NMR Multiphase Meter for Flow Rate and Phase Fraction Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for measuring flow rate and phase ratio of multiphase fluids in the oil and gas industry require multiple discrete devices and are not suitable for compositional analysis of hydrocarbons, lacking efficiency and accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) techniques to determine the volume and stability of phases in multiphase fluids by imparting a magnetic field, transmitting radio frequency signals, and detecting signal amplitudes, allowing for simultaneous flow rate and phase fraction measurement without assuming the presence of all phases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple discrete devices are used to measure flow rate and phase fraction, then measurement capability is provided, but device complexity increases and measurement efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple measurement functions (flow rate measurement and phase fraction measurement) into a single NMR-based measurement system. The apparatus uses one NMR device to simultaneously determine both the flow rate and the fractions of different phases (e.g., oil, gas, water) in a multiphase fluid, eliminating the need for multiple separate discrete devices that would traditionally be required for these measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The NMR measurement system is designed to perform multiple measurement functions simultaneously. A single measurement can provide data on flow rate, phase fractions, and potentially compositional analysis of hydrocarbons, making the system universally applicable to various measurement needs in oil and gas production without requiring specialized separate devices for each parameter.
2Measurement precision
If multiple discrete devices are used to measure flow rate and phase fraction, then measurement capability is provided, but operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The NMR-based measurement system enables continuous and simultaneous measurement of multiple parameters (flow rate and phase fractions) without the need to switch between different devices or perform sequential measurements. This continuous measurement capability improves operational efficiency by providing real-time data on multiphase fluid characteristics without interruption or delay.
Solution Approach 2:
By merging multiple measurement functions into a single integrated NMR system, the patent eliminates the operational inefficiencies associated with using multiple discrete devices. The combined system performs all necessary measurements simultaneously in one operation, significantly improving productivity and operational efficiency in oil and gas production monitoring.
3Measurement precision
If traditional measurement techniques are used, then flow rate and phase fraction can be measured, but compositional analysis of hydrocarbons is not available
Solution Approach 1:
The NMR measurement system is designed with universal applicability to provide not only flow rate and phase fraction measurements but also compositional analysis of hydrocarbons. The same NMR apparatus and measurement technique can characterize different hydrocarbon components, their concentrations, and their physical properties, making the system highly versatile for various analytical purposes in oil and gas production.
4Measurement precision
If multiple discrete devices are used, then specific properties can be measured, but overall system accuracy and reliability decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple measurement functions into a single NMR-based system that uses consistent measurement principles and calibration across all parameters. This unified approach improves overall system accuracy and reliability by eliminating the potential for inconsistencies that arise when using multiple discrete devices with different measurement principles and calibration standards.
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 and efficient measurement of phase fractions and flow rates in real-time, reducing the need for multiple devices and improving compositional analysis of hydrocarbons, enhancing operational efficiency in oil and gas exploration.
Implementation Method 1
imparting a magnetic field on the fluid to align nuclei of the multiphase fluid along a direction of the magnetic field
Implementation Method 2
transmitting a radio frequency signal into the multiphase fluid to excite the nuclei; detecting a signal from the nuclei responsive to the transmitted radio frequency signal
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for determining a volume of a phase of a multiphase fluid flowing in a production tubular is provided. A magnetic field is imparted on the fluid to align nuclei of the multiphase fluid along a direction of the magnetic field. A radio frequency signal is transmitted into the multiphase fluid to excite the nuclei, and a signal is detected from the nuclei responsive to the transmitted radio frequency signal. An amplitude of the detected signal is determined and the volume of the phase flowing in the production tubular is determined using the determined amplitude and an amplitude of a calibration signal.