Energy Efficiency in Pipelines: A Comparative-Applicative Analysis of Predictive Models for Drag Reducing Agents (DRA)

Resumen

This research conducts an in-depth analysis on the use of Drag Reducing Agents (DRA) in the transportation of liquid hydrocarbons through pipelines, highlighting their importance in improving energy efficiency. The study focuses on evaluating predictive models used in the industry, such as the correlations by Conoco, Burger, Aesop, as well as an integrated correlation proposed by Zeng et al., applying them in pipeline sections of 14 and 10 inches under various operational conditions. Through the application of these correlations, the variability in the predictability of the models is demonstrated. The findings suggest that for the 14-inch pipeline, the Conoco and Aesop correlations showed greater consistency with the actual test values, while the 10-inch pipeline presented specific challenges, indicating the need for adjustments in the models to improve their accuracy and applicability. This study contributes to the theoretical understanding of the friction reduction phenomenon and acknowledges the limitations of current models to enhance their predictability and thereby contribute to the energy optimization in liquid hydrocarbon transport systems.