0105

PSIG 0105 Natural Gas Power Generation 1
NATURAL GAS POWER GENERATION

BASIC PIPELINE DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

PSIG 0105

By

Oscar G. Alvarez - TGN
Hugo A. Carranza TOTALFINAELF GTA
Jorge A. Casanova CMS Energy
Carlos A.M. Casares TECPETROL

PSIG - 33
rd
Annual Meeting October 17-19,2001
Salt Lake City - Utah USA

NATURAL GAS POWER GENERATION
BASIC PIPELINE DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

PSIG 0105

By
Oscar G. Alvarez Hugo A. Carranza
Jorge A. Casanova Carlos A.M. Casares

Acknowledgements
The authors would like to dedicate this paper to Luis Santos who is a pioneer in gas
transient modeling in Argentina and has opened a wide field for transient analysis since
the 80s

CONTENTS

1. Introduction
2. Summary of conclusions
3. Power gas demand
3.1. Natural gas and power infrastructure
3.2. Power Plants
3.3. Power Plant Load Requirements
3.4. Load curves
4. Natural gas pipeline design
4.1. The art of pipeline flow simulation
4.2. Natural gas specification
4.3. Pipeline design methodology
4.4. Pipeline operation technology
5. Pipeline simulation
5.1. Fundamentals
5.2. Main data and border conditions
5.3. Results
6. Conclusions and recommendations
6.1. Conclusions
6.2. Recommendations
7. Bibliography

Appendices
I- Gas Composition
II- Load Curves
III- Unit conversion
IV- Minimum pressure required by power technology

1 Introduction

The Natural Gas (NG) demand profile has been changing in the last decades. Nowadays
the Power Plant (PP) fuelled by NG is becoming the most dynamic vector of the NG
demand in the world. The gas load curve is today more a function of the electrical
dispatching rules than a consequence of the residential consumption behavior. Thus,
understanding the expected PP operations means having a better knowledge about
pipeline design. In case of networks without NG storage facilities, the design
requirements and operational parameters are strongly linked with a right understanding of
the transient analysis tools and an efficient line pack management.

This paper analyses the operational requirements, the border conditions specified,
transient vs. steady state cost benefit analysis and peak hourly vs. average daily flow rate
design. The purpose of the paper is to verify the basic requirements and methodology to
be used in the NG PP pipeline design, especially in networks without storage. A complete
menu of simulations will be carried out for different pipe conditions, NG specification
and load curves.

The authors have more than 20 years experience in NG Industry mainly in the Southern
Cone Region. Argentina with more than 50 years of NG industry history shows three
interesting facts worth analyzing:
1) 47% of its primary energy matrix is filled up with NG (50% of the power generation).
2) Its large pipe network ( more than 7,500 miles of trunk line spread all over the
country) does not have any NG storage
3) Argentina has a deregulated Power and Gas Industry.

2. Summary of conclusions
(Systems without NG storage)

When green field projects are being analyzed the Steady state design Transient
analysis verification methodology is the recommended alternative. This statement is
made taking into account the general misinformation, uncertainties and ignorance
about the demand behavior at beginning of the project.

To minimize the design risk the load curve should be agreed between the
Transportation Company and the shipper (PP). In certain cases a MHQ (Maximum
Hourly Quantity) should be established. (In the minimum risk position:
MHQ=MDQ/24).

The MDQ (maximum daily quantity) to be contracted by a PP consumer should be
the peak gas demand required, otherwise a certain amount of risk due to gas
shortage must be assumed.

When a transportation system has to be design, contract transportation capacity or
market NG, should be taking into consideration that equal transported mass volume
does not imply equal transported energy amount.
3. Power Gas Demand

3.1. Natural Gas & Power infrastructure

The NG is intensely used in Argentina filling the 47% of the Argentine Primary Energy,
Matrix. The 2000 production reached 1,6 TCF/y (45 BCM/y), while gas commercialized
through transmission & distribution networks in 2000 was 1,3 TCF (37 BCM/y). The gas
is consumed among the following sectors Residential & Commercial 27%, Industrial
37%, Power Generation 30% and others 6% (CNG transportation).

The Argentine NG System is based on 5 productive Basins alongside the country,
separated from north to south by 2400 miles (3800 km). The production is not regulated
and after 1997 some volume was exported to Chile, Uruguay and Brazil.

Figure 3.1.1 Southern Cone Gas System

C
H
I
L
E
PARAGUAY
URUGUAY
BRASIL
BOLIVIA
TGS
TGN
TGM
TBG:
Santa Cruz-Sao Paulo
TSB
Uruguaiana-P.Alegre
(Construction)
Entrerriano
Cruz del Sur
Construction
Norandino
Atacama
Gas Andes
Gas Pacifico
ENAP
ARGENTINA
TBG:
Sao Paulo-Porto Alegre
The transmission is made through 2 main regulated Transmission companies that have a
capacity of nearly 4,000 MCFD (Mscfd) (110 Mm3/d), with more than 7,500 miles
(12.000 km) of trunk Lines with diameters larger than 24 inches. Nine Regulated Local
Distribution Companies (LDC) that cover the whole country make the distribution.

The Argentina Gas Transmission System operates under heavy operational requirements
due to three main facts: seasonal demand, geographical concentration around the Center-
Eastern area and the lack of storage facilities

The residential and most of the industrial customers have contracted firm transportation
pipeline capacity through the local distribution companies or bypassing them, but only a
few of the thermal PPs have contracted firm capacity.

The gas demand is mainly seasonal as a consequence of the increase in the use of gas for
heating purposes during the winter, producing certain shortage in cold spells for thermal
PP.

