A simple regression equation for predicting charge characteristics of adsorbed natural gas storage systems

In this paper simple regression equations are proposed to predict the charge characteristics of tubular, adsorbed natural gas storage systems. The regression equations are obtained in terms of relevant, statistically significant non-dimensional numbers. The data required for regression analysis is generated by solving the transient heat and mass transfer equations of adsorbed natural gas (ANG) storage system undergoing charging under constant pressure condition. The governing equations are non-dimensionalized and relevant non-dimensional numbers are identified. Then by fixing suitable ranges for various material related, design and operating parameters, the range of different non-dimensional parameters are found. Then based on a large amount of data obtained in non-dimensional form by numerically solving the heat and mass transfer equations, correlations are developed for 1) the time required for 90% adsorption, 2) total heat transferred during 90% adsorption, and 3) the maximum temperature experienced by the bed during 90% adsorption. The regression equations are compared with the simulated values and it is observed that the difference is within 25% for all the three parameters. It is expected that the proposed regression equations will be useful in fast evaluation of charging performance of the ANG systems.