الفهرس 
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Abstract
Efficient and cost-effective natural gas transportation is contingent upon the optimization of gas pipeline networks. This investigation introduces a robust mathematical model capable of evaluating various network configurations, encompassing branched and branched-cyclic topologies, to delve into the optimization of gas pipeline network conditions. Through this research, valuable insights are derived, equipping industry stakeholders with the requisite knowledge to make informed decisions aimed at enhancing performance metrics, including efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. To achieve these objectives, this study leverages cutting-edge simulation tools, state-of-the-art optimization algorithms, and intricate mathematical models that accurately represent the dynamic behavior of the network. The primary objective of the optimization endeavor revolves around minimizing the network’s power demands, while concurrently maximizing gas flowrate, minimizing power consumption, and maximizing line pack to ensure the judicious utilization of the pipeline infrastructure. The VIKOR (VIekriterijumsko KOmpromisno Rangiranje) method takes center stage in identifying the most optimal network configuration and operational parameters. Our analysis extends this methodology to illustrative case studies, convincingly demonstrating its effectiveness in pinpointing the most favorable network configurations. Furthermore, the computed metrics, encompassing total cost and fuel consumption, closely align with the concept of relative closeness, affirming the precision of our proposed approach, with the optimal scenarios consistently exhibiting the lowest total cost among all considered scenarios. In summary, this research successfully formulates a mathematical model and optimization framework tailored to address the complexities of gas pipeline network optimization. The application of the VIKOR method, coupled with the examination of case studies, provides compelling evidence of its effectiveness and applicability.