SA08290690B1 - Multiphase Flow Measurement - Google Patents

Abstract

Abstract The present invention relates to a multi-phase flow meter. Methods and systems that provide measurement of the flow properties of multiphase mixtures within a pipeline carrying gaseous-liquid hydrocarbons and produced material from oil-gas wells are explained. Methods and systems may provide a combination of a fixed-mount ultrasonic gas flow measurement for measurement of gas phase flow characteristics in a pipeline, pulsed ultrasound Doppler sensor(s) and/or RF/microwave electromagnetic sensor(s) for measurement of liquid phase flow characteristics . A combination of sensors may provide multiphase flow measurements under certain flow conditions, eg when a gas-liquid flow is in a largely horizontal pipeline and/or when the flow is layered or layered and/or the like.

Description

Multiphase Flow Measurement Full Description BACKGROUND This application relates to a US application filed on the same date as it also entitled "Measurement of Characteristics of Layered or Annular Liquid Flows in a Gas-Liquid Mixture Using Differential Pressure" (tentatively indicated by Power of Attorney Case No. US NP 57.0824); His detection is incorporated into this application

© As a reference for all purposes. This application is expressly incorporated as a reference to US Patent No. 6,758,100; Filed June 4th” 00010 in its entirety for all purposes. This disclosure relates to the multiphase flow metering of oil-gas wells; but without limitation; With measurements of a high volume/entrapped gas flow fraction and/or velocity/flow rate.

0 Most oil-gas wells eventually produce oil and gas from an underground formation; It also produces mostly water. as a result; Multiphase flow is common in oil-gas wells. Surface follow-up of wells producing oil and gas tends to measure multiple flows 1 of phases with a wide range of gas volume fraction (61377). An example of this is the so-called wet gas wells; where the 6171 is typically greater than the 795 and the fluid flow rate is typically no more than a few hundred barrels per

Vo today. For production tubes like this; Gas flow rate and rate are often needed to be measured

E77

-1- lo the water/hydrocarbon ratio JB and also the composition of the liquid phase; For example (Ji flow less than 795), GVE multiphase flowmeters have been/are used for in-line B (WLR) wells. High is separation and mixing. The separation attempt provides separation of the flow into GVF Two attempts to measure flows, approximately liquid flow in one channel and gas flow approximately in separate channel, and then measure ©

Jy Separately separated flows using single-phase flowmeters. The mixing approach attempts to minimize slip between different phases by mixing the phases into a homogeneous mixture so that velocity and retention measurements can be simplified. Existing methods are highly capable of providing good accuracy for measuring gas flows for 0177 H; In any case; The accuracy of liquid rate measurement is relatively poor. The disadvantage of such methods also includes 0 the extra cost associated with the separators and mixing devices and excessive pressure drop in the pipeline and/or cutting off the flow in the pipeline resulting from the insertion of the separators and/or mixing devices in the pipeline. precisely because the retention of the WLR 5 the mixing method may not provide additional measuring retention (GVF) when the liquid is very low under such conditions. GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present invention provide measuring properties Flow of multiphase mixtures into a tube carrying hydrocarbons produced from oil-gas wells Embodiments of the present invention may provide a combination of a fixed-mounted ultrasonic gas flowmeter for measuring gas-phase flow characteristics in a pipeline. SLY pulsed Doppler sensor(s) and/or frequency sensor(s) 5 and 7

