Simple model of a multi-batch driven pipeline

The problem of modelling and simulating pipelines that are used for transporting different fluids is addressed in the paper. The problem is solved by including fluid density in the model beside pressure and velocity of the medium. First, the system of nonlinear partial differential equations is derived. Then, the obtained model is linearised and transformed into the transfer function form with three inputs and three outputs. Four different forms of model description are presented in the paper. Since transfer functions are transcendent, they cannot be simulated using classical tools. Rational transfer function approximation of the model was found and that simple model was validated on the real industrial pipeline. It was also compared to the model that does not take the changes in fluid density into account. The latter model cannot cope with batch changes whereas the proposed one can. © 2003 IMACS. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.