A solution framework for the long-term scheduling and inventory management of straight pipeline systems with multiple-sources

Abstract

This paper addresses the long-term scheduling of pumping and delivery operations on straight multiproduct pipeline systems connecting multiple-sources to multiple-destinations. A generic solution framework is proposed, combining heuristic procedures and mixed integer linear programming (MILP) models. The pipeline scheduling problem is decomposed into two sub-problems: the allocation and sequencing of pumping operations of the initial source, and the scheduling of delivery operations and also pumping operations of the intermediate sources. An innovative execution procedure using a rolling horizon strategy is developed to solve both problems. We focus on a new discrete-time MILP model formulation, covering several operational aspects of real-world pipeline systems, such as rigorous treatment of forbidden sequences and preventive tank maintenance and pipeline maintenance periods, while considering rigorous inventory management during the scheduling horizon. The approach is validated by solving an illustrative example and two real-world based pipeline problems. Results show that the proposed framework is able to obtain solutions in reasonable run time with detailed inventory management and respecting several operational constraints of the system.