Modularized lease automated custody transfer assembly incorporated into a shipping container styled skid

Abstract

A modularized LACT system integrated into an enclosed skid-style shipping container for incorporation into a fluid transfer network. The LACT system includes a prefabricated collection of components including one or more of a motor, valve, pump, and electrical system integrated within a piping network further including an inlet spool and an outlet spool. The prefabricated collection of components being constructed within an interior of the shipping container prior to transporting to an installation location with the fluid transfer network, such that the inlet and outlet spools are accessible from first and second locations of the shipping container for incorporating into the first and second locations of the LACT system.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application is a continuation in part of U.S. Ser. No. 19 / 336,744 filed Sep. 23, 2025. The '744 application claims priority from U.S. Ser. No. 63 / 698,259 filed Sep. 24, 2024. The present application separately claims priority from U.S. Ser. No. 63 / 821,570 filed Jun. 11, 2025.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to modularized transfer pump skid (TPS) systems. More specifically, the present invention teaches an assembly combining a transfer pump system integrated into a modified shipping container enclosure for providing ease of fabrication, transport and setup when incorporating (alternatively termed “nippling up”) into an existing fluid network, such including without limitation produced water, fresh water systems crude oil and emulsion fluids.

[0003] The present invention further relates generally to modularized fluid transfer assemblies including such a fluid transfer assembly incorporating a lease automated custody transfer system, such as integrated into a modified shipping container enclosure for providing ease of fabrication, transport and setup when incorporating (alternatively termed “nippling up”) into an existing fluid network.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The prior art is documented with examples of transfer pump assemblies, such as which can be incorporated into a support skid or frame and prior to being transported to a worksite for installation into an existing fluid transfer network. Such pre-engineered systems, typically fabricated in a shop or other remote location upon a support frame or skid, includes any combination of pumps, motors, valves, instrumentation and other components. By combining all of the necessary components of the transfer pump system into a single, pre-assembled unit, the pump skids can save time and money during installation and operation when tied into, or “nippled up” into an existing fluid transfer network.

[0005] A pump skid, also known as a pump package or pump system, is a self-contained unit that integrates various components required for pumping fluids. It typically consists of a pump, motor, piping, valves, instrumentation, control systems, and other necessary accessories, all mounted on a single skid or platform.

[0006] As is further understood in existing application, a separate structure or enclosure is constructed around the skid supported transfer pump system once it is “nippled up” into the existing fluid transfer network. Aside from the time and effort expended in constructing the separate enclosure around the incorporated TPS system, provision must also be made for accessing the skid to service and replace worn out components. Given further the typical weight of the installed pumps and motors (such as can range to upwards of several thousand pounds) the current process of replacement includes removing the roof from the structure via crane or the like in order to access and replace and, once completed, the roof or access panel can be installed with the same process.

[0007] The purpose of a pump skid is to provide a complete and ready-to-install solution for fluid transfer, circulation, and control. The components within the skid are selected and designed based upon the type and flow requirements of the fluid network within which it is to be incorporated and so as to work together cohesively, ensuring optimal performance, efficiency, and reliability.

[0008] As indicated, pump skids are usually pre-engineered and pre-fabricated, which means they are built off-site and delivered as a single unit to the installation site. This approach significantly simplifies installation, reduces on-site construction time, and minimizes labor costs. It also allows for customization based on specific application requirements, ensuring that the pump skid is tailored to meet the needs of the industrial process or system it will be used for.

[0009] Pump Skids play a vital role in various applications, including fluid transfer, circulation, metering, blending, filtration, and more. These skids are designed to handle different types of fluids, ranging from water and chemicals to viscous or abrasive substances, depending on the industry and specific application. The integration of pumps, motors, valves, and control systems onto a single skid simplifies maintenance and troubleshooting processes which enables technicians access for making inspections, repairs, and replacements.

[0010] Overall, pump skid assemblies provide a compact, efficient, and reliable solution for fluid management in industrial applications which offer ease of installation, streamlined maintenance, and optimized performance, making them a preferred choice for various industries requiring efficient fluid handling systems.

[0011] As noted, a pump skid typically incorporates several key components to facilitate fluid transfer, circulation, and control. While the specific components may vary based on the application and requirements, the fundamental elements commonly found in a pump skid include each of:

[0012] Pump: The pump is the primary component responsible for generating fluid flow and can include any of a centrifugal pump, positive displacement pump, or another type, selected based on the specific application requirements such as flow rate, pressure, viscosity, and fluid properties.

[0013] Motor: The motor provides the power necessary to drive the pump. It can be an electric motor, diesel engine, or any other suitable power source, depending on the application and site conditions.

[0014] Piping and Valves: The pump skid includes an arrangement of piping and valves to facilitate the movement and control of fluids. Piping connects the pump inlet and outlet to the desired points of fluid transfer or circulation. Valves, such as gate valves, ball valves, or control valves, regulate the flow rate, pressure, and direction of the fluid within the system.

[0015] Instrumentation: Various instrumentation devices are incorporated into the pump skid to monitor and control the fluid parameters. These may include flow meters, pressure gauges, temperature sensors, level sensors, and other instruments that provide real-time data for process monitoring and control.

[0016] Control Systems: Pump skids often feature control systems, which can be simple or complex depending on the application. These systems provide automation and control capabilities, allowing operators to adjust and optimize the pump operation, monitor critical parameters, and respond to alarms or abnormal conditions.

[0017] Base or Skid: The base or skid serves as the foundation for mounting and supporting all the components of the pump skid. It is designed to provide stability and structural integrity while facilitating ease of transport, installation, and maintenance.

[0018] Safety Devices: Depending on the application and industry, pump skids may incorporate safety devices such as pressure relief valves, rupture discs, emergency shutdown systems, and other safety mechanisms to protect against overpressure, over-temperature, or other hazardous conditions.

[0019] Electrical and Control Wiring: The pump skid includes electrical wiring to connect the motor, control systems, and instrumentation devices. These wiring connections enable power supply, control signal transmission, and communication between different components of the skid.

[0020] Filters: Filters are used to remove impurities from the fluid before it enters the pump. This helps to protect the pump and to ensure that the fluid is clean.

[0021] Pressure gauges: Pressure gauges are used to monitor the pressure of the fluid in the pump skid. This helps to ensure that the pump is operating within its safe operating limits.

[0022] Accessories: Additional accessories may be included based on the specific requirements of the application. These can include strainers, dampeners, pressure regulators, heat exchangers, and other devices necessary for specific fluid conditioning or process needs.

