which Flaresim is running. Either: Start the setup program Setup. The Windows Explorer program may be left open to start the Flaresim Setup program. Or: Start the setup program Setup. select the Run option. Or: Extract install files from download package to a temporary location on your hard disk.exe file in the root directory of the CD and then double-clicking it. Then the license file must be installed to activate the software.exe in the pop-up dialog and then click the Ok button.2-4 Installing Flaresim-Single User 2. Alternatively you can click the Windows Start button.1 Starting Flaresim Software Installation The installation of Flaresim is similar to the installation of other Windows programs. 2. 2. type d:\setup. Note that your CD or DVD drive letter should be substituted if it is not d:.exe in the temporary location to which you have extracted the installation files. Shut down other windows programs.2.exe on the CD Rom. 3. The steps are:1. The installation of Flaresim is a two step process. This may be done through Windows Explorer by navigating to your CD or DVD drive. If the AutoRun feature is enabled then step 3 will be performed automatically and should be skipped. 2 Installing .0 the Microsoft . 2-5 . The installation program will begin. If you do not have the . If it is then the installation process will automatically skip to step 7. Alternatively you can click the Windows Start button. is required to support Flaresim. If you do not install it then the Flaresim installation program will close.exe file and then double-clicking it.Net Framework already installed on your computer the following screen will be displayed and you will be invited to install it. select the Run option. In the former case the .5 SP1 will be installed through download from the web.Installation 2-5 This may be done through Windows Explorer by navigating to the temporaryfile location.2. Note [location] is the temporary file location to which you extracted the installation files. locating the Setup.Net Framework 3.Net Framework 3. The installation program first checks whether this set of support files is available.Net Framework 3.exe in the pop-up dialog and then click the Ok button. In the case of a download package the screen will indicate that the . type [location}\setup. The details of the following screen will differ depending on whether you are installing from a CD or a download package.5.5 SP1 files are included on the CD and the screen will appear as shown. 2.Net Framework Starting with Flaresim version 3. Net Framework installation.Net Framework.Net Framework be aware that this is a 280Mb download and can take an appreciable time to download and install.2. Once the . Figure 2-2. .1 . Click the Yes button to restart your computer and complete the installation of the .2-6 Installing Flaresim-Single User Figure 2-1. . Click the Install button to start the . 2-6 Once your system has completed rebooting please restart the Flaresim Installer as described in section 2.Net Framework installation process has finished the following screen will be displayed.Net Framework Installation Finished 6. If you are using a Flaresim download package and the Web Download installation of the . 5.Net Framework Required 4. The following License Agreement screen. should then appear.Installation 2-7 2. Click the Next button. After verifying the availability of the .. 8.2. 2-7 .5 the Flaresim Installation wizard will start and after a configuration screen for the Windows Installer the follows screen will appear. Figure 2-3. Flaresim Installation Wizard Start Note that the setup program provides a Cancel button that may be clicked to exit the installation procedure at any point. Figure 2-4.Net Framework version 3.3 Running Flaresim Installation 7. At this point you should read the License Agreement and confirm your acceptance of its terms by clicking the accept option. Figure 2-5. If you do not wish to accept the license terms then click the Cancel button to exit the setup program without installing Flaresim. The following screen. Once the accept option has been selected the Next button will be activated and should be clicked to continue the installation. will appear. License Agreement 9. The license terms must be accepted before the program will install. 2-8 .2-8 Installing Flaresim-Single User Figure 2-4. Destination Folder 10. Once you are happy with your selection click Next to continue. If you are content with the proposed installation folder in your Program Files directory then click Next to continue. Otherwise click the Browse button and use the standard windows file browser to select the destination folder for the Flaresim program.Installation 2-9 Figure 2-5. 2-9 . will appear. Figure 2-6. The installation type screen. Ready to Install Screen 2-10 .2-10 Installing Flaresim-Single User Figure 2-6.. The final install screen will appear. On this screen for a full installation select the Typical option and click Next. Figure 2-7. The Custom option should be selected if you do not wish to install the Flaresim sample files. Installation Type 11. A confirmation dialog will ask you to confirm that you wish to exit without completing the installation of the program.Installation 12. 2-11 At this point Flaresim is ready to install. After clicking the Install button the installation will start. 13. 14. Figure 2-8. Click the Install button to start the installation process. Installation Progress Should you need to halt the installation. Once the installation of the program files has been completed the Flaresim License Installer will be started to allow you to install a local license file. the Cancel button may be used to stop the installation. If you wish to change any data entered in an earlier screen the Back button may be used to return to earlier screens. The setup program will show the progress of the installation as files are copied from the CD Rom to your install folder as shown below. 2-11 . Click the Ok button to finish the license installation process and close the license installer. Figure 2-10. Otherwise click the Browse button to open a standard Windows file browser and select the Flaresim license file from the temporary location to which you have saved the license file sent you by email. When you have entered the license file name. Successfull License Installation If there is any error in installing the license file a pop-up message will describe the problem and you will be returned 2-12 . Flaresim License Installer If you do not have your license file or you expect to be using a network license click the Cancel button. Alternatively you can type the license file name into the field provided. 15.2-12 Installing Flaresim-Single User Figure 2-9. click the Install button. If the license file has been correctly installed the following message will be displayed. Installation 2-13 to the main window of the Flaresim License Installer. the following screen will be shown.2.4 Installation of Sentinel Drivers Following completion of the Flaresim installation process an installer for the Sentinel Drivers for use of the Computer ID key will appear as shown below. 16. If you have persistent problems then you can use the Cancel button to bypass license installation at this time and complete this later. If this is the case click the Cancel button and skip to section 2. The Sentinel Drivers are not required for using Flaresim through a network license or for a short term standalone license when the license will be locked to a specific PC hard disk. Completion Screen 2. Figure 2-11. Following the closure of the Flaresim License Installer.5. Click the Finish button to complete the installation process.. 2-13 .2. the Aspentech suite. A screen displaying the Sentinel Protection software license will then be displayed. . It is also possible that the Sentinel Protection software is already installed on your PC to support other applications for example. Sentinel Drivers Installation 17. The next screen.2. This license must be accepted to allow the installation to procede.2-14 Installing Flaresim-Single User Figure 2-12.2 so if your current version is more recent you can use the Cancel button to exit without upgrading the Sentinel software. If this is the case you may be offered an Upgrade button in place of the Next button. Click the Next button. The Flaresim USB keys are compatible with any version of the Sentinel Protection Installer greater than 7. Click the Next button to start the Sentinel software installation. allows you to select the installation type. Figure 2-13. 2-14 18. 19. Figure 2-14. Figure 2-14. Sentinel Software Installation Options 2-15 . Sentinel Software Installation Type For the Flaresim Computer ID keys you need only the driver software so you can select Custom option as shown and click Next to display the Installation Options selection screen shown below.Installation 2-15 Figure 2-13. Figure 2-15. The other features such as the Sentinel Protection Server can be set to “Do not install”. Figure 2-15. 21. If you have USB computer ID key then plug it into a free USB port on your computer. Once complete the following view. Click Next to continue. Click the Finish button to complete. Sentinel Protection Installer Complete 23. Click the Install button to start it.2-16 Installing Flaresim-Single User If you are doing an Upgrade installation you might wish to select the Complete option to ensure that all other Sentinel protected applications will have the required software installed. In the Sentinel Software Installation Options screen. At this point you are ready to install your Computer ID key. 20. The first time this is done. you 2-16 . The next screen will indicate that the Sentinel Protection Installer is ready to begin. ensure that the Sentinel System Drivers are selected for installation as shown in Figure 2-14. In this case clicking the Next button will skip to step 23. will be displayed. 22. . If you have a printer already connected to the parallel port. 24. If a license file is not found when Flaresim starts. Flaresim has been successfully installed. Congratulations. If you do not have a license file see the instructions in the following section. You will not see any messages from the driver software for this type of device. Figure 2-16. plug it into the parallel port of your computer. 2. 2-17 . Flaresim License Error If you are installing a demonstration version of Flaresim or do not have a license file available at installation because this has been emailed separately then you will need to install the Flaresim license using this procedure. connect the key and then reconnect the printer to the female connector on the key. disconnect it.2.Installation 2-17 should expect to see confirmation that a Sentinel Ultrapro device has been detected and the driver installed.5 Standalone License File Installation Flaresim requires installation of a license file before it will run. The parallel port is the 25 pin female connector on the back of your computer.2. If the key is a parallel port device with 25 pin connectors. The arrows on the Computer ID key show which end connects to the computer. You are now ready to run the program for the first time by selecting it through the windows Start menu.6. then an error message similar to that shown below in Figure 2-16 will be displayed. 