USING SIMULATION TO OPTIMIZE GAS-DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM COST AND PERFORMANCE

The numerical simulation of the behavior of gas distribution systems i s a powerful tool which can be used to convert the often-confusing res ults of tests on individual components into a coherent picture of the whole system. An approach to numerical simulation and an example of it s use to specify sampling lines connecting the main gas line to moistu re analyzers is presented. Although several useful models have been pr esented for tubing, we are not aware of any satisfactory model for the moisture interaction of particle filters, which are often more import ant in determining the overall response of a gas delivery system. A mo del for particle filters is outlined and its predictions are compared to experiment. The criteria for the validation of numerical simulation methods are discussed briefly.