System and method for sampling a fluid

Abstract

A system (10) is disclosed for sampling a multiphase fluid (12) from a flowline (14). The system (10) comprises a probe (16) for positioning in the flowline (14) and comprising a plurality of inlet ports (18a-18c) for obtaining samples at different locations in the flowline (14). The system (10) comprises a separator (20) comprising an inlet (22) connectable to the probe (16) and for receiving at least one flowline sample into the separator (20). The separator (20) is configured to separate the at least one flowline sample into multiple phase constituents (26-26c). A sample chamber (24a) is connectable to an outlet (28a) of the separator (20) for receiving a first phase constituent (26a) of the at least one flowline sample.

Description

[0001] System and Method for Sampling a Fluid

[0002] FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a system and method for sampling a fluid from a flowline, in particular a multiphase fluid from a flowline.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Many industries, such as the oil and gas or carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) industries, manage the flow of fluids through flowlines, such as is the case of produced hydrocarbons from subterranean reservoirs. It can often be desirable to take a sample of the fluid in such flowlines for processing and testing, as obtaining information on the fluid sample, such as its contents or flow profile, is often critical for operational decisions to be made.

[0006] Oil, gas and water samples may be obtained at individual phase outlets of a production or test separator. However, an increasing number of tie-in fields have been developed without, or with limited, possibilities to route the production through a separator for sampling. Higher composition uncertainty propagates to higher uncertainty in allocated value, and introduces possibilities for systematic errors. Furthermore, higher composition uncertainty makes production optimisation, flow assurance and processing more challenging.

[0007] SUMMARY

[0008] An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a system for sampling a multiphase fluid from a flowline, the system comprising: a probe for positioning in the flowline and comprising a plurality of inlet ports for obtaining samples at different locations in the flowline; a separator comprising an inlet connectable to the probe and for receiving at least one flowline sample into the separator, the separator configured to separate the at least one flowline sample into multiple phase constituents; and a sample chamber connectable to an outlet of the separator for receiving a first phase constituent of the at least one flowline sample.

[0009] The system may be used to determine a number of parameters or characteristics of a multiphase fluid flow in the flowline. The system may comprise a plurality of sample chambers for receiving each phase constituent of the flowline sample into a respective sample chamber. The plurality of sample chambers may be connected to a respective outlet of the separator. The outlets may be spaced along a height of the separator, which may be a vertical separator.

[0010] The system may comprise a housing cabinet. The housing cabinet may comprise the separator and / or one or more sample chamber(s). The housing cabinet may comprise a lifting mechanism to permit the housing cabinet to be lifted. The lifting mechanism may comprise one or more lifting lugs, hooks, bars, etc. The lifting mechanism may permit the housing cabinet to be transported to different locations. The housing cabinet may comprise a stand assembly permitting self-support of the housing cabinet. The housing cabinet may comprise a number of anchor holes to permit the housing cabinet to be secured to a floor. The housing cabinet may enable the system to offer a compact, lightweight and cost-efficient alternative when frequent separator sampling is not possible.

[0011] The system may comprise a first sample chamber for receiving a first phase constituent (e.g., gas) of the flowline sample. The system may comprise a second sample chamber for receiving a second phase constituent of the flowline sample (e.g., oil). The system may comprise a third sample chamber for receiving a third phase constituent of the flowline sample (e.g., water).

[0012] The system may be configured to operate at any temperature and pressure depending on the particular application. In some examples, however, the system may be configured to operate in a temperature range of -46 to 150 degrees Celsius, and up to a pressure of 258 barg. The separator may comprise any volume depending on the application, however in one example the separator may comprise a volume of 75 litres.

[0013] The system may be configured for receiving a flowline sample into the separator from one or more inlet ports simultaneously or sequentially. The system may be configured for receiving a flowline sample into the separator from each inlet port sequentially. For example, the system may be configured for receiving a first flowline sample into the separator from a first inlet port of the probe. The system may be configured for receiving a second flowline sample into the separator from a second inlet port of the probe. The system may be configured for receiving a third flowline sample into the separator from a third inlet port of the probe, etc.

[0014] After receiving the first flowline sample into the separator, a fluid pressure in the separator may be allowed to balance with a fluid pressure in the flowline, which may in some applications take approximately 10 minutes. Then, the first flowline sample may be separated into multiple phase constituents in the separator, for example by allowing sufficient time for the multiphase fluid to undergo stratification, which may in some applications take approximately 5 minutes. One or more samples of the multiple phase constituents may then be received into one or more sample chambers, and the separator may thereafter be emptied. The process may be repeated for the second and third flowline samples from the second and third inlet ports of the probe, enabling a flowline sample to be obtained from the each inlet port location in the flowline. Therefore, the system may be used to determine a fluid composition at each inlet port location in the flowline and therefore infer for example a level of comingling of the flow.

