Design optimisation of a variable flow CO2 pipeline – A statistical approach

Pipeline transport has emerged as the most cost-effective method for transporting CO₂ onshore. The CO₂ flow rate is a key factor driving transport costs, underscoring the need to understand the impact of flow rate variability in CO₂ pipeline networks on their design and economics. This paper presents an optimal pipeline design methodology for CO₂ pipelines operating under variable flow that considers the probability distribution of CO₂ flow rate and the pipeline length. The results imply that pipelines designed for optimal performance under variable flow rates often demand a higher level of overdesign compared to pipelines intended for steady-state conditions. Decision-makers must balance the trade-offs between pipeline oversizing and installing multiple pressure boosting stations, especially applicable to large transportation distances and projects of extended duration. The examination of different approaches to pipeline design reveals that a variable flow pipeline design based on mean flow rate is not recommended, because it is incapable of handling the maximum flow rate. This drawback is overcome by adopting the variable flow stochastic pipeline design presented in this paper.