Abstract
The paper discusses a field case involving the transportation of ethane-rich gas streams. The streams were re-routed using an extensive pipeline network system with the objective of increasing ethane recovery. The changes presented significant operational challenges for managing large amounts of liquids accumulated in the pipeline system and delivering production smoothly to process.
Prior to re-routing the gas streams, transient multiphase flow simulations were performed to establish pipeline liquid accumulation, minimum and maximum allowable rates, pressure losses, and pipe scraping operations at different velocities. A later comparison between calculations and actual field performance showed a good match.
Dropping the planned refrigeration system for the gas pipeline system achieved significant capital savings. Ultimately, re-routing of the ethane rich gas allowed additional recovery equivalent to approximately 20 mmscfd with no additional capital investment.
A modern transient multiphase flow simulator proved useful in testing and setting up field operational changes prior to implementation, and managing extensive pipeline systems with severe liquid accumulation.
