PIPE NETWORK ANALYSIS OF A COMPLEX FLOW SYSTEM USING PIPENET ? A CASE STUDY

A complex water pipe network is an integral part of a process industry which serves as its lifeline. For an optimum operation of many of its key devices such as cooling towers, pumps, heat exchangers etc., correct functioning of the network is essential. Present case study deals with a processing industry which is fighting with water flow network problem due to its prolonged used and expansion activities. These changes caused improper flow distribution reaching to key devices such as heat exchanger. Identifying the problem and providing proper suggestion for improvement is a marathon task. In order to handle this problem pipe flow analysis software PIPENET has been used along with a systematic method of execution supported by theoretical analysis. It is based on a lot of live data collection, analysis and theoretical investigations. This software solves the network related problems considering the entire network at once. Exercise includes creating virtual prototype of a petrochemical industry pipe flow network, its analysis and identifying problems, and recommending solutions. Investigation results in providing improved pipe network model for better flow distribution. Results show an improvement in flow distribution by 15% saving in cooling water and 27% savings in energy. Work successfully illustrates problem solving methodology of a complex pipe flow network.