PipelineStudio

Off-Line Pipeline Simulation Software for Gas Networks

TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION

September, 2012

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Revision
Revision 1 Revision 2 Revision 3 Revision 4 Revision 5 April 2006 August 2009 March 2010 June 2011 September 2012 New Document based on older white paper Reformatted and PLS 3.2 changes included Included PLS 3.2.5 enhancements Included PLS 3.3 enhancements Included PLS 3.4 enhancements

Copyright
This is an unpublished work, the copyright of which vests in Energy Solutions International. All rights reserved. The information contained herein is the property of Energy Solutions International and is supplied without liability for errors or omissions. No part of this document may be reproduced or used except as authorized by contract or other written permission. The copyright and the foregoing restriction on reproduction and use extend to all media in which the information may be embodied.

Summary
Energy Solutions is proud to provide this technical description outlining the application and functionalities related to PipelineStudio Gas. PipelineStudio Gas is based on the TGNET engine and is one of the most advanced software programs available for complete pipeline design, planning and analysis using steady-state and transient simulations for single phase gas pipeline networks. This technical description will outline firstly how PipelineStudio Gas can be used as an application by both engineers and operators throughout the pipeline industry, while the second part of the technical description describes in more detail the various technical options available within PipelineStudio Gas from a modeling perspective.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 2 2.1 2.1.1 2.1.2 2.1.3 2.2 2.2.1 2.2.2 2.2.3 2.2.4 2.2.5 2.3 2.3.1 2.3.2 3 3.1 3.1.1 3.1.2 3.2 3.2.1 3.3 3.3.1 3.3.2 3.3.3 3.3.4 3.4 INTRODUCTION.......................................................................................................... 4 APPLICATION ............................................................................................................. 5 GENERAL GAS APPLICATIONS ................................................................................ 6 Simulate Pipeline Leak and Study Transient Response .............................................. 6 Temperature Tracking.................................................................................................. 7 Reduce Operating Costs and Increase Profits ............................................................. 7 SELECTED GAS ENGINEERING APPLICATIONS .................................................... 7 Analyze Pipeline Deliverability ...................................................................................... 7 Adding Parallel Loops vs. Adding Compressor Units ................................................... 7 Design Condition Violation ........................................................................................... 7 Improvement of System-wide Fuel Economy............................................................... 8 Prediction of the Environmental Impact of a Leak ....................................................... 9 SELECTED GAS OPERATIONAL APPLICATIONS .................................................. 10 Verification of Pipeline Schedule ................................................................................ 10 Determination of Survial Time .................................................................................... 11 TECHNICAL OVERVIEW .......................................................................................... 12 SIMULATIONS ........................................................................................................... 12 Steady-State ............................................................................................................... 13 Transient .................................................................................................................... 13 MODELLING FUNCTIONS ........................................................................................ 13 Gas Modeling Capability ............................................................................................ 15 GRAPHICAL USER INTERFACE .............................................................................. 17 Main Features ............................................................................................................ 17 Data Input and Output ................................................................................................ 17 Data Presentation....................................................................................................... 18 Other Capabilities ....................................................................................................... 22 CONTINUING DEVELOPMENT ................................................................................ 22

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1 INTRODUCTION
This technical description provides an applications overview of the hydraulic pipeline simulator, PipelineStudio. PipelineStudio is a state of the art hydraulic simulation tool that quickly and accurately performs steady state and transient analysis of single-phase fluid flow in pipeline networks. The software incorporates an acclaimed intuitive Graphical User Interface that facilitates the rapid configuration of complex pipeline models. Simulation results are easily accessible in many forms, such as graphs, tables and formatted ASCII files. Data may also be easily exchanged with other applications such as Microsoft Excel or rd other 3 party applications. PipelineStudio is a powerful engineering and analysis tool designed to aid qualified users in their design, analysis and planning tasks.

