Three-dimensional finite element analysis of turbulent crude oil flow and solid particle deposition patterns in circular curved pipelines

Abstract

This study presents a numerical investigation of turbulent crude oil flows in circular curved pipelines, with a focus on the deposition patterns of solid particles within the fluid. Simulations were conducted using the Reynolds–Averaged Navier–Stokes equations coupled with the k–ε turbulence model to examine the influence of structural characteristics, such as bend curvature angle and bend curvature radius, on flow dynamics and particle deposition. The results reveal that the complex flow patterns generated by these geometric features significantly affect pressure gradients and particle trajectories. Specifically, the study shows that turbulent flows within bends exhibit intricate behaviors, with deposition patterns being strongly influenced by the pipeline’s geometric parameters. Sand particles, commonly present in petroleum flows, are found to be more effectively transported in pipes with larger curvature angles, while they exhibit a higher propensity to settle at smaller curvature angles and larger bend curvature radii. Furthermore, the simulations indicate that the majority of deposited particles accumulate on the inner wall immediately downstream of the elbow entrance.