SUBSTANTIATION OF APPLICATION OF UNDERGROUND REDUCTION CHAMBER IN LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS SUPPLY SYSTEMS

Abstract

Statement of the problem. When reducing the vapor phase of propane-butane in the pressure regulators of the above-ground closet gas control points, water falls out in free form and at subzero temperatures of ice and crystalline hydrates formation. In order to prevent this, methods are employed in the form of applying thermal insulation and heating the inner space of the cabinet, which significantly increases the cost of the structure and the reduction process. As an alternative, the authors set forth an underground reduction chamber. The article provides a scientific rationale for the use of this underground chamber in the practice of gas supply to consumers. Results. The configuration of the reduction chamber has been substantiated, mathematical modeling of the heat exchange processes of the chamber with the surrounding soil massif has been performed, the thickness of the thermal insulation of the ascending section of the vapor phase and the reduction chamber has been selected, and the process of reduction of the vapor phase in pressure regulators has been simulated. Conclusions. According to the results of the studies, the cylindrical shape is optimal for the reduction chamber, which provides the minimum total surface of the enclosing structures. The implementation of the economic and mathematical model made it possible to recommend the optimal thicknesses of the thermal insulation of the chamber and the ascending section of the vapor phase, enabling the process of throttling of the liquefied petroleum gas vapor phase in pressure regulators without the release of free water and the formation of ice and hydrate plugs.