Process Systems Enterprise Limited
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We saved $1.5m on the cost of a single vessel

Stephen Leng
BP Operational Excellence

 

 

Pipe wall temperature analysis for materials-of-construction (MOC) decisions

Accurate pipe wall temperature analysis is essential for reliable materials-of-construction (MOC) decisions

 

 

Publications

Hydrocarbon Processing article

Hydrocarbon Processing, November 2011

Hydrocarbon Engineering article

Hydrocarbon Engineering, September 2010


Model-based safety design and analysis uses high-fidelity models of processes and process equipment to provide accurate information for decision support in design and risk assessment of safety systems.

This helps operating companies and EPCs to minimise capital expenditure while managing risk based on reliable and auditable quantification. It also provides the means to investigate many different failure scenarios within a relatively short timeframe.

Typical applications

Typical model-based safety applications include:

  • Gas cap depressuring studies, for example to determine manifold and separator metal temperatures in the critical period as a shut-in well is brought back online
  • Dynamic flare network studies to make correct material of construction choices for flare network headers and drums with accurate characterisation of metal temperatures for hot and cold relieving events
  • General depressurisation studies to determine accurate relief load profiles and vessel and pipe wall temperatures during vessel blowdown
  • Pressure relief system (for example, HIPPS) analysis
  • Detailed analysis of accident scenarios, such as the BP Texas City Refinery accident analysis

Relevant technology & services

PSE provides industry-leading tools and services that cover all of the above:

gFLARE, the industry-leading tool for the dynamic analysis and design of flare networks.
The gPROMS advanced process modelling environment, which provides capabilities for high-fidelity modelling of system transients within a fast and robust solution environment.
An advanced depressurisation service, using the latest model technology for predicting relief flowrates and vessel and pipe wall temperatures during blowdown.
PSE's expert ModelCare modelling, project and consulting services, for rapid execution of projects.
Specialised assistance to companies to build and maintain their own customised corporate safety libraries and introduce best practice.

Track record

BP Texas City Refinery accident report


PSE has a long history in safety-related high-fidelity modelling.

This includes forensic analysis for the BP Texas City Refinery accident – see Appendix 15 [16MB download]