[0023] In addition to these basic components, pump skids may also include other features such as insulation, vibration isolation, and weatherproofing. These features are typically added to protect the pump skid from harsh environmental conditions or to make it easier to transport.

[0024] Pump skid assemblies find application in diverse industries, owing to their versatility and adaptability. Some key areas where these assemblies are commonly utilized include each of:

[0025] Oil and Gas: Pump skid assemblies play a vital role in oil and gas exploration, production, and refining. They are used for well stimulation, water injection, pipeline transfer, and other critical processes.

[0026] Chemical and Petrochemical: In the chemical and petrochemical industries, pump skid assemblies handle various fluids such as acids, solvents, and hazardous materials. They ensure precise metering, blending, and transfer while adhering to strict safety standards.

[0027] Water and Wastewater: Pump skid assemblies are employed in water treatment plants, sewage systems, and desalination plants to facilitate water circulation, filtration, and transfer. These systems help maintain a consistent water supply and manage wastewater effectively.

[0028] Power Generation: From conventional power plants to renewable energy installations, pump skid assemblies play a crucial role in cooling systems, condensate extraction, fuel transfer, and boiler feed water applications.

[0029] Pharmaceuticals: In pharmaceutical manufacturing, pump skid assemblies offer precise control and sterile fluid handling, supporting critical processes like ingredient mixing, liquid transfer, and batch formulation.

[0030] Pulp and Paper: The pump skids in the pulp and paper industries are usually equipped with chemical metering and injection components.

[0031] In a further known application, the exchange of fluids, such as without limitation crude oil, between a seller and buyer is known as a custody transfer. A simple example of this is the gas pump where you fill up your car and in which the pump must accurately measure the fuel and determine / collect payment for the amount transferred.

[0032] As is also known, crude oil and petroleum products are one of the most valuable commodities on the market. “LACT” is an acronym for Lease Automated Custody Transfer, which refers to the automated transportation of crude oil or other suitable petroleum or non-petroleum fluid from one entity's possession or custody to another's. The “automatic” aspect refers to the automated nature of this transfer, and “lease” references the legal arrangement in place between the two entities.

[0033] A Lease Automatic Custody Transfer (LACT) Unit is a piece of equipment which facilitates accurate measuring of the volume and quality of a petroleum product as it is transferred by automated means from the custody of one legal entity to another. In practice, LACT units are found in the field connected to a gathering pipeline or main pipeline.

[0034] Factors which affect accurate gauging and tracking of delivered crude include the temperature, API (American Petroleum Institute) gravity which is a measure of the crude heaviness in relation to water (i.e. greater or less than 10), and BS&W (Basic Sediment & Water) which refers to the sediment, water content and emulsion in the production stream which is measured and factored in the value of the fluid being transferred, given it is not part of the actual merchantable oil or other fluid product.

[0035] LACT Units come into play because they allow the recovered oil other fluid to be carefully and accurately measured so that the subsequent royalty payments as agreed upon in the lease can be correctly paid out. In this manner, the LACT Units ensure that the oil company neither accidentally overpays or underpays the landowner.

[0036] The general operation of an LACT unit includes it being connected to an open feedline and stock tank. As the crude oil level within the stock tank rises, it trips a level controller for activating the LACT unit, beginning the transaction. When the crude level drops sufficiently within the stock tank, the LACT unit is deactivated, ending the transaction.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0037] The present invention teaches an assembly combining a transfer pump system including any suitable arrangement of components associated with a conventional skid supported modularized assembly, and which is integrated into a modified shipping container enclosure for providing ease of fabrication, transport and setup when incorporating (“nippling up”) into an existing fluid network, such including without limitation produced water, fresh water systems crude oil and emulsion fluids.

[0038] As will be further explained, the present invention provides a rigid and durable structure for environmentally protecting the transfer pump system components and which provides increased weight bearing capacity as compared to existing skids so as to avoid flexing movement which is typical of the components supported on less robust skid designs, which can cause damage such as to the motor, as well as causing misalignment of the pumps and stressing of the other components of the modularized transfer pump system.

[0039] In a non-limiting application, the modularized transfer pump system is integrated into an enclosed skid-style shipping container for incorporation into a fluid transfer network. The transfer pump system includes a prefabricated collection of components such as previously described in the background explanation and including one or more of a motor, valve, pump, electrical system, and heater integrated within a piping network including an inlet spool and an outlet spool.

[0040] The prefabricated collection of components is constructed within an interior of the container prior to transporting to an installation location with the fluid transfer network, with the inlet and outlet spools being accessible from first and second locations of the container for incorporating into the first and second locations of the existing fluid transfer network, while providing protection of the system components supported within the container interior enclosure.

[0041] In a first non-limiting embodiment, the inlet and outlet spools project through apertures configured at the first and second locations of the shipping container. Alternatively, the container can be designed with removable sections for accessing the inlet and outlet spools. An electrical connection is adapted to communicate through the container to an external power source located at the fluid transfer network.

[0042] The enclosed skid-style shipping container further includes a three dimensional rectangular shape with first and second sides, a top and a bottom, and first and second interconnecting ends. A side door opening (which can include a double opening) is formed into a selected one of the sides of the container, with a service access door formed into a selected one of the sides and ends of the container. An end of the container can also be openable, with an access opening can also be formed in the top of the container to provide crane access for removing and replacing larger or heavier components including the pump and motor. Other features include lift points engineered into the container to facilitate lifting and transport of the enclosed system.

[0043] Common applications of the fluid transfer network further include any of produced water, fresh water, crude oil and emulsion fluid. Other applications include lease automatic custody transfer for providing automatic measurement sampling and transfer of oil from a lease location into a pipeline associated with the fluid transfer network.

[0044] The present invention in a further embodiment also teaches a lease automated custody (LACT) transfer assembly including any suitable arrangement of components associated with a conventional skid supported modularized assembly, and such as which is integrated into a modified shipping container enclosure for providing ease of fabrication, transport and setup when incorporating (also termed “nippling up”) into an existing fluid network, such including without limitation produced water, fresh water systems crude oil or other emulsion fluids.

[0045] As will be further explained, the present invention provides a rigid and durable structure for environmentally protecting the LACT system components in the field and which provides increased weight bearing capacity during transport as compared to existing systems so as to avoid flexing movement which is typical of the components supported on less robust skid designs, which can cause damage such as to the motor, as well as causing misalignment of the pumps and stressing of the other components of the modularized transfer pump system.

