Multiphase Flow Property Measurement with Dual-Area Acoustic Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for measuring multiphase fluid flow rates and phase ratios are inaccurate and lack real-time capabilities, often requiring phase separation and using potentially hazardous radioactive materials, and existing multiphase flow meters suffer from errors in determining mixture velocity and gas void fraction.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method using monitoring devices at distinct metering sections with different cross-sectional areas to measure pressure fluctuations, converting signals to root mean square voltage values, and solving equations to determine mixture velocity and gas void fraction for continuous, real-time quantification of volumetric gas and liquid flow rates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional single phase meters are used to measure multiphase fluid, then phase separation is required, but real-time continuous monitoring capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical phase separation system with acoustic measurement technology. Acoustic sensors detect density variations in the multiphase flow directly, eliminating the need for separator tanks and mechanical phase division, thereby enabling real-time continuous monitoring while maintaining measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent measures density variations (a physical parameter) of the multiphase fluid using acoustic sensors. By monitoring changes in density along the flow path, the system can determine phase composition and flow rates in real-time without requiring actual phase separation
2Measurement precision
If radioactive materials are used in multiphase flow meters, then measurement capability is improved, but environmental contamination and health safety concerns arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes radioactive measurement methods with acoustic measurement technology. Acoustic sensors measure density and velocity by detecting sound wave propagation characteristics through the multiphase flow, achieving the same measurement objectives without using hazardous radioactive materials
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs non-radioactive acoustic sensors that are safer, cheaper, and do not pose long-term environmental risks. These sensors can be easily replaced if needed, eliminating the complex safety protocols and disposal requirements associated with radioactive sources
3Object-affected harmful factors
If impedance measurement, microwave attenuation, or acoustic attenuation techniques are used, then environmental safety is improved, but sensitivity to flow regimes and operational range are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses acoustic sensors that dynamically adapt to different flow regimes. The measurement system processes acoustic signals to distinguish between various flow patterns (bubble flow, slug flow, annular flow, etc.) and adjusts measurements accordingly, enabling operation across a wide range of phase ratios and velocities
Solution Approach 2:
The acoustic measurement system performs multiple functions: it measures density, velocity, and phase composition simultaneously, and adapts to various flow regimes. This multi-functional capability replaces multiple specialized sensors, providing versatile operation across different operating conditions
4Productivity
If relationship equations are used to determine mixture velocity and gas void fraction, then calculation speed is improved, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a feedback mechanism where acoustic measurements from multiple sensor positions are continuously processed. The system uses the measured density variations and acoustic travel times to iteratively refine calculations of mixture velocity and gas void fraction, compensating for errors and improving accuracy while maintaining real-time performance
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
Provides continuous, real-time monitoring of multiphase fluid properties with improved accuracy by eliminating the need for phase separation and reducing errors in flow rate calculations, minimizing equipment and maintenance costs.
Implementation Method 1
measuring pressure fluctuations caused by density variations of the multiphase fluid flowing by
Implementation Method 2
The acquired signals are converted to root mean square (''rms'') voltage values which are inputs to equations derived from sensor feature maps
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus, system and method for use in determining at least two properties of a flowing multiphase fluid involves measuring pressure fluctuations caused by density variations of the multiphase fluid flowing by at least two monitoring devices positioned at distinct metering sections having different cross-sectional areas. The acquired signals are converted to root mean square voltage values which are inputs to equations derived from sensor feature maps. The equations are solved to determine mixture velocity and gas void fraction which are used to quantify volumetric gas and liquid flow rates of the multiphase fluid.