ELEC200-Basic Principles of Natural Gas Spring 2023

This is a basic course in the properties, distribution and regulation of natural gas. It is intended as an introduction to gas company employees interested in gaining a basic knowledge of the natural gas industry. No prerequisites are assumed. Field technicians and anyone else working in the field will first learn basic gas principles and terminology along with measurement and distribution methods.

The course is entirely on line and makes use of readings that focus on the handling of natural gas. Essential topics related to positions in the gas industry that are covered: Basic gas laws, strength of materials, review of algebra/trigonometry, economics, engineering drawing, technical writing, physics, fluid mechanics, and basic electricity.

Mastery of the material in this course will aid the student desiring a position in an occupation requiring an understanding of the distribution of natural gas. 

Topics to be covered include:

Natural gas properties, gas laws, energy

Pressure control, odorization, gas volume, flow and measurement basics

Review of algebra with applications to natural gas

Physics of natural gas

Statics and mechanics

Fluid Mechanics

Review of trigonometry

Strength of materials

Preparing technical reports

Engineering economics

Basic surveying and principles of material testing

Gas safety devices and corrosion

Engineering drawing and Computer Aided Drafting ( CAD )

Basic DC and AC circuit theory