Liquid pipeline network modeling with performance parameters sensitivity analysis due to its techno-commercial variables

Abstract

After analyzing existing pipeline-network design solutions in literature, the authors have developed a novel framework model that considers important technical, financial, and environmental factors such as terrain profile, thermal impact, dynamic pump efficiency, cost escalation, tariffs, project phasing, depreciation, and carbon emissions. This comprehensive model not only prioritizes cost optimization for performance measurement but also takes into account tariffs and carbon emissions. To validate the model, the authors conduct a case study on a China multiproduct pipeline and perform sensitivity analysis. The technical model is accurate to 1.1%, except for upstream pressure at the end receiving station. Sensitivity analysis reveals that incorrect judgment of elevation profile, volume escalation, and product temperature variables can render the outcome of pipeline design infeasible. Moreover, neglecting financial components, such as lines fill cost and tankage cost, can cause a variation of 23% in the performance parameters, leading to erroneous decision-making in Pipeline Network Configuration (PNC) design and operations. Lastly, the authors discuss the significance of considering tariff and carbon-emissions performance parameters during design optimization.