| An assumption of a constant slug length in slug flow modeling is basically accepted in current fully developed slug flow models. However, recent experimental studies of the Prudhoe Bay Field of Alaska show that slug growth occurs in the pipelines.{dollar}sp{lcub}2,3{rcub}{dollar} Because most of the liquid contained in the slug flow exists in the slug region, the accurate prediction of slug length at the pipeline exit is essential for designing the capacity of oil-gas separator facilities. Slug growth results from the changes in liquid shedding rate of slugs when slugs flow in the pipeline, therefore, the prediction of liquid shedding rate is essential for predicting slug growth mechanism. Also, most of the recent works on slug flow have been conducted either in vertical or in horizontal pipelines. However, pipeline orientations are neither vertical nor horizontal in many industrial conditions, for example, oil and gas gathering systems. Therefore, a study of the effect of inclination on slug flow characteristics is also required. Based on these requirements, a new slug flow model, which is capable of predicting slug growth in inclined pipelines has been developed in this study using a new liquid shedding rate. The predicted results of the model have been compared with the data at the Prudhoe Bay Field of Alaska,{dollar}sp{lcub}2,3{rcub}{dollar} and the experimental results of Kouba.{dollar}sp4{dollar} This analysis shows comparable results with field and experimental data and indicates this model's applicability in the oil fields. |
