Multiphase Flowmeter with Solid Detection and Algorithmic Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current multiphase flowmeters in the oil and gas industry fail to accurately measure flow rates for all phases, particularly when solids like sand are present, leading to inaccurate reservoir characterization and potential damage from excessive proppant production.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a system that includes a multi-energy gamma ray and venturi-based flowmeter coupled with a solid detection sensor, allowing for automatic switching between algorithmic modes to determine flow rates based on the presence or absence of solids, using either an Oil-Water-Gas or Sand-Liquid-Gas solution triangle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional multiphase flowmeter is used to measure flow rates, then the measurement process is simple, but the measurement precision deteriorates when solids are present in the fluid
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between different algorithmic modes (first mode for three-phase flow, second mode for four-phase flow with solids) based on real-time sensor data detecting the presence of solids. This dynamic adaptation allows the flowmeter to maintain high measurement precision across varying flow conditions without requiring physically complex hardware changes for each scenario.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the algorithmic parameters and measurement models based on the detected phase composition. When solids are detected, the system transitions from a standard three-phase measurement algorithm to a specialized four-phase algorithm that accounts for solid particles, thereby maintaining measurement accuracy without increasing physical device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single algorithmic mode is used for flow rate determination, then the device complexity is low, but the adaptability deteriorates when phase composition changes
Solution Approach 1:
The processor implements dynamic algorithmic mode switching based on real-time solids detection. The system automatically transitions between a first algorithmic mode (for three-phase flow without solids) and a second algorithmic mode (for four-phase flow with solids), enabling high adaptability to changing phase compositions while maintaining relatively simple device architecture through software-based flexibility.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If solids are not monitored in the fluid flow, then the device complexity is low, but the harmful factors increase due to equipment damage from sand or excessive proppant
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of solids (sand, proppant) in the fluid flow using dedicated sensors before the solids can cause damage to production equipment. By detecting the presence, absence, or mass flow rate of solids in real-time, the system enables early warning and preventive actions, thereby protecting equipment from erosion and damage while adding only moderate sensor and processing complexity.
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 system enables accurate measurement of four-phase flow rates, including oil, water, gas, and solids, preventing equipment damage by accurately monitoring proppant production and maintaining production efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a multi-energy gamma ray and venturi-based flowmeter
Implementation Method 2
a multi-energy gamma ray and venturi-based flowmeter
Implementation Method 3
a sensor coupled to the fluid conduit to generate data indicative of at least one of a presence, an absence, or a mass flow rate of solids in the fluid
Data Source
AI summary
Multiphase flowmeters and related methods are disclosed herein. An example apparatus includes a flowmeter and a fluid conduit to provide a flow path for a fluid relative to the flowmeter. The example apparatus includes a sensor coupled to the fluid conduit to generate data indicative of at least one of a presence, an absence, or a mass flow rate of solids in the fluid during flow of the fluid through the fluid conduit. The example apparatus includes a processor. The sensor is to be communicatively coupled to the processor. The processor is to selectively determine flow rates for one or more phases of the fluid based on data generated by the flowmeter and a first algorithmic mode or a second algorithmic mode selected based on the sensor data.