Lula) liquid phase flow characteristics. A combination of sensors may provide polyphase flow measurements under certain flow conditions; For example when a gas-liquid flow in a pipeline is largely horizontal and/or when the flow is in layers or happens to be in layers and/or the like. Flow stratification may be induced naturally by gravity separation or artificially by slowing the flow through the use of expansion or contraction of pipe diameter and/or the like. in one of the models; The Gall disclosure provides a method for measuring the flow characteristics of a multiphase mixture of gas-liquid hydrocarbons and water flowing in a layered flowtube. in one of the steps; The flow characteristics of a gaseous phase in the tube are measured. The flow characteristics of a liquid phase in a pipeline are measured using a pulsed Doppler probe. Gas or liquid retention is determined. The flow rate of 0 gaseous inside the tube is calculated using the gas retention and flow characteristics of the gaseous phase. The flow rate of a liquid inside the tube is calculated using the liquid retention and flow characteristics of the satellite phase. In the “AT” model, the present disclosure provides a system for measuring the flow characteristics of a multiphase mixture of gas-liquid hydrocarbons and water flowing in a layered flow tube. The system includes an ultrasonic gaseous flowmeter; and a Doppler ultrasound probe and processor. The Vo ultrasonic flowmeter is configured to actively engage the tube and configured to measure the flow characteristics of a gas phase in the tube. The pulsed Doppler probe is configured to actively engage the tube and conditioned to measure the flow characteristics of a liquid phase in the tube. The processor computes the accelerator to determine the retention of a gas or liquid; In-tube gas flow rate using gas retention and gas phase flow characteristics; The flow rate of the liquid inside the tube is calculated using the liquid retention and flow characteristics of the liquid phase.

Additional areas of applicability of the present disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description provided herein while it shall be understood that the detailed description and specific examples; While showing different models; It is intended for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the scope of disclosure. Brief explanation. © Drawings The present disclosure is explained in connection with the accompanying figures: Figures 1A-1E: Phase diagrams for standard system models show multiphase flow; and Figures (?a-7e): elevation diagrams of a model tube configuration detailing the components of a multiphase flow metering system; and Figures (?a-7e): showing horizontal cross-section projections of tube configuration models where the cross-section 0 is in a plane generally parallel to the gas-liquid separator boundary; and Figures (4a-;e): showing horizontal cross-section projections of pipe configuration models where the cross-section is in a plane generally perpendicular to the flow within a pipeline; FIGURE 5: A schematic diagram shows the stages of a pulsed Doppler ultrasound model interleaved with a polyphase flow pipeline; and Ve Fig. (1): a phase diagram of a model pulsed Doppler ultrasound probe with beam focusing capabilities; And Figure (7): shows a process sequence map for a process model for measuring the flow of hydrocarbons within a line

Zao tubes. In the accompanying figures; Similar components and/or features may have the same reference numbering. Moreover; Different components of the same type may be distinguished by their next reference numbering by a second cut-out and numbering which distinguishes them among similar components. If the first reference numbering is used in the specification; The description is applicable to any similar components having the same first © reference numbering, regardless of the second reference numbering. Result Model(s) Implementation or detection configuration. Alternatively, the resulting description of the preferred ideal model(s) will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description to achieve the preferred ideal model. It is understood that 0 various changes may be made in The function and configuration of the elements without departing from spirit and scope as indicated in the appended claims. In certain aspects; transit time ultrasonic transducers may be located near or above a pipeline centerline or at a location on the pipeline Views so that the gas phase may be flowing in the pipeline To measure the gas phase in the pipeline Vo probe(s) and receivers may be placed around the pulsed Doppler ultrasonic (EM) segment and/or electromagnetic transmitter The bottom of a pipeline or locations where flow from the liquid phase flow layers in the pipeline may occur. Microwave [RF and receivers on the BM in one feature of the present invention; The transmitter is established (described in US Patent No. LS) and Water Salinity (WLR) for the determination of the water-to-liquid ratio 0 and 7

