Project Synopsis

Utilize computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to model fuel blending in large storage tanks in order to develop recommendations for in-tank mixing eductor configurations to blend a specified fuel mixture within a specified cycle time.

Project Summary

Process Engineering Associates, LLC (PROCESS) was contracted by the client, a multi-discipline engineering firm, to develop a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model for fuel blending in two (2) large storage tanks for the ultimate client, an energy production company.   More specifically, PROCESS was asked to develop recommendations for in-tank mixing eductor configurations to blend a specified fuel mixture within a specified cycle time.

PROCESS modeled the tanks using MStar CFD software to complete the following tasks:

  • Develop recommendations for mixing educator quantity, location, pitch, and yaw for each storage tank
  • Provide an estimate for blend time by scalar field analysis in a simulated ‘dye’ test.

Due to the model’s size, cloud resources were utilized to reduce computing time.   Results for cases considered were analyzed graphically and numerically to assess mixing patterns and to determine an estimate for blending time.   Final results were then provided to the client along with schematics for the recommended educator layout.

Industry Type

Petroleum Fuel Storage, Blending, and Distribution

Utilized Skills

  • Process optimization
  • CFD modeling
  • Mass transfer design.

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