Methods to reduce heat losses when transporting gas through long branch pipelines

Abstract

The article considers options to reduce heat losses accompanying the process of pipeline transportation of natural gas through long branch pipelines. Computational modeling of the gas cooling process in an extended off-take gas pipeline connecting the main gas pipeline and the gas distribution station has been performed. It is shown that when the length of the gas branch pipeline is long, especially in conditions of reduced flow, the gas temperature at the inlet of the gas distribution station will correspond to the ground temperature. We have developed and substantiated options to reduce the intensity of gas cooling in the off-take gas pipeline, involving an increase in its depth, the use of thermal insulation coatings, as well as the regulation of pressure at the inlet using special technical means. The calculation justification of the technical solution, which involves regulating the pressure at the inlet to the gas pipeline outlet, is performed. The results can be used by gas transportation companies. The implementation of the developed solutions to reduce heat losses will reduce the consumption of energy used for gas heating at gas distribution stations and reduce emissions of combustion products.