Linear Antenna Array for Multiphase Flow Permittivity Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Measuring properties of multiphase fluid flows, such as oil, gas, and water, in pipes is challenging due to changes in flow characteristics over time and space, and the high contrast in permittivity and conductivity of water compared to other phases, making it difficult to accurately determine flow mixture permittivity and conductivity.
Innovation Solution
A system with a linear array of radio frequency (RF)/microwave transmitting and receiving antennas disposed along the pipe axis, generating signal data for amplitude attenuation and phase shift analysis, which is processed using a forward model and inverse model to determine fluid properties like permittivity, conductivity, and flow velocities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a circular array of electromagnetic transmitters and receivers is disposed about the periphery of a pipe to estimate flow mixture permittivity and conductivity, then measurement coverage is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The circular array of transmitters and receivers is segmented into discrete positions along the pipe periphery. Multiple transmitter-receiver pairs are distributed around the circumference, with each pair providing localized measurements that are combined to estimate overall flow mixture properties. This segmentation enables comprehensive coverage while maintaining manageable individual component complexity.
2Productivity
If multiple antennas are disposed in a linear array along the pipe axis to enable real-time monitoring, then measurement capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The linear array of antennas is designed to perform multiple functions: transmitters emit electromagnetic signals through the pipe wall into the multiphase flow, receivers detect the transmitted signals, and the system estimates flow mixture permittivity and conductivity. The same antenna structure serves as both transmitter and receiver depending on operational mode, reducing the need for separate dedicated components and simplifying the overall system.
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 accurate measurement of fluid mixture permittivity, conductivity, and other properties like liquid holdup and water-in-liquid ratio, allowing for real-time monitoring of multiphase fluid flows in both horizontally and vertically oriented pipes, improving the understanding of flow regimes and behavior.
Implementation Method 1
a first antenna... to generate first signal data based on a first signal emitted by the first antenna. The example apparatus includes a second antenna... to generate second signal data based on a second signal emitted by the first antenna
Implementation Method 2
The processor is to determine one or more of a permittivity or a conductivity of the fluid based on the first signal data and the second signal data
Implementation Method 3
Transmission attenuation and phase shift of electromagnetic waves (e.g., microwaves) between transmitters and receivers
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus for measuring multiphase fluid flows and related methods are disclosed herein. An example apparatus includes a fluid conduit to provide a flow path for a fluid, a first antenna coupled to the fluid conduit, and a second antenna coupled to the fluid conduit. The second antenna is to generate first signal data based on a first signal emitted by the first antenna. The example apparatus includes a third antenna coupled to the fluid conduit. The third antenna is to generate second signal data based on a second signal emitted by the first antenna. The first antenna, the second antenna, and the third antenna are disposed in a linear array relative to an axis of the fluid conduit. The example apparatus includes a processor to determine one or more of a permittivity or a conductivity of the fluid based on the first signal data and the second signal data.