[0015] Alternatively, the system may be configured to receive flowline samples into the separator from two or more inlet ports of the probe simultaneously. However, while it may in some instances be desirable to obtain a flowline sample from each inlet port of the probe at a single point in time, the present inventors have recognised that if the multiphase fluid in the flowline comprises a variable gas composition, for example with a higher gas content at one inlet port relative to another inlet port, the fluid with the higher gas content may flow into the inlet port faster than the fluid with a lower gas content, and the flowline sample received into the separator may comprise disproportionate quantities from each inlet port. Therefore, the ability to receive fluid from the flowline into the separator via each inlet port sequentially allows the same quantity of fluid from each inlet port to be obtained and analysed. With each cycle repeated continuously, the system may provide a useful approximation of the fluid composition at each inlet port location in the flowline at a single point in time.

[0016] The inlet ports may be spaced along a length of the probe. The length of the probe may extend into the flowline, e.g. substantially perpendicular to the direction of flow. The inlet port locations in the flowline may comprise one or more of a central location in the flowline, a location adjacent a wall of the flowline and one or more locations between the central location and the location adjacent the wall. The length of the probe may comply with ISO standards.

[0017] The probe may comprise a plurality of internal channels extending from the plurality of inlet ports to a plurality of outlet ports of the probe. The plurality of internal channels may comprise a non-linear path. The plurality of inlet ports may be configured to face a direction substantially parallel to a direction of flow in the flowline. The plurality of inlet ports may be configured to face downstream of the flow in the flowline. The plurality of outlet ports may be configured to face a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of flow in the flowline.

[0018] The probe may comprise a flow direction indicator.

[0019] The system may comprise a plurality of probes positioned in one or more flowlines. The different flowlines may comprise different dimensions, for example one flowline may comprise a 12 inch (30.5 cm) diameter and another flowline may comprise a 14 inch (35.6 cm) diameter. The separator may be configured to receive a flowline sample from each of the plurality of probes in the one or more flowlines.

[0020] The probe may comprise a flow-engagement portion. The flow-engagement portion may comprise the plurality of inlet ports. The flow-engagement portion may be configured for minimising a pressure drop in the flow caused by the probe. The flowengagement portion may comprise a hydrodynamic profile. The flow-engagement portion may comprise an elongate shape.

[0021] The system may comprise a valve arrangement for controlling flow through the inlet and / or outlet ports of the probe. The valve arrangement may comprise a plurality of valves connectable to the plurality of inlet and / or outlet ports of the probe. The valves may be controlled to selectively allow fluid from the flowline to enter the separator via each inlet port of the probe simultaneously or sequentially. The inlet vales may be configured for manual or automatic operation.

[0022] The system may comprise a flange arrangement for mounting the probe to the flowline. The system may comprise a plurality of flow conduits connecting the plurality of outlet ports of the probe to the inlet of the separator. The flow conduits may be connected to a single inlet of the separator. Alternatively, the separator may comprise a plurality of inlets, and each flow conduit may be connected to a separate inlet of the separator.

[0023] References to “flowline sample” hereinafter should be understood as references to the “first and / or second flowline samples referred to above”, and any other flowline samples which may be obtained according to the present disclosure.

[0024] The system may be configured for receiving the flowline sample into the separator at substantially the same condition (e.g. pressure and temperature) as the fluid in the flowline.

[0025] The separator may comprise a pressure control arrangement for controlling a pressure of the at least one flowline sample as the at least one flowline sample is received into the separator. The pressure control arrangement may be configured to maintain a pressure of the flowline sample in the separator at the same pressure as the fluid in the flowline. The pressure control arrangement may comprise a flow control valve, a piston-cylinder arrangement, etc.

[0026] The separator may comprise a temperature control arrangement for controlling a temperature of the at least one flowline sample as the at least one flowline sample is received into the separator. The temperature control arrangement may be configured to maintain a temperature of the flowline sample in the separator at the same temperature as the fluid in the flowline. The temperature control arrangement may comprise a heating jacket, radiator, etc.

[0027] The separator may be configured to receive a purge fluid from the flowline before receiving the first flowline sample. The purge fluid may be received into the separator without maintaining a constant pressure of the purge fluid. The purge fluid may be allowed to pressure balance with the fluid in the flowline. The pressure control arrangement may then be operated to permit the first flowline sample from the flowline to displace the purge fluid from the separator (e.g. to flare / drain) at a controlled pressure. This may allow a pressure of the flowline sample in the separator to be maintained at the same pressure as the fluid in the flowline. The purge fluid may also be used to flush or purge a fluid conduit(s) connecting the separator outlet(s) and the sample chamber(s), for example displacing any contaminants (e.g. air) initially present in the fluid conduit(s). The pressure control arrangement may comprise a flow control valve for regulating the flow of purge fluid displaced from the separator.

