Hydraulic model optimization of a multi-product pipeline

An optimization model is established for a multi-product pipeline which has a known delivery demand and operation plan for each off-take station. The aim of this optimization model is to minimize the total pumping operation cost, considering not only factors including the energy equilibrium constraint, the maximum and minimum suction and discharge pressures constraints of pump stations, and pressure constraint at special elevation points, but also the regional differences in electricity prices along the pipeline. The dynamic programming method is applied to solve the model and to find the optimal pump configuration.