CFD Modeling of Odorant Distribution in a Gas Pipeline Network and Optimization of Operating Conditions

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Chemistry & Chemical Engineering Technical Center, Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR), Isfahan university of Technology branch, Isfahan, Iran

2 Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran

3 Department of Mining and Metallurgical Engineering, Yazd University, Yazd, Iran

4 Head of Health, Safety, Environment and Passive Defense, Hormozgan Province Gas Company, Bandar Abbas, Iran

5 Safety Expert, Hormozgan Province Gas Company, Bandar Abbas, Iran

Abstract

In this study, the distribution of odorant in a natural gas pipeline network is investigated using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) techniques. The focus is on an injection-type odorizer, with the odorant distribution analyzed using finite element methods up to a distance of 1 kilometer from the injection point. Key parameters influencing the performance of the injection pump, such as injection time, injection volume, and the number of pulses, are examined. Moreover, the modeling results indicate that the odorant concentration stabilizes at approximately 200 meters from the pipeline›s origin. Additionally, when the CGS gas station operates at a capacity of 7000 m³/hr, the odorant consumption exceeds the required amount. Even with a reduction in injection volume from 200 mm³ to 100 mm³, the output concentration remains within standard limits. Under lower loading conditions, the final odorant concentration reaches about 85 mg/m³, which is nearly four times than the standard level, resulting in a pronounced odor in the area. Ultimately, for the specified CGS gas station, optimal values for the pump›s performance parameters during both day and night hours are identified. Also, the optimal injection rate of odorant is 16 pulses per minute during the day and 8 pulses per minute at night.

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Main Subjects

References

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Journal of Petroleum Research
Volume 34, 1403-3 - Serial Number 136
September and October 2024
Pages 48-63

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