[0028] The system may comprise one or more flow meters, e.g. liquid or gas flow meters. The system may comprise a fill level indicator for indicating a volume of fluid in the separator. The system may comprise a phase detector for monitoring a change in a phase condition of the flowline sample in the separator. The system may comprise an interface detector for detecting an interface level between the phase constituents of the flowline sample in the separator. The interface and / or phase detector may comprise a guide wave radar system. The interface and / or phase detector may comprise a visual indicator, such as a sight glass.

[0029] In some examples, the system may comprise a plurality of separators configured to receive a flowline sample from a respective inlet port of the probe. However, in a preferred example, the system may comprise a single separator for receiving flowline samples from each inlet port of the probe.

[0030] The multiphase fluid from the flowline may comprise a mixture of liquids, gases and solids. The multiphase fluid may comprise a mix of oil, gas, water and / or solids.

[0031] One or more of the sample chambers referred to above may be configured to receive a respective phase constituent of the flowline sample at substantially the same condition as the respective phase constituent in the separator. One or more of the sample chambers may be configured to receive a respective phase constituent of the flowline sample at atmospheric conditions. One or more of the sample chambers may comprise a flow-through cylinder.

[0032] One or more of the sample chambers may comprise a pressure control arrangement for controlling a pressure of the first phase constituent of the at least one flowline sample as the first phase constituent is received into the sample chamber. One or more of the sample chambers may be pre-charged with a pressure control fluid. One or more of the sample chambers may comprise a housing (e.g., a cylinder). One or more of the sample chambers may comprise a pressure control barrier (e.g. a piston) movably mounted in the housing. One or more of the sample chambers may comprise a sample area within the housing on a first side of the pressure control barrier and connectable to the separator for receiving a respective phase constituent of the flowline sample. One or more of the sample chambers may comprise a pressure control area within the housing on an opposite second side of the pressure control barrier and comprising a pressure control fluid. A pressure applied within the pressure control area may control a pressure of the flowline sample within the sample area.

[0033] One or more of the sample chambers may comprise a temperature control arrangement for controlling a temperature of a respective phase constituent as the respective phase constituent is received into the sample chamber. The temperature control arrangement may comprise a heating jacket, radiator, etc.

[0034] One or more outlets of the separator (e.g. a gas outlet of the separator) may comprise a demister. The demister may be configured to reduce or prevent liquid from being received into the sample chamber when obtaining a gas sample.

[0035] The first phase constituents of the first, second and / or third flowline samples referred to above may be received into the same sample chamber or different sample chambers. For example, the first phase constituent of the first flowline sample may be received into a first sample chamber. The first sample chamber may then be disconnected from the separator and a second sample chamber may be connected to the separator to receive the first phase constituent of the second flowline sample. Alternatively, the first phase constituents of the first and second flowline samples may be received into the same sample chamber, for example either after the first phase of the first flowline sample has been evacuated from the sample chamber, or to provide a mixed sample of the first phase constituents of the first and second flowline samples in the sample chamber. A similar process may be followed for the third flowline sample, etc.

[0036] The system may comprise a control module configured to control operation of the system. The control module may be configured to communicate with one or more components of the system, for example the phase detector, the interface level detector and any valves of the system for controlling delivery of the flowline samples and phase constituents of the flowline samples into the separator and sample chamber(s).

[0037] The system may comprise one or more of a thermal jacket, a heater, a temperature indicator and a thermowell. The separator may be connected to one or more of a pressurised sample chamber, an atmospheric sample chamber, a flow-through sample chamber and a vented drain valve. One or more diverter valves may be configured to direct the flowline samples through the system in accordance with a given operation. The separator may comprise a light fixture. The separator may comprise a ventilation fan and motor.

[0038] An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for sampling a multiphase fluid from a flowline, the method comprising: receiving a first flowline sample into a separator from a first inlet port of a probe positioned in the flowline; receiving a second flowline sample into the separator from a second inlet port of the probe, the second inlet port at a different location in the flowline than the first inlet port; separating the first and second flowline samples into multiple phase constituents in the separator; and receiving a first phase constituent of the first and second flowline samples into a sample chamber via an outlet of the separator.

