Mathematical Modeling of the Operation of an Expander-Generator Pressure Regulator in Non-Stationary Conditions of Small Gas Pressure Reduction Stations

Long-distance gas transfer requires high pressure, which has to be reduced before the gas is conveyed to the customers. This pressure reduction takes place at natural gas pressure reduction stations, where gas pressure is decreased by using gas flow energy for overcoming local resistance, represented by a throttling valve. This pressure energy can be reused, but it is difficult to implement it at small pressure reduction stations, as the values of unsteadiness significantly increase when the gas approaches consumers, whereas gas flow rate and pressure decrease. This work suggests replacing throttling valves at small pressure reduction stations for expander-generator units, based on volumetric expanders. Two implementations are proposed. A mathematical model of gas-dynamic processes, which take place in expander-generator units, was developed using math equations. With its help, a comparison was made of the stability of the operation of two possible control schemes in non-stationary conditions, and the feasibility of using an expander-generator regulator as a primary one for a small natural gas pressure reduction station was confirmed.