When the NG system was privatized and deregulated in the 90s, the residential users
didnt have an alternative fuel, so supply of gas was assured by LCDs through strict gas
supply contracts, controlled by the regulatory agency.

On the other hand the Power Sector was also deregulated in the early 90s, following the
Chilean and UK models. This basically consists of a separated segment of business
(vertical integration among generation, transmission and distribution is not allowed). The
Power Generation is deregulated, based on short-term marginal cost. But transmission
and distribution are regulated.

The Generation Companies have today a total
installed capacity of 21 GW with peak demand of 14
GW

The Transmission system operates in open access
condition and has one major and two minor
operators in 500 kV plus seven operators in lower
voltage levels. There are interconnections with Chile
and Brazil.

The Distribution companies (some of them
remaining state-owned) operate in geographical
concession areas. There are 35 Distribution
Companies operating, serving 10 million of
customers and selling around 60 TW/h yearly.

There is also an isolated electrical system serving the Patagonia, and it is planned to be
connected to the main system. New expansions are planned to ring the 500kV network to
improve reliability.
Figura 3.1.2.
500kV
Electrical Power
Lines
Due to the fact that more than 50% of the electric energy is produced by thermal PP
fuelled mainly by NG, the synergy between gas & electricity markets is an important
issue to be considered in power dispatch analysis.

During the winter, the alternative fuel for thermal PP is for Conventional Steam Turbines:
Fuel Oil and for Gas Turbines and Combined Cycles lighters distillates as Diesel Oil,
pushing up the marginal cost of generation, and consequently the annual average cost of
power.

The hydro thermal dispatching of PPs is strongly affected by the seasonal availability of
NG. Thus the hydro PPs are maximizing their dispatch during the winter with the purpose
of reducing the annual average cost of electricity.

Figure 3.1.3

3.2 Power plants

In a deregulated electricity market as the Argentine, the electricity producer accepts the
full market risk. Despite fix asset cost, the combustion efficiency and cost of fuel are the
key issues to make a profitable business.

The deregulation was developed over an existing Hydro-Thermal Power System mainly
composed by Conventional Steam Turbine PP (ST) (Rankine Cycle) fuelled by NG, and
using Fuel Oil as a substitute. During the 90s, all the new investment was made in Gas
Turbines (GT) (Brayton Cycle), convertible to combine cycle (CCGT Combine Cycle
Gas Turbine). As a result of these changes in the Type of plant and dispatching rules, new
requirements for the gas supply system had to be carried out.

As a consequence of having NG at a low cost, the GT will be more competitive than the
CCGT, and at certain level of gas cost, the CCGT becomes the most competitive power
generation alternative. When enough NG gas is available, the conventional ST is not an
Comparison of Geographical Sizes
alternative, due to the lower combustion efficiency and higher fixed cost (which means
more expensive investments are required)

In terms of availability and reliability the CCGT shows higher figures than other
alternatives.

3.3 Power Plant Load Requirements

The load curves to be analyzed could be classified in two groups:

Start-up and shut down operations
normal operation ( including load changes imposed by electricity dispatching rules)

One important difference from the gas designer point of view, is the short CCGT start-up
time, instead of the longer time required by ST (to heat parts of all components to avoid
exceeding thermal stress limits). Thus the standard ST start-up time was reduced from 12
or 24 hours to less than three hours in CCGT. In other words, the CCGT could be fully
loaded at least 4 times less than the older ST PP. It imposes additional transient analysis
requirements for the pipe design and operation.

The start-up time could be classified according to its previous status (standstill time) in:

Start-up type Start-up time (minutes) Standstill time (hours)
Cold start <180 <120
Warm start <120 < 60
Hot start <60 < 8

The process of start up depends on each technology employed, but generally it includes
the following steps:
Cold running GT and HRSG purging( Heat Recovery Steam Generator)
GT speed-up.
ST speed-up.

During the first step, the GT is running at its ignition speed using auxiliary starting
devices, blowing air through the HRSG and purging it. The time employed depends on
the plant design but less than 10 minutes should be enough.

In the second step, the GT is ignited and running at its nominal speed, being later
synchronized and loaded. Generally, in a cold start-up the GT is loaded at only 20 % of
its full load up to 30 minutes before ST loading, which means that the CCGT works at
20% load during the first 2 hours. When the CCGT has two GT, the second GT starts-up
when ST is loading.

In the third step, the majority of steam produced in the HRSG heats the steam cycle parts
during approximately two hours. After the first hour ST starts spending around two hours
to reach the full load.

In a hot start-up the GT is loading constantly during the first 30 minutes and the ST is
fully loaded before the first hour

In a planned shut down, the GT
load is reduced constantly
during the first 25 minutes
while the ST is shut down after
the exhaust gas temperature
descends below a minimum
level. The rest of the equipment
is shut down in the next 20
minutes.

Generally, the electric output of
CCGT is controlled by the GT,
which is capable of following the frequency variation produced by the electricity load-
supply imbalances extremely quickly.

In fact, the GT and the CCGT are capable of reacting quickly under unsteady load
conditions.

Under normal conditions the load requirements are imposed by the marginal cost
dispatching rules. In a hydrothermal marginal dispatch the daily hydro energy available is
a consequence of a seasonal water optimal utilization. That means that the water is
utilized in each period to minimize the annual average cost of electricity, thus a weekly
water cost is established and certain weekly amount of water is available at that cost.
Every day, the hydro energy is firstly dispatched as base-load in terms of energy
(MWh), but covering the peaks as much as possible in terms of Power (MW). Secondly
the nuclear energy is dispatched as base-load. Later the CCGT is dispatched as semi-
base load and finally the GT fuelled by distilled (gas-oil) or NG, as peak load if the
hydropower is not enough.