[0046] In a non-limiting application, the LACT system is integrated into an enclosed skid-style shipping container for incorporation into a fluid transfer network. The system includes a prefabricated collection of components such as previously described in the background explanation and including one or more of a motor, valve, pump, and electrical systems including electric explosion proof heater integrated within a piping network including an inlet spool and an outlet spool.

[0047] The prefabricated collection of components is constructed within an interior of the container prior to transporting to an installation location with the fluid transfer network, with the inlet and outlet spools being accessible from first and second locations of the container including flanged end connections for incorporating into the first and second locations of the existing fluid transfer network, while providing protection of the system components supported within the container interior enclosure.

[0048] In a first non-limiting embodiment, the inlet and outlet spools project through apertures configured at the first and second locations of the shipping container. Alternatively, the container can be designed with removable sections for accessing the inlet and outlet spools with flanged end connections. An electrical connection is adapted to communicate through the container to an external power source located at the fluid transfer network.

[0049] The enclosed skid-style shipping container further includes a three dimensional rectangular shape with first and second sides, a top and a bottom, and first and second interconnecting ends. A side door opening (which can include a double opening) is formed into a selected one of the sides of the container, with a service access door formed into a selected one of the sides and ends of the container. An end of the container can also be openable, with an access opening can also be formed in the top of the container to provide crane access for removing and replacing larger or heavier components including the pump and motor. Other features include lift points engineered into the container to facilitate lifting and transport of the enclosed system.

[0050] Common applications of the fluid transfer network further include any of produced water, fresh water, crude oil and emulsion fluid. Other applications include lease automatic custody transfer for providing automatic measurement sampling and transfer of oil from a lease location into a pipeline associated with the fluid transfer network.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0051] Reference will now be made to the attached drawings, when read in combination with the following detailed description, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views, and in which:

[0052] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a horizontally arrayed single transfer pump plumbing assembly according to a first non-limiting example and which can be integrated into a shipping style container for incorporating into an existing fluid network, such as via inlet and outlet spool components and a separate electrical connection;

[0053] FIG. 2 presents a perspective view of the transfer pump assembly of FIG. 1 incorporated into a shipping style container with a side and end wall of the container removed for ease of illustration;

[0054] FIG. 3 is a side plan view of the shipping container in FIG. 2;

[0055] FIG. 4 is an end plan view of the shipping container in FIG. 2 again showing the horizontally arrayed single transfer pump plumbing assembly of FIG. 1;

[0056] FIG. 5 presents a perspective view of a horizontally arrayed dual transfer pump plumbing assembly incorporated into a shipping style container again with side and end walls removed for ease of illustration;

[0057] FIG. 6 is a side plan view of the shipping container in FIG. 5;

[0058] FIG. 7 is an end plan view of the shipping container in FIG. 5 again showing the horizontally arrayed dual transfer pump plumbing assembly;

[0059] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a single stack vertically oriented transfer pump plumbing assembly according to a further non-limiting example and which can be integrated into a shipping style container for incorporating into an existing fluid network, such as again via inlet and outlet spool components and a separate electrical connection;

[0060] FIG. 9 is an underside perspective view of a shipping style container integrating the transfer pump plumbing assembly of FIG. 8, again with side and end wall removed, for incorporating into an existing fluid network;

[0061] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a double stack vertically configured pump assembly according to a still further non-limiting example for integrating into a shipping style container for incorporation into the existing fluid network; and

[0062] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the shipping style container with side and end wall removed and integrating the transfer pump plumbing assembly of FIG. 10 for incorporating into the existing fluid network.

[0063] FIG. 12 is an environmental perspective view of an LACT assembly according to a further non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, with portions of the outer shipping container enclosure removed, and which incorporates a remote fabricated arrangement of pipe, valves, pump(s), motor(s), electrical systems and Electric Explosion proof Heater which are installed in a side door opening shipping container requiring, in most applications, only two field pipe connections and one electrical connection;

[0064] FIG. 13 is a related illustration depicting the outer shipping container of FIG. 12 removed and showing the arrangement of the LACT assembly;

[0065] FIG. 14 is an illustration similar to FIG. 13 and illustrating a further variant of the LACT assembly with the filter pot remove;

[0066] FIG. 15 presents an illustration of a 3″ LACT inlet spool which is connected (“nippled up” to a first inlet connection of the existing piping infrastructure;

[0067] FIGS. 16-17 present perspective and plan views of a similar 3″ 150 LACT inlet spool to FIG. 4 and illustrated in FIG. 1;

[0068] FIGS. 18-19 illustrate perspective and plan views a 2.5-2 LACT outlet spool according to one non-limiting embodiment and as further referenced in FIG. 1;

[0069] FIGS. 20-21 illustrate perspective and plan views of a 2″ 150 LACT spool forming a component of the present assembly;

[0070] FIGS. 22-23 illustrate perspective and plan views of a further variant of a 2″ 150 LACT spool forming a component of the present assembly;

[0071] FIG. 24 is a perspective illustration of a 2″ 150 LACT Divert Outlet Spool forming a further component of the present assembly;

[0072] FIGS. 25-26 illustrate perspective and plan views of a 2″ 150 Proving Meter Spool forming a further component of the present assembly;

[0073] FIGS. 27-28 present perspective and plan views of a 2″ 150 Proving Meter Spool according to a further related variant of the present assembly;

[0074] FIG. 29 presents a perspective view of a 2″ 150 Proving Meter Camlock Spool forming a component of the present assembly;

[0075] FIGS. 30-31 provide perspective and plan views of a 2″×4″ inlet spool according to a further non-limiting variant of the present invention;

[0076] FIGS. 32-33 depict perspective and plan views of a 2″ 600 Outlet Spool forming a further component of the present assembly; and

[0077] FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a 2-600 Outlet Spool according to a further embodiment of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0078] With reference to the attached illustrations, the present invention discloses a skid system (also termed as a Modularized Transfer Pump Skid, or TPS System, integrated into a shipping container styled enclosure for providing ease of transport and setup when incorporating (nippling up) into an existing fluid network. As will be further explained, the present invention provides a rigid and durable structure for environmentally protecting the transfer pump system components and which provides increased weight bearing capacity as compared to existing skids so as to avoid flexing movement which is typical of the components supported on less robust skid designs, such as which can cause damage such as to the motor as well as causing misalignment of the pumps and stressing of the other components of the modularized transfer pump system.

