Method of Discrete-Continuous Search for Flow Direction in Hydraulic Calculation of Annular Gas Networks

The paper deals with the method of discrete-continuous search of flow direction for hydraulic calculation of circular gas networks with one gas inlet node and several extraction nodes. The developed approach allows increasing the accuracy of calculations in comparison with the traditional Lobachev-Cross method, especially in normal operating modes. A study of the energy intensity of the ring network revealed potential abnormal situations due to the lack of pressure to overcome frictional resistance. The developed algorithm and software package provide the possibility of modeling the gas-dynamic state of the network, as well as the analysis of emergency scenarios leading to changes in the network topology. Complex analysis of normal, emergency and pre-emergency modes of operation of the gas pipeline system allows to optimize the operation parameters and improve its reliability.