About Optimizing Pressurized Pipeline Sizing Calculations

Various technics are proposed for the pressurized pipelines sizing. Therefore, the choice of the adequate one is a real problem for engineers. Especially in the case of discharge pipes, where operating costs seem to be more important. So, in the purpose of an optimal calculus of a pressurized pipe’s diameter, we attempt to compare between proposed methods and to choose the most appropriate one. Taking in account both economic and technical point of view, we try to apply a number of technical approaches to cases of water drinking supply and hydro electrical projects. Then, we try to assess the convergence between results of the pipe’s diameter fixing. For the gravity conducts case, the advantageous diameter method and the Hazen Williams one are close. Except for the hydro electrical case where the most acceptable result is given for the Warwick’s formula. For the discharge pipes, results issued from the technical-economical approach, valid for any material and for any length, are close to those obtained from the Brasses’ one. However, considering the operating limits, the technical-economical method seems to be the most appropriate one. Finally, this work leads to the fact that selecting pipe sizing technic must reply to hydraulic projects’ parameters and seek for optimal costs simultaneously.