2. to obtain one. When you have entered the license file name. The Flaresim License Installer program will open and display the following view.2-18 Installing Flaresim-Single User 1. If the license file has been correctly installed the following message will be displayed. Flaresim License Installer 2-18 3.0. Alternatively you can type the license file name into the field provided.normally C:\Program Files\Flaresim 3. Click the Ok . 4. This may require Adminstrator or other privileges. Start the Flaresim License Installer from the Flaresim 3. 2. Figure 2-17. click the Install button. Firstly ensure that you have permission to write files in the Flaresim program folder . Click the Browse button to open a standard Windows file browser and select the Flaresim license file from either your Flaresim CD or any other location to which you have saved a license file.0 folder in the Start Programs menu. 2. you will need to supply some information about your installation to Softbits Consultants to allow a license file to be generated and emailed to you.2. If you have problems during the license installation or Flaresim continues to generate error messages when you attempt to run it then make a note of any error message messages. The security key and its associated license file 2-19 .6 Obtaining A License File If you have a fully licensed copy of Flaresim your license file will normally be emailed to you when you confirm receipt of your Flaresim package. You should then follow the troubleshooting guide in section 2.Installation 2-19 button to finish the license installation process and close the license installer. If required you can use the Cancel button to close the Flaresim license installer without installing the license.2.7 and/or contact support@flaresim. Figure 2-18. The information required will depend on whether you have a full license for the program or a demo license. Full License If you have a full license for Flaresim you will have been supplied with a security key.com for assistance. If a license file was not emailed to you. The most likely cause is that the installer does not have permission to write the license file to the Flaresim program folder. Successfull License Installation If there is any error in installing the license file a pop-up message will describe the problem and you will be returned to the main window of the Flaresim license installer. 2-20 .com together with your name and contact details. Locate the program echoid. A license file will be supplied to activate Flaresim for the single PC on which it is installed and for a limited period.0\Support).2-20 Installing Flaresim-Single User will allow Flaresim to be used by any PC as long as the security key is installed.0). Short Term Lease or Demo License If you have a short term lease or demo license for Flaresim you will not have a security key. Open the Windows Explorer program and browse to the Support sub-folder in the Flaresim program folder (usually C:\Program Files\Flaresim 3.exe and double click it to run it. The procedure to obtain the license file is as follows: 1. The program will check the security key and report the information required through a message window as shown below. Open the Windows Explorer program and browse to the Support sub-folder in the Flaresim program folder (usually C:\Program Files\Flaresim 3. Your license file will be generated and returned to you by e-mail. The procedure to obtain the license file is as follows: 1. Security Key Information 3. 2. Figure 2-19. Report this information by e-mail to support@flaresim. Wechoid Program 3.exe and double click it to start it. Clear all the Locking Criteria check boxes except that for Disk ID as shown above.Installation 2.2. When you receive the license file use the procedure described in section 2. 4. Your license file will be generated and sent to you by e-mail. Report the Locking Data by e-mail to [email protected] to install it.com together with your name and contact details. 2-21 Locate the program wechoid. Note the Locking Data displayed at the bottom of the screen. If the Locking Criteria check boxes have been set correctly. the Locking Data selector will be 0x4. The program will start and display the screen shown below. Unless otherwise instructed ensure that the radio button at the bottom of the view is set to “New Style” to generate a long 16 character code. Figure 2-20. 2-21 . The Sentinel LM system is used by other products apart from Flaresim for example the Aspentech suite of software.2. If the Computer ID key still cannot be seen by wechoid. If the Computer ID entry is visible and holds a value then the security device is correctly installed If the Computer ID section of the wechoid.exe output is greyed out or no data is shown then the security device is not correctly installed. A possible solution to this problem is to reinstall the Computer ID Key device drivers from the Drivers folder on the Flaresim CD.exe which can be found in the support sub-folder of the Flaresim program folder (normally C:\Program Files\Flaresim 3. The first of these problems can be tested for by running the program wechoid. • The Computer ID Key is not correctly installed • There is a Sentinel LM server in your network that is responding to license requests and interfering with the operation of the local license for Flaresim.2-22 Installing Flaresim-Single User 2. Running this program should give an output similar to that shown in Figure 2-21. Checking Computer ID Key Installation. is seen when starting Flaresim for the first time or an error message is seen when trying to add the Flaresim license then there are two possible causes.com.0). 2-22 .7 Troubleshooting Standalone Installation If an error message similar to Figure 2-16.exe even after reboot then the security device may be faulty and you should contact support@flaresim. Forcing Flaresim to Use a Local License If a Sentinel LM server is present in your network to support the use of other products e.LIC extension) and copy this to the Flaresim program folder (normally C:\Program Files\Flaresim 3. Open Windows Explorer. preventing Flaresim 2-23 .Installation 2-23 Figure 2-21.0.g. Wechoid. locate your license file (it will have a . 2. the Aspentech suite of software then it is possible that it may be detected by Flaresim when starting and respond to license requests which then fail. 1. it is possible to install the Flaresim license file manually as follows. Rename the file to “lservrc” note the quotes should be omitted and the file should have no file extension.exe Output Manual Installation of License File If the license file cannot be installed by the FSWLicense Installer. In Windows Explorer. right click the license file in the Flaresim program folder and select the Rename option. 2-24 Installing Flaresim-Single User from starting. In these circumstances Flaresim must be configured to force it to use a local license.bat and Flaresim NoNet. These examples will require update to reflect the precise details of your installation if you have not used the standard installation folders. There are two methods of doing this:• Create a lshost file to help the Flaresim client locate the server. If an LSHOST or LSFORCEHOST environment variable has already been set up to support a different product then it will be necessary to start Flaresim from either a batch file or a script file that resets these variables to values appropriate to for the Flaresim server before starting Flaresim.vbs in the Support sub-folder of the Flaresim program folder. The file must not have a . 2-24 .. Examples of both approaches can be found in the files Start Flaresim NoNet. Alternatively you can create the file lshost using a text editor. To use it simply copy it to the Flareism program folder. A copy of this file can be found in the support subfolder of your Flaresim program folder. • Set up an environment variable called either LSHOST or LSFORCEHOST and set this to the value NO-NET. Note that environment variables LSHOST and LSFORCEHOST take precedence over the contents of an lshost file (if any).txt extension and must contain a single line with the word NO-NET. This is a simple text file called “lshost” containing the word “NO-NET”. 3 Installing Flaresim .Network The network version of Flaresim allows the use of Flaresim from multiple client systems with the total number of copies in use being controlled by a central Flaresim license server. 2-25 .1 it must be uninstalled and replaced with the new Sentinel RMS version 8 server that ships with Flaresim 3. The installation of the server software is similar to the installation of other Windows programs. Firstly the server software must be installed.2 installed for a version of Flaresim prior to 2.Installation 2-25 2. Note the Flaresim license server is any PC on which the server software is installed. It does not have to be an existing network file server IMPORTANT NOTE If you already have a Sentinel LM server version 7. 2. Then the license file must be added to the server. The Windows Explorer program may be left open to start the server setup program if required. Shut down other windows programs. The following instructions are provided as a quick guide to installing your server software with a basic configuration.3. The steps are:1. Full details of this product are given in the online manuals which can be found in the SysAdminHelp sub-folder of the Server folder of the Flaresim CD. Installing the Flaresim network version is a 3 step process.1 Installing Server Software The Flaresim server software is the Sentinel RMS product from Safenet Inc. Finally the Flaresim client software must be installed on each machine that will run Flaresim. For more detailed information on the management of Sentinel RMS servers consult the online manuals.0. Network 2. If the AutoRun feature is enabled then the screen shown below will appear inviting you to start a client installation. Figure 2-22.exe where [Drive] is the drive letter of your CD.2-26 Installing Flaresim . Flaresim Client Screen 3. select the Flaresim install CD and browse to the folder \Server\Setup. If this happens click the Cancel button to exit the client installation. Double click on the program Setup. Open Windows Explorer. On starting the server setup program the following screen will appear 2-26 . Alternatively you can click the Start button select Run and then type [Drive]:\Server\Setup\Setup.exe to run it. Insert the Flaresim CD Rom into your CD or DVD drive. Hit Enter to start the setup program. 2-27 . You must accept the license agreement in order to be able to run the Flaresim server software. Server Setup License Agreement 5. The following license agreement screen will be displayed Figure 2-24. Click the appropriate radio button to accept the server software license agreement and click Next to continue.Installation 2-27 Figure 2-23. Server Setup Opening Screen 4. Click the Next button to continue. 