Improving gas transmission networks operation using simulation algorithms: Case study of the National Iranian Gas Network

Pipeline networks transmit gas between the source of natural gas and customers. The high cost of transportation is a challenge that must be addressed to decrease costs. Optimizing transmission operations can decrease energy consumption in compressor stations of the network. Considering significant fuel consumption in network, the present study examined common methods of optimizing fuel consumption in gas transmission networks and then simulated a simple network model using Simone simulation software. The theoretical effects of the methods were then applied to the National Iranian Gas Network, which currently transfers gas using 65 compressor stations and 33,000 km of high pressure pipeline. The methods studied were: use of maximum and balanced capacity of pipelines; adjusting the optimum inlet pressure at city inlets, industries and power plants; use of appropriate connections to assist gas transportation flow and decrease compressor load; and selecting appropriate numbers of in-service compressors to handle the volume of gas transferred. Results indicate that substantial cost savings can be realized from the decrease in gas consumption of turbo-compressors that will also postpone overhaul time by decreasing the hours of operation.