Select Page
Home 5 Conference 5 2026 Detailed Conference Agenda

2026 Conference

Agenda

 

Day(s)

:

Hour(s)

:

Minute(s)

:

Second(s)

Conference Schedule

Monday, May 4

7:30 – 8:00

Introductions
8:00 – 10:30

PSSC I – Fluid Properties

Jon Barley (Emerson)
10:30 – 10:45

Break
10:45 – 12:00

PSSC II – Pipeline Flow Equations

Jason Modisette (Atmos International)
12:00 – 13:00

Lunch
13:00 – 14:15

PSSC II – Pipeline Flow Equations

Jason Modisette (Atmos International)
14:15 – 14:30

Break
14:30 – 17:00

PSSC III – Multiphase Flow in Pipelines

Ivor Ellul (CiSK Ventures)

 

Tuesday, May 5

8:00 – 10:30

PSSC IV – Real Time Systems & Leak Detection

Ed Nicholas (Nicholas Simulation Services)
10:30 – 10:45

Break
10:45 – 12:00

PSSC V – Pipeline Operations & Planning

Melissa Debevc (Enbridge), Jonathan Fasullo (Kinder Morgan)
12:00 – 13:00

Lunch
13:00 – 14:15

PSSC V – Pipeline Operations & Planning

Melissa Debevc (Enbridge), Jonathan Fasullo (Kinder Morgan)
14:15 – 14:30

Break
14:30 – 17:00

PSSC VI – Compressor Station Modeling

Cody Allen (Solar Turbines)

 

Wednesday, May 6

8:00 – 8:40

PSIG 2601 – PODS Association Origins and Updates: Opening the Community and Model to More Pipeliners

Monique Roberts (PODS Association), Chad Hultman (ONEOK)

This paper explores the evolution and future direction of the Pipeline Open Data Standard (PODS) Association, emphasizing the growing importance of visibility and optimization of in-ground assets in the pipeline industry. The paper introduces two core data models—PODS 7 and PODS 7 with Utility Network support. These models enable operators to move beyond manual, months-long processes to real-time optimization, as demonstrated by a large multi-state operator that transitioned to daily pipeline modeling using PODS 7 and Utility Network. This shift has delivered better, more reliable information for confident decision-making, resulting in tracked savings of over $2 million per month. The paper also highlights how these models facilitate regulatory compliance, asset management, and operational efficiency, including the use of specialized modules such as the Integrity Regulatory Module and ILI Module for inspection data.
8:40 – 9:20

PSIG 2602 – RTTM-Based Leak Detection Issues for Subsea Gas Pipelines During Large Transients

Garry Hanmer (Atmos International, Inc.), Leif Idar Langelandsvik (Gassco AS), Jason Modisette (Atmos International, Inc.), Willy Postvoll (Gassco AS)

Gassco uses RTTM-based leak detection on many gas transmission lines beneath the North Sea.  These are challenging to simulate because they lack mid-line instrumentation.  During shutdown and startup of some of these lines, the modeled flow rates showed a mismatch with SCADA measurements.  The same pattern of disagreement was visible on three different pipelines.  Discussion will include how this discrepancy was traced back to the simulation of heat transfer in the asymmetrical thermal environment around the pipes, and also in the way the simulator treated the heat contained in the pipe wall, and how the problem was resolved.
9:20 – 10:00

PSIG 2603 – Data-Driven Monitoring of Subsea Wax Deposition to Cessation of  Production

T. Newnham (Pontem Analytics, UK), A. Yule (Pontem Analytics, USA), A.
Priyadarshi (Pontem Analytics, UK), I. Kopperman (Pontem Analytics, USA)

Wax deposition is a persistent challenge in subsea pipelines, particularly in systems experiencing declining production and reduced temperatures. Late-life pigging becomes particularly challenging due to reduced flow rates and velocities. Additionally, real-time quantification of deposition remains a key industry challenge. This presentation presents a hybrid approach to wax management, integrating physics-based thermal-hydraulic simulations, with data-driven system monitoring, alongside laboratory fluids analysis to assess wax deposition risk dynamically and in real-time operations in a late field life operating asset.
10:00 – 10:15

Break
10:15 – 10:55

PSIG 2604 – In-House Semi-Automated Model Building Tools for Planning Accuracy & Efficiency

Neal Desai, Janice Chang (Pacific Gas and Electric Company)