[0039] The method may comprise, after receiving the first flowline sample into the separator and before receiving the second flowline sample into the separator, separating the first flowline sample into multiple phase constituents into the separator. The method may comprise receiving the first phase constituent of the first flowline sample into the sample chamber. The method may comprise evacuating the first flowline sample from the separator. The method may then comprise receiving the second flowline sample into the separator. The method may comprise separating the second flowline sample into multiple phase constituents in the separator. The method may then comprise receiving the first phase constituent of the second flowline sample into the sample chamber. Accordingly, an aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for sampling a multiphase fluid from a flowline, the method comprising: receiving a first flowline sample into a separator from a first inlet port of a probe positioned in the flowline; separating the first flowline sample into multiple phase constituents in the separator; receiving a first phase constituent of the first flowline sample in the sample chamber from the outlet of the separator; evacuating the first flowline sample from the separator; receiving a second flowline sample into the separator from a second inlet port of the probe, the second inlet port at a different location in the flowline than the first inlet port; separating the second flowline sample into multiple phase constituents in the separator; and receiving a first phase constituent of the second flowline sample into the sample chamber from the outlet of the separator.

[0040] In other examples, however, the method may comprise receiving the first and second flow samples into the separator simultaneously.

[0041] The following description applies to both aspects above.

[0042] The method may comprise allowing a fluid pressure into the separator to balance with a fluid pressure in the flowline.

[0043] The method may comprise receiving a third flowline sample into the separator from a third inlet port of the probe. The method may comprise evacuating the second flowline sample from the separator before receiving the third flowline sample into the separator.

[0044] The method may comprise receiving a second phase constituent of the first, second and / or third flowline samples into a second sample chamber from a second outlet of the separator. The method may comprise receiving a third phase constituent of the first, second and / or third flowline samples into a third sample chamber from a third outlet of the separator. The method may comprise receiving the first phase constituents of the first, second and / or third flowline samples into the same sample chamber. Alternatively, the method may comprise receiving the first phase constituents of the first, second and / or third flowline samples into different sample chambers.

[0045] The method may comprise maintaining a pressure of the first, second and / or third flowline samples at the same pressure as the fluid in the flowline as the first, second and / or third flowline samples are received into the separator.

[0046] The method may comprise maintaining a temperature of the first, second and / or third flowline samples at the same temperature as the fluid in the flowline as the first, second and / or third flowline samples are received into the separator.

[0047] The method may comprise providing the separator in an initial, empty configuration.

[0048] The method may comprise receiving a purge fluid from the flowline into the separator before receiving the first flowline sample. The method may comprise allowing the purge fluid to pressure balance with the fluid in the flowline. The method may comprise displacing the purge fluid from the separator with the first flowline sample from the flowline at a controlled pressure. The method may comprise regulating the flow of purge fluid as the purge fluid is displaced from the separator.

[0049] The method may comprise receiving a purge fluid from the flowline into the separator after evacuating the first flowline sample from the separator and before receiving the second flowline sample into the separator, and repeating the process above.

[0050] The method may comprise receiving the first, second and / or third phase constituents of the first, second and / or third flowline samples into a respective sample chamber at substantially the same condition (e.g. pressure and temperature) as the first, second and / or third phase constituents of the first, second and / or third flowline samples, respectively, in the separator. The method may comprise receiving the first, second and / or third phase constituents of the first, second and / or third flowline samples into a respective sample chamber at atmospheric conditions. The method may comprise receiving the first, second and / or third phase constituents of the first, second and / or third flowline samples in a flow-through cylinder. The method may comprise positioning the probe in the flowline.

[0051] The method may comprise connecting the probe to an inlet of the separator.

[0052] An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a probe for sampling a fluid from a flowline, the probe comprising: a plurality of inlet ports located along a length of the probe and for obtaining samples at different locations in the flowline; and a plurality of internal flow channels extending from the plurality of inlet ports to a plurality of outlet ports.

[0053] The probe may comprise a plurality of flow conduits connected to the plurality of outlet ports of the probe. The probe may comprise a fluid conduit manifold. The probe may be configured for connection to a separator or a sample chamber, such as those described hereinabove.

[0054] The probe may comprise a flow-engagement portion. The flow-engagement portion may comprise the plurality of inlet ports. The flow-engagement portion may comprise a hydrodynamic profile for minimising a pressure drop in the flow caused by the probe.

[0055] The plurality of internal flow channels may comprise a non-linear path.

[0056] The probe may comprise a valve arrangement for controlling flow through the inlet ports of the probe. The valve arrangement may comprise a plurality of valves for controlling flow through the plurality of inlet ports of the probe.

[0057] The plurality of inlet ports may be configured to face a direction substantially parallel to a direction of flow in the flowline. The plurality of inlet ports may be configured to face downstream of the flow in the flowline.

[0058] The plurality of outlet ports may be configured to face a direction substantially perpendicular to a direction of flow in the flowline.

[0059] The probe may comprise a flange arrangement for mounting the probe to the flowline. An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a system for sampling a multiphase fluid from a flowline, the system comprising: a probe for positioning in the flowline and comprising an inlet port for obtaining a flowline sample from the flowline; a housing cabinet comprising: a separator comprising an inlet connectable to the probe and for receiving the flowline sample into the separator, the separator configured to separate the flowline sample into multiple phase constituents; and a sample chamber connectable to an outlet of the separator for receiving a first phase constituent of the flowline sample; and a stand assembly permitting self-support of the housing cabinet.