2-28 Installing Flaresim . Server Software location 2-28 .Network The following screen will then appear. Once you have made your selection click Next to continue. User Selection 6. Generally you will want to install it for all users. Figure 2-26. This screen defines whether the software will be installed for all users of this computer or only the current user. Figure 2-25. The following screen will be shown. Figure 2-27. The following screen will be displayed. click Next to continue. This screen allows selection of the Installation Options. Click Next button to continue. Since Flaresim licenses are locked to Computer ID keys you must select the Complete option to install the device drivers for the keys as well as the server software. The following view will be displayed.Installation 7. Select Installation Options 8. 2-29 . 2-29 This screen defines the location to which the server software will be installed. The system administrators help system has the information you need to do this (Server\SysAdminHelp folder on CD).Network Figure 2-28. The following screen will be displayed. A port must be opened through any server firewall to allow communication between the Flaresim server and client PCs. Note that if you are using 3rd Party firewall software you may need to do this separately. This screen allows you to tell the installer to do this automatically. 2-30 . Select the check box and click Next.2-30 Installing Flaresim . Firewall Settings 9. Installation 2-31 Figure 2-29. Click the Install button. Server Installation Complete 2-31 . The server software install process will then start. On completion the following screen will be displayed. Figure 2-30. Ready to Install 10. This confirms that you are ready to begin installation of the Sentinel RMS server software. If you have USB computer ID key then plug it into a free USB port on your computer.Network 11.2-32 Installing Flaresim . this service will be set to start automatically each time the computer is started.3. It is up to your local policies whether to make these file available to Flaresim users as well as server administrators. Open Windows Explorer and browse to the directory [Drive]:\Server\Admin. 2-32 .exe. 13. 1. By default. Locate and install your Computer ID key on your server system. 12. Click the Finish button to close the window. You may wish to confirm that the server service has installed correctly by checking the list of running processes through the Task Manager.net\W32 where [Drive] is the drive letter of your CD drive. At this point the server software is installed and the server service will have been started. Optionally copy the server utility programs to your server as follows. Select and copy all the files from this directory to an appropriate place on your server. The license file will normally be found on the Flaresim CD. The server service is called lservnt. The procedure to install the Computer ID key and license file is as follows. This license file will normally be locked to the Computer ID key supplied with Flaresim. 2.2 Installing Server License File The Flaresim server software requires installation of a license file before it will be able to authorise Flaresim client software to run. Figure 2-31. WlmAdmin Program 2-33 . The parallel port is the 25 pin female connector on the back of your computer. disconnect it. If already have a printer on the parallel port.Installation 2-33 If the key is a parallel port device with 25 pin connectors. Open Windows Explorer and use it to browse to and start the program WlmAdmin.exe from either the Flaresim CD or the location to which you copied the server utility software. When open. The arrows on the Computer ID key show which end connects to the computer. the program will display the following screen. connect the key and then reconnect the printer to the female connector on the key. plug it into the parallel port of your server. 2. Right click the name of your server in the SubNet server list. If other servers are present locate the server to which you have connected the Flaresim security device.2-34 Installing Flaresim .Network 3. Figure 2-32. If your system is the only Sentinel server on the network then you will see only its name in the list. From the pop-up menus select Add Feature. WlmAdmin .Adding license 2-34 . Expand the tree of SubNet servers by clicking the symbol next to the SubNet servers entry. To Server and its File as the options appear as shown below. 4. From a File. Select your license file (. Note that the WlmAdmin program can be used to show usage details of licenses at any time. You will now be able to click the Flaresim license to display its details as shown below. 2-35 Figure 2-33.lic extension) in the browser and click Open. Your license should be added to the server and displayed in the tree below the server name.Installation 5. 6. WlmAdmin License details 2-35 . Left click on the To Server and its File option. 3.3 Troubleshooting License File Installation Should you get an error message when installing the license file perhaps of the form shown below then the first thing to check is that the Computer ID key is plugged in and accessible.net\W32 on your Flaresim CD. Figure 2-35.exe which can be found in the folder Server\Admin. Wechid.Network 2. If the Computer ID entry is visible and holds a value then the security device is correctly installed. Running this program should give an output similar to that shown below.exe Output 2-36 . Figure 2-34. License Installation Error This can be done by running the program wechoid.2-36 Installing Flaresim . .com. step17.com If the license file will not install when the wechoid.1.2.1 to 2.3. You are now ready to run the Flaresim by selecting it through the windows Start menu.Installation 2-37 If the Computer ID section of the wechoid. 2.exe even after reboot then the security device may be faulty and you should contact support@flaresim. Likewise since there is no need for a security key on a Flaresim client in a network installation you should click Cancel when the Sentinel Protection Installer view is displayed.3 above. Figure 2-12. you should click the Cancel button.exe output shows that the security device is visible then there may be a problem with the license file and you should contact support@flaresim. . Figure 2-9.4 Installing Flaresim Clients The installation of the Flaresim client software for use with a Flaresim license server is the same as for a standalone installation as described in sections 2.exe output is greyed out or no data is shown then the security device is not correctly installed. If the security device still cannot be seen by wechoid. step 14. 2-37 . Since there is no requirement for local license in a Flaresim network installation. when the FSWLicense installer is shown. A possible solution to this problem is to reinstall the security device drivers from the Drivers folder on the Flaresim CD. g. If all are in use the client must wait until a license becomes free.Network 2. Figure 2-36. Aspentech products. • All available licenses are in use. Checking Available Licenses The first step in resolving these problems is to run the WlmAdmin program from the client system and open the list of subnet servers. • Server may not be active.5 Trouble Shooting Flaresim Client If the Flaresim client program fails to find a server license when it starts up the following message will be displayed. License Error If you see this message you should click the Ok button to close the window.2-38 Installing Flaresim . It can take up to 5 minutes for a license to become free after another user has shut down Flaresim. 2-38 .3. Configuring Server Location If an available license can be seen on the server but the Flaresim client still will not load then it may be caused by Flaresim being either unable to locate the Flaresim server or by Flaresim locating another Sentinel server for another product e. • Client system does not have network access to the server. The following check list offers possible reasons why Flaresim might not be able to locate the license server to obtain a license. If the Flaresim server can be seen. open the Flaresim license to check whether there is a license available. Installation 2-39 In this case it is necessary to specify the name of the host to Flaresim. There are two options for this:• Create a lshost file to help the Flaresim client locate the server. To do this create a simple text file called lshost (note no .txt extension) in the Flaresim client program directory. Edit the contents of this file so that it contains the name of the Flaresim server. For example in the case of the server installation shown in section 2.3.2 of this file would have the text “orac.flaresim.co.uk”. • Set up an environment variable called either LSHOST or LSFORCEHOST to specify the name of the server. For example in our example the environment variable would be set LSHOST=orac.flaresim.co.uk • If multiple servers must be included in a lshost file or LSHOST variable use a “~” character to separate the e.g. “server1.flaresim.co.uk~server2.flaresim.co.uk Note that environment variables LSHOST and LSFORCEHOST take precedence over the contents of an lshost file (if any). If an LSHOST or LSFORCEHOST environment variable has already been set up to support a different product then it will be necessary to start Flaresim from either a batch file or a script file that resets these variables to values appropriate to for the Flaresim server before starting Flaresim. Examples of both approaches can be found in the files Start Flaresim.bat and Flaresim.vbs in the Support sub-folder of the Flaresim program folder. These examples will require update to reflect the precise details of your installation. Checking Access To The Server If the WlmAdmin program does not list a Flaresim server when run on the client then the problem likely lies in the client system not having network access to the server. You will need to check all elements of the network routing (e.g. firewalls, routers) to ensure that the server can be seen by the client system. Further help on license server setup and possible problems can be found in the online manual in the SysAdminHelp folder on the Flaresim CD. 2-39 2-40 Flaresim File Locations 2.4 Flaresim File Locations A Flaresim client installation comprises a number of files split into the following groups. Program Files Program - Flaresim.exe Support libraries - various .dll files License installer - FSWLicense.exe Installed license file - lservrc Help files - FSWHelp.chm, *.HLP Documentation folder - Flaresim.pdf Support Files Layout files - *.lay Default case file - Default.fsw Default report definition - Flaresim.xsl Units definitions - Units.xml Component database - LibraryComponents.xml Default preference file - Preferences.xml Default preferences file - PrintPreference.xml Report logo file - Logo.gif Sample Files Examples - *.fsw Report sub-folders 2.4.1 Install Locations on Windows XP The default install locations for the different groups of files when Flaresim is installed on Windows XP are as follows. Program Files C:\Program Files\Flaresim 3.0 Support Files C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Softbits\Flaresim 3.0 Sample Files [My Documents]\Softbits\Flaresim 3.0\Samples 2-40 Installation 2-41 2.4.2 Install Locations on Windows Vista The default install locations for the different groups of files when Flaresim is installed on Windows Vista are as follows. Program Files C:\Program Files\Flaresim 3.0 Support Files C:\ProgramData\Softbits\Flaresim 3.0 Sample Files [My Documents]\Softbits\Flaresim 3.0\Samples 2.4.3 Install Locations on Windows 7 The default install locations for the different groups of files when Flaresim is installed on Windows 7 are as follows. Program Files C:\Program Files\Flaresim 3.0 Support Files C:\ProgramData\Softbits\Flaresim 3.0 Sample Files [My Documents]\Softbits\Flaresim 3.0\Samples 2-41 2-42 2-42 Flaresim File Locations . 