Element Toolbox

Data Block

Network View

Pipe colored by property Property View

Workspace View

Profile Chart

Multiple Document Interface

Callout from libraries

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2 APPLICATION
PipelineStudio is the industry leading pipeline design, planning and analysis solution that combines graphical configuration and reporting tools with industry proven simulation engines. It offers a combination of both steady-state and transient simulation capabilities to design facilities and plan operations from a single product. PipelineStudio is used throughout the world and enables pipeline engineers, located at anything from major oil companies to small pipeline operating companies including consulting and engineering firms, to determine solutions to planning, engineering and design problems. Typical applications of PipelineStudio in the gas pipeline industry include:
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Deliverability Analysis: Determine whether the network can meet increasing future demand with or without additional equipment. Scenarios such as the start-up/shutdown, scheduling of key compressor units or utilization of storage facilities can be investigated. Design Analysis: Design of networks, line size and capacity studies. Contingency Analysis: Simulation of upsets, unusual events and the evaluation of recovery actions e.g. compressor station failure. Upset Analysis: Simulation of upset conditions, caused by equipment failure or leakage, to determine safe and corrective procedures. Economic Comparison Analysis: Determine the equipment needed and associated costs for looping the pipeline or adding compressors to improve throughput. Energy Balance Analysis: Investigate the mixing effects of different quality/composition fluids, supply/delivery set points and delivered product quality/energy. This can be used to ensure that energy supplied to each delivery point satisfies contractual obligations. Flow Assurance Analysis: Ensuring successful flow of single phase fluid from the reservoir to the point of sale, from upstream to downstream markets Fuel Gas Analysis: investigate different compressor schedules to optimize fuel gas consumption. Gas Purchasing Analysis: Improve acquisition decisions by studying network effects due to different supply and routing scenarios. Maintain Contract Pressure: Line pack analysis and manipulation of supply/delivery set points to maintain key pressures in the network. Operational Analysis: Evaluation of alternative modes of operation. Efficiency Analysis: Simulation of normal operations to determine the most efficient physical design or mode of operation.

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Planned Activity Analysis: Evaluating pipeline response to operational changes. Risk Assessment Analysis: Investigate network response and requirements to various failures. Staff or Operator Training: Quickly and safely train operators to understand the hydraulic effects of pipeline control decisions; in real time and faster-thanreal-time environment. Observe emergencies without risk to life, equipment or the disturbance of normal pipeline operations. Start-up and Shutdown Analysis: Study and compare different control methods to determine procedures that accomplish operational objectives most effectively. Schedule compressors, regulators, and other equipment to a timevarying cycle and investigate the effects on the network. Strategic Planning and Investment Program Analysis: Determine network requirements for typically, 5, 10, and 15-year periods. Surge Analysis: Simulate upset conditions, e.g. leaks, valve closure or compressor start-up/shutdown, to determine if surges exceed design limits anywhere within the network. Survival Time Analysis: Determine the possible corrective actions for prolonging survival time caused by a supply disturbance e.g. equipment failure, rupture or shutdown.

In the following sub-sections examples from the bullet points above will show how PipelineStudio has been used as an application to achieved desirable results, firstly from an engineering applications point of view and secondly from an operational applications point of view. Investigations are normally performed through a series of case studies. For example, to investigate an existing network the base case might be a steady state simulation of the network under normal operating conditions. Subsequent simulations might consider varying demands or time-varying phenomena followed by physical or dynamic changes. By analyzing the results of these simulations the user can determine the most effective modification to pipeline operations or optimum physical change.

2.1

GENERAL GAS APPLICATIONS

2.1.1 Simulate Pipeline Leak and Study Transient Response

A pipeline leak can be simulated by specifying the diameter of the leak hole. Moreover, the size of the hole can be varied with time. The user can determine the volume of liquid lost between rupture and detection, the transient response to corrective action, and the total volume of liquid lost from the system during the event. The user could also perform studies to determine the feasibility of installing a leak detection system.
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2.1.2 Temperature Tracking

PipelineStudio provides the option of energy balance calculations for non-isothermal networks, permitting the tracking of thermal transients throughout the network. If temperature tracking is specified, PipelineStudio performs a rigorous energy balance accounting for: Joule-Thomson effects (temperature change due to pressure change); heat transfer with the surroundings; and energy imparted to the fluid by mechanical devices such as pumps.

