Solid particles within natural gas transmission and distribution pipeline systems is known to create varying operational constraints for pipeline operators - from nuisance value to complete stoppage of the gas flow. The solid particles can be extremely variable, both in composition and origin. The particles can consist of discrete elements, or be mechanically and/or chemically driven combinations of soils, iron oxides, iron sulphides, sulphur compounds, salts, metal oxides, hydrocarbons and other contaminants. In this paper we have proposed to study the effect of the various forces that play an important role in particle deposition. This study centres on the area of greatest concern and impact of this particle deposition phenomenon, namely significant pipeline pressure reduction stages.

In order to get a clear understanding of the physics of the particle deposition process, 3D transient compressible flow simulations have been performed for Single-Phase flow using FLUENT CFD simulation tool. The particle deposition can be complex mechanical and/or thermodynamic processes, which will be studied using the Population balance model available in Fluent.

Simulation results for the Single phase flow have confirmed the critical flow behaviour of fluid in the duct sections. The coupling of population balance model along with this single phase simulation will give a detailed insight on the various forces that determine the deposition of the pipeline particles. Simulations will be carried out for the dependence of particle condensation / coagulation rate on the number of particles available in the turbulent gas stream. Sensitivity studies will be also carried for different operating parameters such as flow rate, temperature, pressure, density and different natural gas compositions, including varying levels of contamination.