Optimizing Multi-Product Pipeline Network Configuration Design: A Comprehensive Framework With Objective Function Sensitivity Analysis

This work presents a novel framework for the design optimization of Pipeline Network Configuration which takes into account the intricate relationships among decision variables and the essential technical, commercial, and environmental design parameters. To illustrate the Single Horizon Optimization methodology’s efficacy and sensitivity analysis of different objective functions, a case study of the China Multi-product Pipeline is utilized. It is found that each performance parameter excels in its respective objective function, however, a novel Tariff & Carbon-Emissions Multi-Objective Function stands out by delivering a well-balanced outcome, reducing overall cost, tariff, and carbon emissions by −1.98%, −1.76%, and −3.48%, respectively. The article also delves into various Multi-Horizon Optimization (MHO) methodologies aligning with practical industry practices, and the case study of the Central India Pipeline is used. The Pumping-Station MHO shows a potential cost savings of 1.21 Billion INR to the pipeline owner, along with a reduction of tariffs by 139 INR/MT across the analysis period. The Pipeline-Laying MHO analysis reveals that the initial phasing for the PNC design shall be up to the year when demand reaches 80% of the total demand. The proposed framework empowers designers with better decision-making capabilities for economically viable and environmentally sustainable pipeline network design.