Session: 7.9 - Multiphase flows in Environmental and Industrial applications

Paper Number: 158607

158607 - Estimation of Localized Energy Loss Coefficients in a 90° Elbow for Crude Oil and Water Two-Phase Flow Using CFD 

Abstract: 

Currently, hydrocarbon transportation in pipeline systems significantly contributes to energy losses due to pressure drop, exacerbated by phase interactions and the geometry of fittings. With the increasing demand for oil, projected by OPEC to reach 116 MLLBD in the next 20 years, and its associated environmental impact, optimizing these processes is crucial to reduce emissions and improve energy efficiency. Minimizing transportation losses aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 9 (industry, innovation, and infrastructure) and SDG 12 (responsible production and consumption). To address this challenge, a numerical analysis of the hydrodynamic behavior of a two-phase water-crude oil flow (30.7° API) in a 90-degree elbow was conducted using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations in ANSYS Fluent. These simulations investigated the impact of phase interactions on the water friction factor (k), evaluating how flow parameters influence pressure drop and momentum transfer in this geometry, commonly found in hydrocarbon transportation systems. The Eulerian-Eulerian model was calibrated with experimental data to ensure the accuracy of the results.

Various flow regimes (stratified, slug, and dispersed) were simulated by varying flow rates and phase ratios, analyzing phase distribution, pressure gradients, and the evolution of the friction factor along the elbow. The results showed that two-phase interactions generate complex phenomena such as phase separation and secondary flows, which significantly impact pressure losses.

This study confirms that a better understanding of two-phase flow behavior in transportation systems can reduce energy losses, contribute to emissions reduction, and optimize system design, enabling more sustainable and efficient operations in the hydrocarbon industry.

Presenting Author: Miguel Asuaje Universidad Metropolitana de Caracas

Presenting Author Biography: Dr. Miguel ASUAJE TOVAR is a distinguished Full Professor in Energy Conversion. He was born on November 1, 1974, in Caracas. Dr. ASUAJE TOVAR earned his BSc in Mechanical Engineering in 1997 and MSc in 1999, both from the prestigious Universidad Simon Bolivar. He furthered his academic pursuits at the Ecole Nationale Supérieure d’Arts et Métiers in France, where he obtained his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering and Energy Conversion in 2003. Dr. ASUAJE TOVAR also completed a post-Doctorate in the same field in 2004.
Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. ASUAJE TOVAR has held various academic positions, primarily at the Universidad Simon Bolívar in the Energy Conversion Department. He has also served as a professor and associate researcher at esteemed institutions such as Universidad Nacional Experimental Politécnica “Antonio José de Sucre,” NTNU (Norwegian University of Science and Technology) in Norway, Ecole Nationale Supérieure d’Arts et Métiers in France, and the Universidad de los Andes (UNIANDES) in Colombia.
In addition to his academic achievements, Dr. ASUAJE TOVAR has contributed as a consultant to prestigious firms and institutions, specializing in oil, gas, and energy projects. He has collaborated with renowned international companies including Weatherford, Pacific Rubiales Energy, PDVSA, Corpoelec - Hydraulic Power Plants, HarvestVincler/Petrodelta, YPergas, Petrobras, Eni, Statoil, among others.
Until 2023, Dr. ASUAJE TOVAR has been actively involved in the industrial side of the Oil & Gas industry, serving as the New Technology Director for Frontera Energy E&P in Colombia.
Dr. ASUAJE TOVAR's dedication extends beyond academia and industry. He consistently contributes to undergraduate and postgraduate courses, conferences, and industry training programs. His areas of expertise encompass Energy Conversion, Hydroelectric Power Stations, Hydraulic Turbines, Oil and Gas Production, Optimization of Oil and Gas Fields, Multiphase Flow, and Applied CFD.
Dr. ASUAJE TOVAR has an impressive publication record with over 80 publications in international journals and conferences, all of which have made a significant impact in the industrial and technological spheres.