Analysis of Pressure and Energy on Oil Flow Requirements in Oil Pipelines: "A Case Study of the Al-Feel Oil Field, Libya"

Abstract

With the increasing global demand for energy, the transportation of oil and gas has become a critical component of energy infrastructure. As exploration and production activities extend into more remote and challenging environments, efficient and reliable pipeline systems are essential for ensuring a continuous supply of crude oil and natural gas to processing and consumption centers. However, transporting fluids over long distances presents several technical challenges, particularly due to variations in fluid properties and operational conditions. Key factors such as viscosity, density, temperature, and the internal friction of pipeline surfaces significantly influence flow behavior and pressure drop along the pipeline. These variables must be carefully accounted for during the design and optimization of pipeline systems to minimize energy losses and operational costs. In particular, changes in temperature and composition of crude oil can alter its rheological properties, affecting pump efficiency and flow stability. This study focuses on analyzing the performance of an 800 km crude oil pipeline in Libya under varying operating and fluid conditions. To identify the optimal flow parameters that maximize energy efficiency and reduce power consumption, ASPEN HYSYS software was employed to simulate pipeline operations and evaluate the impact of changing fluid and pipeline properties on pressure, temperature profiles, and energy requirements. The results provide valuable insights for improving pipeline design and operational strategies in similar settings