Schlumberger PIPESIM 2026.1: Steady-State Multiphase Flow Simulator for Production Systems

Schlumberger PIPESIM 2026.1 is the premier steady-state flow simulation software used globally for the design, analysis, and optimization of oil and gas production systems—from the reservoir to the processing facility. The "2026.1" designation indicates the first release of the 2026 version.

Core Philosophy: Model the Entire Integrated Production System (IPS)

PIPESIM enables engineers to build a digital twin of the entire production network. This integrated system modeling approach is critical for understanding interactions between the reservoir, wellbore, flowlines, and surface facilities to maximize production and recovery.

Key Features & Capabilities in PIPESIM 2026.1

1. Comprehensive System Modeling

• Reservoir Modeling: Integrate reservoir performance using IPR (Inflow Performance Relationship) curves, Vogel, or grid-based reservoir models.

• Wellbore & Completion Design: Model complex well architectures (deviated, horizontal, multilateral) and advanced completions (ICDs, ICVs, ESPs, gas lift).

• Surface Network Modeling: Build detailed models of gathering networks, pipelines, risers, and process facilities.

2. Advanced Multiphase Flow Analysis

• Flow Assurance Core: Predict pressure, temperature, liquid holdup, and flow regime throughout the system using industry-standard multiphase flow correlations (e.g., Beggs & Brill, Hagedorn & Brown, OLGAS) and mechanistic models.

• Fluid Characterization: Robust PVT (Pressure-Volume-Temperature) modeling with black-oil or compositional fluid descriptions using the PIPESIM PVT engine or integration with Schlumberger PVTi.

• Heat Transfer: Model thermal effects, including insulation, ambient conditions, and Joule-Thomson cooling.

3. Artificial Lift Design & Optimization

• Gas Lift: Design and optimize continuous and intermittent gas lift systems, including valve spacing and performance.

• Electrical Submersible Pumps (ESPs): Model, design, and analyze ESP systems, including pump curves, motor performance, and VSDs.

• Progressing Cavity Pumps (PCPs) & Jet Pumps: Specialized modules for other lift methods.

4. Steady-State Flow Assurance

• Hydrate & Wax Prediction: Predict temperature and pressure conditions for hydrate formation and model wax deposition.

• Erosion & Corrosion Analysis: Estimate erosion rates and identify potential corrosion hotspots.

• Slugging Analysis: Predict severe slugging and hydrodynamic slugs in flowlines and risers.

5. Integration & Automation

• OpenServer API: Full API access for automation, custom workflows, and integration with other engineering tools and digital platforms.

• Eclipse & INTERSECT Integration: Directly use dynamic reservoir simulation results for more accurate boundary conditions.

• Schlumberger Delfi Platform: Increasingly integrated within the Delfi digital ecosystem for collaborative, cloud-enabled workflows.