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Xodus Continues Innovative Multiphase Flow Research
Design Team • May 31, 2016
Xodus Group, an international group of energy consultants, has now completed the first stage of its multiphase flow research project , and is now entering the second. Multiphase flow is designed to research, simulate, and predict how dynamic forces act within the piping that is commonly used throughout the oil and gas industry, for a better understanding of the technology's potential improvements.
THE IMPORTANCE OF MULTIPHASE FLOW RESEARCH
The gas and oil industry is often required to pass materials of more than one type through a single pipeline. This can be chemicals, gases, water, and fluids, all of which will mix dynamically and could potentially cause issues through their inconsistent flow. Multiphase flow research is aimed at better understanding how these materials will interact with each other, to provide for better, faster, and easier transportation. The easier transportation can be achieved through multiphase pipeline, the faster energy can be distributed and the less costly distribution will be. Better distribution can even mean better worksite safety, as fewer pipelines may need to be repaired, maintained, or replaced.
THREE PHASE TESTING BY THE XODUS GROUP
The Xodus Group has plans for three phases of testing. The initial phase was designed to test a range of flow conditions, which included different builds of pipeline. These builds included vertical and horizontal u-bends as well as straight pipes. Data was taken to be analyzed regarding the flow of materials and mixed materials throughout these pipelines, which included pressure, distribution, speed, and more. Once this data had been collected, the Xodus Group began phase two, which involves procuring additional funding and testing different ranges of bending. Ultimately, the multiphase flow research project is designed to produce data. This data will become invaluable to companies throughout the oil and gas industry, and may be used to improve upon the products that are currently available. Phase three will likely include further testing.
IMPROVING BOTH PIPING AND PRODUCTION
The oil and gas industry is presently an industry that thrives and survives based purely on innovation. Many companies are looking into reducing inefficiencies and improving productivity through the use of technology. Pipeline technology is uniquely valuable because it is a technology that ideally will last a long time and generally doesn't include any moving parts. In other words, a substantive improvement in pipeline technology alone could save companies tremendous amounts of money in terms of purchasing and maintaining their pipeline systems. Better piping can also be used to make the distribution process faster and can improve upon production, as it will be easier to claim oil and gas through pressurized pipes.
The data recovered by the Xodus Group will undoubtedly prove to be valuable for companies looking to improve their pipelines and their equipment. By producing better simulations and analysis, oil and gas companies will be able to reduce inefficiency throughout their operations and therefore also reduce their overhead. Heavy Iron Oilfield Services, LP has long been dedicated towards innovation within the oil and gas industry. Through Heavy Iron Oilfield Services, you can procure the best in maintenance and repair services, designed to improve upon on-site maintenance and reduce costs. Contact Heavy Iron Oilfield Services today to learn more about their national products.
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