This paper introduces PG&E’s semi-automated, incremental model building process for generating and updating gas distribution models using a variety of industry software and internal applications. The approach improves planning accuracy, reduces update time, and enhances integration with enterprise systems. Key benefits include faster updates, better data integrity, and scalable maintenance for emergency response, pipeline outage analysis, and electrification planning.
10:55 – 11:35

PSIG 2605 – Full Simulation Model Integration in SCADA system, Using Rule-Based Model Generation

Wilco Oelen, Robert Wilpstra (N.V. Nederlandse Gasunie)

Within Gasunie a rule-based modelling strategy is used, which allows automated generation of the simulation model of the gas transport network. The paper discusses the transformation rules used, how they are stored and managed, and what benefits this method of working has. The paper also discusses the integration of the model generation software with the SCADA system, used for monitoring and controlling the network.
11:35 – 12:15

PSIG 2606 – Decoupling Storage and Transmission Design Days to Optimize Natural Gas System Capacity:
An Extreme Value Weather Based Approach

Alessandro Kerr, Melissa Debevc (Enbridge Gas Ontario)

This paper discusses a system-optimization framework that decouples the storage and transmission design-day assumptions in an integrated natural gas system by using an extreme-value weather-based approach. The presentation will discuss the statistical methodology, hydraulic modelling, and anticipated system benefits.
12:15 – 13:30

Lunch
13:30 – 13:10

PSIG 2607 – Risk-Sensitive Decision Flow for Stochastic Optimal Control of Natural Gas Networks

Robert Ferrando, Laurent Pagnier, Ayrton Almada, Jean Alisse, Igal Goldshtein, Lilach Sabban, Tirza Routtenberg, Michael (Misha) Chertkov (University of Arizona)

 
14:10 – 17:40

Technology Showcase
17:40 – 17:55

Break
17:55 – 19:00

Technology Showcase

 

Thursday, May 7

8:00 – 8:40

PSIG 2608 – Modeling of Centrifugal Compressor Sets in Pipeline Simulations. Best Practices.

Avneet Singh, Matt Lubomirsky, Cody Allen, Roman Zamotorin (Solar Turbines, Inc., USA)

This paper gathers the pipeline modeling experience from the equipment manufacturer point of view, introduces known best practices, and focuses on the main performance factors in turbine / compressor models which should be considered to gain the most accurate result. In addition, the nature of these performance factors is explained along with the corresponding ranges.
8:40 – 9:20

PSIG 2609 – Probabilistic Gas Quality Tracking for Hydraulic Modellers: Integrating Monte Carlo Simulation into Network Analysis

Duncan Smith (DNV), Richard Carter (Retired)

This paper discusses some background into why it is becoming more important to understand how composition and hence calorific value can vary in a complex pipeline network. It will also discuss how Monte Carlo analysis can be utilised to calculate the uncertainty in calorific values in a network given variation in the delivery flows and why a Monte Carlo framework is useful. The presentation will discuss the Monte Carlo approach and how the software was implemented to perform these calculations.
9:20 – 10:00

PSIG 2610 – Improving Leak Detection Sensitivity through SVD-Based Flow Meter Calibration

Norense Okungbowa (Enbridge Pipelines Inc), Ed Nicholas (Nicholas Simulation Services)

This paper describes a flow-meter calibration method that uses singular value decomposition to isolate key information from extended periods of operational data, enabling meters to be balanced against one another. The approach is designed to improve the reliability and sensitivity of mass-balance leak detection on liquid pipelines. Results from application to real pipeline data are presented.
10:00 – 10:15

Break
10:15 -10:55

PSIG 2611 – Predicting Reliable Leak Detectability in Pipelines Using Measurement Uncertainty of Flow Balance and Negative Pressure Wave Methods

Nadezhda Pashnina (Emerson), Gregory Efros (Retired)

This paper presents a predictive approach for determining reliable leak detectability in pipelines by incorporating measurement uncertainty from field instrumentation and SCADA systems. The presentation will show how uncertainty affects the performance of flow balance and negative pressure wave methods, describe the KPI framework developed using probabilistic modelling and leak simulations, and demonstrate how operators can use these KPIs to assess and improve LDS performance before system deployment or upgrade.
10:55 – 11:35

PSIG 2612 – Quantification of Reliability and Robustness for CPM-based Leak Detection Systems Using a Bayesian Approach

Hamed Ghasvari-Jahromi, Fatemeh Ekram, Satya Mokamati (Vanmok Leak Detection Technologies Inc.)

