Multiphase Insert Flow Meter Ring Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing insert flow meters face challenges in accurately measuring multiphase flows in industrial environments due to space constraints, high pressure, and inability to differentiate between phases of matter, leading to inefficiencies and potential system damage.
Innovation Solution
A multiphase insert flow meter design featuring a ring with EIS sensors and a meter flange that minimizes pipe constriction, allowing for accurate measurement of flow characteristics and phase differentiation, while being compact and robust for easy retrofitting and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a plug or orifice plate is used to create flow disturbance for measurement, then flow rate measurement is enabled, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the measurement function from a complex plug or orifice plate structure and implements it using a simplified ring device with pressure sensors. The ring only needs to create minimal flow disturbance while providing multiple pressure measurement points, eliminating the need for complex centralized flow restriction structures.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a centralized plug that restricts flow in one dimension, the patent distributes pressure sensors around the ring in multiple dimensional positions (circumferential and radial distribution). This multi-dimensional sensor arrangement enables accurate flow measurement without requiring significant flow restriction in any single dimension.
2Measurement precision
If a plug or orifice plate restricts flow to generate pressure differentials, then flow rate can be determined, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ring device applies partial action by creating only minimal flow restriction necessary to generate measurable pressure differentials, rather than the excessive flow restriction imposed by plugs or orifice plates. The multiple pressure sensors distributed around the ring detect flow characteristics with minimal interference to the overall flow pattern, reducing energy loss.
3Measurement precision
If a centralized plug is used for measurement, then flow characteristics can be measured, but material build-up and clogging occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement function into multiple distributed pressure sensors around the ring rather than using a single centralized plug. This segmentation prevents material build-up at any single location, as the flow passes around the ring structure with multiple measurement points distributed circumferentially, eliminating the clogging problem associated with centralized flow restriction.
4Measurement precision
If pressure sensors are placed on a centralized plug, then flow rate can be measured, but the system cannot differentiate between phases of matter
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by placing pressure sensors at specific local positions around the ring (circumferential and radial distribution) rather than on a centralized plug. Different local positions experience different flow conditions that vary by phase, allowing the system to differentiate between phases based on the spatial pattern of pressure measurements while still measuring flow rate.
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 provides accurate, phase-specific flow measurements without significant pipe obstruction, reducing operational costs and minimizing maintenance needs, while ensuring the meter's stability and longevity in harsh industrial conditions.
Implementation Method 1
A ring having an inner wall and an outer wall, the outer wall being fixably attached to the meter flange, and the ring being substantially perpendicular to the forward flange surface, and a sensor located on the inner wall for measuring the characteristics of the flow
Data Source
AI summary
A device for measuring the physical characteristics of a flow within a pipe is disclosed. In one exemplary embodiment, the device comprises a hollow ring having an outer wall fixably attached to a meter flange that is inserted between two sections of pipe, and an inner wall on which a sensor is mounted to facilitate accurate flow measurements.