[0079] In a non-limiting application, the modularized transfer pump system is integrated into an enclosed skid-style shipping container, such as generally shown at 20 in each of FIGS. 2-7 for incorporation into a fluid transfer network. As previously noted, and as will be further described, the transfer pump (TPS) system includes a prefabricated collection of components, such as previously described in the background explanation and typically including one or more of a motor, valve, pump, electrical system, and heater integrated within a piping network including an inlet spool and an outlet spool.

[0080] With reference to FIG. 1, a perspective view is shown of a horizontal transfer pump plumbing assembly according to a first non-limiting application, and which can be integrated into the shipping style container 20 for incorporating into an existing fluid network. Major components of the transfer pump system represented include each of a motor powered and horizontally configured water pump 1 (such further supported upon a platform), butterfly valves 6 and 10, flange filter pot 8, magnetic flow meter 12 (such as connected to pump 1, via an angled piping 3 at the pump outlet, and selected valve 10, as well as swing check valve 14 and port ball valve 15. Other features can include explosion proof heaters (not shown) or any other arrangement of components not limited to the background discussion of the TPS system which is suited for a given application.

[0081] Additional and ancillary support components are also depicted and include flex gaskets 2, 4 and 7, piping connection 5 connecting the valve 6 and upstream located filter pot 8 with inlet side of pump 1, additional outlet piping sections 11 (downstream of valve 10) communicating with flow meter 12 and communicating with further piping section 13 leading to the check valve 14 and ball valve 15. Finally, each of an inlet spool 9 and outlet spool 16 define opposite end components of the TPS system, with the afore-mentioned prefabricated collection of components being constructed and supported within the interior of the container 20 prior to transporting to an installation location with the fluid transfer network (not shown).

[0082] The inlet 9 and outlet 16 spools are configured so as to be accessible from first and second locations of the container 20 for incorporating into the corresponding first and second locations of the existing fluid transfer network, again while providing protection of the system components supported within the container interior enclosure. As previously noted, FIGS. 2-4 present a series of underside perspective, side plan and end plan views of a shipping style container integrating the transfer pump plumbing assembly of FIG. 1 for incorporating into the existing fluid network, with corresponding FIGS. 5-7 present a series of underside perspective, side plan and end plan views of a shipping style container integrating a related horizontally configured double transfer pump plumbing assembly for incorporating into the existing fluid network (with identical components being repetitively numbered).

[0083] In a first non-limiting embodiment, the inlet 9 and outlet 16 spools project through apertures / openings, via connecting flange blinds 42 and 66 which are formed into or configured at the first and second locations of the shipping container, with the flange blinds or ends 42 / 66 of the spools 9 / 16 projecting any distance through the side or end walls of the container 20 for tying into (“nippling up”) into the existing fluid transfer connections once the shipping container enclosure is emplaced. Alternatively, the container 20 can be designed with removable sections at the side or end wall locations for permitting installation of additional lengths of pipe to the flanged blinds 42 / 66 associated with the fluid transfer network for accessing the inlet 9 and outlet 16 spools (such as which can be reconfigured to align with the removable sections).

[0084] An electrical connection, see as representative shown at 17 in FIG. 1, can tie into any of the powered components (e.g. illustrated as extending to motor component powering the water pump 1), and is adapted to communicate through the container 20 to an external power source (also not shown) located at the fluid transfer network.

[0085] Referring again FIGS. 2-7, the enclosed skid-style shipping container 20 is produced in either twenty or forty foot lengths, with the standard twenty foot container typically measuring twenty feet in length, eight feet in width, and eight and a half feet in height, with an internal width of around seven and three-quarter feet in dimension. In each instance, the container 20 exhibits a three dimensional rectangular shape with first 22 and second 24 sides, a top 26 and a bottom 28, and first 30 and second 32 interconnecting ends.

[0086] A side door opening 34 (which can include a double opening) is formed into a selected one of the sides 22 of the container, with a selected one of the ends 30 or 32 of the container also being openable in order to provide ease of access to the interior. An access opening can also be formed in the top 26 of the container to provide crane access for removing and replacing larger or heavier components including the pump and motor. Other features include lift points (see at 36 and 38) engineered into the container to facilitate lifting and transport of the enclosed TPS system.

[0087] Proceeding now to FIG. 8, shown is a perspective view of a single stack vertically oriented transfer pump plumbing assembly according to a further non-limiting example and which can likewise 0 be integrated into the shipping style container 20 for incorporating into an existing fluid network, such as again via inlet and outlet spool components and a separate electrical connection. As compared to FIG. 1, a similar arrangement of components in the TPS system are constructed between each of inlet 116 and outlet 110 spools.

[0088] These include vertical pump and motor 117, inlet side filter pot 115, butterfly valves 114, outlet side flow meter 112, port ball valve 118 and related gaskets and other miscellaneous components. It is also important to note that the arrangement of the TPS system in FIG. 8, as compared to as shown in FIG. 1 or FIG. 5, is optional and can include a suitable arrangement of flex gaskets 102, 104 and 106 and other components. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the shipping style container 20 (again with side and end wall removed) integrating the transfer pump plumbing assembly similar to that shown in FIG. 8 for incorporating into the existing fluid network;

[0089] FIG. 10 presents a perspective view of a double stack vertically oriented pump assembly according to a still further non-limiting example for integrating into a shipping style container for incorporation into the existing fluid network, with FIG. 11 providing a corresponding underside perspective view of the shipping style container 20 integrating the transfer pump plumbing assembly similar to that shown in FIG. 10 for incorporating into the existing fluid network.

[0090] The arrangement of components for the TPS system provided in FIG. 10 is according to a yet further non-limiting combination of elements including a pair of vertical pump and motors 212, inlet (217, 205) and outlet side (207) valves. Other repetitive described components again include inlet side flange filter pot 218 and interconnecting inlet pipe sections 201 and 216 communicating with inlet spool 219, with outlet side of the vertical pumps and motors 112 including magnetic flow meter 214, port ball valve 215, and interconnecting pipe sections 208, 209 leading to outlet spool 210. Other features include flange blinds 213 and 222 located at dead ends of the inlet and outlet side pipe sections communicating with pairs of inlet and outlet side eccentric spools 203 leading to and from the vertical pumps and motors 212 and 220.

[0091] Common applications of the fluid transfer network again further include any of produced water, fresh water, crude oil and emulsion fluid. Other applications include lease automatic custody transfer for providing automatic measurement sampling and transfer of oil from a lease location into a pipeline associated with the fluid transfer network.

