In a significant step forward for its Faculty of Engineering, Kumasi Technical University (KsTU) recently offered a two-day free training programme on Aspen HYSYS, a leading software application used in the oil and gas industry. The initiative was spearheaded by the Oil and Gas Engineering Department of KsTU and it was meant to equip faculty members with the current industry practices as well as tools needed to stay competitive.
The intensive programme, held on March 26th and 27th 2024 equipped participants with a practical hands-on experience with Aspen HYSYS. Led by industry veteran Ir Rafil Elyas, a process engineering and flow assurance Specialist with 30 years of experience, the training covered a wide range of topics that are critical to oil and gas production, conditioning and processing.
Picture: Session of the participants at the training
On the first day, participants were immersed in a comprehensive overview of gas production processes, followed by an exploration of industry-best simulation practices for optimal outcomes with process simulation software. Fundamental aspects such as fluid characterisation, phase equilibrium and thermodynamics were thoroughly examined. Additionally, methods for property estimation and dew point control, pivotal for Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) recovery were examined.
On the second day, advanced techniques including propane refrigeration and multistage gas compression were introduced, emphasising their significance in ensuring efficient processing. Strategies for hydrate suppression and gas dehydration were discussed to mitigate operational challenges. Furthermore, participants were carried through skills in piping sizing and depressuring which are essential for designing pipelines and managing pressure within oil and gas systems.
The training underscores the imperative of continuous learning and professional development in today's rapidly evolving technological landscape. During the inaugural ceremony, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Ing. Prof. Abena Obiri-Yeboah, underscored the need for individuals to proactively pursue new knowledge and skills to advance their careers.
Beyond KsTU, the programme attracted participants from other tertiary institutions including Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Takoradi Technical University, University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR), University of Mines and Technology (UMAT) and All Nations University College. Also present were industry representatives from Ghana Gas, National Petroleum Authority (NPA), MODEC Ghana, among others. This collaborative approach fosters knowledge exchange between academia and industry.
Engr. Dr. Prince Owusu Appiah and Head of the Oil and Gas Department stressed the importance of promptly applying the newly acquired skills. He emphasized that leveraging these skills will empower graduates and industry professionals to effectively address the evolving demands of the oil and gas sector. Dr. Appiah reiterated that career advancement is a collective endeavour, underscoring the significance of ongoing learning and skill enhancement.
By offering this free and industry-relevant training programme, KsTU demonstrates its commitment to providing a world-class engineering education. Equipping its faculty with the latest software tools and knowledge ensures that KsTU graduates are well-prepared to excel in the competitive oil and gas industry.