HYSYS
HYSYS (now often called AspenHYSYS) is an important software tool that chemical engineers use to design and test chemical plants and processes before they're built in real life. Think of it like a very sophisticated simulator - similar to how architects use software to design buildings, chemical engineers use HYSYS to design industrial processes. It helps them figure out how different equipment will work together, calculate costs, and ensure safety without spending money on actual construction. It's particularly popular in oil and gas companies, chemical manufacturing, and other process industries. Other similar software includes PRO/II and ChemCAD.
Examples in Resumes
Designed and optimized refinery processes using HYSYS and AspenHYSYS
Reduced operating costs by 15% through HYSYS process simulation
Created detailed process models in AspenHYSYS for new chemical plant design
Typical job title: "Process Engineers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Process Engineers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Boards
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How have you used HYSYS to optimize existing processes?
Expected Answer: A senior engineer should discuss examples of using the software to improve real plant operations, reduce costs, or enhance safety. They should mention how they validated their models against actual plant data.
Q: Tell me about a challenging process design problem you solved using HYSYS.
Expected Answer: Look for answers that show they can handle complex simulations, troubleshoot problems, and make practical recommendations that consider both technical and business aspects.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the key considerations when setting up a HYSYS simulation?
Expected Answer: They should explain basics like choosing the right fluid package, setting up equipment properly, and ensuring the simulation reflects real-world conditions.
Q: How do you ensure your HYSYS models are accurate?
Expected Answer: Should discuss comparing simulation results with real data, understanding input requirements, and validating assumptions.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What basic equipment can you model in HYSYS?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe common equipment like pumps, heat exchangers, and basic separation units that they've worked with in the software.
Q: What is the purpose of using HYSYS in process design?
Expected Answer: Should explain that it helps predict how a process will behave before building it, allows testing different scenarios, and helps calculate important process parameters.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic process equipment simulation
- Simple flow sheet creation
- Understanding of common unit operations
- Basic troubleshooting of simulations
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex process modeling
- Economic analysis of designs
- Custom unit operation creation
- Process optimization techniques
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced simulation strategies
- Plant-wide optimization
- Custom model development
- Training and mentoring others
Red Flags to Watch For
- No hands-on experience with actual process equipment
- Unable to explain basic chemical engineering concepts
- No understanding of safety considerations
- Lack of experience with real plant data
