Pipeline Pigging, CFD Simulation, ANSYS Fluent

Introduction

In this project, the pipeline pigging is investigated using ANSYS Fluent software. In pipeline transportation, pigging involves using pipeline inspection gauges or devices called pigs or scrapers to perform maintenance operations, particularly to clean large-diameter pipes. The pig starts to move while the valve is closed, and there is only air in the domain. The pressure on the surface of the device and the central plane in the pipes are discussed. The place where two pipes meet each other is critical in case of pressure.

The geometry of the solution has been drawn via SpaceClaim software. Next, the elements are generated in ANSYS Meshing software in tetrahedra type, which is suitable and compatible with ANSYS Fluent for the deformations and remeshing due to the movement of the device. Eventually, we obtained a high-quality mesh file with a total number of 659,988 volume cells.

Methodology

The Dynamic Mesh method is used to simulate the motion of pigging into the pipes, and the Remeshing and Smoothing sub-models took over the deforming and regenerating of elements in ANSYS Fluent software.

conclusion

As can be seen, the value of the static pressure parameter on the surface of the device is extracted, and the changes in this parameter are obvious in different views through the pipeline. Also, an animation is exported, which shows the continuous movement of the pig from the first second until it approaches the outlet boundary condition.

If you are looking to clean a pipeline, it is important to consider the type of fluid that may be present inside the pipeline. Water and oil are two common fluids that may be found in pipelines. In such cases, the project can also be modeled to accommodate the presence of these fluids. This will ensure that the cleaning process is carried out effectively and efficiently.