This semi-base behavior does not imply that all the units have the same load curve,
meaning that certain units have a peak load curve.
G
Exhaust gas
CONDENSER
Combustor
G
TG1
ST
HRSG
Fuel gas
Air Inlet
P
Steam
Figure 3.3.1
Figure 3.3.2 Daily Power curve

3.4. Load Curves

Taking into account the reasons exposed above, only CCGT curves are used in the
simulation, considering that the CCGT imposes more severe requirements for the pipeline
design than the conventional ST PP.

Therefore, 5 load curves have to be considered

Cold start-up
Hot start-up
Shut-down
Normal-operation
Peak operation

Conceptually, the PP fuel consumption is a function of the electricity load affected by the
overall efficiency of the CCGT

For example
3
10 * 365
8760 *
*
P
NHV EFF
IE
Cons Fuel =
Where
IE= Ideal Heat /Electricity conversion factor 3414 BTU/kWh (3600 kJ/kWh)
EFF= Overall efficiency of CCGT (%)
NHV= Net heating value in BTU/scf
P= Power MW

Time (hs)
P aver
P max
P (MW)
24hs
Pinst
4
th
GT
1rst Hydro
3
rd
CCGT
2
nd
Nuclear
Nevertheless, the fuel consumption curve depends mainly on the GT load. (except for a
small additional quantity required at full load, and obviously when the plant has
supplementary firing, which depends on ST load).

As a consequence, the fuel consumption curve does not follow the CCGT load curve;
thus, it could be represented approximately with the GT load curve.

Figure 3.4.1

It is important to bear in mind that a daily start-up requirement, which could be
considered a warm start-up, is equivalent to certain amount of hours of normal running of
the GTs useful life span. Thus, it is not the preferred alternative of the CCGT operator.

4. Natural Gas Pipeline Design

4.1 The art of pipeline flow simulation

The design and/or analysis of a pipeline involves taking into account mass and energy
balance as well as stress factors, where the flow driving force is the pressure of the
reservoir bed formation and/or compression, and the friction in the pipeline, together with
the elevation, are the ones which offer resistance to the flow.

Pressure drop along the pipeline is, among other factors, directly proportional to the
specific gravity of the gas transported, and the recompression power requirements depend
among other things on that same specific gravity plus other gas properties, all of which
eventually depend on the composition of such NG.

On the other hand, NG marketing (purchase/sale and transportation services) is usually
done in energy terms, by virtue of its final use as fuel gas. And the energy value of a gas
depends on its calorific value, and eventually on the composition of such NG.

Cold Start Up
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
0 15 30 45 60 75 90 105 120 135 150 165 180
min
GT1
GT2
ST
Fuel
But we should bear in mind that equal transported energy does not mean equal
transported mass. If one considers solely energy terms, then one can find that during the
operation of a pipeline -in summer/winter or through the year- power requirements may
be greater than the ones predicted or, in other words, transportation capacity may result
inferior to the one previously committed. In the same way, if one thinks only in mass
terms, then transportation capacity may end up to be insufficient for the users required
energy.

The NG transmission theory is based on a few basic fully developed equations and
explained in ref .1 and 2. The four basic ones are State, Continuity, Momentum, and
Energy equation, which are summarized below:

Equation of state

An equation of state is a relationship between state variables, such that specification of
two state variables permits the calculation of the other state variables. There are many
state variables; usually in fluid dynamics we talk about pressure, temperature, and
volume or density.

It is customary in the gas industry to express mass flow rate in terms of so-called standard
cubic feet or standard cubic meters -the volume the gas would occupy if i t were an ideal
gas at an arbitrary pressure and temperature base-.

The basic equation is based on the universal gas law:

Mw
RT
P

=
Where:

P = pressure = density R = gas constant
T = absolute temperature Mw = Molecular weight

But it is not useful for NG transmission purposes. Most appropriate, and sophisticated,
based in a better physical understanding of how gases work, are the well known Soave-
Redlich-Kwong (SRK), Peng-Robinson (PR) or Bennedict-Webb-Rubin-Starling
(BWRS) used properly in gas within certain range of composition.

For example PR is showed below:

) ( ) (
) (
b V b b V V
T a
b V
RT
P
+ + +
=

where: a and b are coefficients determined empirically

And BWRS is:

+ +
+ +
+ =
2
"
2
2
2 3
3
6
6
3
3
2
2
4
0
3
0
2
0
0 0
exp 1
M M T M
c
M T
d
a
M T
d
a bRT
M T
E
T
D
T
C
A RT B
M
RT
P

where: Ao,Bo,Co,Do,Eo,a,b,c,d,,, are coefficients determined empirically

A complete analysis was made in reference 6

Continuity equation: ( Conservation of Mass)

The steady-state relationship derived from mass-balance considerations for a pipe is
termed the 'continuity equation'. This principle simply states mass may neither be created
nor destroyed, remaining constant into a system.

x
M
t
A
) (

where
= density A= area of control volume (control surface)
M=mass content in the control volume (A*dx)

The analysis is made into a control volume (system under study):

For isothermal flow, the fluid density is a strong function of pressure
2
c p =

x
M
c t
pA
2
) (

where
p= pressure c
2
=speed of sound in the gas

If the pipe diameter is constant, then A is also constant and it is evident for steady flow,
there are no changes either in the net mass into the control volume or in pressure along
the time:

0 =
t
p
and 0 =
x
M

dx
Control surface
Control Volume
Gas flow
pipe
Along the pipeline the fluid density decreases as the pressure drops. Therefore, the
average velocity of the fluid ( t x ) at steady state will vary inversely with pressure,
increasing as the pressure drops. Besides, the fluid density decreases as temperature rises,
but temperature is a less important factor in pipe flow calculations since the temperature
is usually relatively constant.