33 Welltest Burner Design . . . . . .1 Simple Flare Stack Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 3. . . .2 3.1. . . . . . . .1 3. . .1. . . . . . . . . . . . . Two Tip Design . . . . . . . . . . Run & Review Calculations.2. . .5 3. . . . . . . . Run & Review Calculations. . . .3 3. . . . .3. . . . . . . .1 3. . . . . . . . . . .3 3.3 3.5 Objective and Data. . . . . Compare Results . . . . . . . . .3 3. . 26 3. . . . . . . . . . . . .2. . . . . . .1 3. . 4 Initial Setup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Update Pipe Tip . Open Starting File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 3. . . . . . . . . .3 18 18 18 20 21 Objective and Data. .3. . . . . . Create Sonic Tip. . . . . . . . . Update Tip Data . . . . . . . .3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Open Starting File .4 3. .1. . 23 23 24 24 25 Working With Isopleths . . . . . . . 36 3-1 . . . . . . . . . .2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 External Overlay File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Print Results . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 3. . . .4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Open Starting File . 18 3. . . . . . . . . . .4. . . . . . . . . .4 Objective and Data. .3. . . . . .4 3. .5 3. . . . . .1 3. . . . . . .Getting Started 3-1 3 Getting Started Page 3. . . 26 Adding a Flaresim Overlay .4.3.2 3. . . . 4 Initial Calculations .1. . . .2 Sonic Tip Design . . . . . . . . . . .4 3. . . . . . .2. . . . . .2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41 Evaluate Rate of Temperature Rise . . . . . . . . . . .6 Gas Dispersion. . . .5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 3-2 Objective and Data. .40 Add Water Screen . . . .37 Add Welltest Burner Tip .7 3. .5 3. . .48 Gaussian Dispersion. . . . . . . .5. . . . . .44 Check Safety Case. . . . . . .6 3. .39 Add New Receptor Point . .5. . . . . . . 47 3. . . . . . . . . .1 3. . .1 3. . .56 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Downwind Plot .5.6. . .51 Gaussian Dispersion. . . . . . . . . . . . .53 Dispersion Analysis Comments . .6. . Contour Plot . . . . . . .5. . . . . . .6.5 3.48 Jet Dispersion Calculation . . . . . .3 3. .5. .10 3. . . . . . . . . . . .45 Objective and Data. . . .39 Run & Review Calculations. . . . . . . . .4 3.36 Add New Stack . . . .3-2 3. .36 Open Starting File . . . . .9 3. . . .5. . . . . .6. . . . . .4 3. . . . . .47 Load or Create Base Case . . .6. .3 3. . . . . . . . .5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. . .5. . . . .6. . . .36 Add New Fluid Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 3.8 3. . . . . . . . .2 3. . . . . . . . Getting Started 3-3 The purpose of this chapter is to provide an introduction to the use of Flaresim. The examples show how Flaresim may be used to calculate thermal radiation, noise and exposed surfaces temperatures arising from flaring at one or more flare stacks. Examples of dispersion calculations are also given. The examples begin with a simple flare stack design which is then refined and expanded. The examples attempt to highlight some of the critical parameters to be considered when designing a safe flare system. The examples build up in stages. If you wish to skip a particular stage, the Samples sub-folder of the Flaresim program folder has model files saved at each stage. 3-3 3-4 Simple Flare Stack Design 3.1 Simple Flare Stack Design 3.1.1 Objective and Data The objective is to design a flare stack for an offshore platform. It is assumed that an inclined flare boom will be used mounted on the side of the platform which faces the prevailing wind. The design is to be based on thermal radiation limits as follows:• 1,500 btu/hr/ft2 at the base of the flare stack. • 600 btu/hr/ft2 at the helideck located 150 ft from the side of the platform and 30 ft above the base of the flare stack. The following design data is available Fluid Material Hydrocarbon Vapour Flow 100,000 lb/hr Mol Wt. 46.1 Vapour Temp. 300 F Heat of combustion 21,500 btu/lb Heat Capacity ratio 1.1 Tip Diameter 18 in Wind Velocity 20 mph 3.1.2 Initial Setup New File Icon 3-4 1. Start the Flaresim program through the windows Start button in the usual way. 2. We are going to build our first model through the Setup Wizard. For a new installation of Flaresim this will open automatically ready to build a new model. If this does not appear then you should select the File - Preferences menu option and select the “Use Setup Wizard for New Cases” check box on the Files&Options tab. Then select File - New Getting Started 3-5 or the New File icon on the tool bar to create a new case with the Setup Wizard. 3. In the opening view of the Setup Wizard, set the unit set to Default Field as shown. Then click the Next button to move to the Fluid definition tab. Figure 3-1, Setup Wizard Opening View 4. In the Fluid tab of the Setup Wizard enter the following data items, using the tab key or the mouse to move from field to field. Temperature = 300 F Mole Weight = 46.1 LHV = 21500 btu/lb Cp/Cv = 1.1 Note that some of these values (e.g Temperature or Cp/Cv) are originally displayed in purple colour denoting a default 3-5 LEL and Saturation can be left at their default values. The full list of colours used by Flaresim to display values is:Purple for a fixed default value Red for calculated default values Blue for a user specified value Grey for a fixed. unchangeable input value Black for a calculated result The remaining values for Ref Pressure. Setup Wizard Fluid Tab Note that Flaresim requires the lower heating value for a fluid for its calculations. We are assuming that the value we 3-6 . The finished view is shown below Figure 3-2. value.3-6 Simple Flare Stack Design LEL is used only by the Brzustowski flare radiation method. When you entered a value the colour changes to blue denoting a user specified value. we would always recommend consulting a flare system vendor for advice on the appropriate F Factor for a specific fluid and specific flare tip. the fraction of heat radiated by the flame. The F Factor. enter the Fluid Mass Flow Rate as 100. Still in the Tip tab. The Mach number will be updated to 0. The Generic Pipe correlation has been developed to predict F Factors across a range of exit velocities and fluid molecular weights and is generally recommended for initial calculations. For final designs. 5. When the entries are complete click the Next button. In our case we know the tip diameter is 18 in so we update the calculated value to 18 in. Advice on the usage of each input value and the allowable input range is displayed in the advice panel as you move through the input fields.000 lb/hr. 6. gross heating value. In the Tip tab select the radio button to set the tip type to a Pipe Tip. When complete the view should be as shown in Figure 3-3. is a critical design parameter for flare system design.199 to indicate the velocity for the new diameter.e. 3-7 .Getting Started 3-7 have been given is the lower. In the table for selection of F Factor method select the check box to select the Generic Pipe method. i.45. After this entry has been completed. the Tip Diameter field is updated to show the tip diameter required for the default Mach number of 0. net heating value rather than the higher. Since the value we have been given is 20 mph we first click the entry displaying ft/s and select mph in the drop down menu before entering the value.33 ft/s. . Temperature 59 F. The humidity value is only used when calculating the transmissivity. 7. If we wish to see the value in ft/s then click again in the units entry and select ft/s to display the converted value of 29. Note this default transmissivity method with a specified transmissivity value of 1. the Environment tab. Setup Wizard Tip Tab Click the Next button to move to the next tab.3-8 Simple Flare Stack Design Figure 3-3. enter the wind speed.0 is the most conservative option. 3-8 In the next tab.0 with the Transmissivity Method set to “User specified”. The remaining items can be left at their default values namely Wind Direction as 0 (i.e. Humidity 10% and the User Transmissivity 1. North). Including solar radiation leads to a more conservative design and its inclusion is recommended by API 521. Solar radiation can have a significant impact on the flare design when low radiation values are considered. Click the Next button to continue. The completed view is shown as Figure 3-4. However some sources suggest it can be excluded. Setup Wizard Environment Tab 3-9 . Figure 3-4.Getting Started 3-9 The final input is to remove the tick from the check box labelled “Include Solar Radiation” which means that the specified solar radiation value will NOT be added to the calculated value of flare radiation. Since we considering a low design radiation for the Helideck in this case we will exclude solar radiation for this example. Setup Wizard Stack Tab 9. In the Receptors tab. Figure 3-5. Then set the Stack Horizontal Orientation angle to 0 (i. The Stack Length will be left unspecified to let Flaresim calculate it.3-10 Simple Flare Stack Design 8. Click the Next button to continue. North). Set its Distance Downwind from Stack to 0 ft and confirm that the Allowable Radiation for the point is 1500 btu/hr/ft2. Now click the Add button to create an additional receptor point for the radiation at the Helideck. select the radio button to set the Vertical Orientation to 60 degrees from horizontal. In the Stack tab. click on the default receptor point “RP_1” and rename it to “Stack Base”.e. Change the default name “RP_2” to “Helideck” and enter the location as North- 3-10 . The completed form is shown as Figure 3-5. select the check box to set the Calculation Method to Mixed and set the Flame Elements to 25. 