Shell FRED v7.1 is now available

By Gexcon

Published 26.08.2019

Updated 06.11.2023

Gexcon and Shell Global Solutions are pleased to announce the release of Shell FRED v7.1.

Shell FRED (Fire, Release, Explosion, and Dispersion) is Shell’s consequence modelling tool used to predict the consequences of accidental and design releases from process, storage, transport, and distribution operations.

This new version not only brings improvements to the performance, reliability, and usability of the software tool but also incorporates an array of significant features. All of these will improve the overall experience of using this tool for your safety needs.

There are three new features which are also the main differences compared to earlier versions.


Export 3D visualisation to better understand your scenario

Users can export 3D result contours and visualise them in a 3D geometric model. The exported data can then be imported into a 3D rendering/authoring package, such as Navisworks Manage or Bentley Microstation, to visualise the hazard from different orientations and viewpoints. You can also import Shell FRED results to FLACS so that you can quickly see the shell FRED and FLACS results on the same plot. This feature has been designed to help technical safety engineers gain a better understanding of potential consequences during escalation scenarios and emergency response routes.

Picture 1
The overlay of Shell FRED jet fire scenario result on 3D geometry in Navisworks (left) and MicroStation (right)


Adjust Custom Units Based on Your Need

Users can change the units by selecting values other than default SI units.

Picture 2
A preview of the Global Default Settings window where users can adjust the custom units


Use custom materials in the Temperature Rise Scenario

Users can create custom materials for the Temperature Rise Scenario by specifying their thermal properties. Note that the software can only include one material during the actual calculation.

Picture 3
A preview of the custom material window

In addition to these new features, there are also enhancements to applications including pressurized release scenario, cascade scenario, Shell Bleve scenario, Pool/ Tank Top scenarios, and many more along with bug fixes to the user interface to create a more streamlined and seamless experience.

Since the 1980s, Shell has strived to continuously focus on the improvement and development of new scientific solutions within the process safety industry. Through Shell’s extensive programme of large-scale experiments and published scientific literature, Shell FRED was developed and has evolved over 40 years to become known and trusted throughout the world.

Gexcon and Shell have been working together since 30 November 2017 to bring flexible safety modelling tools to the industry and develop new scientific solutions. Together, both parties have been continuously improving the tools’ efficiency, accuracy, flexibility, and user-friendliness to contribute to making the world a safer place.

Previously only available for use on Shell projects, Shell FRED is now available to the global community with full training and support from Gexcon.

Please send us an email to FRED@gexcon.com to get yours or if you would like to discuss further Shell FRED v7.1.