Natural Gas Processing from Midstream to Downstream
by Nimir O. Elbashir, Mahmoud M. El-Halwagi, Ioannis G. Economou, Kenneth R. Hall
5 Fluid Flow: Basics
Paul A. Nelson, Todd J. Willman, and Vinay Gadekar
*EPCON Software™, Houston, USA
Chapter Menu
- 5.1 Introduction
- 5.2 Thermodynamics of Fluids
- 5.3 Fundamental Equations of Fluid Mechanics
- 5.4 Incompressible Pipeline Flow
- 5.5 Laminar Flow
- 5.6 Compressible Pipeline Flow
- 5.7 Comparison with Crane Handbook
5.1 Introduction
Understanding the mechanics of fluid flow is an important aspect of designing and optimizing process and utility systems. For process systems, the throughput can be significantly increased by identifying and resolving high pressure drop and two‐phase flow conditions. For water systems (i.e., steam, condensate, boiler feedwater, cooling water, process water), flow simulation modeling can identify opportunities for savings in fuel, electricity, and chemical treatment costs while reducing water usage and increasing overall capacity. Detailed flow simulation of fire water, flare, and pressure relief valve systems also improves process safety.
This chapter summarizes the relevant background information for performing fluid mechanical calculations. It is intended for use by anyone without formal training in fluid mechanics, and should serve as a useful refresher for those who have taken fluid mechanics course work. The next chapter is a companion piece, and presents some material that is normally not covered in an academic curriculum.
The authors are affiliated with EPCON Software (www.epcon.com), a company that has been ...