This paper addresses the long-standing gap in quantifying reliability and robustness for CPM-based leak detection systems, particularly in dense-phase and multiphase pipelines where phase changes and property fluctuations complicate model performance. By integrating validated digital-twin CPM models with CFD-based leak scenarios, the work generates realistic tests that reflect true pipeline physics. A Bayesian framework is then applied to these results, providing a structured, probabilistic method for quantifying and comparing LDS reliability and robustness under complex and degraded operating conditions.
11:35 – 12:15

PSIG 2613 – Managing Real Time Gas Quality Tracking through LNG Blending: Lessons from the Longest Transmission Pipeline in Indonesia

Wahyu Dwiagasta Wibowo, Ferry Budi Sentosa, M. Adhenhari Musfaro, Rifani Amanda (Pertamina)

This paper presents a real-time gas quality tracking study for Indonesia’s 1,000-km transmission pipeline, where short off-spec CO₂ and H₂O events from certain suppliers can affect downstream consumers. Using a dynamic simulation model integrated with SCADA data, the work predicts the movement, concentration, and duration of off-spec gas and evaluates how LNG injections with stable composition can mitigate these impacts. The presentation will highlight the modeling approach, key blending scenarios, and how strategic LNG injection helps restore gas quality compliance and protect industrial and power customers from transient disturbances.
12:15 – 13:30

Lunch
13:30 – 14:00

Chairman’s Session
14:00 – 14:15

Scholarship Award Presentation
14:15 – 14:45

Vendor’s Commercial Sesson
14:45 – 15:00

Break
15:00 – 15:40

PSIG 2614 – A Practical Approach to the Problem of Approaching Phase Boundaries in Pipeline Operations

Paul Dickerson (DNV), Abhijat Tilak (DNV)

This paper addresses the growing need to transport dense-phase fluids—such as CO₂— in pipelines for applications like carbon capture, petrochemical feedstock supply, and LNG transfer. It introduces a practical approach for modeling pipelines near vapor–liquid phase boundaries using standard single-phase simulators adapted for phase transitions, avoiding the complexity of full multiphase models. Through real-world case studies, the paper demonstrates how engineers can maintain simulation stability under near-critical conditions and manage impurities that affect phase behavior. The methodology empowers operators to ensure safety and efficiency while leveraging familiar tools for dense-phase fluid transport.
15:40 – 16:20

PSIG 2615 – Efficient Simulation of Hydrogen Transmission Networks to Identify Critical Flow Cases

Jan Felinks (Amprion GmbH), Nikita Vorobiev (Amprion GmbH, Hendrik Natemeyer (Amprion GmbH), Heiner Temming (Open Grid Europe GmbH), Marius Wagener (GASCADE Gastransport GmBH)

This paper presents a fast planning framework for a hydrogen network, coupling an hourly market simulation with a linearized PTDF-based network model. The authors probabilistically disaggregate the injections and withdrawals at network nodes and distill them into critical cases. The talk covers the method, integration, validation against detailed tools.
16:20 – 17:00

PSIG 2616 – Advanced Real Time Transient Simulation Models for Control Room and Operational Planning

David Stobb (DNV), Roshan Patel (Williams)

This paper presents the implementation and operational advantages of advanced Real Time Transient Modeling (RTTM) and Predictive Modeling (PM) systems in a large natural gas transmission pipeline. It details how the web-based architecture enhances operational and engineering views, enabling improved risk assessment, flow monitoring, and rapid operational and data issue detection with documented operational successes and lessons learned to optimize pipeline performance and strategic planning.

 
18:00 – 19:30

Reception

 

Friday, May 8

 

8:00 – 8:40

PSIG 2617 – Dynamic Modeling for Integrating Low Carbon Fuel or Hydrogen Injection – Accounting for Wobbe Index Changes and Linepacking in Combuster Feed Pipelines

Shivdeep Gaagat (Siemens Digital Industries Software, Germany)

This paper discusses the need for integrated dedicated momentum balance capturing the elastic effects in natural gas feed systems to combustors like gas turbines. It will demonstrate the impact of having the right methods and how they can help capture potential risks in a system. In particular, we will look into dosing of a natural gas feed system with hydrogen and assess the wobbe index changes and how even minor differences line packing routes can trigger very different outcomes. Thus, making the case for having more advanced physics for momentum conservation need to be included in such assessments as opposed to prevalent practices of using only thermodynamic modeling that often neglects or simplifies mechanical interactions.
8:40 – 9:20