Momentum equation : (Newton second law of motion)

At certain instant the force acting on a particle is equal to the rate of change of
momentum of the particle:

For one-dimensional flow it could be expressed by:

t
w
t
w
g
D
f w
x
p
) ( ) (
sin
4
2
2 2

where
w=gas velocity f = friction coefficient D= internal diameter
= angle between the horizon and the direction x

Basically the terms of the equation represent the forces acting in the fluid within the
control volume the net body force, the pressure force and the shear force.

Energy Equation: (The first law of thermodynamic)

The energy balance is not so obvious even though the principle is exactly the same.
Energy comes in many forms, many of which cannot be directly measured . But, it is not
necessary to isolate each for consideration so long as all forms are accounted for.

The Bernoulli equation expresses so well the conservation of the energy principle

Hq-W=E

where
Hq= Heat added W= Work done E= change in energy

Assuming into a pipe 0 =
t
w

dx gz
w
pv u
x
wA
gz
w
u
t
Adx
Hq
+ + +
+ +
=
2
) (
2
) (
2 2

Where:
u = internal energy z = height

In adiabatic flow:Hq = 0
Isothermal flow, T = const, Hq 0

The isothermal flow assumes that changes of temperature due to heat conduction
between the pipe and the soil could be ignored ( T= const., it implies dHq=0)

Based on the above equations several simplified models are developed to solve transient
flow. As example, the biquadratic model is showed in ref 1:

t
p
k
x
p
2
2
2 2

Where
2
4
c DA
fQ
k =

Q= Flow f(x.t)

Numerical methods to solve the differential equations, are based on the calculation of the
average over each interval in space and time, assuming that certain variables included in
the equations do not change over the interval (ref 1, 2, 5). These methods are known as
explicit, implicit and methods of characteristics. The selection among them is always a
compromise between accuracy and velocity to solve complex networks

In addition, the model has to solve network equations, even for steady state using
numerical techniques considering

Boundary conditions
Kirchoffs laws
Methods like Newton Raphson
Sparse matrix techniques

Applied to flow-equation of the type: ) (
2
2
2
1
P P k Q
f
=

where k
f
is a non-linear function of Diameter and Length and other variables.


4.2 Natural Gas Specification

Quality specifications for NG have usually been individually negotiated and prescribed in
contracts between purchasers or pipeline companies and the producer or processor. In
many Countries, like Argentina, there is a Standard defined by regulations. (see Table
4.2.1).

Specification parameters for pipeline quality NG may include heating value, specific
gravity, composition, contaminants, water content, and hydrocarbon dew point.

Specification limits for these parameters may vary widely depending on the pipeline
system, weather conditions, end use, characteristics of regional NG resource, and other
factors.

The main constituent of NG is methane, desirable as a primary fuel. Sales gas also
contains smaller amounts of the heavier hydrocarbons and other gases. Often a portion of
the heavier hydrocarbons can be recovered profitably in a field-gas processing plant as
one or more liquid products.

Table 4.2.1

Natural Gas Quality Specifications - ENARGAS STD 622/98 (Argentina)
-Reference conditions: 15C (59F) and 101.325 kPa (14,7 psi)-

Variable or Property Specification limits
(Shall contain not more than:)
Water vapor (H
2
O) 65 mg/m
3
(4 lb/Mscf)
Carbon dioxide (CO
2
) 2.5 mol %
Nitrogen (N
2
) N/E
Total inert gases 4.5 mol %
Oxygen (O
2
) 0.2 mol %
Hydrogen Sulphide (SH
2
) 3 mg/m
3
(0,18 lb/Mscf)
Sulphur Compounds 15 mg/m
3
(0,9 lb/Mscf)
Hydrocarbons Dew point (HCDP) -4C at 5 500 kPa absolute (25F at 800 psi)
Higher Heating Value (HHV) not more than 10 200 kcal /m
3
(1 145 BTU/scf)
neither less than 8 850 kcal/m
3
(995 BTU/scf)
Specific gravity (SG) N/E
Temperature 50 C (122F)
Others free from sand, dust, gums, oil, resin, glycol and
other undesirable substance
Wobbe index [HHV/G] not more than 12 470 (1 400)
neither less than 11 300 ( 1 265)

To realize how the NG Specification affects the power requirements, 6 (six) different
cases of NG chromatographic composition were analyzed. These are described on
Appendix I

Figure 4.2.2. Summary of NG quality cases

As that Appendix shows, pairs of cases of equal gross calorific value -but different
specific gravity- were alternated with pairs of cases of different gross calorific value, but
same specific gravity, with the aim of assessing the joint effect of a gas specific gravity
and gross calorific value variation over transportation capacity, measured as standard
volume and as equivalent energy volume.

4.3 Pipeline Design Methodology

The methodology of pipe design suggested and employed in this paper could be
described as: steady-state design and further transient verification:

According to the general experience, when a new pipe is designed, a great deal of
important data is assumed. Most of the time, the designer does not have accurate and
reliable information: temperatures of air and soil demand forecast (even if it is based in a
Gas Transportation Contract). Generally, a group of load curve shapes are assumed.

When a customer is a PP, the load curves are defined by the electrical dispatching rules
and are obviously the result of a complete different modeling technique.

