Embedded Raman Probe for Multi-Phase Flow Composition Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional offshore plant and flow loop systems lack the capability to detect the composition of multi-phase flowing fluids in real time, making it difficult to predict and prevent hydrate plugging, which leads to operational inefficiencies and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
An embedded measuring device with Raman probes and a Raman peak analysis unit is used to determine the composition and predict hydrate formation in real time by measuring Raman peak intensity within the pipeline, allowing for precise analysis of gas and liquid components and controlling pressure and temperature to prevent plugging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional measuring instruments and visual observation via monitoring window are used, then fluid characteristics (pressure, temperature, flow rate) can be measured, but real-time composition analysis and hydrate formation detection are impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The Raman probe is embedded within the pipeline structure, with the optical fiber probe nested inside the pipeline wall. This allows the measurement device to be integrated into the existing pipeline without requiring separate external measurement systems, thereby improving measurement precision while avoiding excessive device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical sampling and laboratory analysis systems with an optical-based Raman spectroscopy system. The Raman probe uses light scattering to directly analyze fluid composition in-situ, eliminating the need for physical sample collection, transport, and manual analysis, thus enabling real-time composition analysis without proportionally increasing system complexity
2Measurement precision
If chromatography method is used to analyze fluid components, then qualitative and quantitative analysis can be performed, but real-time analysis is impossible and excessive analysis time is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical chromatography separation system with an optical Raman spectroscopy system. Raman spectroscopy directly measures molecular vibrations to identify and quantify components without requiring physical separation, reducing analysis time from hours to seconds while maintaining compositional analysis accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The Raman probe continuously monitors fluid composition in real-time before hydrate formation occurs, enabling early detection and preventive action. This preliminary monitoring capability allows operators to take corrective measures before plugging problems develop, eliminating the time loss associated with reactive problem-solving
3Reliability
If monitoring window is used to visually observe hydrate formation, then plugging phenomenon can be observed, but initial hydrate cannot be distinguished from particles and prevention opportunity is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces visual observation through a monitoring window with Raman spectroscopic detection. The Raman probe identifies hydrate formation by detecting characteristic molecular vibration signatures of hydrate structures, which are distinct from particles or other contaminants. This spectral fingerprinting capability allows reliable detection of initial hydrate formation that is invisible to the naked eye
Solution Approach 2:
The Raman probe acts as an intermediary between the fluid and the monitoring system. Instead of directly observing hydrate crystals through a window, the probe measures molecular-level changes in the fluid composition and properties that precede visible hydrate formation, providing early warning before plugging occurs
4Productivity
If pipeline is cut away when plugging occurs, then operational continuity can be maintained, but enormous expenses are required and this is not a fundamental solution
Solution Approach 1:
The Raman-based monitoring system performs preliminary detection of hydrate formation and compositional changes that precede plugging. By identifying these early warning signs, the system enables preventive actions such as adjusting flow conditions, adding inhibitors, or heating the pipeline before plugging occurs, thereby maintaining operational continuity without the need for expensive pipeline cutting and replacement
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides continuous feedback on fluid composition, temperature, and hydrate formation tendency. This real-time feedback allows operators to adjust operational parameters dynamically to prevent plugging, transforming the approach from reactive (cutting pipelines after failure) to proactive (maintaining conditions that prevent failure), thus improving productivity while reducing economic losses
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
Enables real-time determination of multi-phase fluid composition and prediction of hydrate formation, enhancing operational efficiency and preventing plugging phenomena, thereby ensuring economical and efficient offshore plant operations.
Implementation Method 1
determined by measuring Raman peak intensity of the multi-phase flowing fluid within the pipeline using the Raman probe
Data Source
AI summary
An embedded measurement device that is capable of measuring the component and a composition of a multi-phase flow fluid flowing in a pipe. The embedded measurement device includes: a high-pressure pipe tube in which the multi-phase flow fluid flows; a Raman probe that is partially inserted inside the high-pressure pipe tube and has an optical lens; and a Raman peak analysis unit that is connected to another part of the Raman probe. The device for measuring the composition of the multi-phase flow fluid measures a Raman peak intensity value of the multi-phase flow fluid in the high-pressure pipe tube by using the Raman probe, thereby determining the composition of the fluid.