PSIG 2618 – Physics-Informed Deep Learning for Transient Flow in Pipelines: A Nondimensionalized Approach

David Cheng (Fluor US), Liang Fang (Fluor UK), Phuc Do (Fluor US), Caroline Kasza (Fluor US)

This paper presents a novel application of Physics-Informed Neural Networks (PINNs) to solve the nondimensionalized governing equations of pipeline transients. The presentation will discuss the mathematical approach, implementation, and validation against classic MOC solutions for standard valve closure scenarios.
9:20 – 10:00

PSIG 2619 – Mixing Zone Simulation in Multiproduct Pipelines

Tiago de Araújo Elias (Petrobras Transporte S. A. – Transpetro), Emilio Paladino (Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina – UFSC), Rodolfo Cesar Costa Flesch (Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina – UFSC)

This work presents a transient conservative approach to simulate the mixing zone in multiproduct pipelines, which incorporates the diffusion process of the mixing volume in real time through a simplified drift-flux model using the Finite Volume Method for the solution of the governing equations.
10:00 – 10:15

Break
10:15 – 10:55

PSIG 2620 – Hydrogen Blended Natural Gas Test Design For a Full-Scale Compressor System

Sarah Simons, Dylan Kraus (Southwest Research Institute)

U.S. DOE, SwRI, and GMRC are collaborating to test a full-scale compression system operating with blended hydrogen and natural gas by modifying an installed Ariel JGT, 4-stage reciprocating compressor loop with H2/NG mixtures at incremental H2 concentrations up to 20%. The compression facility operates at pipeline conditions and is designed for 100% NG. Phase 1, summarized in this presentation, includes the initial equipment compatibility evaluation, design and fabrication of compressor system modifications, and equipment selection and purchasing.
10:55 – 11:35

PSIG 2621 – Resilient Co-Planning of Electricity and Natural Gas Transmission under Joint Location–Severity Uncertainty of Extreme Weather Events

Eric Taylor, Seth Blumsack (Penn State University)

This paper presents a robust optimization framework for jointly planning electric power and natural gas transmission systems under the uncertain location and severity of extreme weather events. The model incorporates fragility-based component failure probabilities and information theory to capture realistic spatial disruption patterns while remaining computationally tractable. A nested column-and-constraint generation algorithm is developed to solve the resulting tri-level problem. Case studies on a coupled IEEE-14 and Belgian gas network and a test system based on Northeastern United States demonstrate how spatial–severity uncertainty influences investment decisions and highlight key trade-offs between cost and resilience.
11:35 – 12:15

PSIG 2622 – Introducing an Open-Source Python Package for Transient Pipe Flow Simulation

Ed Nicholas (Nicholas Simulation Services)

Currently, no open-source tools exist for transient pipeline flow simulation. This paper introduces an open-source Python package under development to enable students, researchers, and practicing engineers to model transient flow in both liquids and gases. The paper outlines the tool’s current capabilities, summarizes its solution approach, discusses planned enhancements, and invites the PSIG community to participate in its development, validation, and future direction.
12:15 – 12:55

PSIG 2623 – BLING: Bounded Linearized Iteration for Natural Gas – Large-Scale Optimization, Market Simulation, and Uncertainty Quantification

Luke S. Baker, Kaarthik Sundar, Shriram Srinivasan, Sachin Shivakumar, Noah Rhodes, Anatoly Zlotnik, Vitaliy Gyrya, Sidhant Misra, Svetlana Tokareva, Saif R. Kazi, Russell Bent (Los Alamos National Laboratory)

We present Bounded Linearized Iteration for Natural Gas (BLING) – a special-purpose algorithm for maximizing capacity utilization of gas pipeline networks in steady-state flow. The formulation maximizes economic value and minimizes compressor energy subject to pressure, flow, and engineering constraints, and accounts for a non-ideal gas equation of state. The nonlinear program is solved with a sequential linear programming (SLP) algorithm that preserves feasibility, converges rapidly, and scales beyond the capabilities of commercial general-purpose solvers. Numerical studies show reliable solves for networks of unprecedented scale, including synthetic cases representing, e.g., all pipelines in Texas or the entire continental U.S., as well as standard GASLIB instances. We evaluate BLING for market monitoring and uncertainty management.
12:55

Conference Close