25 flame elements is usually sufficient to calculate the flame shape with a reasonable degree of accuracy. and the radiation limit as 600 btu/hr/ft2. As discussed in the Methods chapter. As such it is a good default method. The completed form is shown as Figure 3-6.Getting Started 3-11 ing -150ft. Click the Next button to continue. Setup Wizard Receptors Tab 10. the Mixed method is a compromise designed to give the best accuracy for calculating radiation both close to and further away from the flame. In the Calculations tab. Easting 0ft. 3-11 . Figure 3-6. Elevation 30ft. . At this points we have completed the Setup Wizard so click the Finish button. Setup Wizard Calculations Tab 11. Note that the icon is shown against each object indicating it is ready to calculate and that the icon is shown against the key object branches to indicate that the model has the minimum information needed to run calculations. Figure 3-7. The Case Navigator view will be displayed to list all of these objects as shown in Figure 3-8. 3-12 When the Finish button is clicked.3-12 Simple Flare Stack Design The completed view is shown as Figure 3-7. the Setup Wizard takes the data we have supplied and uses it to create the Flaresim objects that we need for our initial model. 3-13 . Since we have not yet saved the file. Click the tool bar button in the tool bar at the top of the Case Navigator or main tool bar.Getting Started 3-13 At this point you can open each objects view by double clicking on them in the Case Navigator to see how the Setup Wizard has initialised the values. This is a suitable point to save the data we have entered so far. At this point we are ready to run the calculations by clicking the large button labelled “Click to Calculate” at the top of the Case Navigator. Messages will be output to the Error/Warnings/Info log to show progress as shown below. a File Save Dialog window will appear to allow us to specify the location and name of the file. The button will change to show a progress bar as the calculation runs. Case Summary 12.3 Initial Calculations 13.1. Figure 3-8. 3. Receptor Grid Isopleth Plot 3-14 . Also the log window can be resized by dragging the separator bar above it. The radiation isopleths are displayed as shown below. We can now review the results. 14. Then select Plot in the Display drop down. Error/Warnings/Info log Note that the scroll bars can be used to review earlier messages. Figure 3-10. Double click the Grid 1 item in the Case Summary view and then click the Radiation tab.3-14 Simple Flare Stack Design Figure 3-9. Save the case. Figure 3-11. Finally open the Receptor summary view by double clicking the “Receptor Point” branch label in the Case Navigator. the Radiation Results line shows that our design radiation limit of 600 btu/h/ft2 has been met for the Helideck receptor while the radiation value at the Stack Base receptor is lower than its allowed value limit at 767 btu/hr/ft2. Receptor Point Summary 15. 3-15 .Getting Started 3-15 Click Stack 1 in the Case Navigator view and click the View button. The view will show that the stack length has been calculated as 247ft. This completes our initial design. As shown below. . Figure 3-12.1. Note that this will open in a new window. To see what the report will look like with the current set of elements you will need to click the Refresh button to update it.4 Print Results 16. The Report Preview view shown below opens.3-16 Simple Flare Stack Design 3. Report Preview 17. 3-16 Select the report elements you wish to see printed. Select the Print button in the Case Navigator tool bar. independent of the main Flaresim view. The standard Printer Dialog view shown below will appear to allow the printer and other options to be selected. Once you have set your preferred report options you can click the Save Options button to save your report options to a configuration file. 18. When you are happy with the options you have chosen click the Print button to send the report to your default printer.Getting Started 3-17 In order to allow us to compare these results with future results you will need to ensure that the Stack Configuration. Tip Results . Your chosen options will also be saved with the case. Figure 3-13.General and Flame Shape elements and the Receptor Point results are included. Printer Dialog 3-17 . 2. 3. 3. .2. Select the file “Example 1 Result. If you are continuing from Example 1 you should save your case before continuing using the button from the tool bar at the top of the Case Navigator.2. This will usually be in the Softbits\Flaresim 3.2 Sonic Tip Design 3. browse to the Samples folder created by your Flaresim installation.3-18 Sonic Tip Design 3.Open menu option or the icon. environmental data and radiation limits are the same as for Example 1.3 Create Sonic Tip 3. Therefore we will attempt to reduce the required flare stack length by redesigning the system using a sonic flare tip. The fluid data.1 Objective and Data The design that we produced in Example 1 meets our design radiation limits but requires a long 247ft stack. Skip to step 3. Otherwise use the File . In the File Open dialog that appears.0 folder in your configured “Documents” folder. Since we are designing a flare stack for an offshore platform we wish to minimise the length and hence the weight of the flare stack as much as possible. 3-18 Create a new tip by selecting the Tip branch in the Case Navigator view and then clicking the Add button or by selecting the Add .2 Open Starting File 1.Tip drop down menu option. 2.fsw” and click the Open button. Getting Started 4. On the Noise Input tab of the Tip view enter the following data: Combustion Noise Method = Standard Reference. select the branch labelled Tip 1 and then click the Ignore button.843e-4in (default) Calc Burner Opening = Selected 7. In the Case Navigator. At this point the Status Text at the bottom of the Tip view should indicate that the tip data is complete. 6. 3-19 On the Details tab of the Tip view that opens enter the following data: Name = “Sonic Tip” Tip Type = Sonic Number of Burners = 1 Seal Type = None Fraction Heat Radiated Method = High Efficiency 5. 3-19 .0 (default) Roughness = 9.0ft Angle to Horizontal = 90 Angle to North = 0 Exit Diameter = 18in Riser Diameter = 18in Contraction Coefficient = 1.000lb/hr 8. Move to the Location & Dimensions tab and enter the following data: On Stack = Stack_1 Length = 3.0 (default) Exit Loss Coefficient = 1. Click on the Fluids tab and enter the following: Fluid Name = Fluid 1 Fluid Mass Flow = 100. Close the view. The icon beside the label should turn to a icon to confirm that the tip will not be included in the calculations. 9. 2. The radiation at the Helideck receptor point is 543 btu/hr/ft2. 11. Once Flaresim has finished calculating. Click the large button at the top of the Case Navigator. check the Errors/ Warnings/Info log panel to confirm that the expected calculations for the two Receptor Points have been completed. Note that if earlier messages in the log panel are causing confusion. As shown below.4 Run & Review Calculations 10. Open the Receptor Summary view. 12. The new length calculated for the stack is 68ft.3-20 Sonic Tip Design 3. Sonic Tip. you can click the right mouse button over the log panel to access a pop-up menu which provides a Clear option to remove the current log messages. this indicates that the Stack Base receptor point is now the controlling limit since the thermal radiation at this point is calculated as 1500 btu/hr/ft2. We are now ready to run the calculations. Receptor Summary 3-20 . Figure 3-14. We are now ready to review the results. Open the Stack view for the Main Stack. Results.Result” sub-folder and “Example 2 Result.Getting Started 13. Note that both cases are open simultaneously in Flaresim and you can switch between them using the Windows menu option. Since reports are generated in separate windows then you will now have two report windows that you can compare side by side.5 Compare Results Our new design with the sonic flare tip is clearly better since it leads to a much shorter stack that will save a great amount of weight and hence cost over our initial design using the pipe flare tip.html” in the “Samples\Example 1 .Result.2.0). 14.Result” subfolder. 3-21 3. It is worth doing a detailed comparison to understand the difference between the designs. The fraction of heat radiated value for the Pipe flare design is 0.html” in the “Samples\Example 2 . Reopen the original case “Example 1 . 15. 16.fsw” and click the Print tool bar button. Find the Tip Data . Save the new design to a new case name.Results section in the reports.35 while that for the Sonic design is 0. Pipe flares exhibit relatively poor mixing of air with the flared fluid and as a result the flame contains many partially combusted luminescent carbon particles that give it an orange colour and a relatively high fraction of heat radiated. Sonic flare tips are designed to maximise the mixing of air and the flared fluid and so burn with a clearer flame with lower heat radiation. 3-21 . Alternatively you can use your Internet browser to view the saved report files “Example 1 .1. (usually in [Documents]\Softbits\Flaresim 3. Generate a report for this new case using the Print tool bar button. The fraction of heat radiated by a flare is a critical parameter in the design. The fact that the sonic tip is operating at choked conditions means that the pressure drop over this type of tip is much higher than for the pipe tip. 17. For the Pipe flare this is 14. Sonic flare tips by their design and by their greater gas exit velocities lead to a flame shape that is shorter and stiffer compared to that of a pipe flare.0 psi. Should you wish to use a heat radiation factor supplied by a vendor you should set the method to User Specified and enter the value. This can be seen most clearly by comparing the 3D plot of the Flame Shape in the reports.Results section of the reports find the flame length. For the Pipe flare design this is 173 ft. However since this is such an important factor in the design.e.3-22 Sonic Tip Design By selecting the appropriate F Factor method to calculate the fraction of heat radiated in both our designs we have allowed the program to calculate an appropriate value for the different tips. the heat radiation factor to be used should be confirmed with your flare system vendor prior to the final design. Thus a sonic tip can only be used if the resulting back pressure on the flare system is not so high as to prevent safe relief of the gas. while for the Sonic flare design the flame length is 88ft. 3-22 . Still in the Tip Data .7 psi while for the Sonic flare it is 26. tip inlet pressure. Note that the flame length calculated by the API method is the same in both cases. Finally in the Tip Results section of the reports find the tip back pressure i. As a result the flame is less affected by wind and stays closer to the tip and thus further from the platform. 2.Getting Started 3-23 3.Open menu option or the icon. In many cases this additional back pressure will be too high to allow safe relief from all the possible relief sources in the process. This means that the flare stack can be much shorter while still meeting radiation limits.2 Open Starting File 1.3.000 lb/h of the material being flared cannot be relieved safely at the new higher back pressure. 