[0092] Accordingly, the present invention provides a rigid and durable structure which lasts longer than conventional unprotected skids upon which the TPS System is fabricated. Additionally, the weight supporting capacity of the shipping container is a multiple of what a conventional skid frame can support, with the container better suited for protecting the TPS System components.

[0093] Additionally, the shipping container provides a better transport option for moving the prefabricated modularized TPS System to the installation site without incidences of flexing movement associated with previous open skid supporting frames, such as which can cause damage to the motors, pump etc. of the assembly. Also, the shipping container style skid of the present invention additionally provides lifting points which are better suited for transport, such as being lifted on and off of a flatbed truck, rail car or the like, as well as providing weather tight protection of the mechanical and electrical equipment associated with the TPS System.

[0094] With reference to succeeding views FIGS. 12-34, a further non-limiting embodiment of the present invention discloses a Modularized Lease Automated Custody Transfer (LACT) System, generally at 300 integrated into a shipping container styled enclosure similar to that previously described for providing ease of transport and setup when incorporating (again nippling up) into an existing fluid network.

[0095] As previously described, an LACT unit is an automated metering assembly designed to measure sample, and transfer a valuable fluid (most typically crude oil but including gas or other fluids) from producer storage to midstream pipeline or trucks. As will be further explained, the present invention provides a rigid and durable structure for environmentally protecting the LACT system components in a similar fashion to the TPS system, and which provides increased weight bearing capacity, such as particularly associated with the weight bearing floor of the shipping container enclosure, as compared to existing skids so as to avoid flexing movement which is typical of the components supported on less robust skid designs, such as which can otherwise further cause damage to the motor as well as causing misalignment of the pumps and stressing of the other mechanical components of the system.

[0096] In a non-limiting application, the LACT system is integrated into an enclosed skid-style shipping container, such as generally shown at 300 in FIG. 12 for incorporation into the pipeline or like existing fluid transfer network. As previously described, the fluid transfer network can include any existing network capable of transferring crude oil, natural gas, water or other fluids without limitation. As will be further described, the fluid transfer network is further understood to include connecting locations with flanged blinds or ends for “nippling up” to the inlet and outlet spools associated with the LACT assembly, such as which can occur in a single day operation once the LACT assembly is pre-constructed within the container and then transported to the installation location.

[0097] As previously noted, the LACT system includes a prefabricated collection of components, such as previously described in the background explanation and including one or more of a motor, valve, pump, electrical system, and heater integrated within a piping network including an inlet spool and an outlet spool. These are collectively shown in the overall views of FIGS. 12-14, with succeeding FIGS. 15-34 depicting breakout views of aspects of the LACT piping network.

[0098] FIG. 12 presents an environmental perspective view of an LACT assembly according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, again at 10, with top, side and end wall portions of an outer shipping container enclosure removed to reveal a base 12, selected side wall 14 and interconnected end wall 16 (reference again being made to the similar views of FIGS. 2 and 9 in the preceding embodiments).

[0099] As shown, the container enclosure incorporates a remote fabricated arrangement of pipe, valves, pump(s), motor(s), electrical systems and Electric Explosion proof Heater which are incorporated into the piping network constructed within the shipping style container enclosure, and which are installed in a side door opening of the shipping container requiring, in most applications, only two field pipe connections and one electrical connection during the final hook-up (nippling up) procedure occurring once the container with integrated LACT assembly is transported to the final location.

[0100] FIG. 2 is a related illustration depicting the outer shipping container of FIG. 1 removed and showing the arrangement of the LACT assembly, with FIG. 3 presenting an illustration similar to FIG. 2 of a further variant of the LACT assembly with the filter pot removed. A build of material legend is referenced as part of FIGS. 2 and 3 and identifies a non-limiting arrangement of components integrated into the LACT assembly.

[0101] With reference to FIGS. 12-13, the LACT assembly is shown according to a first non-limiting application, and which can be integrated into the shipping style container (for incorporating into an existing fluid network. Major components of the LACT system represented include a motor powered charge pump 308 (such further supported upon a platform). The charge pump typically includes a centrifugal or positive displacement pump driven by an electric motor that draws oil from the production tanks and pushes through the metering system. The charge pump 308 supports the flow by ensuring that the hydrocarbons or other fluids reach a separate mainline pump at the correct pressure, with the mainline pump providing the final push for transferring the product to the pipelines, storage tanks or other shipping facilities (not shown).

[0102] Also shown is inlet spool 310 (with flanged blind end) providing a first “nippling up” connection, and outlet spool 312 providing a second connection to the existing piping network at the lease location within which the assembly is located. The inlet and outlet process piping / spools commonly utilized carbon steel equipped with block valves to isolate the unit maintenance.

[0103] Filter pot 314 is shown in FIGS. 12-13 but removed in FIG. 14 for better illustrating features hidden behind it in FIGS. 12-13 and typically refers to a heavy duty industrial filtration vessel used in oil and gas production, water treatment or manufacturing for separating solid particulates and debris from a fluid stream.

[0104] Additional and ancillary support components are also depicted in FIGS. 12-14 and include an arrangement interconnecting piping connections between the charge and mainline shipping pumps 308 and constructed between the inlet and outlet spools 310 / 312. These include various meter locations 316, gate valve 317, and a series of ball valves 318, 318′, 320, 322 (including back-pressure control valve for maintaining constant pressure against the pump 308 to prevent the fluid from flashing / vaporizing and to ensure a steady flow rate through the meter), along with various gaskets (not shown) associated with the various components.

[0105] Also shown at 324 is a fluid holding tank which can be integrated into or used alongside the LACT assembly, depending on the specific production and measurement requirements. In a first instance, this can include a surge / feed stock tank placed upstream of the charge pump which accumulates raw crude oil or liquid hydrocarbons such that, when the fluid level rises, a level controller trips the charge pump 308 to start a sales transaction. In a further instance, the tank 324 can be provided as a bad oil / reject tank which coordinates with the BS&W (Basic Sediment & Water) monitor in order to assess the quality of the oil and, if the content exceeds agreed-to limits, actuates a three-way diverter valve for redirecting the off-specification fluid to the tank for retreating or separate processing.

