PSV Sizing Software

[loilfan]

What PSV Sizing software do most people use and what are your comments on it?

We currently use Farris SizeMaster but are looking to upgrade to a program with more capabilities (modify discharge coefficients, backpressure calculations with multiple relieving valves, etc.) We often do PSV sizing verifications of existing systems so we need a program that is catered to different valve manufacturers, services, and configurations.

 

[ChemE08]

Most of your major valve sizing manufactures have their own in-house sizing software (Farris/Consolidated/Anderson Greenwood Crosby). The nice thing about using those is that you get to see what product line they would consider for the given data input.

However, you also have standalone independent tools out there. I think Aspen has some cool tools. I have used SuperChems in my area. It is a very flexible but does require some good training before you can really be efficient. You can build your PSV and layout and modify characteristics as needed. I have attached the link below. Notice how the program is advertised as being able to handle various types of evaluations. It is a powerful tool but I feel the flexibility in applications is what also creates the a somewhat steep leaning curve.

http://www.iomosaic.com/software/process-safety-office-/superchems

 

[loilfan]

Thanks ChemE08! I have not heard of iomosaic before, so that is just the kind of response I was hoping to get. I'll check out SuperChems and Aspen.

 

[shvet]

Flaretot might be useful. With Flaretot you can calculate PSV (as API 526 defines) and overall downstream system. Unfortunately it can't help with upstream piping. Be aware - Flaretot uses rather simple thermodynamic and hydraulic models and aimed at refinery disposal systems.

http://www.flaretot.com/

 

[apetri]

loilfan,
I suggest to use the search option in eng-tips forum, there are many posts discussing PSV sizing (single phase, two-phases etc.) with different methods and formulations as well as design criteria,

many manufacturers distribute software for PSV design / rating, these can include procedures according API 520 / ISO 4126, for two phase (non-reacting) a common option is Omega method (included in Farris),

the mentioned Design Institute for Emergency Relief Systems (DIERS) provides several good tools if you are interested in process analysis (rather than PSV rating/sizing)

to answer your question, for PSV datasheets (including automatic design / rating) I have found useful Excel with Prode Properties (which includes several PSV models for single and two-phase as HEM, HNE, HNE-DS plus fluid properties)

with Office you can easily create data-sheets and use a software for calc's.