Research and Development of Operation Simulation System for Cryogenic Air Separation Unit

In this paper an integrated operating simulation system (OSS) for a cryogenic air separation unit (ASU) is developed, which can be used for operators' training, accident and malfunction analysis and prediction of operating result. Based on the method of modularization an ASU's components are divided by their physical function. The OSS code includes two parts: the key simulation part which is developed in FORTRAN 5.0 and generally runs in background, and control simulating part which is primary running program and developed in iFix software. The communication between the key simulation part and control part is implemented by boundary module program. The OSS can realize the following operation simulation functions: normal state operation, startup operation and compressor, expander and other machines operations. The OSS has been tested for a 20000Nm3/hr ASU in Jinan Iron and Steel Corporation and 720000Nm3/hr ASU in Bao-Shan Steel Group Corporation in China. The simulating results of the OSS agree with the simulated counterpart.