Numerical Investigation of Erosion in Pipeline Bends Using CFD Simulation

Abstract

Erosion in pipeline bends is a significant issue in various industrial applications, particularly in oil and gas transportation systems. This study presents a numerical investigation of erosion in pipeline bends using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation. The primary focus is to predict erosion rates and identify erosion-prone areas based on different flow conditions, particle properties, and bend geometries. A multiphase flow model incorporating Eulerian-Lagrangian approaches was used to simulate the interaction between fluid and solid particles. The erosion rates were evaluated using empirical models that relate particle impact characteristics, such as velocity and angle of impingement, to material degradation. Simulations were conducted for various particle sizes, velocities, and flow rates, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of erosion patterns. Results indicate that erosion is concentrated on the outer walls of the bend, with higher particle velocities exacerbating material wear. Additionally, increasing particle size and flow velocity significantly influence the erosion rates. The findings of this study provide valuable insights into optimizing pipeline design and flow conditions to mitigate erosion, thereby extending the lifespan of pipeline systems in industrial applications.