Predicting Component Life with Erosion Modeling

The Challenge

Erosion within oil and gas production and chemical process lines is a serious problem, and operators need an accurate understanding of when ultimate failure is likely to occur. It’s a complex phenomenon involving many different factors, and so empirical formulae that take into account the pipe material and the particle properties are used. However, these relationships don’t take into account changes to the local flow field caused by the erosion process itself, under-estimating component life.

The Solution

Working with Siemens Digital Industries Software, a morphing-mesh Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) method was developed that allowed the flow domain to change as it was eroded, changing local shear stresses and erosion rates. These models were then validated against experimental work.

The Result

The results were excellent, accurately predicting the location of the burn-through and the time taken to failure. These improved simulations can now be used by operators to extend component life and reduce replacement costs.

To learn more about managing oil pipeline components with erosion modeling, or if you have any questions, contact our team today.