Optimal sizing and life-cycle cost modelling of pipelines transporting multi-sized solid liquid mixtures

A methodology has been developed to determine the optimal size and lifetime of pipelines transporting multi-sized solid-liquid mixtures. The methodology includes a model for prediction of various life-cycle costs for the flow of multi-sized particulate solid-liquid mixtures in a pipeline. The particle size distribution effects have been incorporated in the analysis by the weighted mean diameter. The methodology provides a closed form solution to predict the optimal pipe diameter corresponding to the least total cost for given solid characteristics. 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 parametric study reveals the interrelationship among various flow parameters including the optimal pipe diameter, the corresponding minimum total cost and the particle size. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.