Flow of Natural Gas in Pipelines

Test data derived from more than two hundred tests made on pipelines and conclusions resulting from examination of the data are presented. Consideration is given to the various flow formulas in the design of natural-gas-transmission pipelines, and to the performance ratings of these lines. Generally, all formulas are derived from the general energy equation, the basic differences being found in the methods of considering the friction coefficient and in the adjustment for the deviation of gases for supercompressibility. After all adjustments are made, each formula assumes the incorporation of an “efficiency factor” to record the deviation of the formula from a selected norm, although no basic norm, or perfaect operating condition, has been determined by the industry. The need for a norm in the form of a standard formula based on maximum possible efficiency of operation, against which actual line performance may be compared, is emphasized. The merits of a proposed form for this standard equation are presented herein. Each of the basic differences is examined in order to attempt to simplify the mechanical application of the formula, and to permit its more rapid use by manual application and digital computers. Thus, the examination of the many problems presented by increasingly complicated pipeline networks will be more rapid and thorough.