The called Hydro thermal dispatch is the result of a sophisticated simulation, taking
into account: water availability in reservoirs, whether forecast, probable river flow
assumptions (historical series), fuel prices, and planned and unexpected outages of PP.
The available PP are thus, dispatched according to their increasing variable cost of
electricity production. It is estimated using LaGrange multiplier method, which was
developed for n power units:

C1
C4 C3
C2
C5 C6
1065
(39,76)
HHV BTU/scf (MJ/m3)
1005
(37,46)
1045
(38,93)
995
(37,04)
0.620
0.595
0.570
SG
0 ...
2
2
1
1
=
+ +
n
n
T T T
dP
P
F
dP
P
F
dP
P
F

where:
F
T
=is total cost of fuel (or total variable production price)
P1=P2==Pn= Power produced by each unit
= =
dPi
dfi
incremental production cost (LaGrange multiplier)

The result of the economic dispatch generally produces different load curves for each
power unit.

Taking into account the above arguments: the load curve shape assumed will always be
uncertain. Designing the pipe for Steady State techniques, the impact of different load
curves, has to be considered.

To consider the transient effect of the load changes using steady state techniques a tp
(Differential transient pressure) is assumed, increasing the minimum pressure required in
the border of PP.

According to figure 4.3.1. a minimum
transient pressure in the border of PP (P2) is
calculated depending on the technology
employed and the assumed drop pressure into
the internal facilities.

For steady state simulation an additional tp is
including (to considered the unsteady flow
effects)

The minimum delivery pressure to be assumed
for Steady State studies could be estimated by:

tp P P
pp des
+ =
min min

where:

P
mindes
= Minimum pressure in the border of PP for steady state design
P
minpp
= Minimum transient pressure in the border of the PP
tp= Differential transient pressure

ifp P P
ic pp
+ =
min

P
ic
= Required minimum inlet fuel combustor pressure in the GT
= ifp Differential internal facility pressure drop (P
2
-P
1
)
Combustor
G
TG1
Fuel gas
Air Inlet
P1 P2
Figure 4.3.1.

The tp value must be verified using transient analysis to avoid the shutting down of the
PP when the pressure in the border of the PP descends below the minimum (Pic+difp).

In summary the pipeline was designed using steady state techniques for peak demand.
The steady state design defines pipe diameters; compression power required and
pressures profiles. Later, using transient analysis the design is verified, identifying
operational constrains and system response at strongest operational conditions

4.4 Pipeline Operation Technology

Optimal technical and economical operation of such a system needs accurate
measurement of all the variables involved, such as:

Electrical variables: Continuos Power, Voltage
Discrete Operation, shutdown, cold and hot start

Gas: Continuos Flow, Pressures
Discrete Valve state, Compressor station status

Such kinds of variables are normally available at the Control Center of each System
(Electricity/Gas) and they serve as the inputs for operational control, as well as for the
billing between the parties.

The existence of a Wholesale Electrical Market imposes a very careful look over the
major cost operation part of a CCGT, that is gas, and over their production, which is
assigned with the marginal cost criterion.

With the actual and the historical data, an accurate tuning of the simulation against real
conditions on the time allows making on line predictions of the system behavior.

Also, the nature of the local market imposes an accurate measurement of the gas
available, actual gas burned, etc., to avoid an excess of gas consumed against the
requested, which by nature as unplanned demand is more expensive.

So, this imposes strict conditions over the operation of the three actors involved in
dispatching

Gasline
Electrical Network
PP CCGT

This only could be satisfied with the availability of real time measurements at the systems
and at the boundary of each one, that is:

Gasline All the parameters up to the Citygate or M&R Station

Electrical Grid All the parameters up to the City gate and the Power/Frequency of
the CCGT

CGCT All the parameters getting in/out the CCGT, Power, Voltage,
Pressure, Actual Flow.

The availability of Real Time Data allows having historical data and thus the simulations
above mentioned.

A typical diagram of such network is showed in the following figure:

Electrical Grid
CS
Transformer
Station
Transformer
Station
M&R Station
M&R Station
ELECTRICAL NETWORK CONTROL
GAS NETWORK
CONTROL
CGT CONTROL CENTRE
CGT Plant
HV Line
Gas Line

Figure 4.4.1.
5. Pipeline Simulation

The transient simulations permit to verify steady state design, and analyze the system
outcome for different operational requirements.

5.1 Fundamentals

The simulation was made utilizing well-known worldwide commercial software of gas
transient analysis. The software is very flexible and allows users to analyze both steady
and transient state

A lot of alternatives and complementary tools could be selected for the simulation. For
this case the following alternatives were selected :

a) Equation of state: BWRS
b) Non-isothermal flow: soil temperature 63 F (17C), soil head transfer coefficient
.00097 W/inch
2
(1.5W/m
2
), underground depth 3 ft (0.91m).
c) Pipe roughness: 787 inch (20)
d) Non quality tracking ( only one source of gas)

5.2. Main Data and Border Conditions

The simulation was made for several topologies, load curves ( without considering any
kind of NG storage), initial stationary assumptions and different NG quality.

