Using the EFLASH Unit Operation in the OLI Engine for Aspen Plus®

Updated May 23, 2025 18:58

Overview
Pre-requisites
Creating the OLI Chemistry File
Creating the EFLASH Block
Conclusion

Overview

The EFLASH unit operation is a four-phase separator that is directly linked to the OLI Engine routines. Unlike other unit operations in Aspen Plus®, the EFLASH block can also use the OLI reaction kinetics.

Disclaimer: This demonstration uses Aspen Plus ®V 14.5 and OLI Engine 12.0

Pre-requisites

Enable OLI Unit Operations in Aspen Plus®
Refer to: How to Enable the OLI Library of Unit Operations in Aspen Plus®
Create a Chemistry Model
A valid OLI chemistry model is required to support the EFLASH block. Guidance:
- Introduction to OLI Chemistry Wizard for First-Time Users
- How to import a new OLI chemistry model into an existing Aspen Plus®
Recommended Background Reading
Revisit: Introduction to the OLI Engine in Aspen Plus® for First-Time Users

Creating the OLI Chemistry File

This task is completed using the standard OLI Chemistry Wizard for Aspen Plus®.

For the purposes of this example, the following components are used:

H₂O
C₁₀H₂₂
N₂
NaCl

Ensure all components are properly validated and the generated chemistry file is saved for use in the Aspen simulation environment.

Creating the EFLASH Block

This section walks through inserting and configuring the EFLASH unit operation within your Aspen Plus® flowsheet.

Conclusion

The EFLASH unit operation offers OLI Engine in Aspen Plus® users a powerful tool for simulating multiphase separation processes involving complex electrolyte systems. By leveraging the capabilities of OLI’s thermodynamic and kinetic models within the Aspen Plus® framework, engineers gain enhanced accuracy and flexibility in their process design. When properly configured with a validated chemistry model and the OLI engine activated, the EFLASH block provides valuable insights for electrolyte systems.

Should you encounter any technical issues or wish to explore advanced use cases, the OLI Support Center and training resources are always available to support your work.