Flash Tool Examples

These examples showcase various thermodynamic and engineering calculations that can be performed using Math Minion's Peng Robinson based flash tool.

Each example, except for the toolbox, includes PDF documentation and they all have a JSON file that can be downloaded and imported into Math Minion for hands-on exploration.

Azeotrope Calculation

Demonstrates the calculation of ethanol-water azeotrope composition and conditions using flash calculations and optimization. It also includes graphs of the phase equilibrium.

Dynamic Steam Boiler Simulation

This model demonstrates the use of a denisty-enthalpy flash for steam in a highly idealized dynamic simulation of a steam boiler and steam chest.

Cascade Refrigeration

This model represents a cascade refrigeration system with a high temperature loop and a low temperature one, using different refrigerants.

Gas Plant Simulation

A simulation of the front end of a simple hydrocarbon dew point control process for natural gas.

Liquid Air Separation

The Hampson-Linde cycle is one of the first and simplest processes for liquifying air. Reproducing the thermodynamics of it here was an interesting exercise, but I must confess I more or less guessed at conditions. At the very least my ignoring any heat gained from the environment is a big simplification.

Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC)

Organic Rankine Cycle power generation system using organic working fluids for low-temperature heat recovery.

Two-Stage Steam Turbine

Steam turbine power generation system with high-pressure and low-pressure stages, including reheat cycles.

Flash Toolbox

This model has a collection of models that might be useful when modelling fluid systems. Just copy and paste them into your session as needed. Each model contains a brief description of how to use it.

The refrigeration model makes a pretty good introduction to doing flash calculations.

How to Use These Examples

  1. Review the PDF file for some background on the example.
  2. Download the JSON file using the download button
  3. Open Math Minion from the mathminion.org site and click on the Run MM button.
  4. Tap the Sessions button at the bottom of the information view.
  5. Tap the Import button at the top of the sessions view.
  6. Select the JSON file you downloaded. The model will be put in your sessions library and opened.
  7. Play around.

Alternatively you can open the Getting Started session in Math Minion and click on the import button for the example you want to try.