[0060] An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a system for sampling a multiphase fluid from a flowline, the system comprising: a probe for positioning in the flowline and comprising an inlet port for obtaining a flowline sample from the flowline; a separator comprising an inlet connectable to the probe and for receiving the flowline sample into the separator, the separator configured to separate the flowline sample into multiple phase constituents; and a sample chamber connectable to an outlet of the separator for receiving a first phase constituent of the flowline sample.

[0061] An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a system for sampling a multiphase fluid from a flowline, the system comprising a probe according to any aspect or embodiment described herein.

[0062] It should be understood that features defined in relation to one aspect may be provided in combination with any other aspect.

[0063] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0064] These and other aspects of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a diagrammatic illustration of a system for sampling a multiphase fluid from a flowline;

[0065] Figure 2 is a diagrammatic illustration of a probe of the system of Figure 1;

[0066] Figure 3 is a perspective view of an example valve arrangement of the system of Figure 1 ;

[0067] Figure 4 is a perspective view of an example separator and sample chamber for use in the system of Figure 1 ; and

[0068] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a housing cabinet for the separator and sample chamber of Figure 4.

[0069] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0070] Figure 1 is a diagrammatic illustration of a system 10 for sampling a multiphase fluid 12 from a flowline 14. The flowline 14 may be associated with wellbore operations, such as the production of hydrocarbons and associated components (such as water, solids etc.) from a wellbore, the injection of fluids (e.g., water, gas etc.) into a wellbore, and the like. In some applications, the flowline 14 may be associated with an oil and gas tie-in field, which may have limited possibilities to route the production through a separator for sampling. In other applications, the flowline 14 may be associated with a carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCLIS) operation. It will be appreciated, however, that the apparatus may be equally used in any number of other applications outside of the oil and gas or CCLIS industries. For the purposes of providing an exemplary application, the following description relates to sampling a quantity of a multiphase fluid 12 from a well flowline 14 comprising oil, gas and water.

[0071] The system 10 comprises a probe 16 for positioning in the flowline 14. The probe 16 comprises a plurality of inlet ports 18a-18c for obtaining samples at different locations in the flowline 14. A separator 20 comprises an inlet 22 connectable to the probe 16 and for receiving at least one flowline sample into the separator 20. The separator 20 may comprise any volume depending on the application, however in one example the separator 20 may comprise a volume of 75 litres. The separator 20 is configured to separate the at least one flowline sample into multiple phase constituents 26a-26c. A first sample chamber 24a is provided to receive a first phase constituent 26a (e.g., gas) of the flowline sample via a first outlet 28a of the separator 20. A second sample chamber 24b is provided to receive a second phase constituent 26b of the flowline sample (e.g., oil) via a second outlet 28b of the separator 20. Finally, a third sample chamber 24c is provided to receive a third phase constituent 26c of the flowline sample (e.g., water) via a third outlet 28c of the separator 20. The outlets 28a-28c are spaced along a height of the separator 20 at an appropriate position to permit samples of each phase constituent 26a-26c to be obtained. One or more outlets 28a-28c may be connected to a duct 29 for communicating with a region of the separator 20 comprising a particular phase constituent 26b.

[0072] With reference to Figure 2, the probe 16 comprises a flow-engagement portion 31 including the plurality of inlet ports 18a-18c. The flow-engagement portion 31 may be configured for minimising a pressure drop in the flow caused by the probe 16, for example the flow-engagement portion 31 may comprise a hydrodynamic profile. The system 10 is configured for receiving a first flowline sample into the separator 20 from a first inlet port 18a of the probe 16, a second flowline sample into the separator 20 from a second inlet port 18b of the probe 16 and a third flowline sample into the separator 20 from a third inlet port 18c of the probe 16.

[0073] The system 10 may be configured for receiving a flowline sample into the separator 20 from each inlet port 18a-18c sequentially. After receiving the first flowline sample into the separator 20, a fluid pressure into the separator 20 may be allowed to balance with a fluid pressure in the flowline, which may in some examples take approximately 10 minutes. Then, the first flowline sample may be separated into multiple phase constituents 26a-26c into the separator 20, for example by allowing sufficient time for the multiphase fluid to undergo stratification, which may in some examples take approximately 5 minutes. One or more samples of the multiple phase constituents 26a-26c may then be received into a respective sample chamber 24a-24c, and the separator 20 may thereafter be emptied. The process may be repeated for the second and third flowline samples from the second and third inlet ports 18b, 18c of the probe 16, enabling a flowline sample to be obtained from the each inlet port location in the flowline 14. The system 10 may therefore be used to determine a fluid composition at each inlet port location in the flowline 14 and therefore infer a number of parameters or characteristics of a flow in the flowline 14, such as a level of comingling of the flow.