2.1.3 Reduce Operating Costs and Increase Profits

With PipelineStudio , pumps can be optimally scheduled so as to minimize power costs. In addition, individual pumps or pump stations can be accurately modeled by input of manufacturer-provided pump head and efficiency curves. Thus, fuel or electrical use associated with a given operating scenario can be evaluated; and based on case studies; an optimum mode of operation can be selected. Moreover, simulation of anticipated operating scenarios allows for faster reaction to system upsets and more accurate evaluation of potential product acquisition and delivery opportunities.

2.2

SELECTED GAS ENGINEERING APPLICATIONS

2.2.1 Analyze Pipeline Deliverability

The deliverability of a pipeline system operating during peak season can be analyzed to determine whether the system can meet increasing future demands or whether additional equipment is needed. Strategies such as production to and from storage (reservoirs or fixed volume) and scheduling (startup and shutdown) of key compressor units can be investigated.

2.2.2 Adding Parallel Loops vs. Adding Compressor Units

To improve the flow rate of a pipeline without sacrificing critical pressures, the user may want to study the cost effectiveness of adding parallel loops versus installing more compressor units. PipelineStudio can be used to determine in detail how each alternative affects flow, pressure, and other variables throughout the system. The base case would simulate the system with no improvements. Subsequent cases would simulate various configurations of parallel loops and compressors.

2.2.3 Design Condition Violation

Leaks, valve closure, compressor startup/shutdown, and other factors can cause pressure surges in the pipeline that could be potentially damaging. With PipelineStudio , the design engineer or operator can simulate upset conditions and determine if pressure changes will exceed design criteria anywhere within the network.

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2.2.4 Improvement of System-wide Fuel Economy

In some pipeline systems, there may be times when cyclic flow conditions cause certain compressor stations to operate below peak efficiency. By shutting down these compressors and shifting the load to others, the user can maximize the available horsepower and thus conserve fuel. Because PipelineStudio allows rapid configuration and simulation of various supply/demand scenarios, the most economical compressor strategy can be determined. When the associated performance curves and detailed operating specifications are provided, PipelineStudio provides a detailed calculation and report for each compressor unit and its associated driver, including compressor fuel taken from the pipeline. The figure below shows the comparison of fuel usage for an example compressor using two different operational scenarios (cases)

Comparison of fuel usage

12

11
Fuel usage / MMSCFD

10 Case 1 Case 2 9

7 0 6 12 18
Time / hours

24

30

36

The transient response in the figure above is showing us that the fuel usage for case 1 and the fuel usage for case 2 are significantly different. This indicates that if the fuel usage should be optimized a combination of case 1 and case 2 is desirable, i.e. operating according to case 2 for the first 15 hours and then change the operation to a case 1 operational condition.

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2.2.5 Prediction of the Environmental Impact of a Leak

Leak detection studies are instrumental in predicting the environmental impact of any accidental leakage resulting from a pipeline rupture. The total volume of gas leakage calculated by PipelineStudio can form the basis for subsequent atmospheric dispersion calculations to determine ground-level gas concentrations near the leak. This data is crucial if a deadly component such as hydrogen sulfide is present in the gas. Leaks are simulated to determine the gas volume lost between rupture and detection, the transient response to various corrective actions and the total volume of gas lost from the system during the event. Studies can also be performed to determine requirements for the installation of a leak detection system.

