A general fluid network simulator
Athapol Kitiyanan, Wilkes, James O., Pornpote Piumsomboon, Thirasak Rirksomboon · 1999
A computer program for analyzing n-node networks of liquid at steady state has been developed. The designated nodes can be connected by pipeline segments or pumps whereas open channels can be considered in the end of segments. The code is separated into two main parts: a pipe and pump part and an open channel part. The solution of the first part can be achieved using the Newton-Raphson iterative technique to linearize the simultaneous nonlinear nodal material balance equations and followed by using the Gaussian elimination method to solve the system of linear equations. For the second part, the flow rate and depth of every channel can be determined by means of material balance and nodal elevation. Nevertheless, a Visual Basic package was implemented for establishing user interfaces in order for a user to interact with this simulator accessibly.