Sorry I don't understand, why somebody tries to simulate things on a computer, what easily can be done better in a laboratory.

I have about ten years experience in commissioning of process plants and I don't believe that a plant can be optimized by simulation in a program.

Dear Mr. Sadhukhan,

First of all, ASPEN and HYSYS are confusing words to use here. From the query, I guess you wanted ask what to opt for simulation of metal leaching process, Aspen Plus or Aspen HYSYS (formerly a product of Hyprotech). I have modeling and simulation experiece in Aspen HYSYS.

I agree that HYSYS is good for the simulation of hydrocarbons and in addtion, Aspen Plus is recommended for bulk, fine and specity chemical, electrolyte processes (check the following link)

http://www.aspentech.com/products/aspen-plus.aspx

I also agree that experimental results are the best compared to simulation results provided that simulation model are not appropriate for particular processes. A user has to check the model equation and assumption made for the particular model in process simulator. You can also try Aspen Custom Modeler if your process has different model equation or you have modified equations.

Simulation is useful when user is sure that results obtained are in good agreement with the real plant or experimental data. Furthermore, it is good when cost of experimental set-up and raw materials are greater, or there is hazard or safety related issue when critical conditions occurs during experiments e.g. run-away conditions, or to get rid away of tedious experiments and to save time.

All the above points can be analysed with the literature review of  experimental and simulation results. Initial efforts are necessary for literature.

At last, if you are using licensed version of Aspen Plus or Aspen HYSYS, and have a AspenTech login to use customer support, then just ask for a help from them.

Thanks.

Regards,

Bhautesh