The chart 5.2.1 summarized the cases analyzed

Chart 5.2.1
Topology Initial state PP Load Curve NG Composition
Running
Warm start-up
Cold start up
Base
Semi-Base
Peak
Dry
Running Base 6 Different Gas
composition
N1
Running 168 hs
Stand by: Sat-Sun / Base:
Mon-Friday / (D1 70% Sat,
50% Sun, 100% Mon-Fri)
Dry
N2 Idem TN1 except
sensibility to NG
composition

Base
Semi-Base
Peak
Dry
N3 Running
Warm start-up
Cold start up
Base
Semi-Base
Peak
Dry

In each case there are two gas consumers: D1=General Purpose Customers and D2=PP.
For D1 an unique load curve was assumed. Both curves are showed in appendix II

The result of the steady state simulation for each topology is the following

Topology N1 (Trunk line)
Design pressure: 1000 psig ( 69 Barg)
Pipe Length: 369 mi (590 km)
Diameter: 30
Compression plants: 3x8100 kW installed
D1= (Other customers daily average demand) = 503.4 Mscfd (14.3 Mm3/d-STD)
D2= (PP peak demand) = 105.6 Mscfd (3.0 Mm3/d-STD)

Topology N2 (Trunk line)
The design is the same of topology N1, except for the PP location and the idle capacity
of compression plant (CP3)

Topology N3 (Branch)
Design pressure: 1000 psig ( 69 Barg)
Pipe Length: 93.2 mi (150 km)
Diameter: 12
Compression plants: none
D1= (Other customers daily average demand) = 37.31 Mscfd (1.06 Mm3/d-STD)
D2= ( PP peak demand) = 31.68 Mscfd (0.9 Mm3/d-STD)
In addition other assumptions were considered:
D1
D2
Inlet
CP 1 CP 2
CP 3
957
(66)
618/971
(42.6/67)
618/971
(42.6/67)
608/971
(41.9/67)
602
(41.5)
Pressure
psig
(Barg)
D1
Inlet
CP 1
CP 2
CP 3
957
(66)
618/870
(42.6/60)
618/971
(42.6/67)
608/870
(41.9/60)
602
(41.5)
D2
Pressure
psig
(Barg)
D1
Inlet
942
(65)
435
(30)
D2
Pressure
psig
(Barg)

The design pressure adopted is 1000 psig (69 Barg), however the hydraulic design
was made at maximum value of 971 psig (67 Barg).
The installed power compression was calculated including an additional power (HP)
of 1000 kW over the theoretical power required, with the purpose of compensating
the transient operational requirements.
The compression plants are being operated at constant discharge pressure 971 psig
(67 Barg). The capability of the power installed will be verified during the transient
simulation.
It is important to point out that the system does not have either seasonal or weekly
NG storage. The absence of storage makes the system rigid and very sensitive at load
changes.
The period analyzed was always 120 hs (5 days). Except in the 7days case for
Topology N1 (168 hs) to simulate the weekend effect.
The minimum pressure in the border of PP ( Pmindes) for steady state design was
estimated considering the following values of Pminpp and tp:

Pminpp
psig (Barg)

(See appendix IV)
tp =
%
Pminpp

tp
psig (Barg)
Pmin des
psig (Barg)
TPN1 y
TPN2
463( 31.9) 30% 139 (9.6) 602 ( 41.5)
TPN3

362( 25) 20% 72(5.0) 435 ( 30.0)

The demand called D1 ( General Purpose daily average demand ) includes residential
and industrial customers, and it follows the load curves showed in the appendix II-
load Curves which include typical hourly variation.
The initial condition (t=0) was established for three initial states in the PP:
a) Running : PP in service. Pressure profile resulting of steady state simulation.
b) Warm start-up: PP shutting-down at 1rst hour, remaining stand-by up to 11
th

hour, then the PP starts-up again.
c) Cold start-up: The PP starts-up after the 11
th
hour. In this case the total
compression power utilized was reduced according with the initial load
requirements.
In the topology N1 and N2 the outlet pipe pressure was maintained in 594 psig
(41 Barg) while inlet pipe and compressor pressures were adjusted
In the topology N3 the outlet pipe pressure was 435 psig (30 Bar), but the inlet
pipe pressure was reduced.

5.3 Results

As a consequence of the simulation, the following pressure values were obtained

Chart 5.3.1.

Case Topology Initial
state
Load Minimum
pressure
psig (Barg)
Time of
minimum
pressure
(hour)
tp
required=
% Pminpp
(%)
1 Base 461 31.8 37 31
2 Semi Base 602 41.5 37 0
3
Running
Peak 642 44.3 37 -6
4 Base 450 31 37 34
5 Semi Base 603 41.6 37 0
6
Warm
Start Up
Peak 642 44.3 37 -6
7 Base 463 31.9 37 30
8 Semi Base 603 41.6 37 -6
9
Cold
Start Up
Peak 642 44.3 37 0
10 Base GC1 402 27.7 37 50
11 Base GC2 394 27.2 37 53
12 Base GC3 431 29.7 37 40
13 Base GC4 423 29.2 37 42
14 Base GC5 458 31.6 37 31
15 Base GC6 455 31.4 37 32
16
T1
Running
168 hours 460 31.7 84 31

1 Base 557 38.4 40 8
2 Semi Base 505 34.8 40 19
3
T2 Cold
Start Up
Peak 521 35.9 40 16

1 Base 406 28.0 36 7
2 Semi Base 737 50.8 36 -41
3
Running
Peak 806 55.6 36 -46
4 Base 410 28.3 36 6
5 Semi Base 737 50.8 36 -41
6
Warm
Start Up
Peak 806 55.6 36 -46
7 Base 409 28.2 37 6
8 Semi Base 737 50.8 37 -41
9
T3
Cold
Start Up
Peak 806 55.6 37 -46

tp requiered means, in each simulation, the value to be assumed in steady state
analysis to avoid reach the minimum transient pressure in the PP (Pminpp)

Figure 5.3.2.
D1 pressure curve

Topology1: Base case (Case 1)
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
Time (hours)

6. Conclusion and recommendation

Analyzing the assumptions, the border conditions and the results, the following
conclusions were obtained:

6.1 Conclusions

6.1.1. The methodology employed shows that the tp assumed to prevent the transient
effects in the steady state simulations is not always effective. In topologies 1 and
2, it should be 50% instead the assumed 30% Pminpp. Its value depends strongly
on the others consumers demand curve, as could be seen in the Topology 3 case ,
where only a 7% will be necessary.

