VariSuite is the name given to VariSim and all the framework components that are used to create a Pipeline Management System with VariSim operating in real time and modules added that perform additional functions.
VariSuite is the name given to VariSim and all the framework components that are used to create a Pipeline Management System with VariSim operating in real time and modules added that perform additional functions.
One of VariSim’s major strengths is its ability to offer much more than just PC based simulation. VariSim can become an integral component within the VariSuite framework which includes communications components and additional ‘plug-in’ applications to allow it to be driven by measurement data.
VariSuite is the name given to VariSim and all the framework components that are used to create a Pipeline Management System with VariSim operating in real time and modules added that perform additional functions. It is sometimes referred to as a digital twin (a digital version of the pipeline or networks’ hydraulic behaviour). Copies of the state (the calculations from the real time simulator) can be made available to a desktop version of the simulator for desktop studies and training simulation. The desktop version is sometimes called the offline version or the virtual twin.
The data broker is a product provided by SSL that facilitates the rapid transfer of data between applications and third party packages (through an available API). It is a very robust, fully tested product that can reside on any networked workstation. For example,
VariSim, the data broker / OPC and VariView can reside on a single workstation to provide an integrated Training simulator environment or they can each reside on separate workstations to provide a distributed Training
Three types of user interface are available for a real time system and any combination of these can be deployed.
The VariSim-Remote Interface is the remote user interface client GUI that is available to VariSim for engineers and pipeline operators. In online mode, the VariSim simulator operates as a service residing on any required workstation or server. The output from VariSim can be viewed using the VariSim-RI GUI which uses WCF to directly access VariSims calculations. Multiple VariSim-RI connections are permitted to a VariSim instance allowing its output to be viewed from any workstation that resides on the network. The look and feel / functionality of VariSim-RI is identical to the integrated GUI used for the desktop version.
Three types of user interface are available for a real time system and any combination of these can be deployed.
1. VariSim-RI – The VariSim remote user interface client.
2, VariView : our own SCADA style graphical configurator /user.
3. The SCADA system screens (supplied with data from our communication system)
An OPC Client / Server is available that communicates directly with the data broker. This is commonly used to communicate with third party applications such as SCADA systems and PLC’s. Any third party application can be easily incorporated into the environment via the OPC connection or directly with the data broker. Data cleansing tools that check, analyse and emulate data are an incorporated component to ensure valid data is continually used by the system.
The SSL message broker is a product developed by SSL specifically for Pipeline Management Systems and integrated simulator components. It is effectively a middleware piece of software that is dedicated to the controlled distribution of messages and data between different applications. The broker facilitates data acquisition and can transfer 10’s of thousands of datapoints per second.
Modules are added to the VariSim environment to perform additional dedicated functions. Since the are not part of the VariSim code, the ‘plug-in’ modules can not interfere with the operation of VariSim so ensuring the robustness of the VariSim simulator. To learn more about each of the modules, select the associated image below.
The pipeline simulator is now widely accepted as a key requirement for any operating company that takes its responsibilities seriously. A good simulator helps maximise operational safety, protect the environment and improve the efficiency of operation.
Today, safety is being driven to the highest standards and leaks are being prevented through detailed flow assurance and surge analysis studies.Engineers are conducting analyses to prevent daily operating problems with their pipeline networks and are proactively identifying potential disasters. Steps are being taken to suppress excessive operating pressures, heat distribution and energy usage is being monitored and equipment configuration is being optimised to reduce emissions.
VariSim uses range from simple, steady state determination to simulating complex pressure events. Any operation that can affect the fluid reaction of a pipeline network can be accurately simulated and this includes the plant area.
There is no better way of maximising confidence in the overall system design than being able to simulate the complete interaction between the pipe work, the equipment and the control scheme. Pipework can be correctly sized and rated, control set-points and control parameters can be tuned, system bottlenecks can be identified, storage volumes can be assured and pressure suppression equipment can be correctly sized.
Communicating with VariSim is refreshingly simple. When the mode of VariSim is changed from standalone to online or offline, it can communicate with the SSL messaging middleware. Communication with other applications is simply a case of allowing the application to communicate with VariSim via this middleware.
Changes in operation, changes in throughput requirements, deterioration in pipeline and equipment condition or poor initial design can all lead to daily operating problems. VariSim helps identify and solve the source of these problems. Initiation of the simulator with current operating conditions also reveals a wealth of unrealised information for assessment and further simulation.
Planners can assess the effects of future maintenance; operators can quickly establish new procedures without compromising safety and daily nominations can be verified through forecasting and allocated with confidence.
VariSim has been designed to ensure that it accurately models any component of a system that can affect the fluid behaviour within a pipeline. This means small plant pipe work, long transmission lines, variable flow regimes, telemetry effects, surge suppression equipment, control logic etc. can all be accurately simulated. Care has been taken to ensure the VariSim output is easily accessible and easy to understand using industry familiar terminology.
The ability to simulate variable product properties, variable wave-speeds and variable time steps makes VariSim one of the most accurate products on the market.
For further information on our services or to request a VariSim price list or proposal for a Pipeline Management system, please email us using the Contact Us form above.
