hydrocarbon flow rate at tube rupture

[AMT23]

Hi all,

I'd like to calculate the average flowrate of process feed over a short period of time (say 4 mins) when one tube ruptures. The instantaneous flowrate would equal the sonic velocity multiplied by tube cross sectional area, but how long the sonic flow rate is maintained, and how the rate changes over time?

I think this is a basic safety design at many refinery. All opinions and references are greatly appreciated.

Andy

 

[25362]

Would you please indicate what is the equipment (heat exchanger ?) referred to, the fluids concerned, and the operating conditions ?

 

[sailoday28]

Sonic velocity, only, if the back pressure is low enough. If the fluid is liquid, the flow may not be sonic.
What is the fluid and as previously asked, the operating conditions? How are you calculating sonic velocity?
Also, for transients, the choking pressure for a perfect gas is lower, than that of the steady state.