All simulation examples
Illustrative study — supplied sample content. The scenario, simulation visuals and numerical results below are examples supplied for this website. They are not independently verified IMBEST project results, client endorsements or performance guarantees. Method, feasibility and delivery scope must be confirmed for each enquiry.
Surge Analysis of a Seawater Intake Pumping Station
Confirming pump trip and valve closure events stay within pipeline pressure ratings, and closing a column-separation risk.
01 — ChallengeUnverified transient pressure response to pump trip
A seawater intake pumping station needed transient surge analysis to confirm that pump trip and valve closure events would not cause pipeline overpressure or column separation — neither of which a steady-state hydraulic model can capture.
02 — ApproachFull pipeline transient model, multiple trip scenarios
A transient hydraulic model of the full intake-to-discharge pipeline was built using the method of characteristics, incorporating pump curves, check valve dynamics, and air valve locations, then run for single-pump trip, total power failure, and emergency valve closure scenarios.
03 — Simulation ResultTransient surge pressure, with vs. without relief valve
Transient surge pressure, with vs. without relief valveFig. 1 of 1
04 — Quantified ResultsBefore / After
| Parameter | Baseline | Result | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peak surge pressure vs. normal operating | 1.6× (within MAOP) | → | 1.6× (confirmed) |
| Peak transient pressure after mitigation | baseline | → | −31% |
| Column separation risk at low point | identified | → | resolved with air valve resizing |
05 — Business Impact
Identified a pipeline rupture risk that steady-state analysis alone would have missed, avoiding unplanned downtime and environmental exposure.