Optimal sizing and life-cycle cost modelling of hydraulic capsule pipelines

Abstract EN

Estimation of the total cost is essential for the planning and the designing of pipelines in a cost-effective way.

As a result, the total cost modelling could go beyond the established objectives of least-cost design and optimization.

This study incorporates a design methodology for pipelines transporting spherical capsules, which have variant sizes and densities.

A methodology has been developed to determine the optimal size and lifetime of pipelines transporting solid-liquid mixtures (Capsule Flow).

The methodology includes a model for the prediction of various life-cycle costs.

The methodology provides a closed form solution to predict the optimal pipe diameter corresponding to the least total cost.

Such solutions are obtained for different life-cycle costs, of which the one associated with minimum annual total cost provides the lifetime.

The developed methodology has been used to obtain the optimal diameter of a pipeline for a practical case.

The study reveals the interrelationship between the optimal pipe diameter and the corresponding minimum total cost.