Numerical modeling and parametric sensitivity analysis of heat transfer and two-phase oil and water flow characteristics in horizontal and inclined flowlines using OpenFOAM

Estimating the oil-water temperatures in flowlines is challenging especially deepwater and ultra-deepwater offshore applications where issues of flow assurance dramatic heat transfer are likely to occur due temperature difference between fluids surroundings. Heat analysis very important for prediction prevention deposits oil water flowlines, which could impede give rise huge financial losses. Therefore, a 3D mathematical model Newtonian under non-isothermal conditions established explore complex mechanisms two-phase transportation different flowline inclinations. In this work, first modified then implemented InterFoam solver by introducing energy equation using OpenFOAM® code. The Low Reynolds Number (LRN) k-ε turbulence utilized resolve phenomena within mixtures. patterns local coefficients (HTC) at inclinations (0°, +4°, +7°) validated experimental literature results relative errors also compared. Global sensitivity conducted determine effect parameters on performance produced hydrocarbon systems effective subsea fluid transportation. Thereafter, HTC flows downward 4°, 7° can be predicted models. velocity distribution, pressure gradient, liquid holdup, variation cross-sections simulated analyzed detail. Consequently, numerical generally applied compute global properties other operating that beneficial management