Example of modifying simulations to use subflowsheets

In this example, we modify the GG3 - Chiller Plant example simulation so that the refrigeration portion of the simulation appears in its own subflowsheet. We perform this conversion in Process mode only because the example simulation contains a snapshot from Process mode (Pro 1) that we can revert back to.

Note: You can find the GG3 - Chiller Plant example simulation in the %userprofile%\My Simulations\Examples\Undocumented Examples folder.

Modify the GG3 - Chiller Plant example to use a subflowsheet

1. Import the GG3 - Chiller Plant simulation.

2. (Optional) Rename the simulation.

   In this example, we change the simulation name to Chiller Plant with SubFS.

3. In the Tools library, drag a Flowsheet onto the Canvas to create a subflowsheet.

4. (Optional) Rename the subflowsheet.

   In this example, we change the subflowsheet name to Refrig.

   

5. Add Flag model instances on the streams that will cross the subflowsheet boundaries.

   This helps you avoid having unwanted model references in your subflowsheet when you move model instances to that subflowsheet, which we plan to do in step 8.

   In this example, we do not want model references for the Separator, MX1, or XV2 model instances added to the subflowsheet, so we want to add Flag model instances to the S8, S14, and S17 connectors.

   

6. Select the following flowsheet objects:

   • S8.F variable reference

   • Gas_to_Gas

   • Chiller

   • Liq_Refrigerant

   • Liq_Refrigerant.W variable reference

   • Vap_Refrigerant

   • Cold_Separator

     

7. Right-click the selection, and then on the Move to menu, select the name of the subflowsheet.

8. Double-click the subflowsheet.

   A new tab navigation bar appears on the left of the Canvas and the view changes to the subflowsheet. The moved flowsheet objects appear at the same relative position on the subflowsheet as they did on the Main flowsheet. The software automatically creates model references for the Flag model instances.

   

9. (Optional) Change the FromLabel and ToLabel parameters for the Flags to more easily see the stream connections across the subflowsheet boundary.

10. (Optional) On the Main flowsheet, make the following cosmetic changes:

    Tip: You can quickly navigate between the Main flowsheet and the subflowsheet by right-clicking on Flag1, Flag2, or Flag3 and then selecting the flowsheet of interest on the Navigation submenu.

    • Move the subflowsheet icon to a more noticeable or convenient location.

    • Move the model instances around on the Canvas to decrease the blank space.