PIPESIM vs. PIPEPHASE

[psebes]

Hello all,
Can any one pls. provide some guidlines on differences betwenn PIPSIM and PIPEPHASE in terms of 1) ease of usage 2) corolations available 3) accuracy of results compared to actual data 4) output reports generated 5)stability with repect to different factors (i.e. line size, variation in flow, slugs predection)
The compariosion am looking for is with respect to oil and gas transportation systems.

Your feedback is highly appreciated.

 

[121202]

I am not familiar with Pipephase but have used Pipesim in the past. For basic pipeline feasibility work I have found the program to be very useful and reasonably easy to use. In the UK it has become virtually the industry standard for offshore oil and gas work.

Pipesim has a very wide range of correlations that are very suitable for modelling oil and gas systems. Full compositional models using equations of state and black oil compositional modelling is possible. The initial windows versions of Pipesim had some irritating bugs but these have probably been ironed out by now. Additionally the modelling of process equipment items such as line heaters was a little basic.

Regarding accuracy I'd make the following comments. Practically all two phase flow correlations have been developed from experiments that have a limited relation to real world situations. For example, many experiments have used relatively small diameter glass or perspex pipes to enable the investigators to observe the flow regimes present. Therefore, it is not adviseable to view the results from programs as being absolutes. The error in pressure drops can be significant. It is therefore advisable to take a conservative approach when sizing lines. However, I would recommend against grossly oversizing lines as this could result in operational problems such as severe slugging. The bottom line is be guided by the output of the programs but apply common sense and engineering judgement. Hope this helps?

 

[psebes]

Thanks 121202 for your prompt response. Indeed, your valuable feedback was very helpful.

Regards