[0074] In other examples, the system 10 may be configured to receive flowline samples into the separator 20 from two or more inlet ports 18a-18c of the probe 16 simultaneously. However, while it may in some instances be desirable to obtain a flowline sample from each inlet port 18a-18c of the probe 16 at a single point in time, the present inventors have recognised that if the multiphase fluid 12 in the flowline 14 comprises a variable gas composition, for example with a higher gas content at one inlet port relative to another inlet port, the fluid with the higher gas content may flow into the inlet port faster than the fluid with a lower gas content, and the flowline sample received into the separator 20 may comprise disproportionate quantities from each inlet port. Therefore, the ability to receive fluid 12 from the flowline 14 into the separator 20 via each inlet port 18a-18c sequentially allows the same quantity of fluid from each inlet port location in the flowline 14 to be obtained and analysed. With each cycle repeated continuously, the system 10 may provide a useful approximation of the fluid composition at each inlet port location in the flowline 14 at a single point in time.

[0075] The probe 16 comprises a length extending into the flowline 14 perpendicular to a direction of flow with the inlet ports 18a-18c spaced along the length of the probe 16. The first inlet port 18a is positioned at a central location in the flowline 14, the third inlet port 18c is positioned at a location adjacent a wall of the flowline 14, and the second inlet port 18b is positioned between the central location and the location adjacent the wall. In other examples, the probe 16 may comprise any other number of inlet ports.

[0076] The probe 16 comprises a plurality of internal channels 20a-30c extending from the plurality of inlet ports 18a-18c to a plurality of outlet ports 32a-32c of the probe 16. The plurality of inlet ports 18a-18c are arranged in the flowline 14 to face a direction substantially parallel to a direction of flow in the flowline 14, and in this example face downstream of the flow. The plurality of outlet ports 32a-32c are arranged to face a direction substantially perpendicular to a direction of flow in the flowline 14. The probe 16 is mounted to the flowline 14 via a flange arrangement 33 and comprises a flow direction indicator 35.

[0077] Referring to Figure 3, the system 10 may comprise a valve arrangement 34 or manifold for controlling flow through the outlet ports 32a-32c of the probe 16. As shown in this example, the system 10 may comprise multiple probes 16 positioned in multiple flowlines 14 connected to a single separator 20. The different flowlines 14 may comprise different dimensions, for example one flowline 14 may comprise a 12 inch (30.5 cm) diameter while the other flowline 14 comprises a 14 inch (35.6 cm) diameter. The valve arrangement 34 comprises a plurality of valves 36 connectable to the plurality of outlet ports 32a-32c of the probe 16. The valves 36 may be controlled to selectively allow fluid from 12 the flowline 14 to enter the separator 20 via each inlet port 18a-18c of the probe 16 simultaneously or sequentially. The valves 36 may be configured for manual or automatic operation. The system 10 comprises a plurality of flow conduits 38 connecting the plurality of outlet ports 32a-32c of the probe 16 to the inlet 22 of the separator 20, via inlet connection point 39. However, in other examples, the separator 20 may comprise a plurality of inlets, and each flow conduit 38 may be connected to a separate inlet of the separator 20.

[0078] The system 10 may be configured for receiving the flowline samples into the separator 20 at substantially the same condition (e.g. pressure and temperature) as the fluid 12 in the flowline 14. To that end, the separator 20 may comprise a pressure control arrangement for controlling a pressure of the flowline sample as it is received into the separator 20. The pressure control arrangement may be configured to maintain a pressure of the flowline sample in the separator 20 at the same pressure as the fluid 12 in the flowline 14. Further, the separator 20 may comprise a temperature control arrangement for controlling a temperature of the flowline sample as it is received into the separator 20. The temperature control arrangement may be configured to maintain a temperature of the flowline sample in the separator 20 at the same temperature as the fluid 12 in the flowline 14. The temperature control arrangement may comprise a heating jacket, radiator, etc.

[0079] Referring back to Figures 1 and 2, the separator 20 may receive a purge fluid from the flowline 14 before receiving the first flowline sample. The purge fluid may be allowed to pressure balance with the fluid 12 in the flowline 14. The pressure control arrangement may then be operated to permit the first flowline sample from the flowline 14 to displace the purge fluid from the separator 20 (e.g. to flare / drain) at a controlled pressure. The purge fluid may also be used to flush or purge fluid conduits 40 connecting the separator outlets and the sample chambers 24a-24c, for example to displace any contaminants (e.g. air) initially present in the fluid conduit(s) 40. The pressure control arrangement may comprise a flow control valve for regulating the flow of purge fluid displaced from the separator 20.