3. in Otherwise use the File . stiffer and above all a flame with a lower F Factor than the pipe flare. In the File Open dialog that appears.3 Two Tip Design Comparison of our two designs using the pipe tip and the sonic tip shows that the sonic tip is much the better since it produces a shorter. The review has shown that 10. However we have also seen that the sonic flare tip results in higher back pressures on the flare system. If you are continuing from Example 2 you should save your case before continuing using the Save tool bar button the Case Navigator.1 Objective and Data The relieving sources in our process have been reviewed to check that the new back pressure resulting from the sonic tip is acceptable. As a result we have decided to split our design so this 10. 3-23 .3. browse to the Samples sub-folder of your Flaresim installation (usually [My Documents]\Softbits\Flaresim 3. Skip to step 3. Therefore it is common to see designs with both high and low pressure flare systems relieving through different tips. 3.000 lb/h is relieved through a low pressure flare system leading to a pipe tip with the remaining material flowing through a high pressure flare system to a sonic tip.0) and click the Open button. Given the advantages of the sonic tip it might appear that we should always specify this type of tip. Close the view. Rename the tip to “Pipe Tip”.3 Update Tip Data 3.3-24 Two Tip Design 3. Close the view. On the Fluids tab change the flow rate to 90. 4. Check the Errors/Warnings/Info log panel to confirm that the expected calculations for the two Receptor Points have been completed.3. Then clear the tick from the Ignore check box to activate this tip again. Open the Stack view for the Main Stack. Open the view for the Tip 1 by double-clicking this in the Case Navigator view or by selecting it and then clicking the View button. Stack View 3-24 .000 lb/h. The new length calculated for the stack is 96ft. On the Fluids tab change the flow rate to 10.4 Run & Review Calculations 5.000 lb/h. 6. 3. Click the large button at the top of the Case Navigator. We are now ready to run the calculations. In the Case Navigator view double-click the Sonic Tip branch to open the view for this Tip. We are now ready to review the results. Figure 3-15.3. 5 Update Pipe Tip In reducing the flow through the Pipe tip we have changed its performance. 9. through the tip which reduces the tips efficiency.34. Set the Mach number to 0. 3. 0. 10.02 mach.25 Mach.38 whereas before it was 0. 3-25 Open the Receptor Summary view. The new exit velocity is 0.35.3 and set “Use Nominal Diam” to “No” and the tip size will be calculated as 4. For efficient operation the velocity should be 0. You will see on the Details tab that the fraction of heat radiated from this tip has been calculated as 0.6 in. Our two tip design is complete so save the case. If you wish to check the actual Mach Number at the selected tip size. The tip size and riser diameter will automatically be updated to the new selected diameter. The improvement in efficiency of this flare reduces the calculated size of the stack to 90ft. This is acceptable so click the Ok button. Now recalculate the case. This indicates that the Main Stack receptor point is still the controlling limit since the thermal radiation at this point is still calculated as 1500 btu/hr/ft2. 11.3. 3-25 . The reason for this is the greatly reduced velocity.Getting Started 7.2 mach or higher. Open the Tip view for the Pipe tip.25 mach and the fraction of heat radiated is now 0. Set “Use Nominal Diam” back to “Yes” and an nominal diameter of 5 inch will be selected. 8. On the Location & Dimensions tab. use the Nominal Diameter drop down list and reselect 5 inch to update the calculated Mach Number which will be 0. click the Size Me button. fsw” and click the Open button.e. Our model already has one receptor grid called Grid 1. Skip to step 3.4 Working With Isopleths To see details of the thermal radiation around the flare Flaresim provides the Receptor Grid objects that will calculate the radiation for a grid of points that can be used to generate isopleth charts showing lines of constant thermal radiation. It shows a plan view around our flare stack at the grade elevation i. we will update the receptor grid to plot the radiation at this level. more accurate isopleths at a cost of increased calculation time. This was automatically generated for us by the Setup Wizard. browse to the Samples folder in your Flaresim installation ([Documents]\Softbits\Flaresim 3. 4. Note that the number of points in the grid is not critical .a higher number will generate smoother.4. 3.1 Open Starting File 1.0). If you are continuing from Example 3 you should save your case before continuing using the Navigator tool bar.3-26 Working With Isopleths 3. icon from the Case 2. Since the Helideck is the main area of interest we will update this grid to the correct elevation. 3. Otherwise use the File . select the file “Example 3 . change the name to “Helideck Plan” and change the elevation offset to 30ft. Since the Helideck is one of the main areas of interest.Open menu option or the icon. 3-26 In the Case Navigator view select the Receptor Grid branch and click the Add button (alternatively select the Add - . In the File Open dialog that appears.Result. Open the Grid 1 object by double clicking on it in the Case Navigator. Also update the number of points for each axis to 41. Similar isopleth charts can be displayed for noise and surface temperature results. Once open. 0ft. Northing Max = 300ft. When your updates are complete you can click the button at the bottom of the Customise window to copy your changes to other isopleths of the same type. Easting = 0ft.Getting Started 3-27 Receptor Grid drop down menu option) to create and open the view for a new Receptor Grid object. Select the Contour Details tab and select the check boxes to show only the isopleth values for 600. 3-27 . The receptor point properties are left at the default values. Elevation Points = 41. clicking on the Radiation tab and then selecting Plot as the Display option. You can customise the isopleth lines displayed on the plot by clicking the Customise button to open a plot properties view as shown below. Note the colours of each isopleth can be customised by clicking on the line colour panel and selecting the colour from the pop-up colour picker dialog. 1500. Northing Min = -500ft. 6. 5. Orientation = Elevation-Northing. When the run is complete you will be able to inspect the isopleth plot by opening the grid view. Re-run the case. Similar plots for noise and surface temperatures can be found on the Noise and Temperature tabs. Enter the following data to create a grid for the vertical cross-section through the axis of the flare. 5000 and 10000 btu/hr/ft2 as shown in Figure 3-16 below. Elevation Max = 300ft. 3000. 7. Name = Helideck Elevation. Elevation Min = -100ft. Northing Points = 41. This displays a standard file save dialog which allows the type of graph to be exported to be selected from the Save as type drop down. Isopleth Customisation 8.3-28 Working With Isopleths Figure 3-16. BMP and PNG bitmap formats or WMF and EMF vector formats. Note vector format files are more suitable for re-scaling and inclusion in reports. If the Export button is clicked while the isopleth results are displayed as a Table the save dialog will provide options to save the results table to a text file (of comma separated values) or to an Excel spreadsheet file. A plot may also be exported as a standalone graphics file clicking the Export button on an isopleth result tab when the display option is set to Plot. A sample of the output produced is shown below. Isopleth plots will be included automatically as part of Flaresim standard reports. Simply select the type of plot to be produced. Note this is a modal . 3-28 A graphical report that displays an isopleth plot together with a summary of the model data can be generated from the Graphical Report tab on the Receptor Grid view. 9. the layout file and click the View Graphic Report button. Allowed types are JPG. Graphic Report View 10. select the check box for the radiation plot and JPEG Bitmap as the file type as shown below. For example to export a graphic report of the radiation isopleth for the Helideck Plan view.Getting Started 3-29 window that must be closed before you can use other parts of Flaresim. Then click the Save Graphic Reports button. The graphic reports will then be automatically created and saved and the Log area of the Flaresim screen 3-29 . Figure 3-17. A browser window will open to allow the output folder to be specified. Graphic reports can be printed or exported as graphics files using the Print Graphic Reports tool bar button . select the Helideck Plan in the list of available receptors grids. Drawings can either be imported or generated using the internal overlay editor. select the Overlay branch and click the Add button. . select the “Helideck Plan” grid and click Update. Output Graphic Report 3. 12. Change the name to “Helideck Plan”. The Overlay dimensions are updated with those from the Helideck Plan Grid. Figure 3-18.2 Adding a Flaresim Overlay Flaresim allows drawings to be overlaid on isopleth plots.3-30 Working With Isopleths will list the output location of the saved files. In the Case Navigator. In this example we will create a simple plan view within Flaresim.4. Note the layout file used will be that specified on the Graphic Report tab for each receptor grid. 3-30 11. In the “Update Details From Grid” section of the Details tab. A new overlay object called Overlay 1 will be created and displayed. Y coordinates at the left of the view as a guide. clicking and holding the left mouse button and dragging to the point 30.Getting Started 13. -180. 16. Select the Editor tab and click the zoom in 3-31 and zoom out buttons and/or resize the view until you can see the full drawing. clicking and holding the left mouse button then dragging to the second point. A set of selection points will appear around it to indicate that it has been selected. Add a second rectangle to represent the helideck from the points -50. Not this will not form part of the drawing. Now click the properties drop down menu and select the Text Font option to open a standard font dialog to allow the text size and style to be defined. Click the text button and then click the drawing in the middle of the helideck circle. 3-31 . Now click the Add Rectangle button and draw a rectangle to represent the platform outline from the top left corner at -200. A vertical flashing bar will appear to indicate the text insertion point. A size of around 24 pt is probably suitable. Click the ellipse button and draw a circle within the helideck rectangle by moving to the point -50. -100. If the text is too small.-200. Type the letter H and then hit the enter key to complete the text entry. This is done by moving to the first point using the displayed X. 15. 14. 17.0 to the bottom right corner 50. click the select button and then select the text you have just entered. -180. Check the Show Stacks check box to display the location of the stack in the drawing to act as a guideline.-100 to 30. The overlay is now displayed as the background picture to the isopleth as shown below. Now go to the radiation tab. Completed Overlay 18. 