6.1.2. The estimation of tp as a percentage of Pminpp has to be assumed having in
mind the uncertainties and unknowledge about the whole demand simulated.

6.1.3. According to the type of weekly load curves assumed, the operation is stabilized
after 48 hs whatever configuration or type of PP load curve selected. It is obvious
that a sudden event (as an unexpected compressor outage)could modify this
regular oscillation.

6.1.4. The gas quality does not affect the dynamic system response. All the
chromatographies have the same dynamic behavior. Nevertheless, the compressor
power requirement is considerably affected. Heavier NG composition needs more
power compressor or different impellers to compensate the drop pressure at the
compressor suction side. On the other hand , the amount of energy (BTU)
transported will be rather different.

6.1.5. The assumption of constant discharge compressor pressure implies that the
changes in the load have to be supported by changes in the compressor power
utilized. In fact, it is not the usual way to operate a compression plant , but it is
useful to verify the maximum theoretical required power and the type and amount
of units to be installed. In certain case the operations with only one big unit will
not be possible.

6.1.6. The operational power requirements for the compression plant could reach a
range between 40 to 110%. For a given compressor configuration, it could be
necessary to assume a heavier oscillatory regimen. In this case, the electrical drive
compressor could be an appropriate solution.

6.1.7. When certain compressor configuration was selected after the first transient
analysis, and after choosing model and supplier. Additional transient analysis is
recommended to verify the final design.

6.2 Recommendation
( Systems without storage)

6.2.1 When green field projects are being analyzed the Steady state design Transient
analysis verification methodology is the recommended alternative. This
statement is made taking into account the general misinformation, uncertainties
and ignorance about the demand behavior at beginning of the project.

6.2.2 The design utilizing steady state techniques implies the knowledge of the
existence of transient oscillations of the variables involved. It is not advisable
guarantee a Minimum Contractual Pressure without verifying the load curve
included in the contract.

6.2.3 The Minimum Contractual Pressure must be the lowest possible avoiding
working with higher design pressure.

6.2.4 To minimize the design risk the load curve should be agreed between the
Transportation Company and the shipper (PP). In certain cases a MHQ
(Maximum Hourly Quantity) should be established .( In the minimum risk
position : MHQ=MDQ/24).

6.2.5 The MDQ (maximum daily quantity) to be contracted by a PP consumer should
be the peak NG demand required. It is more necessary when a base load o semi
base load demand curve is expected. Obviously in case of green field projects the
sensibility of typical power load curves should be checked and compared with the
characteristics of the market in which the PP will be installed

6.2.6 When a peak load curve is expected, a lower MDQ could be contracted, but it will
never be possible if nobody contracts the capacity remaining (the difference
between the peak PP demand and the MDQ contracted by the PP). Contracting the
capacity lower than the peak required means that certain risk of shortage must be
assumed ( when the PP is called to dispatch does not have enough capacity)

6.2.7 When the PP is expected to be used as a seasonal peak reserve, the alternative is
using dual fuel solutions, with interruptible NG supply contract if somebody
builds the pipeline and contract firm capacity.

6.2.8 For certain load curves assumed and agreed the option booster compressor versus
pipeline capacity must be investigated, although always should remain as an
option in cases when the interaction between the PP and other customers over the
pipeline is significant.

6.2.9 When a transportation system has to be design, contract transportation capacity or
market NG , should be taking into consideration that equal transported mass
volume does not imply equal transported energy amount, in order to avoid future
inconveniences due to misunderstandings.

7. Bibliography

1) Osiadacz A., Simulation and Analysis of Gas Networks, Gulf Publishing
Company, 1987.
2) Santos L. and Alvarez O., Nuevos mtodos de Clculo y simulacin de Redes de
Transporte de Gas Natural, Gas del Estado, Buenos Aires 1988
3) Kehlhofer R.,Warner J.,Nielsen H. and Bachmann R., Combined-Cycle Gas Steam
Turbine Power Plants , Pennwell , Tulsa 1999
4) Osiadacz A., Different Transient Models- Limitations, Advantages and
Disadvantages, PSIG 9606 1996
5) Modisette J.,Nicholas R. and Whaley R., A Comparison of Transient Pipeline flow
Models and Features, PSIG Annual Meeting 1984.
6) Modisette J., Equation of State Tutorial, PSIG 0008 2000
7) Osiadacz A. and Chaczykowski M., Comparison of isothermal and non isothermal
transient models, PSIG 9802 1998
8) Don Schroeder, Steady-state assumptions: what it means and how it works,
Pipeline Industry, March 1992
9) Casares C. and Lanziani J.L.The Natural Gas Composition in Transport by
Pipelines, 1rst Latin American and Caribean Gas and Electricity Congress, SPE
1997, Bariloche, Argentina
10) Pereira dos Santos S.,Transient Analysis A Must in Gas Pipeline Design, PSIG
9703 1997
11) Alvarez O. and Carranza H. Simulacin de operacin de un Gasoducto Regional-
Congreso IBP 1993
12) Alvarez O. and Carranza H. Impacto Operativo de un Almacenamiento de Gas en
un sistema Regional-Congreso IBP 1993
13) Carranza H.Regional energy Interconnection-Gas Pipelines vs Power transmission
Lines comparisson, 1rst Latin American and Caribean Gas and Electricity
Congress, SPE 1997, Bariloche, Argentina
14) Thumb S.L., Mason S., Crameros A. and Hibbs J. Natural Gas Pipeline
Engineering and Operations for Power Generation Load, PSIG 9403 1994
15) Rojey A. Le Gaz Naturel-Production, Traitement, Transport 1994-Technip-Pars
16) Gas Turbine World 2000-2001 Handbook Pequot Publication
17) API Publication 2564 Guidelines for the use of International System of Units (SI) in
the Petroleum and allied Industries, American National Metric Council.
18) GPA standard 2145/95 Table of Physical Constant of Paraffin Hydrocarbons and
other Components of Natural Gas

Appendix I

The NG quality assumed under Dry denomination was: C1= 98%, C2=0.5 %, N2=
0.9%, CO2 0.6%, HHV = 1003 BTU/cf and SG = 0.567.

