Numerical Aspects of Model Order Reduction for Gas Transportation Networks

The chapter focuses on the numerical solution of parametrized unsteady Eulerian flow of compressible real gas in pipeline distribution networks. Such problems can lead to large systems of nonlinear equations that are computationally expensive to solve by themselves, more so if parameter studies are conducted and the system has to be solved repeatedly. The stiffness of the problem adds even more complexity to the solution of these systems. Therefore, we discuss the application of model order reduction methods in order to reduce the computational costs. In particular, we apply two-sided projection via proper orthogonal decomposition with the discrete empirical interpolation method to exemplary realistic gas networks of different size. Boundary conditions are represented as inflow and outflow elements, where either pressure or mass flux is given. On the other hand, neither thermal effects nor more involved network components such as valves or regulators are considered. The numerical condition of the reduced system and the accuracy of its solutions are compared to the full-size formulation for a variety of inflow and outflow transients and parameter realizations.