Gas transmission by high-pressure pipeline networks is a large-scale, nonlinear, distributedparameter process. Process monitoring, fault detection/diagnosis, and control of such networks have become complex tasks. Their solution requires sophisticated tools, which are based on the application of advanced theoretical methods as well as modem computer and communication technologies. Microprocessors and microcomputers (including personal computers) have taken over the role of formerly hard-wired front-ends and large process control computers. Though the solution of specific problems, such as optimal, predictive network control, still requires the use of the latter ones, it is worth to review process monitoring and control of gas transmission networks in a chapter of this volume as many essential subtasks, such as dynamic simulation, state estimation, and fault detection/diagnosis, can be solved by means of today's powerful microprocessors and microcomputers.
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