COMPOSITIONAL ANALYSIS AND PROPERTIES OF REFERENCE
NATURAL GASES
(Mole %) Case 1 Case 2 Case 3 Case 4 Case 5 Case 6
N
2
0.97 2.06 0.95 1.94 0.51 1.77
CO
2
1.30 1.47 0.65 1.56 0.95 0.56
CH
4
89.79 89.97 93.82 93.49 97.76 97.19
C
2
H
6
6.52 5.03 3.55 2.51 0.75 0.46
C
3
H
8
0.95 0.96 0.65 0.50 0.03 0.02
iC
4
H
10
0.15 0.15 0.11 0.00 0.00 0.00
NC
4
H
10
0.20 0.19 0.16 0.00 0.00 0.00
iC
5
H
12
0.07 0.07 0.07 0.00 0.00 0.00
NC
5
H
12
0.03 0.05 0.03 0.00 0.00 0.00
C
6
H
14
0.01 0.03 0.01 0.00 0.00 0.00
C7+ 0.01 0.02 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
SG 0.620 0.620 0.595 0.595 0.570 0.570
HHV
(BTU/SCF)
1065 1045 1045 1005 1005 995


Appendix II
Load curve

D1 :Demand curve
0,60
0,70
0,80
0,90
1,00
1,10
1,20
1,30
1,40
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
time (hour)
A
d
i
m
e
n
s
i
o
n
a
l

C
o
e
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
D2 : Power demand
Base Case
0,00
0,20
0,40
0,60
0,80
1,00
1,20
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
Time(hOUR)
A
d
i
m
e
n
s
i
o
n
a
l

C
o
e
f
i
c
i
e
n
t

D2 : Power demand
Peak Case
0,00
0,20
0,40
0,60
0,80
1,00
1,20
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
Time (hOUR)
A
d
i
m
e
n
s
i
o
n
a
l

C
o
e
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
D2 : Power Demand
Semi Base Case
0,00
0,20
0,40
0,60
0,80
1,00
1,20
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
Time (hOUR)
A
d
i
m
e
n
s
i
o
n
a
l

C
o
e
f
i
c
i
e
n
t

Appendix III
Units conversion
( In addition of ref 17)

Flow: 1m3STD(million cubic meter std-15C)=
=35,38 Mscf (million std cubic feet-60F)

Heating Value: 1 kcal/m3std (15C-1atm)= 0.1121 BTU/scf (60F-14,7 psi)

Appendix IV
Minimum pressure required by power technology

Technology F Model Description Net
Power
Output
MW
Net
Efficiency
%
Pressure
Ratio
Alstom KA-13-E2-3 3xGT13E2 720 52.9 14.6
General Electric S 209 FA 2x9001FA (*) 790 57.1 15.0(e)
Mitsubishi MPCP2 2xM701 F 800 57.3 17.0
Siemens 2.V94.2A 2xV94.2A (*) 585 55.0 13.9
(*) Reheat

Technology G Model Description Net Power
Output
MW
Net
Efficiency
%
Pressure
Ratio
Alstom KA-26-1 GT26 Single
Shaft (*)
380 57.0 30.0
General Electric S 109 H MS 9001H Single
Shaft (*)
480 60.0 23.0
Mitsubishi MPCP2 2xM701 G 972 58.2 21.0
Siemens 2.V94.3A 2xV94.3A(*) 771 57.1 17.0

Pressure ratio = Pic


Authors Currriculum Vitae

Oscar Alvarez has studied Civil Engineering at the Universidad Tecnolgica Nacional in
Buenos Aires, Argentina. He has more than 20 years worked in several positions into the
gas transmission industry. He is currently working as System Planning Supervisor at
TGN. He is a Professor in posgrade levels and author of several technical papers.

Hugo Carranza is an Electrical Engineer graduated at the Universidad Tecnolgica
Nacional in Buenos Aires, Argentina in 1980. He is postgraduate in NG in 1985 in the
Petroleum Institute of Buenos Aires University. He has worked in several positions into
the energy transmission industry. He is currently working as Technical Manager in
TOTALFINAELF Gas Transmission Argentina. He is a University Professor in grade
and postgraduate level and author of several technical papers.

Jorge Casanova is an Electronic Engineer graduated at the Universidad Nacional de Mar
del Plata, in Mar del Plata Argentina in 1985. He is postgraduate in NG in 1985 in the
Petroleum Institute of Buenos Aires University. He has worked in several positions into
the energy transmission industry. He is currently working as Systems Manager in CMS
Operating Argentina.

Carlos A. M. Casares is a Chemical Engineer, graduated at the ITBA (Buenos Aires
Technological Institute) in 1983. He is postgraduate in NG in 1984 in the Petroleum
Institute of Buenos Aires University. From 1985 to 1992 he has been working in
technical assistance in the NG processing industry. Since 1993, he has been involved
with the NG marketing. He is currently working as NG Sales manager at Tecpetrol S.A.
He is a University Professor in Grade and Posgrade levels and author of several technical
papers.

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PSIG 0105 Natural Gas Power Generation 1

NATURAL GAS POWER GENERATION

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