CFD Simulation of a Crude Oil Transport Pipeline: Effect of Water

In the present study, a 3D two-phase CFD simulation has been performed to investigate crude oil-water core annular flow through a crude oil transport pipeline in a real scale with 100 mm diameter and 1000 m length. Results of pressure profile and volumetric fraction distribution of the crude oil and water phases are analyzed. It was verified that the heavy oil core surrounded by a water film flowing in the pipeline considerably decreases pressure drop in the crude oil transportation pipeline and therefore reduces the pumping power consumption (about 50%). The results revealed the water film is formed near the pipe wall at the beginning of the flow but this annular pattern does not remain until the end of the pipe and is destroyed after about 4 meters from the pipe inlet.