No 0 is thus fully incorporated as a reference for all purposes). In one embodiment of the present invention; Pulsed Doppler ultrasound probes are set up in a Doppler array around the perimeter of the pipeline to measure water-to-liquid flow. In addition, matrix Doppler can be used to estimate the WLR measurement in some models. Other embodiments use EM© transmission of a WLR meter. The velocity drift between the liquid and gas phases for a horizontal flow is very different from that for a vertical flow of the same value of gas volume (ca) normally; The sliding in the horizontal state is much more. This means that even with the same 077; Liquid retention in the horizontal state is greater than normal is very large. This means of those in the horizontal case. As a result in the vertical case. as a result; 0 The flow regime map for horizontal flows is very different from vertical flows. as dale as the approximation base; The flow regime in the horizontal flow is velocity less than Yo NLA for velocity less than 0.1 m/sec and the apparent gas velocity is less than Yo m/sec. For the apparent velocity of the gas hereafter Yo m/s; The flow system may take an annular flow of moisture. Demanders have discovered that even in loop streams; In any case; Most of the liquid Vo forms a layer of layers toward the bottom of the tube cavity while the remainder of the liquid either forms a thin, slow-moving liquid film on the tube wall or is carried as droplets in the gas phase. The applicants have specified that liquid retention is typically 11 times the fluid cut-off for “61717 > Janay 05 fluid flow > ¥ m/h. Therefore, gravity separation helps to form a fluid-rich hie toward the bottom of a tube horizontal, and a gas-rich region above it, given the phase distribution in and 7

A = these streams; Embodiments of the present invention provide different velocity and retention measurements which Jie may be optimized for different phase regions. For example; in certain traits; Lower retention measurement may be performed for a horizontal tube bore; While the gas velocity may be measured at about the center (all liquid around) one embodiment of the present invention provides a multi-cand flowmeter and the upper part of the horizontal tube. In addition to this, it is used to measure horizontal flows from gas-liquid layers dima phases, which may be; In © models including flows from wet high-gas and low-liquid gas beds. The models of the present invention provide measurement of gas/water/oil flows from oil-gas producing wells. For © of J for wet gas wells it may be 0777 for the flow greater than 730 and the liquid flow rate may be m/h. The flow regime for such flows in a horizontal pipeline is essentially layered or annular, i.e. most of the liquid phase forms a layered flow layer towards the bottom of the tube; While this SY gas moves, some embodiments of the invention provide Jie on top of the liquid phase. Using natural separation of phases present measurement of flow rates of phases in separate liquid-gas regions. Based on analysis of stratified gas-liquid flows; The embodiments of the present invention provide a multi-sensor configuration for multiphase flow measurement; where they may be improved in some aspects to measure dl, multiphase horizontal flows from layers; Including moist gas flows under high Vo and low liquid gas conditions. Gas eg; GAS TIME FLOW METER The gas velocity may be measured using a gauge which may be fitted around the appropriate height of the tube bore to ensure that only the gas/ype rich area is measured. It may provide an additional measure of ultrasound transmission of a transverse tube; Along the direction of 1045 AH

