Calculating Wave Speed, Arrival Time, & Pressure Amplitude
This segment reviews a surge analysis calculation for a 12-inch, 25,000-foot pipeline carrying crude oil. When a valve is slammed shut, a pressure wave travels back to the inlet. The wave speed, calculated using the bulk modulus and fluid density, is 4371 feet per second, resulting in a 5.7-second travel time to the inlet.
The calculation then determines the pressure wave's amplitude. The initial fluid velocity and the change due to valve closure are used to find the head rise, which is converted to a pressure amplitude of 172.7 PSI. This amplitude adds to the existing pipeline pressure, highlighting the importance of designing pipelines to withstand surge events.