Chart showing leak flow rate versus time 4 Leak Flow Rate / MMSCFD 3.5 3 2.5 2 1.5 1 0.5 0 0 300 600 900 1200 1500 Time / seconds
Leak Suspected Leak size confirmed and located Corrective action begun

The transient response above indicate typical operational activities during the development of a leakage in a pipeline, including the operator getting suspected that a leak is there to it becoming confirmed that a leak is there to eventually corrective action is taken and the supply for the leakage is stopped. The transient response indicates that the operator suspect that a leak is apparent after around 500 seconds and that corrective action is taken a couple of minutes afterwards (around 650 seconds). The transient response also indicate that the maximum leakage rate in this example would be around 3.75 MMSCFD

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2.3

SELECTED GAS OPERATIONAL APPLICATIONS

Many dispatching and planning departments for onshore/offshore, oil/gas pipelines employ PipelineStudio in their day-to-day operations. The ability to look ahead many times faster-than-real-time enables the well-informed operator to improve planning, scheduling, throughput, fuel costs, use of storage and line-pack management. Economic performance associated with the purchase and sale of product or marketing of available pipeline capacity can also be analyzed.

2.3.1 Verification of Pipeline Schedule

Gas dispatching departments are responsible for maintaining pipeline safety and ensuring that pipeline operations satisfy throughput requirements, whilst maintaining the pipeline pressure within operational limits - an increasingly contractual matter. Using a fixed configuration of the network, PipelineStudio is supplied with flow and pressure boundary conditions from a SCADA system. Nominations, provided by a gas load forecaster, are used to create a transient scenario. Using the supplied boundary conditions and scenario, PipelineStudio automatically runs steady-state and transient simulations at the start of the gas-day. The software completes a faster-than-real-time simulation of the pipeline for the next gas day and the results are presented to the operator. This decision support application helps identify any problems associated with the nominations and provides information ensuring that the pipeline is operated safely whilst satisfying contractual obligations.

Pipeline Boundary Conditions

Pipeline Nominations

pipelinestudio

Data Output

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2.3.2 Determination of Survial Time

PipelineStudio is often used to achieve the optimal operating conditions to satisfy demand whilst taking into account all pipeline constraints. An example of this is the determination of the survival time, which is the calculation of a time when a delivery pressure violates a pre-defined minimum delivery pressure. The user can compare and evaluate different operating scenarios such as variable flow and delivery pressures over specified time periods. The figure below illustrates the predicted readings (calculated results) over 26 hours at a delivery point (Delivery 1) for pressure.

The transient response shows that the minimum pressure is reached after approximately 22 hours. It means that the survival time for this example is 22 hours; since this is the time it takes the pressure at Factory_1 to reach its minimum pressure based around the operating conditions used in the example.

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3 TECHNICAL OVERVIEW
Incorporating the industry standard simulation engines TGNET (gas) and TLNET (liquid) PipelineStudio models both the steady-state and the transient behavior of single-phase fluid flow in pipeline networks. PipelineStudio Gas can model both simple and complex pipeline networks and may include pipeline equipment such as valves, compressors, regulators, storage, coolers and heaters. Pipeline networks, which consist of a series of pipes and equipment connected together through common end-points, are rapidly configured through an intuitive and comprehensive Graphical User Interface (GUI). Pipeline element attributes such as pipe length, wall thickness, roughness, and elevations are assigned through dialog boxes or tables. Supplies and deliveries provide pressure and flow boundary conditions for the model as well as providing model constraints; any configured pipeline equipment will also contribute constraints, the most restrictive of which will automatically be used as a setpoint. For a transient simulation, a schedule of set-point and constraint changes may be entered. Based on the set-points and constraints, PipelineStudio calculates all hydraulic variables, e.g. pressure, flow, temperature and fluid density, throughout the pipeline network. The advanced GUI enables users to view simulation results both during and upon completion of the simulation. Results are presented graphically in the form of trends and profiles. Trend and profile data may be imported into Microsoft Excel or other 3rd party applications. Results may also be viewed in tables, data blocks, attached as callouts to pipeline equipment or output data files.