[0080] The separator 20 may comprise a phase detector for monitoring a change in a phase condition of the flowline sample in the separator 20. The separator 20 may comprise an interface detector for detecting an interface level between the phase constituents 26a-26c of the flowline sample in the separator 20. The interface and / or phase detector may comprise a guide wave radar system. The interface and / or phase detector may comprise a visual indicator, such as a sight glass.

[0081] The sample chambers 24a-24c may be configured to receive a respective phase constituent 26a-26c of the flowline sample at substantially the same condition as the respective phase constituent 26a-26c in the separator 20. The sample chambers 24a- 24c may comprise a pressure control arrangement for controlling a pressure of the respective phase constituents 26a-26c of the flowline sample as the respective phase constituents 26a-26c are received into the sample chamber 24a-24c. The sample chambers 24a-24c may comprise a housing 42 and a pressure control barrier 44 movably mounted in the housing 42. The sample chambers 24a-24c may comprise a sample area 46 within the housing 42 on a first side of the pressure control barrier 44 and connectable to the separator 20 for receiving a respective phase constituent 26a- 26c of the flowline sample. The sample chambers 24a-24c may comprise a pressure control area 48 within the housing 42 on an opposite second side of the pressure control barrier 44 and comprising a pressure control fluid. A pressure applied within the pressure control area 48 may control a pressure of the phase constituent 26a-26c of the flowline sample(s) within the sample area 46. Further, the sample chambers 24a-24c may comprise a temperature control arrangement for controlling a temperature of a respective phase constituent 26a-26c as the respective phase constituent 26a-26c is received into the sample chamber 24a-24c. The temperature control arrangement may comprise a heating jacket, radiator, etc.

[0082] Alternatively, one or more of the sample chambers 24a-24c may be configured to receive a respective phase constituent 26a-26c of the flowline sample in a flow-through cylinder or at atmospheric conditions.

[0083] One or more outlets of the separator 20, such as a gas outlet, may comprise a demister. The demister may be configured to reduce or prevent liquid from being received into a sample chamber 24a-24c when obtaining a gas sample.

[0084] The first phase constituent 26a of the first, second and / or third flowline samples referred to above may be received into the same sample chamber 24a or different sample chambers. For example, the first phase constituent 26a of the first flowline sample may be received into a first sample chamber 24a. The first sample chamber 24a may then be disconnected from the separator 20 and a second sample chamber may be connected to the separator 20 to receive the first phase constituent 26a of the second flowline sample. Alternatively, the first phase constituents 26a of the first and second flowline samples may be received into the same sample chamber 24a, for example either after the first phase 26a of the first flowline sample has been evacuated from the sample chamber 24a, or to provide a mixed sample of the first phase constituents 26a of the first and second flowline samples in the sample chamber 24a. A similar process may be followed for the third flowline sample, and the second and third sample chambers 24b, 24c.

[0085] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a detailed embodiment of a separator 20 and sample chamber arrangement for use in the system 10 of Figure 1. A temperature control arrangement may comprise a thermal jacket 50, a number of heaters 52, a temperature indicator 54 and a thermowell 56. The separator 20 may be connected to a number of pressurised sample chambers 58, an atmospheric sample chamber 60, a flow-through sample chamber 62 and a vented drain valve 66, with a number of diverter valves 64 configured to direct the flowline samples through the system 10 in accordance with a given operation. The separator 20 may comprise a fill level indicator 68 and a light fixture 70, as well as a ventilation fan 72 and motor 74.

[0086] Referring to Figure 5, the system 10 may comprise a housing cabinet 76 for housing the separator 20 and / or one or more sample chamber(s) 24a-24c. The housing cabinet 76 comprises one or more lifting lugs 78 to permit the housing cabinet 76 to be transported to different locations. The housing cabinet 76 comprises a stand assembly 80 permitting self-support of the housing cabinet 76, which may enable the system 10 to offer a compact, lightweight and cost-efficient alternative when frequent separator sampling is not possible. The housing cabinet 76 may comprise a number of anchor holes 82 to permit the housing cabinet 76 to be secured to a floor. The system 10 may comprise a control module 84 configured to control operation of the system 10. The control module 84 may be configured to communicate with one or more components of the system 10, for example the phase detector, the interface level detector and any valves 34, 64 of the system 10 for controlling delivery of the flowline samples and phase constituents 26a-26c of the flowline samples into the separator 20 and sample chamber(s) 24a-24c.

[0087] It should be understood that the examples provided herein are only presented to exemplify the present disclosure, and that various variations within the scope of the present disclosure is possible.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A system for sampling a multiphase fluid from a flowline, the system comprising: a probe for positioning in the flowline and comprising a plurality of inlet ports for obtaining samples at different locations in the flowline; a separator comprising an inlet connectable to the probe and for receiving at least one flowline sample into the separator, the separator configured to separate the at least one flowline sample into multiple phase constituents; and a sample chamber connectable to an outlet of the separator for receiving a first phase constituent of the at least one flowline sample.

