Study of pipeline pigging operations during multiphase flow through an innovative experimental by-pass pig model

Abstract

Multiphase flow through horizontal/inclined pipeline network is the most commonly encountered fluid flow in upstream oil and gas industry. Multiphase flow is highly complicated and unpredictable especially during pigging operations. Tremendous changes in the flow regimes due to flow and terrain induced slugs and phase separation makes the flow phenomenon highly complex to predict without rigorous theoretical/empirical modeling. Effective removal of wax and accumulated water from pipelines without production loss and process upset is the real challenge for Production Engineers. Software simulation models and empirical equations based on experimental results helps engineers to assess the risk involved and choose the most suitable pigging solution for multiphase pipeline cleaning operations