which is perpendicular to the direction of flow information about the detention of liquid droplets in the gaseous phase. Such information may be used to improve accuracy for both gas and liquid flow rate measurements. Fluid flow velocity and fluid retention may be measured by an array of Doppler ultrasonic sensors installed around the circumference of the tube. The WLR in the liquid phase may be measured by a single © pair on the JAY of a BM transceiver whose transport path is mostly covered by a Jill-rich region towards the bottom of the tube. The flowmeter may be constructed around A portion of a straight pipeline and non-intrusive sensors may be used, therefore, there is no disturbance to the flow.In an embodiment of the present invention, an ultrasonic-mounted transit-time gas flowmeter and an open-range Doppler ultrasound probe may be used to measure the flow velocities of a gas and a liquid 0 A layered gas-liquid flow in a horizontal or near-horizontal production pipeline.To measure the flow velocity (lal) a pair of transit time ultrasonic gas flow transducers may be installed to provide ultrasonic wave ples (beams) acoustically via the laterally lateral pathways of the tube. A Doppler ultrasound probe may be fitted at the underside of the tube to measure the flow velocity and the thickness of the prevailing fluid layer (thereby a volume fraction or septum). The thickness of the liquid layer may be estimated from a time delay measurement where VO is the open range Doppler energy at a maximum value. Gas and liquid flow rates may then be determined from previous gas-liquid velocities and liquid fraction measurements; Without interpenetration of production flows within the pipeline. in certain traits; Transit time (gas), Doppler (liquid), and retention flow velocity may also be used to derive appropriate flow system information (from flow system maps); This facilitates the use of a yoo-relationship specific to a more gas-liquid velocity sliding flow regime specific Yoo relation to determine alternative gas-liquid flow rates. e745ve Referring first to fig. (1a); A phase diagram of a model multiphase flowmeter system is shown. Gas flow = liquid from (001) The multiphase flowmeter system measures phases (001-1). Among other places in this specification; Differently explain this model in at least This model includes a Tg flowmeter 5 Figures (1a), (?a), (©a), processor (111), and port (VY) pulsed Doppler ultrasound (VA) Ultrasound © Less than 275 or 2850 and/or GVE This model is configured to operate where the contact rate (116) corresponds. The flow to a production well is low so that the phases work as layers in a horizontal pipeline (on barrels / day in a pipeline? inch). ores - under about Jd) by the velocity of the gaseous phase. Transmits two ultrasonic gas flow uli (VIA) ultrasonic transducers at least measure the transit time (117) of the ultrasonic signal between each other 0 before and after. The velocity of the gas phase flow affects the transit time Transit times can be measured so that the transit times can be used to derive the gas flow velocity Transducers can be configured for installation on the pipeline or can be buried (M7) Time-traffic (111) in an orifice of the tube wall. The pair of ultrasonic transducers is installed traversing around the circumference of a horizontal production flow tube to align the ultrasound beam(s) via sideways V0 horizontally to the diameter of the tube. Say that the time-to-transit ultrasound transducers are placed at various points along the pipeline so that they are angled to the flow direction of the gaseous S(O) phase. Both T-Te transducers (091) can do all of the of transmitting and receiving signals.The latency test may have one UHF transducer transmitting a first signal which is received by the latency transducer (1 =) 0

-11-

Ultrasound for the transit time (Y -111) the other before a second signal is transmitted in the direction

counter. z

The range of the pulsed Doppler ultrasound (VY) probe is reserved in this field. maybe

Doppler sensor (VY) operates at 1MHz; For example; To measure the flow velocity of the prevailing liquid © layer. This model mounts a pulsed Doppler ultrasound probe (VY) on the side

bottom of the tube to measure de pu flow of the prevailing liquid layer flowing at the bottom of the tube. In addition to

that; The liquid level or the liquid-gas interface height can also be determined by means of a probe

Pulsed Doppler ultrasound (171). The cross-sectional area can be measured

Intubation of ultrasonic tube wall thickness gauge; or estimated by readings of 0 from a Doppler Galil ultrasound probe (171). The cross-sectional area is used

Indoor with flow velocity and retention measurements for liquid, hydrocarbon and/or gas volume measurements

Passages through the pipeline per unit time.

The (+(1) processor is configured with a state machine and/or software to automatically select certain parameters of information

bundled. in addition to; Various sensors and transducers are actuated and read by the processor Vo (111). Any input or gas of the multiphase flow metering system (001) passes through Mie

(115) Delivery

Some models may include a display device which shows results and specific measurements; but this

The form only relays this information out of the connection port (116) to a data logger.

