CO2 Mass Flow Measurement Using Flush-Mounted Pressure Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies for measuring CO2 mass flow rate in pipelines, such as differential-pressure, ultrasonic, and Coriolis flow meters, face challenges including accuracy issues due to pressure alterations, signal attenuation, and poor rangeability, especially in multi-phase flows within the Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) network.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing a plurality of pressure sensors flush-mounted on the pipe to determine bulk flow velocity and mixture sound speed, combined with static pressure and temperature measurements, and fluid composition data, to calculate the CO2 mass flow rate in a multi-phase fluid flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If differential-pressure flow meters are used to measure CO2 mass flow rate, then the measurement can be obtained through pressure difference, but the pressure drop caused by obstruction alters fluid properties and affects measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical obstruction-based differential pressure measurement with an acoustic-based measurement system. Ultrasonic transducers emit sound waves through the fluid, and the time-of-flight of these acoustic waves is measured to determine flow velocity and mass flow rate, eliminating the need for physical obstructions that alter fluid properties
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces sound waves as an intermediary to measure flow characteristics. Instead of directly measuring pressure difference caused by obstruction, the system uses acoustic waves that propagate through the fluid, with their travel time affected by the fluid's velocity and properties, providing indirect but non-intrusive measurement
2Measurement precision
If ultrasonic flow meters are used to measure CO2 mass flow rate, then the velocity can be measured along the ultrasound path, but severe signal attenuation occurs making the measurement unsuitable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the acoustic measurement parameters by using lower frequency ultrasonic waves and optimizing the transducer coupling and positioning. This reduces signal attenuation in CO2 while maintaining sufficient resolution for accurate velocity measurement, making the technique viable for CO2 flow metering applications
3Measurement precision
If Coriolis flow meters are used to measure CO2 mass flow rate, then direct mass flow rate measurement is obtained, but the accuracy in multi-phase gas-liquid flows is deficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the flow measurement into two independent components: acoustic velocity measurement and density measurement. By measuring the speed of sound and using it with the measured mass flow rate, the system can determine density and composition, allowing accurate multi-phase flow characterization without relying on Coriolis effects that are sensitive to phase distribution
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
This approach provides accurate, real-time measurement of CO2 mass flow rate with high rangeability, minimizing pressure drop and avoiding intrusive or moving parts, thus enhancing the reliability and cost-effectiveness of the flow meter.
Implementation Method 1
determining, using the plurality of pressure signals, a first time-of-flight of one or more flow eddies; determining, using the plurality of pressure signals, a second time-of-flight of one or more sound waves
Implementation Method 2
determining, using the first time-of-flight, a bulk flow velocity of the multi-phase fluid
Implementation Method 3
determining, using the bulk flow velocity and the second time-of-flight, a mixture speed of sound of the multi-phase fluid
Data Source
AI summary
A method for determining CO2 mass flow rate of a multi-phase fluid flowing in a pipeline includes obtaining pressure signals from pressure sensors flush-mounted on the inner wall of the pipe that include a diaphragm for sensing pressure. The pressure signals determine a first time-of-flight of flow eddies and a second time-of-flight of sound waves. Using the first and second time-of-flight, bulk flow velocity and mixture speed of sound is determined. Static pressure sensors obtain a static pressure measurement and temperature sensors obtain a temperature measurement. The static pressure and temperature sensors are placed near the pressure sensors. A fluid composition sensor obtains fluid composition data. Based on the static pressure measurement, temperature measurement, and fluid composition data, single-phase fluid properties are determined. Based on the bulk flow velocity, mixture speed of sound, and single-phase fluid properties, CO2 mass flow rate of the multi-phase fluid is determined.