Experimental investigation on blockage predictions in gas pipelines using the pressure pulse wave method

Jiawei Chu, Yu Liu, Xin Lv, Qingping Li, Hongsheng Dong, Yongchen Song and Jiafei Zhao

Energy, 2021, vol. 230, issue C

Abstract: Blockages in pipelines due to solid sediments are common problems in oil and gas transportation. Rapid detection of the location and rate of accumulating blockages can significantly relieve potential risks. In this work, a pipeline blockage detection method is developed based on pressure pulse wave that is suitable for different blockage types. This method includes arranging three high-frequency dynamic pressure sensors along the pipeline for blockage characterization by collectively utilizing the information in the reflected and transmitted waves. A set of calculations for the blockage position, length, and severity for different blockage types including long partial, single-point partial, and multipoint partial blockages is developed. The results show that the average prediction errors for the location, length, and severity range from 0.16 to 0.34%, 3.19–3.62%, and 1.10–32.3%, respectively, for the three blockage types. Our work indicates the advantages of the pressure pulse wave method in terms of the prediction accuracy, response speed, operation complexity, and economic efficiency. Moreover, the pressure pulse wave technology developed in this study will be helpful as an early warning for pipeline blockages while ensuring their low-cost and safe operation.

Keywords: Blockage prediction; Pressure pulse wave; Gas pipelines; Blockage types (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (3)

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eee:energy:v:230:y:2021:i:c:s0360544221011452

DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2021.120897

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