Parameters Analysis of Crude Oil Transport with Pipes

Abstract

The paper provides an analysis of key parameters such as: heat transfer coefficients, flow, pressure drop, pump power, heat losses and temperature drop in the oil pipeline. Tests were performed on a real oil pipeline plant with a diameter of 457 mm and a length of 91000 m. The oil pipeline is dig into the ground at a depth of 1.5 m. As an experimental fluid, crude oil of the paraffinic type, with a pour point of +8 to +26 oC, was used. In order to improve transport properties and prevent the appearance of paraffin inside the pipeline, the crude oil was heated to a temperature in the range of +20 to +50 oC. Origin software was used to display the research results. An analysis of the key transport parameters and their mutual dependencies and influences is also given. The aim of the work is to analyze and determine the optimal parameters of crude oil transport, as well as to determine the relation between heating temperature, paraffin content, flow temperature and cooling rate, where oil solid content will not occur. For such research, paraffin type oil was chosen as the experimental fluid.

Keywords

• pipeline transport
• crude oil
• oil heating
• heat transfer coefficient
• pressure drop
• flow
• pump power