Numerical analysis and parametric optimization of surge protection devices in a long up-pumping water pipeline

This study aims to present a parametric analysis of combined use of two surge protection devices in a relatively very long up-pumping water supply pipeline. Transient conditions are induced by sudden pump tripping. The effects of four parameters of hydropneumatic tank, i.e., polytropic exponent, initial air volume, orifice diameter and wave celerity and two parameters of surge tank, i.e., tank volume and tank orifice diameter are investigated on pressure surges. The parameters are optimized to achieve reduced pressure fluctuations throughout the pipe length. A numerical model is developed to perform hydraulic transient analysis in the pipeline system. Governing partial differential equations for unsteady flows are solved by the method of characteristics (MOC) and are subsequently converted into algebraic form using finite difference method. To establish the authenticity of the model, it is experimentally validated by comparing the model results with the experimental results. The validated model is then employed to analyze the effects of various parameters of the two surge protection devices on pressure fluctuations along the pipe length. The results obtained from the study are optimized for safe operation and economic use of the system.