Work out pump station spacing instantly with clear inputs, formula shown and shareable results.
Each pump station can raise pressure to the pipeline MAOP, and pressure must not fall below the minimum suction requirement at the next station. The usable pressure divided by the friction gradient gives maximum spacing; dividing the route length by that spacing and rounding up gives the station count.
Station spacing
Spacing (miles) = (maximum discharge pressure - minimum suction pressure) / friction gradient
Stations
Stations = ceil(pipeline length / spacing)
Pipeline hydraulic design must include surge analysis and overpressure protection. Station spacing and pressure limits are subject to pipeline safety regulation.
Substantially. Static head from elevation gain adds to friction, so mountainous routes need closer spacing on the climbs and may need pressure control on descents.
To prevent pump cavitation and to keep the liquid above its vapour pressure. Column separation and slack line flow cause severe surge problems when the line is restarted.