Preliminary Piping Sizing and Pressure Pulsation Evaluation

Abstract

LDPE production developments require processing equipment with increased capacities and existing applications uprating. They include large reciprocating compressors with several cylinders operating at very high pressures. Selection of piping size, as these special components have very long delivery time, including reactors and intercoolers, requires a careful analysis to be performed at an early stage of a project to properly estimate the costs. A preliminary evaluation should be made during the bid stage using compressor data sheet and P&I diagram. A specific pre-study linked to compressor sizing program can be used for preliminary cost estimation. Prior to piping purchase order issue, based on the first issue of real layout around compressor, the above evaluation has to be confirmed by a preliminary pulsation study. Once the plant arrangement will be finalized, the final acoustic study will have to be performed. Usually such study will only result in minor adjustments to the design not involving the piping size.