Available online
Description
The programme looks at a practical application of tree theory in the design of an offshore gas pipeline network.
The programme looks at a practical application of tree theory in the design of an offshore gas pipeline network.
| Module code and title: | TM361, "Graphs, networks and design" |
|---|---|
| Item code: | TM361; 08 |
| First transmission date: | 17-06-1981 |
| Published: | 1981 |
| Rights Statement: | |
| Restrictions on use: | |
| Duration: | 00:24:20 |
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| Producer: | Andrew Millington |
| Contributors: | Howard Frank; Roy Nelson |
| Publisher: | BBC Open University |
| Keyword(s): | Offshore pipe laying; Pipelines |
| Footage description: | Film shots from a British Open Golf championship. Roy Nelson, in the studio with a diagram of a nine hole golf course, explains that the greens and fairways make up a network. He then goes on to discuss how, with the aid of tree theory, a sprinkler system for the greens can be designed with the shortest possible pipe runs. Shots of the North Sea and of off-shore oil rigs there. Shots of pipe laying operations. Commentary by Roy Nelson points out the two methods used, for laying undersea pipelines and gives details of each. Shots of pipe sections being welded and of lengths of pipe being wound off a large reel into the sea. Roy Nelson, with a diagram showing locations of North Sea wells and the feed lines between them and the shore, explains why a tree structure is most appropriate for such a network. He points out that choice of pipe diameter for various sections of the network is also an important parameter. Howard Frank (Network Analysis Corporation) discusses the method he used for designing a large pipeline network in the Gulf of Mexico which saved millions of pounds in construction and operating costs. He explains that he divided the project into two main problems; finding the correct diameter for the various pipes and then working out the optimum tree ifor the network. Frank uses diagrams to help illustrate his points. Roy Nelson goes through some of the mathematics for calculating the characteristics of gas flow through a pipe. He explains that this is necessary to work out optimum pipe diameters. Several animated graphics illustrate his points. Howard Frank then goes on to explain his methods for calculating optimum pipe diameters. The method involves eliminating most combination; without examining them so that only the most likely were considered. Howard Frank next explains his locally optimum tree technique, which was used for working out the best tree network for pipes in the Gulf of Mexico. He uses diagrams of a pipe network to illustrate his points. Roy Nelson interprets at intervals to clarify some of the points made. |
| Production number: | FOUT081R |
| Videofinder number: | 1529 |
| Available to public: | no |
