ABSTRACT
This chapter deals with the effect that water vapor has on the heating value of natural gas. The effect of moisture content on heating value content is a serious consideration for all parties interested in utilizing natural gas for whatever purpose. A Short History The natural gas industry was founded on principles of volumetric calculation. The greater the heating value of a gas, the less volume will be required to perform a specific task. Each pure gas has a definite and characteristic heating value. Water Vapor Determination The key to determining the effect of moisture on heating value is first to determine the AMOUNT of water vapor contained in the natural gas stream. The greater the temperature of the carrier natural gas, the greater the volume of water that can be absorbed into solution. Conversely, as the temperature of a gas begins to drop, the kinetic energy of the fluid decreases.
