Aerofoil Phase Sampler Probe for Multiphase Fluids
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for sampling multiphase fluid mixtures from hydrocarbon wells are inadequate for selective, enriched sampling across varying liquid densities and pressures, often requiring external power and moving parts.
Innovation Solution
An aerofoil-shaped probe with strategically positioned ports captures and separates phases within a multiphase fluid mixture using pressure differences, allowing for continuous sampling without external power or moving parts, enabling selective collection and analysis of high and low-density fluids and gases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional sampling systems are used for multiphase fluid mixtures, then sampling can be performed, but external power sources and moving parts are required, increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The probe enables self-driven sampling by utilizing the kinetic energy of the flowing multiphase fluid itself. The fluid flow directly drives the phase separation and sampling process through the strategically positioned ports, eliminating the need for external power sources or moving parts while maintaining continuous sampling capability
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces traditional mechanical sampling systems (with motors, pumps, and moving parts) with a passive aerodynamic probe that uses fluid dynamics and pressure differentials created by the flowing fluid to achieve phase separation and sampling automatically
2Measurement precision
If selective phase sampling is achieved, then sampling precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple ports and aerfoil structure
Solution Approach 1:
The probe employs an asymmetric aerfoil cross-sectional shape with strategically positioned ports at specific locations (front face, rear face, and lateral surfaces) to create pressure differentials that enable selective phase sampling. The asymmetric geometry allows different phases to be captured at different locations based on flow dynamics
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the probe body are designed with specific port configurations to capture different phases: front-facing ports for high-density phases, rear-facing ports for low-density phases, and lateral ports for intermediate phases, allowing selective sampling based on local pressure and flow conditions
3Productivity
If the probe is placed in high flow rate conditions, then sampling efficiency is improved, but drag forces and resonance issues increase
Solution Approach 1:
The probe utilizes a streamlined aerfoil shape with curved surfaces designed to minimize drag forces in high-velocity flow. The aerodynamic contour allows fluid to flow smoothly around the probe, reducing turbulence and resonance while maintaining effective phase separation at high flow rates
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables efficient, self-driven sampling of multiphase fluid mixtures at high flow rates, reducing drag and resonance issues, while allowing for continuous fluid analysis and reintegration into the flowline, improving sampling efficiency and adaptability.
Implementation Method 1
The device provides sampling ports at varying pressures in a multiphase fluid mixture flow. The difference(s) in pressure(s) provide the force to drive the sampled mixture from the main pipe into externally located analysis equipment
Implementation Method 2
The aerofoil shape has several advantages, including, without limitations, reduction of the drag forces on the probe and hence the avoidance of the lock in frequency ranges
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method for selectively capturing substantially separate phases from a multiphase fluid mixture flowing through a flowline. The apparatus is preferably substantially aerofoil shaped, and includes sample ports which are positioned on the apparatus in such an orientation that takes advantage of the low density and high density flow around the aerofoil shape, as well as the pressure distribution around the aerofoil shape.