3-32 . The overlay picture is now complete and should look something like the view below. Next open the “Helideck Plan” Receptor Grid and go to the Plot Overlay tab. Finally tick the Show Overlay check box.the yellow dot will indicate the point to click for dragging the text. “Helideck Plan”. Select the Use Flaresim Overlay radio button and then in the drop down menu that appears select the overlay we have just created.3-32 Working With Isopleths If required the selected text can also be moved by clicking and dragging with it the left mouse button . Figure 3-19. bmp.emf) but bitmap files (. The best type of background drawing to import is a scaled vector drawing i.Getting Started 3-33 Figure 3-20. in your Flaresim model are matched to the drawing on import the 3-33 . Isopleth with Overlay 19.3 External Overlay File The other method of displaying an overlay with your isopleth plots is to link to an external graphics file. the sub folder created with the same name as the Flaresim case which contains the report data) with the file extension “.fso”.jpg files) can also be used.e.4.png and . Save the case. The overlay file we have created will be automatically saved in the Flaresim case folder (i.wmf) or enhanced metafile (. . a Windows metafile (.e. Given that the locations of the stacks etc. 3. Ensure the Details radio button is selected in the External File Details section and enter the following values:Elevation . The file to import is called elevation. 350 in the drawing.0) in the model is located at the point 500.Min = 0ft Northing . We know that the drawing we are going to import represents dimensions of 1050 ft wide by 750 ft high. Location of Flaresim Origin .Northing = 500ft 22. 20. Elevation . Open the Plot Overlay tab in the Helideck Elevation Receptor Grid.Max = 1050ft.Max = 750ft Northing . You can now click the Preview radio button to see the imported graphic file together with a blue outline rectangle which shows the extents of the current receptor grid on the drawing. .wmf and is located in the Samples\example 4 . 21. Click the Browse button to import the background graphics file. The point corresponding to the base of the main stack (0.Min = 0ft.result folder. Move to the Radiation tab and you should see your overlay displayed on the isopleth as shown below.Elevation = 350ft Location of Flaresim Origin . You will need to select “Windows Metafiles (.3-34 Working With Isopleths isopleths will be correctly positioned in relation to the drawing. 3-34 Reselect the Details radio button and set the Show Overlay check box.wmf)” in the “Files of Type” drop down in the File Open view to select this. 23. The following example shows how this is done. Click Ok. Save the case. 3-35 . External Overlay File 24.Getting Started 3-35 Figure 3-21. Our work enhancing the isopleth plots is now complete. 100 F Heat of combustion 19.3-36 Welltest Burner Design 3.Open menu option or the icon. 3.2 Open Starting File 1.Result. In the File Open dialog that appears.5.5 Welltest Burner Design Offshore platforms often include a facility for burning off liquids produced during well tests. The properties of the liquid to be burned are as follows: Fluid Material Hydrocarbon Liquid Flow 30.0) select the file “Example 4 . browse to the Samples sub-folder in the Flaresim installation folder (usually [My Documents]\Softbits\Flaresim 3.5. 3-36 In the Case Navigator view select the Fluids branch and then click the Add button to create a new Fluid and open its view. Flaresim is capable of modelling this type of burner in addition to the conventional safety release flares. If you are continuing from Example 4 you should save your case before continuing using the Navigator tool bar.3 Add New Fluid Data 3. .550 btu/lb Tip Diameter 12 in 3.9 Vapour Temp.000 lb/hr of liquid is to be added to our design. 52.000 lb/hr Mol Wt. 2.fsw” and click the Open button. icon from the Case Otherwise use the File .5. 3.1 Objective and Data A welltest burner capable of burning 30. Skip to step 3. Name = Welltest Liquid.Getting Started 4. Close the view when the data has been entered. Ref Pressure = 14. LEL = 1. The completed view is shown below. Saturation = 100%.5. 3-37 Complete the view with the following entries.2. Welltest Fluid View 3. 3-37 .7psi Mole Weight = 52. LHV = 19.9.550 btu/lb. Figure 3-22. In the Case Navigator view select the Stacks branch and then click the Add button to create a new Stack and open its view. Cp/Cv = 1.4 Add New Stack 5. Temperature = 100F. The Critical Temperature and Critical Pressure fields can be left blank.7%. These entries define our new stack as a horizontal boom on the opposite side of the platform to our main flare stack. Dimensions section Length = 55ft.3-38 Welltest Burner Design 6. Easting = 0ft.Welltest Boom. Close the view when complete. leaving other entries at their default values. Enter data for the new stack as follows. Location Northing = -200ft. Figure 3-23. Angle to North = 180 deg. Angle to Horizontal = 0 deg. Welltest Boom View 3-38 . Name . Elevation = 0ft. The completed view is shown as Figure 3-23. 9. 3. Exit Diameter = 12 in (Default) Note the burner length and orientation fields serve to locate the precise location of the flame and the initial flame direction.Getting Started 3-39 3. In the Case Navigator.5 Add Welltest Burner Tip 7.000 lb/hr. On Stack = Welltest Boom. On the Fluids tab select the Fluid as Welltest Liquid and enter the flow rate as 30.5. Angle from North = 180 deg. Angle to Horizontal = 0 deg. 8. Even when the burner length is 0ft as here. Fraction Heat Radiated Method = User Specified Specified Fraction Heat Radiated = 0. Close the view. the orientation fields must still be entered. Name = Welltest Burner. leaving other values at their defaults.5. Length = 0ft. Number of Burners = 3. On the Location & Dimensions tab enter the following. Add a new Receptor Point in the usual way. 10.6 Add New Receptor Point 11. Define the following data to locate the receptor point at the base of the welltest burner boom. Tip Type = Welltest.3 All other values should be left at their defaults. select the Tips branch and click the Add button to create and view a new Tip object. On the Details tab of the Tip view enter the following data. 3-39 . 7 Run & Review Calculations 3-40 12. Clear the Size This Stack check box. In the Case Navigator view. Check in the Errors/Warnings/Info log panel that the case has run and calculated correctly. 13. Easting = 0ft. Northing = -200ft. This will exclude the two tips on the main flare stack from the calculations.5. The radiation at the base of the well test burner stack is 1406 btu/hr/ft2.Base Welltest Boom. All other fields may be left at their default values. Close the view. Run the calculations by clicking the large button labelled “Click to Calculate”. Elevation = 0ft. 14. show that the radiation limits for our original two critical locations that we have defined are met. select the Stack 1 object. The results.3-40 Welltest Burner Design Name . Now click the Ignore button. see Figure 3-24. Open the Receptor Summary view. 3. . While this could be achieved by extending the length of the stack this would be an expensive option due to the added weight. 3. Save the case.5. It is normal to reduce radiation from welltest burners using water screens. The effect of these can be modelled in Flaresim through the installation of shield objects 16. 3-41 .Getting Started 3-41 Figure 3-24. Add a Shield object either by clicking the Shield branch in the Case Navigator view and then the Add button or by using the Add .8 Add Water Screen The radiation calculated at the base of the welltest burner stack is acceptable for brief exposure only. Receptor Summary 15.Shield menu option according to your preference. Since more extended exposure might be required it is necessary to reduce the radiation. Water Curtain Vertex 1 = Northing -205 ft. 50 ft. In the lower half of this view click the Add Vertex button 4 times to create a rectangular shield section with 4 corners or vertices. The first section is already created for you. 50 ft. Easting.3-42 Welltest Burner Design 17. Enter data in the Details tab of the new Shield view as follows. -50 ft. Elevation -10 ft Vertex 3 = Northing -205 ft.5 in Noise . Easting. Figure 3-25. Easting. -50 ft. Easting. Elevation 40 ft Vertex 2 = Northing -205 ft. Flaresim will attempt to sort the points to meet this criteria if necessary.0 [default] 18. Elevation -10 ft Vertex 4 = Northing -205 ft. Select the Sections tab.Layer Thickness = 0. Name . Elevation 40 ft Note it is a requirement when entering the locations of the vertices that each point is directly connected to the next point in the list as shown below. Radiation . Shield Section Input 3-42 .Transmissivity = 1. Name = Water Curtain.Layer Thickness Calculation = User Radiation .Type = Water Screen Radiation . 19. Enter the following data. The Shield view should now show that the shield data setup is complete.Getting Started 3-43 The completed form is shown below. Complete Shield Section Editor 20. 3-43 . see Figure 3-27. The radiation isopleth for the plan view clearly shows the effect of the shield.. Run the updated case and inspect the results. The radiation value at the base of the welltest burner stack has been reduced to an acceptable value of 264 btu/hr/ft2. Figure 3-26. Save the case. 7.7. Initial Temperature = 60F. Area Ratio = 2.9 Evaluate Rate of Temperature Rise Since we are relying on the water screen to reduce thermal radiation in normal use.5. Mass = 10.3-44 Welltest Burner Design Figure 3-27. Given data on the receiving surface.1075 btu/lb/ft. Update the data as follows. Emissivity = 0.0. we should check the situation when the water screen fails.4 lb/ft2. 21. Open the view for the Base Welltest Stack receptor point and select the Properties tab. Flaresim is able to calculate the rate of temperature rise. Mass Cp = 0. Isopleth plot for Helideck Plan View 3. Absorbtivity = 0. 3-44 . Stack 1 in the Case Navigator view and click the Activate button to restore it to the calculations. Save the case. 3. The results show that the temperature will rise to 83F after 2 mins on its way to a final temperature of 122F. Click the Calculate button to run the model. 0. Set the stack length to 90ft. However we still have to consider the situation when a safety release occurs while the welltest burner is in use.25in thick. Enabling this option to select the angle of the plate requires selection of the Export Mode option in the Calculation Options view.0 indicates that one side of the plate is exposed to the flare radiation.Getting Started 3-45 This data represents a steel plate. Select the Water Curtain shield object in the Case Navigator and click the Ignore button. Select the Main Stack. Then run the calculations. 22. The Area Ratio of 2. 25. 