news release

AspenTech Updates Aspen RefSYS Multi-Unit Refinery Modeling Application as Part of aspenONE Simulation & Optimization for Petroleum
Refinery-wide operational decision making dramatically improved by integration of reactor models Cambridge, Mass. March 14, 2005 Aspen Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq: AZPNE) today announced the availability of AspenTechs reformer, hydrocracker and hydrotreater reactor models in a new release of Aspen RefSYS, its multi-unit simulation and optimization application. Using these models in combination with the FCC reactor model already available in Aspen RefSYS, refiners can now build, in a single flowsheet, multi-unit refinery models that help them understand the complex interactions among multiple refinery units. These refinery-wide models improve operational decision making and provide a more accurate view of the overall potential for refinery profitability. Tighter integration of Aspen RefSYS with Aspen PIMS, AspenTechs petroleum industry planning application, gives refinery planners additional capabilities to generate crude assays and process unit sub-models that can be applied within the refinery planning LP model. Refiners can also use the rigorous modeling capability of Aspen RefSYS to quickly test and update their planning & scheduling models in order to make operating decisions based on more accurate economic information. In todays refining environment, the ability to model multiple units, as well as the entire refinery, offers great value to our customers, said Mark E. Fusco, President and CEO, AspenTech. The new release of Aspen RefSYS and its tight integration with other AspenTech applications gives them greater decision-making capabilities and maximizes the value of their investments in other AspenTech offerings. This is especially true for our Aspen HYSYS customers, who can now use their existing Aspen HYSYS models in Aspen RefSYS. The reactor models introduced in Aspen RefSYS are based on the Aspen Rxfinery standalone reactor models which are widely used for offline and online applications and which support flowsheet simulation, case study analysis and optimization. Each model can be run in a standalone mode with a simple flowsheet, or can be run inside an expanded flowsheet that contains upstream and downstream units. The models feature rigorous kinetics and utilize AspenTechs unique Equation Oriented technology which allows rapid and accurate solution of recycle streams. Aspen RefSYS open architecture also enables the integration of third-party reactor models.

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Aspen Technology, Inc. Ten Canal Park, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02141-2201 USA www.aspentech.com

Aspen RefSYS is built on the Aspen Open Simulation Environment (Aspen OSE) a key component of the aspenONE technology infrastructure. Aspen OSE enables multiple modeling applications to work together seamlessly, allowing companies to develop a consistent set of models across the enterprise and unifying decision making from engineering to plant operations to the supply chain. About AspenTech Aspen Technology, Inc. provides industry-leading software and implementation services that enable process companies to use simulation models to increase efficiency and profitability. aspenONE, a new generation of software solutions and services from AspenTech, represents a major step forward in helping process manufacturers achieve their strategic operational excellence initiatives. The first comprehensive offering to address the demands of the Enterprise Operations Management (EOM) market, aspenONE provides companies with integrated systems that enable them to manage and optimize their operational performance. Over 1,500 leading companies already rely on AspenTechs software, including Aventis, Bayer, BASF, BP, ChevronTexaco, Dow Chemical, DuPont, ExxonMobil, Fluor, GlaxoSmithKline, Shell, and Total. For more information, visit www.aspentech.com. ###
AspenTech, Aspen RefSYS, Aspen HYSYS, Aspen PIMS, aspenONE and the aspen leaf logo are trademarks of Aspen Technology, Inc., Cambridge, Mass.

Contact
Robin Swanger Director, Press & Media Relations Aspen Technology, Inc. (281) 504-3256 robin.swanger@aspentech.com Joshua Young Director, Investor Relations & Corp. Comminications Aspen Technology, Inc. (617) 949-1274 joshua.young@aspentech.com