[0106] Other non-limiting components of the LACT assembly can include a heater element (not shown), typically an electric immersion or circulation heater—serves to prevent fluids from solidifying or freezing in cold conditions, and to reduce crude oil viscosity for accurate volume measurement and sampling. Specific purposes of the heater include:

[0107] Preventing Wax and Paraffin Buildup: Crude oils can contain heavy hydrocarbons and waxes. In cold environments, these waxes crystallize and create blockages. A circulation heater keeps the oil temperature stable to stop these waxes from plating onto pipe walls or clogging strainers.

[0108] Controlling Viscosity: Many petroleum transfer contracts require the fluid to flow within a specific range. By maintaining a consistent temperature, the heater prevents the oil from becoming too thick (viscous), ensuring consistent flow rates.

[0109] Enhancing Meter Accuracy: Viscous fluids can cause operational drift or measurement errors in meters like turbine meters or Coriolis flowmeters and. Steady heat ensures the meter stays within its designed operational parameters.

[0110] Aiding BS&W and Sampling Operations: Basic Sediment and Water (BS&W) monitors require the fluid to be a homogenous blend. Proper heating prevents the emulsions from separating in the transfer line and ensures that automatic samplers capture a representative fluid sample

[0111] The metering structure can include industry-standard flow measurement devices used for precise mass flow and density measurement across chemical, oil and gas industries and which provide for direct, multi-variable measurement of mass flow, volumetric flow, density and temperature. Each of an inlet spool 310 and outlet spool 312 define opposite end components of the LACT system, with the afore-mentioned prefabricated collection of components being constructed and supported within the interior of the container 300 prior to transporting to an LACT installation location.

[0112] The inlet spool 310 is typically located at an upstream edge of the skid assembly, where it connects to the feed line of the storage tank 324 (typically located at a bottom or side edge of the container structure closest to the production facility). The inlet spool 310 incudes a primary isolation valve following by a strainer (to remove debris) and for delivery to the charge pump 308 to push the fluid / crude through the LACT system.

[0113] The outlet spool 312 is located on the outlet side of the container or skid structure and handles the fluid only after it has passed through the measurement components for subsequent delivery to the existing pipeline or holding tank as a quality end-product fluid according to the automated and predetermined measurement metrics associated with the LACT arrangement. The outlet spool includes the back-pressure valve (again to prevent flashing and maintain consistent flow), a check valve (to prevent metering fluid from flowing backward) and a final isolation block valve.

[0114] The inlet and outlet spools are configured so as to be accessible from first and second locations of the container (see as indicated in non-limiting fashion in FIG. 12) for incorporating into the corresponding first and second locations of the existing fluid supply or transfer network (this again generally and broadly understood to include any of a gathering pipeline, mainline pipeline or large holding / supply tank, and again while providing protection of the system components supported within the container interior enclosure.

[0115] In a non-limiting embodiment, the inlet 310 and outlet 312 spools project through apertures / openings formed into or configured at the first and second locations of the shipping container (as best shown in FIG. 12), with the ends of the spools projecting any distance through the side or end walls of the container 300 for tying into (“nippling up”) into the existing fluid transfer connections (not shown however again understood to include a feed pipe from a separate holding tank or supply pipeline, with a corresponding return pipe receiving the measured and delivered fluid from the LACT for transfer to a pipeline or separate holding tank) once the shipping container enclosure is emplaced.

[0116] The container enclosing the LACT assembly can be designed with removable sections (see also previous embodiments associated with the related TPS skid assembly) at the side or end wall locations for permitting installation of additional lengths of pipe (not shown) associated with the fluid transfer (or supply and return) network for accessing the inlet 310 and outlet 320 spools (such as which can be reconfigured to align with the removable sections). A separate electrical connection (also not shown) is understood to be incorporated into the shipping container assembly and can tie into the various components, including the charge pump 308 for driving the system, and is adapted to communicate through the shipping container to an external power source (also not shown).

[0117] As previously described, the enclosed skid-style shipping container is produced in either twenty or forty foot lengths, with the standard twenty foot container typically measuring twenty feet in length, eight feet in width, and eight and a half feet in height, with an internal width of around seven and three-quarter feet in dimension. In each instance, and as partially depicted in FIG. 12, the outer shipping container exhibits a three dimensional rectangular shape with first and second sides, top, bottom, and first and second interconnecting ends.

[0118] A side door opening (which can include a double opening) can be formed into a selected one of the sides of the container (see as previously described in FIG. 2), with a selected one of the ends of the container also being openable in order to provide ease of access to the interior. As previously described, an access opening can also be formed in the top of the container to provide crane access for removing and replacing larger or heavier components, such as including the pumps and motor. Other features include lift points (three of which are shown at 326 / 328 / 330 in the partial cutaway view of the shipping container depicted in FIG. 12) which are engineered into the corners of container to facilitate lifting and transport of the enclosed LACT system.

[0119] With reference to FIG. 15 et seq., a collection of supporting and subset components are illustrated which are depicted in the LACT transfer assembly of FIGS. 12-14, and which will be described in succession as non-limiting aspects of the present invention. The collection of supporting components presented is understood to be representative but not limiting to any specific arrangement of an LACT assembly piping network which is incorporated into the shipping container for integration (i.e. “nippling up”) to the existing piping or fluid supply and return network, again via the inlet 310 and outlet 312 spool connections along with single electrical connection. Accordingly, the arrangements shown and described for the following spool designs are intended to be non-limiting as to any particular arrangement or configuration depicted in the overall views of FIGS. 12-14 for the LACT assembly in use with the various operating components previously described.

[0120] FIG. 15 presents an illustration of a 3″ LACT inlet spool (corresponding in shape but not limited in placement as depicted by inlet spool 310 in FIG. 12). As is shown in each of the succeeding illustrations, spools as described in each of the breakout views include raised face welded neck flanges, shown at 350 / 352, to facilitate incorporating into the fluid network via the nippling up procedure with the existing opposing fluid connection of the existing piping network which can include a similar flanged end.

[0121] FIGS. 16-17 present perspective and plan views of an alternate 3″ 150 LACT inlet spool (at 310′) and further illustrating a one inch threadolet, at 354. The spool construction 310′ can also be arranged within the LACT assembly at any suitable location within the assembled piping not limited to as referenced in FIGS. 13 and 14.

[0122] A threadolet is a self-reinforced branch outlet fitting such as exhibiting a curved welding base on one side that contours to the main pipeline and a female threaded branch on the top which is useful for taking small branch connections off of a larger “run” pipe. The primary purpose of a threadolet in an LACT assembly is to provide a safe, secure and reinforced branch connection off of the main piping for smaller auxiliary lines, such as for instrumentation, sampling and pressure. Consistent with the previous explanation, these further include instrument taps for measurement and monitoring devices (pressure gauges, temperature transmitters, and pressure relief valves). Threadolets also allow for mounting of sampling systems (BS&W probes or other sampling devices).