2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the probe comprises a length extending into the flowline and the inlet ports are spaced along the length of the probe.

3. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the plurality of inlet ports are configured to face a direction substantially parallel to a direction of flow in the flowline.

4. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the probe comprises a plurality of internal channels extending from the plurality of inlet ports to a plurality of outlet ports of the probe.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the plurality of outlet ports are configured to face a direction substantially perpendicular to a direction of flow in the flowline.

6. The system of any preceding claim, comprising a valve arrangement for controlling flow through the inlet ports of the probe.

7. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the system is configured to receive a flowline sample into the separator from each inlet port sequentially.

8. The system of any preceding claim, comprising a plurality of flow conduits connecting the plurality of inlet ports of the probe to the inlet of the separator.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the flow conduits are connectable to a single inlet of the separator or multiple inlets of the separator.

10. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the separator comprises a pressure control arrangement for controlling a pressure of the at least one flowline sample as the at least one flowline sample is received into the separator.

11. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the separator comprises a temperature control arrangement for controlling a temperature of the at least one flowline sample as the at least one flowline sample is received into the separator12. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the separator comprises an interface detector for detecting an interface level between the phase constituents of the flowline sample in the separator.

13. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the sample chamber is configured to receive the first phase constituent at substantially the same condition as the first constituent in the separator.

14. The system of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the sample chamber is configured to receive the first phase constituent of the flowline sample at atmospheric conditions.

15. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the separator comprises a plurality of outlets spaced along a height of the separator.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein the system comprises a plurality of sample chambers connected to a respective outlet of the separator for receiving a respective phase constituent of the flowline sample.

17. The system of any preceding claim, wherein at least one outlet of the separator comprises a demister.

18. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the system comprises a control module configured to control operation of the system.

19. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the system comprises a housing cabinet comprising the separator and the sample chamber.

20. A method for sampling a multiphase fluid from a flowline, the method comprising: receiving a first flowline sample into a separator from a first inlet port of a probe positioned in the flowline; receiving a second flowline sample into the separator from a second inlet port of the probe, the second inlet port at a different location in the flowline than the first inlet port; separating the first and second flowline samples into multiple phase constituents in the separator; and receiving a first phase constituent of the first and second flowline samples into a sample chamber via an outlet of the separator.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein after receiving the first flowline sample into the separator and before receiving the second flowline sample into the separator, the method comprises: separating the first flowline sample into multiple phase constituents in the separator; and receiving the first phase constituent of the first flowline sample into the sample chamber.

22. The method of claim 21 , wherein after receiving the first phase constituent of the first flowline sample into the sample chamber and before receiving the second flowline sample into the separator, the method comprises: evacuating the first flowline sample from the separator.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein after receiving the second flowline sample into the separator, the method comprises: separating the second flowline sample into multiple phase constituents in the separator; and receiving the first phase constituent of the second flowline sample into the sample chamber.

24. The method of any one of claims 20 to 23, comprising receiving a third flowline sample into the separator from a third inlet port of the probe.

25. The method of any one of claims 20 to 24, comprising maintaining a pressure and / or temperature of the first, second and / or third flowline samples at the same pressure and / or temperature as the fluid in the flowline as the first, second and / or third flowline samples are received into the separator.

26. The method of any one of claims 20 to 25, comprising receiving the first phase constituent of the first and second flowline samples into the same sample chamber or different sample chambers.

27. A probe for sampling a fluid from a flowline, the probe comprising: a plurality of inlet ports located along a length of the probe and for obtaining samples at different locations in the flowline; and a plurality of internal flow channels extending from the plurality of inlet ports to a plurality of outlet ports.

28. The probe of claim 27, wherein the plurality of inlet ports are configured to face a direction substantially parallel to a direction of flow in the flowline.

29. The probe of claim 27 or 28, wherein the plurality of outlet ports are configured to face a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of flow in the flowline.

30. The probe of any one of claims 27 to 29, wherein the plurality of internal flow channels comprise a non-linear path.

31. The probe of any one of claims 27 to 30, wherein the probe comprises a valve arrangement for controlling flow through the inlet ports of the probe.

32. The probe of any one of claims 27 to 31 , wherein the probe comprises a flowengagement portion.

33. The probe of any one of claims 27 to 32, wherein the probe comprises a plurality of flow conduits connected to the plurality of outlet ports of the probe.

34. The probe of any one of claims 27 to 33, wherein the probe is configured for connection to a separator or a sample chamber.

35. The probe of any one of claims 27 to 34, wherein the probe comprises a flange arrangement for mounting the probe to the flowline.

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