Transient flow in pipe networks

Abstract

In order to apply the fixed-grid method of characteristics to transient flow in multi-pipe systems, some pipe reaches may not satisfy the Courant condition. Various numerical techniques can be applied for these reaches. In the present study, the finite difference or interpolation techniques are coupled with the method of characteristics. The location of the disproportionate pipe, which does not satisfy the Courant condition, is changed along the pipe in different schemes. The accuracy of the developed schemes has been checked by comparing their results to available exact analytical solutions. The comparison indicated that the scheme in which the finite difference method is employed for an intermediate location of the disproportionate pipe reach is the best. A general computer program based on this method has been developed. This program is capable of analyzing pipe networks including pumps, valves, surge tanks, air chambers, etc.