3.1

SIMULATIONS
PipelineStudio performs two types of simulation: steady-state or transient. The steadystate simulation provides hydraulic results under the assumption that mass, momentum and energy flows are in equilibrium at every point in the pipeline network. A transient simulation evaluates the dynamic or time varying response of the pipeline system due to scheduled changes in one or more system variables. The user may choose to run the simulator interactively where changes of set-point, constraint or status are applied "on the fly". At any point during the interactive simulation state data may be saved for analysis or as the starting point for another simulation. Both steady-state and transient simulations are supported in this mode. During the simulation, operational mode changes and alarm violations are reported through the GUI. This provides the user with feedback when key events occur. Simulation results are presented through tables, property views, trend/profile graphs and report files. This allows the user to fully analyze each scenario and make informed decisions based on accurate information. Simulation results may also be exported for further analysis in 3rd party applications.

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3.1.1 Steady-State
Steady-state simulations may be run independently of a transient simulation. Thus, if the user is only interested in steady-state analyses there is no need to configure model attributes that are necessary for transient analysis. The steady-state simulation determines the value of thermal and hydraulic variables such as pressure, flow and temperature under steady-state conditions. The user defines the pipeline geometry and operating conditions which may include:
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Equipment flow and pressure constraints. Equipment status. Supply and delivery flow and pressure constraints. Supply fluid and fluid temperature.

The calculated steady state satisfies all active constraints configured in the system.

3.1.2 Transient
A transient simulation is defined by its starting (initial) state together with a transient scenario. The starting state may be a steady-state or a previously calculated transient state. Transient scenarios are a time sequence of set-point, constraint or status variations that emulate the operating conditions being studied. The transient simulation determines the value of thermal and hydraulic variables such as pressure, flow and temperature under transient conditions and this capability enables the simulation of leaks, upsets/surges, survival time and operational changes. During a transient simulation, the time step is automatically adjusted to maintain accuracy and stability whilst maximizing computation speed. This technique minimizes total run time of a transient simulation. Transient simulation results can also be displayed through graphical user-defined trends and this data is available in a format that can be directly imported into 3rd party applications such as Microsoft Excel.

3.2

MODELLING FUNCTIONS
For the pipeline engineer, the comprehensive, intuitive GUI, the use of sensible defaults and idealized controls creates an effective and familiar simulation tool that provides: -

Accurate and stable results: PipelineStudio employs a proven, stable, convergent numerical solution of the constituent conservation laws that govern the flow of fluids in a pipeline network.

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Alarm Handling: PipelineStudio allows the user to define alarm limits. If an alarm limit is violated a message is reported identifying the location and value of the alarm. Automatic or Fixed Time Stepping: The user has a choice of automatic or fixed time steps. Automatic time-step selection eliminates the need for guesswork and the ensuing trial-and-error procedure of arriving at a correct value. PipelineStudio can automatically choose the optimum time steps according to a user-prescribed accuracy level and maximum and minimum time step limits. Alternatively, fixed time steps can be defined by the user. Configurable Physical Units: A unit database includes Imperial, Metric and SI units. Additional User-defined engineering units can also be applied. Data Exchange: Both configuration and simulation data is easily exchanged with 3rd party applications such as Microsoft Excel . This exchange of data provides an added dimension to PipelineStudio as it allows for extended analysis and presentation of, for example, trend and profile data in other applications. Configuration variables can be imported from formatted ASCII text files thus allowing PipelineStudio to be tightly coupled with other tools. Further, all PipelineStudio models can be rapidly imported into the Energy Solutions International suite of real-time Pipeline Application Software (PipelineManager). Device Libraries: It has been included a set of libraries for compressors, fluids, pipes, etc. that can be edited or created by the user. Greying out of elements: Excluding (greying out) network elements will allow selected parts of the network only to be simulated. An alternative way of looking at this is that network elements that are excluded (greyed out) will not be included in the simulation although still be available in the network view. Idealized Controls: Each equipment item, e.g. supply, delivery, block valve or pump, includes user or program-specified constraints. The constraint is an idealized form of control that represents a type of device or control limit. Multiple constraints may be specified for equipment and during the simulation the most restrictive constraint is used as the current control mode thus ensuring all defined constraints are adhered to. Independent Steady-State Simulation: PipelineStudio performs two types of simulations. The first is a steady-state pipeline simulation which determines equilibrium pressures and flows for all calculating points in the system. The second is a transient simulation, which evaluates the dynamic response of the pipeline system to changes in one or more system variables. Since transient calculations are more complex and require more computer time than steady-state calculations, PipelineStudio provides the option of the steady-state model alone, without activating the transient model. Interactive Simulation: Simulations can run in the background or the user can elect to use the interactive simulation mode.