5 and 7 vy with reference to fig. (1b); A phase diagram of a model multiphase flow metering system is shown among other places in this specification; This model is explained differently (1-001) AT in figures (1b), (lab), (b), and kb at least. dally (177) prepared in a pulsed-array (71'1) Doppler ultrasound (VY) single. The spatial distribution of the probes may be (111) from when the © probe is used in some features of the invention. The current is dense around the bottom of the horizontal tube. (VYY) Array Doppler to distinguish a better liquid-gas boundary detection. It is (VY) There is only gas or a wetting layer of liquid inside the tube next to the Doppler probe Love Phase liquid. (171) on the periphery where the Doppler probe Syne The reflection is somewhat hidden from the liquid phase; Yay it appears to be next to a wetting layer (VY) By observing any of the Doppler probes 0 it can The liquid-gas boundary in this model is additionally estimated. Referring thereafter to Figure (1c), a phase diagram of another model is also shown for a polyphase flow measurement system (100-?). This model is explained differently in figures (1c), (7c), (7c), and (?c) at least. Unlike the model, which measures phase humidity (018), this includes The model is also based on a gas hygrometer (oo) Fig. 05 using ultrasonic gas moisture transducers (107) placed at the top of the pipeline to be adjacent to the gaseous phase. ead) pipeline interviews near Ultrasonic Gas Moisture Transducers can be impedance matching with the expected gas in the pipeline.

Yvdo

-11- To correct Mall wet gas flow; According to an embodiment of the invention (018) a gas hygrometer measures by means of the ultrasonic wave transit time method using an ultrasonic gas flow in Figures (1c)” and (7c); (2%) and (;c) The dia times for initialization (114) pass through are related to the flow velocity by the following equation: © 0 (tsa-taB)/(taataB) = 72 (dimensional current); B to A term For ultrasound transit time from point tap Cua is for transducer separator on Ble X, mua is prestream transit time, 1 is the amplitude of the flow direction, and .1 is the wave propagation path length. The transit time measurements are combined in such a way that (1) is not a flow velocity. Note that in equation 7.0 the velocity of sound has an effect on the tps ctap measurement in An additional feature of the present invention; calculations of the volume transit times of the mixture ¢ may be used (note that 7 e); (b1) ¢ ~2L/(tap + liwa) These measured dilutions before/ After transfer to derive the moisture of the gaseous phase 1 with respect to a horizontal pipeline configuration, it can be automatically confirmed that the ultrasonic wave path is entirely through the gaseous phase. For example; For wet gas applications, the reservation of the ultrasonic wave path in the liquid can normally be much less than

Yvqe

1- The horizontal plane cutting through the center of the tube. Here the gas flow rate is given by the equation HY) (Y) qoas = V (I-11 )A where ie is the liquid confinement in the tube and A is the cross sectional area of the tube. During measurement of liquid retention in areas of continuous liquid, for example, in the layer of layers near the bottom of the tube bore and in the thin layer on the tube wall; There may be some fine liquid droplets carried in the gaseous phase at O > Yo m/sec. The effect of droplet concentration” if not (aay) may lead to additional measurement error. Droplet concentration may be measured by ultrasound energy propagating perpendicular to the direction of flow. Transit time and a weakening of this energy can be used to estimate 0 moisture retention of the liquid The relationship between the speed of sound and droplet concentration can be derived from the following equation (?): where m ble is the density of the liquid mixture, m is the compressibility, and “is the speed of sound in the mixture. An increase in droplet concentration leads to an increase in op but a non-significant change in 8. Overall effect 1 is a reduction in the speed of sound when droplet concentration increases The attenuation of the ultrasound power is a linear function of droplet concentration provided the concentration is low (typically less than 70 from the cross-section of the pipe) and the length is chosen, Yvqo vo

The waveform of the ultrasound to be longer compared to the droplet size.

Referring to Figure (1d), a schematic diagram of another model of a flow measurement system is also shown

polyphase (4-001). Among the positions (AY) in this specification, the

This model is shown in figures (1d); and (1d); 5 (a7) and (;d) at least. This model includes © Ultrasonic Gas Flowmeter (VIA) for gas velocity measurement and Doppler Array (VYY)

For measurement of liquid confinement, liquid phase velocity and WLR scale (171). This model uses the L scale

(YY+) WLR An electromagnetic wave (VYA) (EM) transmitter that sends a signal to a number of

EM (VTA) Wave Receivers An electromagnetic wave (VYA) transmitter is typically in

pipeline bottom (1” 4) EM wave receivers are placed around the perimeter of the pipeline at 0 positions that are likely adjacent to the fluid bed. Conductivity/salinity of WLR and water affects measurements of

Phase displacement of the transmitted EM wave and/or attenuation of the wave amplitude so that salinity can be determined

WLR and water.