[0123] Welded end flange connections are again shown at 356 / 358 and provide structural integrity, secure sealing against high-pressure leaks, and modular maintenance access for inspecting or replacing critical components. These flanged connections are vital for several specific reasons, including:

[0124] Component Maintenance & Replacement: LACT units—known as the “cash register” of the oil field—house sensitive, high-wear instruments like Coriolis or positive displacement meters, BS&W probes, and strainers. Flanged spools allow operators to easily unbolt and remove individual pipe sections or devices for calibration, cleaning, or repair without having to cut into the welded skid framework.

[0125] Meter Proving Access: Routine meter proving is mandatory for custody transfer accuracy. Flanged spools create the precise break-points in the pipe required to temporarily install portable meter provers or connect to master meters in-line.

[0126] High-Pressure Integrity: Flanges on LACT skids (typically manufactured to ASME B31.3 standards) handle high-pressure hydrocarbon flows. Welded flanges—like weld-neck or socket-weld types—fuse the pipe and flange into a single robust unit, securing the joint against the strong vibrations caused by LACT charge pumps.

[0127] Leak Prevention: Bolting pre-welded flanges together with appropriately rated gaskets establishes a tight, standardized seal that prevents the costly leakage of crude oil or other petroleum products during transfers.

[0128] Fabrication & Alignment Tolerances: Prefabricated pipe spools are often built in specialized shops. Welded flange end connections allow for small on-site adjustments, compensating for thermal expansion, vibration, and minor installation misalignments when bolting spools to heavy equipment like pumps or valves.

[0129] FIGS. 18-19 illustrate perspective and plan views a 2.5-2 LACT outlet spool, at 312′, as further referenced and which can be integrated into a location of the piping network of FIGS. 12-14, such as further depicted and not necessarily limited to the outlet from the charge pump 308 to the external measured fluid receiving structure (e.g. pipeline, etc.). This can include such as a concentric reducer portion 360, threadolet 362 and raise face weld neck flanges 364 / 366. As shown in FIGS. 12-14, this again can be located past the charge pump 318 however can be moved to different locations within the scope of the invention.

[0130] FIGS. 20-21 illustrate perspective and plan views of a two inch 150 LACT spool 368 forming a further component of the present assembly and which can be integrated into the piping structure as shown in FIGS. 13-14. The spool 368 includes a pair of threadolets 370 / 372 and flanged weld neck ends 374 / 376 connected to the main spool portion 368 via angled fittings 378 / 380.

[0131] FIGS. 22-23 illustrate perspective and plan views of a further variant of a 2″ 150 LACT spool, see at 382 and as also shown in FIGS. 13-14, forming a component of the present assembly and which includes threadolet 384, angled fitting 386 and weld neck end flanges 388 and 390.

[0132] FIG. 24 is a perspective illustration of a 2″ 150 LACT Divert Outlet Spool 392 forming a further component of the present assembly and including angled fitting 394 and end weld neck flanges 396 / 398.

[0133] FIGS. 25-26 illustrate perspective and plan views of a 2″ 150 Proving Meter Spool 400 forming a further component of the present assembly. Features of this component include first 402 and second 404 threadolets, a tee component 406, and three separate raised face weld neck flanges 408, 410 and 412.

[0134] FIGS. 27-28 present perspective and plan views of a 2″ 150 Proving Meter Spool, at 414 according to a further related variant of the present assembly, similar to FIGS. 25-26, including a tee component 416, threadolet 418 and three raised face weld neck flanges 420, 422 and 424.

[0135] FIG. 29 presents a perspective view of a 2″ 150 Proving Meter Camlock Spool component 426 of the present assembly. This includes a female camlock 428 and camlock cover 430 at one end, with a raised face weld neck flange 432 at an opposite end.

[0136] FIGS. 30-31 provide perspective and plan views of a 2″×4″ inlet spool 434 component which can be integrated into the LACT piping network of FIGS. 12-14, according to a further non-limiting variant of the present invention. This includes threadolets 436 and 428 incorporated into the piping section of the component 434, with a first smaller raised face weld neck flange 440. Elbow 442 extends from 434 to connecting section 446. A second larger face weld neck flange 448 connects to a larger diameter pipe section 450, with a concentric reduce 452 connecting the pipe section 450 with the reduced diameter sections 434 / 446.

[0137] FIGS. 32-33 depict perspective and plan views of a 2″ 600 Outlet Spool forming a further component of the present assembly which includes linear sections 454 / 456 and elbow fittings 458 / 460. Threadolets 462 / 464 are formed in the linear sections 454 / 456, with a smaller weld neck flange 466 connected to elbow fitting 460 and a second larger weld neck flange 468 connected to linear section 456 via a concentric reducer 470.

[0138] Finally, FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a related variant of Outlet Spool according to a further embodiment of the present invention and including linear sections 470, 472 and 474, with interconnecting elbows 476 and 478, along with opposite end located raised face weld neck flanges 480 / 482.

[0139] Without limitation, the exemplary arrangement of the piping and components as best shown in FIGS. 13-14 includes the inlet 310 supplying the holding tank 324 (such as through spool components 392 / 470 / 456), with measurable fluid subsequently communicating through spool components 446, 414, 400, 382, 368, 312′, to charging tank 308 and subsequently through outlet 312.

[0140] Common applications of the LACT assembly again further include any of produced water, fresh water, crude oil and emulsion fluid. Accordingly, the present invention provides a rigid and durable structure which lasts longer than conventional unprotected skids upon which the TPS System is fabricated. Additionally, the weight supporting capacity of the shipping container is a multiple of what a conventional skid frame can support, with the container better suited for protecting the LACT System components.

[0141] Additionally, the shipping container provides a better transport option for moving the prefabricated modularized LACT System to the installation site without incidences of flexing movement associated with previous open skid supporting frames, such as which can cause damage to the motors, pump etc. of the assembly. Also, the shipping container style skid of the present invention additionally provides lifting points which are better suited for transport, such as being lifted on and off of a flatbed truck, rail car or the like, as well as providing weather tight protection of the mechanical and electrical equipment associated with the LACT System.

