Directory of Simulation Software and Tools - AFT Mercury

AFT Mercury

AFT Mercury is a general-purpose pipe network optimization tool. AFT Mercury combines a proven pipe network analysis tool (AFT Fathom) with state-of-the-art optimization tools to allow designers to optimize pipe and component selection for lowest initial cost or lowest Life Cycle Cost (LCC) for a pipe or duct systems. Applied Flow Technology has demonstrated that optimization can reduce the energy usage and total life cycle cost by 20-50% for a variety of pumping systems.

Screen Shots

Keywords

optimization, pipe optimization, pump selection, duct design, duct sizing, chilled water systems, hot water systems

Validation/Testing

N/A

Expertise Required

Engineering background in piping or duct design required. No special knowledge of computers required.

Users

New product in 2001, currently only 10-20 users.

Audience

Mechanical, energy, chemical, architectural engineers working for manufacturing, architectural, consulting, and utilities companies and research universities and research laboratories.

Input

Pipe or duct specifications and components (fittings, pumps, control valves, etc.) are drawn and entered into the graphical user interface. Pipe, duct, pumps (fans) and power cost data required to obtain useful life cycle cost optimization.

Output

Tabular or graphical output of over 100 calculated variables.

Computer Platform

All IBM PC computers running Windows 95, 98, ME, NT, or 2000.

Programming Language

Visual Basic

Strengths

Only software available to optimize pipe networks. Gradient based and Genetic Algorithm optimization methods can optimize pipe or duct networks with hundreds of design variables with both continuous optimization (any pipe size allowed) and discrete optimization (best combination of standard pipe sizes) to meet a set of design criteria (minimum flow requirements, maximum pressures, etc.). Users can optimize over multiple operating scenarios to minimize the total energy usage and cost.

Weaknesses

More data input is required to optimize for life cycle costs.

Contact

Availability

AFT Mercury 5.0 is currently available. Software purchase includes training class on pipe/duct system optimization. Volume discounts and demonstration versions are available. Contact Applied Flow Technology for more information.