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Multiple Case Tool: PipelineStudio allows you to select numerous configurations and request that they are run to steady state and/or transient in batch mode. Network Validation: PipelineStudio automatically prompts the user for missing or incorrect data. This network validation function guides the user through an easy to use error-correction process. On-line Help: There is an extensive on-line help file, which is accessible through menus. Context sensitive help is available from dialog boxes. Sensible Defaults: Models may be rapidly configured using default options. All model equipment attributes have sensible defaults. Simulation Reruns Made Easier: After each simulation run is completed, the model can be "restarted" without having to re-enter all of the data. Simulation results can be archived via restart files and then called up later to initialize flows and pressures in a subsequent simulation. Only those parameters, which require changes, need to be re-entered. This feature saves input and computer time. Tutorials and Training material: Online help contains some tutorials for users to familiarize themselves with PipelineStudio, while induction and advanced training material is also available for the product.

3.2.1 Gas Modeling Capability

The gas simulation engines incorporate all equations, equipment types and parameters commonly required for modeling gas pipelines. Specifically included are: Choice of equations of state (EOS): - BWRS - Peng-Robinson (including option for large acentric factor correction) - SAREM - Ideal - SRK Choice of friction factor correlation: - Colebrook-White use pipe roughness directly in the equation - AGA - Panhandle A - Panhandle B - Spitzglass - Weymouth - GSO - Constant - Frictionless Volumetric or mass flow

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Gas temperature tracking options - Overall heat transfer coefficient - Radial thermal shell model to calculate (transient) temperature distribution though multiple wall layers Gas Quality tracking options - Composition tracking - User defined quality tracking Compressor unit modeling - Centrifugal compressors including performance maps - Reciprocating compressors including piston definition - Generic compressors Compressor drivers Generic drivers Turbine compressor drivers including efficiency and maximum power curves Temperature and elevation de-rating Compressor station modeling

Equipment - Block valves - Check valves - Coolers - Differential pressure regulator valves - Flow regulator valves - Heaters - Pressure regulator valves. - Resistance elements External Regulators - Supply - Delivery - Leak Delivery - Fuel Delivery for Compressor Driver - Reservoir Storage - Fixed Volume Storage - Energy Specified Delivery Constraints/control options - Pressure control at supply, delivery, regulator valve, heater, cooler and compressors (suction and discharge) - Flow control at supply, delivery, regulator valve and compressor - Compression rate for the compressors - Speed (only for centrifugal and reciprocating compressors) - Maximum horsepower for compressors - Delta Pressure at regulator valve, heater, cooler and resistance - Temperature at supply, heater and cooler

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3.3

GRAPHICAL USER INTERFACE

PipelineStudio incorporates an acclaimed intuitive and comprehensive Microsoft Office Look and Feel Graphical User Interface (GUI) with toolbars, Multiple Document Interface (MDI) windows and wizards. This GUI facilitates the rapid creation of pipeline models by dragging and dropping pipeline elements onto the Network View drawing pad and then connecting and viewing the network. A network validation process warns if the model has missing or improper data and guides the user through error correction.