[0142] As noted, the primary function of the LACT System is to measure the volume and quality of crude oil, natural gas and other liquids during transfer, ensuring accurate unit measurement to be used in cost accounting for the benefit of the seller and buyer. The LACT unit also transfers crude or oil from the lease to a pipeline.

[0143] The building infrastructure provided by the shipping container is a secure, weatherproof for all system components and which protects sensitive equipment from environmental hazards and ensures controlled operating conditions and safe access for maintenance.

[0144] The sampling system provides for automatically collecting representative product samples at predetermined intervals, facilitating laboratory analysis to verify quality parameters (e.g., API gravity and sulfur content) and provides a means to monitor product quality and maintain compliance with industry specifications.

[0145] The valve and actuator system provides automated valves paired with actuator systems for regulating and controlling the flow of such as hydrocarbons, isolating sections of the system during maintenance and emergency shutdowns, and preventing overpressure and mitigating risks of spills or leaks.

[0146] An associated automation and programmable logic controller (PLC) monitors critical operating parameters such as flow rate, pressure and temperature, along with detecting abnormal operating conditions and triggering safety protocols.

[0147] Having described my invention, other and additional preferred embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art to which it pertains, and without deviating from the scope of the appended claims. The detailed description and drawings are further understood to be supportive of the disclosure, the scope of which being defined by the claims. While some of the best modes and other embodiments for carrying out the claimed teachings have been described in detail, various alternative designs and embodiments exist for practicing the disclosure defined in the appended claims.

[0148] The foregoing disclosure is further understood as not intended to limit the present disclosure to the precise forms or particular fields of use disclosed. As such, it is contemplated that various alternate embodiments and / or modifications to the present disclosure, whether explicitly described or implied herein, are possible in light of the disclosure. Having thus described embodiments of the present disclosure, a person of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Thus, the present disclosure is limited only by the claims.

[0149] In the foregoing specification, the disclosure has been described with reference to specific embodiments. However, as one skilled in the art will appreciate, various embodiments disclosed herein can be modified or otherwise implemented in various other ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, this description is to be considered as illustrative and is for the purpose of teaching those skilled in the art the manner of making and using various embodiments of the disclosure. It is to be understood that the forms of disclosure herein shown and described are to be taken as representative embodiments. Equivalent elements, materials, processes or steps may be substituted for those representatively illustrated and described herein. Moreover, certain features of the disclosure may be utilized independently of the use of other features, all as would be apparent to one skilled in the art after having the benefit of this description of the disclosure. Expressions such as “including”, “comprising”, “incorporating”, “consisting of”, “have”, “is” used to describe and claim the present disclosure are intended to be construed in a non-exclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components or elements not explicitly described also to be present. Reference to the singular is also to be construed to relate to the plural.

[0150] Further, various embodiments disclosed herein are to be taken in the illustrative and explanatory sense, and should in no way be construed as limiting of the present disclosure. All joinder references (e.g., attached, affixed, coupled, connected, and the like) are only used to aid the reader's understanding of the present disclosure, and may not create limitations, particularly as to the position, orientation, or use of the systems and / or methods disclosed herein. Therefore, joinder references, if any, are to be construed broadly. Moreover, such joinder references do not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected to each other.

[0151] Additionally, all numerical terms, such as, but not limited to, “first”, “second”, “third”, “primary”, “secondary”, “main” or any other ordinary and / or numerical terms, should also be taken only as identifiers, to assist the reader's understanding of the various elements, embodiments, variations and / or modifications of the present disclosure, and may not create any limitations, particularly as to the order, or preference, of any element, embodiment, variation and / or modification relative to, or over, another element, embodiment, variation and / or modification.

[0152] It will also be appreciated that one or more of the elements depicted in the drawings / figures can also be implemented in a more separated or integrated manner or even removed or rendered as inoperable in certain cases, as is useful in accordance with a particular application. Additionally, any signal hatches in the drawings / figures should be considered only as exemplary, and not limiting, unless otherwise specifically specified.

Claims

1. A modularized lease automated custody transfer (LACT) system integrated into a skid-style shipping container for incorporation into an existing fluid network and providing for measuring, sampling and transferring ownership of a fluid not limited to a crude oil and associated with such a production lease, said LACT system and container, comprising:an assembled piping network including collection of components not limited to a motor, valves, pump, and electrical system, said piping network including an inlet spool and an outlet spool having flanged end connections;said collection of components being constructed within an interior of a container enclosure prior to transporting to an installation location with the fluid transfer network, said inlet spool having a flanged end connection accessible through a first location of the shipping container for receiving a line extending from the existing fluid network for admitting a volume of fluid prior to accurate measurement as to pre-determined quality metrics;following measurement and sampling, said pump delivering an outlet flow of said fluid achieving the predetermined metrics through said outlet spool having a further flanged end connection accessible by a further line incorporated into the existing fluid network; andsaid container providing protection of the LACT piping network and components with increased weight bearing capacity associated with transport of the container to an installation location.

2. The modularized lease automated custody transfer system of claim 1, further comprising the inlet and outlet spools projecting through apertures configured at the first and second locations of the shipping container.

3. The modularized lease automated custody transfer system of claim 1, further comprising the container having removable sections for accessing the inlet and outlet spools.

4. The modularized lease automated custody transfer system of claim 1, further comprising an electrical connection adapted to communicate through the container to an external power source.

5. The modularized lease automated custody transfer system of claim 1, the container including a three dimensional rectangular shape with first and second sides, a top and a bottom, and first and second interconnecting ends.

6. The modularized lease automated custody transfer system of claim 5, further comprising at least one of said ends being openable, with a side door opening formed into a selected one of the sides of the container.

7. The modularized lease automated custody transfer system of claim 5, further comprising a separate access door formed into any selected one of the sides and ends of the container.

8. The modularized lease automated custody transfer system of claim 5, further comprising an access opening formed in the top of the container to provide crane access for removing and replacing larger or heavier components including the pump and motor.

9. The modularized lease automated custody transfer system of claim 6, the side door opening further comprising a double side door opening formed in the container.

10. The modularized lease automated custody transfer system of claim 1, further comprising lift points engineered into the container to facilitate lifting and transport of the enclosed system.

11. The modularized lease automated custody transfer system of claim 1, the fluid transfer network further including any of produced water, fresh water, crude oil and emulsion fluid.

12. The modularized lease automated custody transfer system of claim 1, further comprising a holding or collection tank located within said container for receiving fluid from said inlet spool prior to sampling and measurement according to the predetermined quality metrics.

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