23.5. In the Thermal Results tab of the Base Welltest Stack receptor point you can inspect the rate of temperature rise results in tabular or graphical form. 24. You will probably find that the stack is not ready to run since its length was originally being calculated we have been running the case with the stack set to ignored.10 Check Safety Case The results with only the welltest burner in use show that the original design radiation limit for the helideck is met. the value calculated in Example 3. The On Plane value at its default value of None is a conservative assumption that means that no credit will be taken for radiation striking the plate at an angle. 3-45 . It cannot replace the engineers judgement in selecting the appropriate conditions to model or determining whether a particular set of results represent an acceptable or a dangerous situation. At this point we might consider increasing the length of either the Main Stack or the Welltest Stack in order to ensure that the radiation limits are met again. However it may also be possible to consider the circumstances under which the welltest burners would be used at the same time as the main flare.3-46 Welltest Burner Design Open the Receptor Point summary. Perhaps procedures could be established to prevent helicopter operations while the welltest burner was in use meaning that this higher radiation value is acceptable. significantly exceeding our limit of 600 btu/hr/ft2. 3-46 . It is appropriate to emphasise at this point that Flaresim is a tool for analysing the performance of flare systems. The results show that the thermal radiation at the Helideck receptor is 1145 btu/hr/ ft2. 9 mole frac 0. 0.013 bar a 50000 kg/hr Mechanical Data Tip diameter Tip length Stack location Stack length Stack orientation 387.Getting Started 3-47 3. 3. Flared Fluid Methane Ethane H2S Temperature Ref Pressure Flow 0.02 mole frac 75 C 1. 0 20m Vertical Environment Data Temperature Wind 15 C 10 m/s from North 3-47 .6 Gas Dispersion Flaresim includes two types of gas dispersion model intended for two different types of analysis A jet dispersion calculation models dispersion of flared fluid close to the tip to identify the potential for dangerous gas concentrations in flame out conditions. The aim of this section is to illustrate how to use each of these models.6.08 mole frac 0. 0. A Gaussian dispersion calculation models dispersion of flared fluid or combustion products over longer distances.1 Objective and Data A new case with the following data will be used.4mm (16in) 1m At origin. Tip. Otherwise use the File .Starter. 3. Skip to step 3. In the File Open dialog that appears.0) select the file “Example 6 . 3.6. browse to the Samples sub-folder in the Flaresim installation folder (usually [My Documents]\Softbits\Flaresim 3.2 Load or Create Base Case 1.3 Jet Dispersion Calculation In this exercise we run a jet dispersion study to study the flammable gas concentrations around the flare in the event of a flame out. If you wish to build the case from scratch then either select the File .3-48 Gas Dispersion Our objective will be to analyse the gas dispersion around the flare in normal operation and flame out conditions. Name = Elevation Grid Plane = Elevation-Northing Grid Offset = 0m Elevation Minimum = -100m Elevation Maximum = 300m 3-48 . The Setup Wizard will appear.fsw” and click the Open button. Before enabling the jet dispersion calculations we will create a new Receptor Grid to see the results more clearly. 3.Open menu option or the icon. Select the Receptor Grid branch in the Case Navigator and click the Add button.New menu option or click the icon in the tool bar. Environment and Stack tabs entering the data defined above. Once you have entered the Stack data you can click the Finish button to accept the default data for Receptors and Calculation options. 2. Select the European units set on the opening page for easy of entering the remaining data. In the new view enter the following data. Work through the Fluid.6. Select the check box labelled Jet Dispersion in the Include Options section of the General Tab. Return to the view for your Elevation receptor grid and select the Concentrations tab. Open the Calculation Options view by selecting it in the Case Navigator and clicking the view button. You should see a result that looks something like that shown below. 4.Getting Started 3-49 Northing Minimum = -300m Northing Maximum = 100m Leave remaining values at defaults. Figure 3-28. Click the Calculate button 5. Jet Dispersion Initial Result The jet dispersion calculation shows the concentrations of the flare fluid in the event of a flame out and is useful for 3-49 . 3-50 . At first sight the result above looks unrealistic since the concentration isopleths do not appear connected to the flare tip. In your Elevation grid view. Final Jet Dispersion Result Save the case. This is a function of the limited number of points calculated in the default grid.3-50 Gas Dispersion establishing the regions in which a flammable gas concentration may be obtained. more accurate result. 6. Return to the Concentrations tab and you should see the following. Figure 3-29. go back to the Extent tab and increase the number of calculated points for both Elevation and Northing dimensions to 51. Click the Calculate button again. Name = H2S Contour Pollutant Source = Flared Fluid Calculation Type = Contour Plot Contours Height = 0m Northing Minimum = -1000m Northing Maximum = 0m Easting Minimum = -500m Easting Maximum = 500m Number of points.6. Northing and Easting = 41 Figure 3-30. Create a Dispersion Object by selecting the Dispersion branch in the Case Navigator and clicking the Add button. In the Dispersion view enter the following data on the Input Data tab as shown below.4 Gaussian Dispersion. 7.Getting Started 3-51 3. Gaussian Dispersion Input Tab 3-51 . Contour Plot In this exercise we will study the dispersion of H2S from the flare tip in the event of a flame out. . The plot shows the ground level concentration contours for H2S downwind of the stack as shown below Figure 3-31. Click the Calculate button 10. Select the Results tab and then the Plot option for the display. 9. Open the Environment view at the Dispersion Data tab and test the effect on the dispersion results as you change the Atm.3-52 Gas Dispersion 8. On the Pollutant Data tab select the H2S component only. 3-52 The results shown have been calculated at the default environmental conditions with atmospheric stability characterised as Class D with dispersion coefficients applicable to Rural terrain around the flare. only one component can be selected. For a contour plot. H2S Contour Plot 11. Open the Calculation Options view and select the Gaussian Dispersion checkbox to enable these calculations. In the Input Data tab of its view enter the following data. The sensitivity of the results to these parameters shows the necessity of selecting the appropriate environment settings for your particular flare location. Combustion Results tab shows the stoichiometric fraction of each of these components generated by combustion of the flared gas. SO2 are calculated directly from combustion of the components in the flared gas. the CO2.Getting Started 3-53 Stability class from A (most turbulent) to F (most stable) and the effect of changing the terrain from Rural to Urban. H2O.5 Gaussian Dispersion. You will see that the H2S concentrations are higher closer to the flare when atmosphere is more turbulent and when urban terrain classification is used. CO and Methane pollutants for calculation by checking the box alongside these components. The Fluid view. Some of the components in this list. NOx (assumed as NO). 12. Select the Pollutant tab. Name = Combustion Emissions Pollutant Source = Combustion Gas Calculation Type = Downwind Line Plot Line through Point = Origin Height for Calculation = 0m Downwind Distance Minimum = 0m Downwind Distance Maximum = 10000m Number of points = 41 13. Downwind Plot In this exercise we will consider the downwind concentrations of pollutants in the combustion gases of the flare when it is operating.6. 3. In the Case Navigator select the Dispersion branch and click Add to create a new dispersion object. NO. The remaining components. Select the SO2. CO and unburnt hydrocarbon (assumed as CH4) are calculated as 3-53 . Open the Tip View and select the Fluids tab. Alternatively in Expert Mode the emissions basis for each Tip can be specified on the Emissions tab of the Tip view.3-54 Gas Dispersion typical emissions resulting from hydrocarbon combustion. Set the Combustion Air ratio to 3. The quantities of each component generated is calculated by default using the global basis defined on the Calculation Option view Emissions tab. The quantities of each component in the combustion gases for each Tip are displayed on the Combustion Results tab of the Tip view. 14. The peak concentration of SO2 is calculated at 68 µg/m3 at a distance of approximately 1500m downwind of the flare tip. 16. Stability Class to PasquillB.0 and clear the specified flame temperature. Open the Environment view and set the Atm. Since the dispersion of the combustion gases will be dependent on the flame temperature we will now set this. Click the Calculate button. At the bottom of this view you may input a value for the flame temperature or clear the specified value to allow it to be calculated from the specified combustion air ratio. 15. In the Combustion Gas dispersion view go to the results page and select the plot result to view the results as shown below. 3-54 . Return to the Combustion Gas Results tab of the Tip view to see the calculated flame temperature of 721 C and the combustion gas compositions. 3-55 .000m). You will find that for stable atmospheric conditions. F that the emission concentrations are still rising at the maximum downwind distance we have defined (10. Combustion Gas Dispersion Downwind Plot Results 17. As in the previous example.Getting Started 3-55 Figure 3-32. Stability Class and Terrain class settings. stability classes E. open the Environment view to the Dispersion Data tab and test the effect of changing the Atm. If you wish you can increase the maximum downwind distance on the Input Data tab to calculate the results further downwind. Chapter 12 has additional comments on the implementation of the Gaussian dispersion model in Flaresim. However it does assume dispersion in “free air” and does not consider the effect of structures which might modify dispersion patterns and lead to higher concentrations of flammable gas than predicted by Flaresim. 3-56 .6.3-56 Gas Dispersion 3.6 Dispersion Analysis Comments It is worth making the following general comments on the dispersion analysis capabilities of Flaresim. A more detailed analysis with specialised software would be required in these situations. The Gaussian dispersion calculations for combustion gases and flared fluid over longer distances is a simpler theoretical model that does not include detailed terrain effects. As such it should be considered as suitable for screening calculations to indicate a possible need for more detailed analysis. The jet dispersion analysis for flammable gas concentrations is based on the Cleaver & Edwards jet dispersion model which is regarded as a reasonable model for concentrations close to the source.