3.3.1 Main Features

The PipelineStudio GUI incorporates: A familiar Microsoft Office Look and Feel with drag/drop and copy/paste capabilities. User-configurable docking toolbars enable creation of a simple "point and click" interface. Configurable style sheets. Wizard's to automate and simplify commonly used actions. Tight integration with all Microsoft Windows applications. Context-sensitive on-line help Undo/redo functionality Property and Workspace views Profile and trend plot functionality

3.3.2 Data Input and Output

PipelineStudio provides unrestricted access to data and incorporates input/output functions using a variety of formats: Data entry is typically via dialog boxes that are accessed through context menus, double-click of mouse button on an object, the insert menu (for library type elements) or by double clicking a row in a table. Property view shows both input and output data for a network view element and data entry can occur through this property view as well Spreadsheet controls allow data input and export for all pipeline elements of a particular type, e.g. all pipes or all block valves. Spreadsheet tables are configurable and allow addition or removal of data types. Customized tables may be created to highlight specific data. Data blocks can be placed in the network view. Data blocks display both input and output data items for pipeline elements, nodes and equipment. Data blocks showing system properties can also be placed in the network view. Customizable reports are available to develop user specific output text based reports for publishing simulation data in Microsoft Excel and HTML reports are available for various web-browsers

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Configurable profile charts and trend plots are accessible to present output data in a graphical format. PipelineStudio allows total control over units for input and output simulation data. The user may choose between metric units, Imperial units, or may specify their own physical unit set.

3.3.3 Data Presentation

PipelineStudio incorporates many ways to present and manipulate network and simulation data: Pipeline and equipment may be colored to represent property values such as pressure, temperature, flow, internal diameter or roughness.

Pipeline and equipment configuration data can be included on the network diagram. Other application objects can be embedded to enhance network diagrams or provide supporting information. The network diagram can be copied and pasted into other applications as a bitmap. Data plots can be saved as a bitmap and copied into other applications. Profile and trend data can be copied and pasted into spreadsheets.

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Profile and trend data can be exported to text files in a delimited file format. Custom tables can be created using filter/sort functions on multiple data sources. Property views display all the data associated with each pipeline element. Historical Lines profile lets you show how a property is changing over time under an interactive transient

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Compressor curves may be displayed which illustrate the operating point during a simulation.

Data blocks quickly present input and/or output data for equipment, nodes or pipeline in the network view. 3 dimensional profiles are available for a thermal profile of a pipeline wall, centrifugal curves and operating points and interactive 3 dimensional profiles may display time varying phenomena.

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3.3.4 Other Capabilities

PipelineStudio includes among many special functionalities, the following: Open Architecture: De-coupling of GUI and simulation engine for tighter integration into bespoke systems

Improved Thermal Modeling: Improved modeling of shut-in temperature Microsoft Excel Add-in: Improved reporting with the Microsoft Excel Add-in Network License Manager: The Network License Manager is normally a piece of software and a dongle (hardkey) installed on a server on a LAN, however softkey is available as well. A PipelineStudio user on this LAN will then be using the concurrent user licenses available on this Network License Manager instead of a dongle on its own parallel or USB port. Commuter License: A commuter (traveling) license allows users of PipelineStudio to check out licenses for use on their laptop while they are out of the office. This functionality is available only for a customer that has a Network License Manager (see above) installed and with this option, users will be allowed to work when they are not connected to the network for up to 30 days.

3.4

CONTINUING DEVELOPMENT
A dedicated team of engineers is assigned to PipelineStudio development and support performed by the Development Team and the Customer Care team respectively. Company commitment to the product is reflected in the support given to the growing number of attendees at the regular PipelineStudio User Group Meetings and Forums, which meet to share knowledge and provide input to the product development programs.
For information about the up and coming events, scheduled training courses and releases for PipelineStudio, please keep visiting our web site, http://www.energysolutions.com

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