MODIFIED PANHANDLE-B MODEL IN OPTIMIZATION OF GAS PIPELINE DESIGN

Abstract

The developed optimization models for flow throughput and pressure drop along with gas pipeline network in the thesis titled “ Flow Optimization in Natural Gas Pipeline” confirmed a lack in an economy the operation of the inline compressors. The developed optimization models employed the Modified Panhandle-B equation as base the base equation. The fundamental Modified Panhandle-B equation is amenable to increased flow throughput and lower overall line pressure drop. The driving power of the flowing fluid stream was not economically viable at operating downstream/upstream pressures of 81bar/63bar and below. At operating downstream/upstream pressures of 110bar/80bar, the optimal compressor power was much lesser than the operational capability. This development was consistent even at downstream/upstream pressures of 170bar/140bar. The nominal pipe thickness for all practical design considerations was found to be between 0.03m and 0,10m. At nominal pipe thickness over 0.11m, the prevailing radial stress and the maximum shearing resistance changed sign even the pipe designed thickness. The researchers confirmed that at a nominal pipe thickness of 0.11m and above, the design parameters could not fit well for gas pipeline stress analysis. The generated design parameters in-cooperated placement of pipe supports to balance the upheaval resistance of the pipeline. To counteract the effect of the numerical values of the pipe deflection, bending moment and restoring forces were determined by the computational approach.  The knowledge of the design parameters for the pipeline subject to diverse loading situations could culminate in the design of a new generation pipeline network system employing piping materials order than convectional iron and steel products. It is well established that iron and steel materials are prone to environmental attack, known as corrosion and pitting. The cost of the massive tonnage of iron and steel materials to install a gas pipeline is also incredible. Being fully equipped with an operating range of stresses and other design parameters, the race to develop materials that are more resilient, cheaper, lighter in weight and more environmentally friendly could commence.

Keywords: Modified Panhandle-B Equation; Downstream/Upstream Pressures;  Nominal Pipe Thickness; Design Pipe Thickness; Compressor Power; Upheaval Resistance; Corrosion and Pitting;