Multiphase Metering System Automated Blockage Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multiphase metering systems in subterranean field operations are prone to blockages due to deposits, ice, hydrates, and foreign agents, leading to inaccurate readings and operational disruptions, requiring manual intervention that is time-consuming and costly.
Innovation Solution
An integrated maintenance system that includes a mechanical apparatus and a controller to identify issues and implement solutions using a fluid management apparatus, allowing for automated cleaning and maintenance of multiphase metering systems without disrupting operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual bypass and disassembly is used to clear blockages, then blockage removal is achieved, but measurement continuity is disrupted and operational time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by continuously monitoring differential pressure trends and issuing early warnings before complete blockage occurs. This allows maintenance to be scheduled proactively rather than reactively, minimizing disruption to measurement continuity while ensuring blockages are addressed before they cause total failure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service through automated differential pressure monitoring and diagnostic capabilities that identify blockage conditions without requiring manual intervention. The continuous monitoring automatically detects when tapholes are becoming blocked and triggers maintenance protocols, reducing the need for manual bypass operations.
2Reliability
If manual disassembly and flushing tools are used, then blockages are cleared, but operational costs and equipment requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies multi-functionality by integrating differential pressure monitoring, blockage detection, and maintenance scheduling into a single unified platform. This eliminates the need for multiple separate tools and equipment, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining effective blockage clearance capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback mechanisms where differential pressure measurements continuously inform the system state, enabling automatic adjustment of maintenance schedules and procedures. This feedback loop reduces the need for complex manual intervention equipment by providing real-time information that guides simpler, more targeted maintenance actions.
3Reliability
If manual maintenance procedures are implemented, then blockages are resolved, but data acquisition continuity is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary data analysis and blockage detection before complete failure occurs, allowing maintenance to be scheduled during planned downtime rather than causing unplanned data interruptions. This preserves data continuity by ensuring measurements are maintained up to the point of scheduled maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The continuous differential pressure monitoring system provides self-service by automatically detecting and logging blockage conditions, maintaining data acquisition continuity through automated diagnostics that do not require manual intervention. This ensures data is continuously recorded and analyzed, eliminating gaps that would occur with manual maintenance procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for maintaining a multiphase metering system (MPMS) may include obtaining a plurality of values associated with a plurality of measurements of a parameter made by a sensor device, wherein the parameter is associated with operation of the MPMS; identifying, based on the plurality of values, an issue with the MPMS; determining a process to resolve the issue with the MPMS; and implementing the process to resolve the issue with the MPMS using a mechanical apparatus and an implementation apparatus coupled to the MPMS.