Portable Gas Flow Meter Verification for Low-Downtime Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
In-field gas flow meters in natural gas pipelines require frequent calibration to maintain accuracy, but this process involves shutting down the pipeline, which is costly and results in significant downtime and lost revenue due to the need for laboratory calibration.
Innovation Solution
A portable verification system that can temporarily connect to in-field gas flow meters, using a calibrated ultrasonic gas flow meter to verify and adjust the measurements, allowing for on-site calibration without shutting down the pipeline for extended periods, and can be easily moved between different meter runs with varying piping geometries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If in-field gas flow meters are sent to calibration laboratories for calibration, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but pipeline shutdown time increases and revenue is lost
Solution Approach 1:
A portable reference meter system serves as an intermediary device that can be temporarily connected to the pipeline alongside the in-field meter. This reference meter provides a known accurate measurement standard in the field, allowing verification and calibration of the in-field meter without requiring removal to a laboratory, thus eliminating pipeline shutdown time while maintaining measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration process becomes self-service by enabling field personnel to perform verification and calibration using the portable reference meter system directly at the pipeline location. The system includes all necessary components (reference meter, flow control, data comparison) to conduct calibration independently without external laboratory facilities, resolving the contradiction between maintaining accuracy and avoiding shutdown time
2Measurement precision
If in-field gas flow meters are sent to calibration laboratories for calibration, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but calibration costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The portable reference meter acts as a field-deployable intermediary that eliminates the need for expensive laboratory calibration services. By bringing the reference standard to the field, the system avoids laboratory overhead costs while maintaining the same level of measurement accuracy through direct comparison and calibration of the in-field meter
Solution Approach 2:
The portable reference meter system represents a cost-effective alternative to repeated laboratory calibrations. While the initial investment in portable equipment is required, subsequent field calibrations avoid recurring laboratory service fees, making the overall calibration process more economical for frequent calibration needs
3Loss of time
If a portable verification system is deployed in the field, then pipeline shutdown time is reduced, but measurement accuracy may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The portable reference meter system is designed with universal applicability to work with various in-field meter types and pipeline configurations. The reference meter provides a reliable accurate measurement standard that can be deployed in different field conditions, ensuring measurement accuracy is maintained across diverse applications while enabling quick field calibration without shutdown time
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces complex mechanical removal and reinstallation processes with a simpler electronic/digital calibration approach. By using electronic data comparison between the reference meter and in-field meter, the system eliminates the need for physical meter removal while maintaining calibration accuracy through digital measurement and adjustment protocols
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
Reduces downtime and costs associated with pipeline shutdowns by enabling quick and accurate calibration of gas flow meters in the field, maintaining measurement accuracy without the need for frequent laboratory visits, and allowing for immediate reconnection of the meter runs to the pipeline.
Implementation Method 1
an ultrasonic gas flow meter contained by the meter tube and calibrated for use with the third different piping geometry
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of a portable verification system can move from one in-field gas flow meter location to another and temporarily connect downstream of a main pipeline's meter run or station. A control valve of the portable verification system allows volume measurement at different flow velocities to be verified. In some embodiments, the portable verification system is connected to the meter run and the main pipeline by an adjustable pipeline section. This section can extend horizontally and vertically, as well as swivel to provide versatility when connecting in the field. Adaptor fittings having one flange sized for and fitted to the inlet and outlet ends of the portable verification system and another flange sized for the meter run or main pipeline connection provide additional versatility. Downtime is limited to the time required to complete a circuit between the meter run, portable verification system, and main pipeline.