Other models can use multiple BM dase (VTA) transmitters that work with an EM wave receiver

(YY£) singular. EM (VYA) wave transmitters can transmit sequentially or at different frequencies at the same time to achieve diversity in this model.

Previous models have estimated WLR using a pulsed Doppler ultrasound probe (V+)

one or more. This model uses microwave EM instruments (£178) (VV) to determine the WLR

Although nuclear methods based on gamma ray measurements of dual energy may be used to replace

Ultrasound EM detention measurements Microwaves for other models. What db can

11

Other models use any combination of EM microwaves, Lela rays, and/or ultrasound

WLR to select

Referring to Figure (1e), a phase diagram of the AT model is also shown for the flow metering system.

Polyphasic (5-001). Among other places in this specification, this model is explained differently in Figures 1(e); At least .using this form

Ultrasound thin film measuring probes or near-phase (FY) transducers

Gasoline for measuring a liquid thin film or other thin film on the inside of a pipeline. be measuring sensors

Alle (VY) thin layer ultrasound. this way; Doppler matrix spacing

(17) Its ultrasonic probes (171) are tighter around the bottom of the Ve tube to provide better liquid-gas boundary detection discrimination while thin film measuring probes are

(V YY) Scattered solution of the upper half to measure the thickness of the thin film.

Referring to Figure oY) is shown a schematic diagram of the elevation of a pipe configuration model (1-701)

which details the components of the multiphase flow metering system (1-001). The pipeline is being made

(001) of a plastic liner (0 A) prepared in cylindrical shape. Inside the pipeline is a liquid phase (Yio) 05 and phase (1051) (gle) separated by a liquid-gas boundary (YY) to show masses

On the hidden back side of the pipeline (;10); dashed lines are used for these blocks. on

JER (JER) 1st transit time ultrasonic transducer (1-111) on side

The aft of the pipeline and the second transit time ultrasonic transducer (FY-116).

on the front side.

Yvao

-117- In different places along the (111) ultrasonic transducers for the transit time of the signals are placed at an angle towards the flow axis within the pipeline (Al) along the length of the pipeline (10); (VV) This model uses a pulsed Doppler ultrasound probe (001). (01); (1-001) Components of the Jad Multiphase Flow Measurement System (1-701) are peripherally placed in front of the pipeline (171) multiple pulsed Doppler ultrasonic probes for this model. More accurate readings. (VY) allow additional pulsed Doppler ultrasound probes (01). Furthermore, the liquid-gas boundary can generally be accurately determined when the (Ye) stomach is located around the perimeter Pipeline (VYY) Doppler matrix 0 (701-7) Referring to Fig. (7c); a schematic diagram of the elevation of a pipe configuration model is shown

Milas?). This model is -001) which details the components of the multiphase flow metering system. Two VA transducers on the gas hygrometer Lad are set up for the model of Figure 7b; but include gas moisture energy in the upper hemisphere of the pipeline (;107) at a position where two humidity transducers (018) are likely to be. To form a gas hygrometer (Yor) in contact with the gas layer Vo gas are generally directly opposite to each other along The same perimeter. A schematic diagram of the OF of the OF model is indicated by then referring to a figure using this (4-001) which details the components of the multiphase flow metering system (5-6). Maqa

VA

Around the hemisphere (11) (ele) and WLR salinity microwave in the EM/RF scale model prepared signals that receive the EM signal (1764) tubes (17); there are wave receivers The bottom bal is placed at the bottom of the pipeline. Generally, (174) EM 8/microwave from the transmitter of different wave (01) along the same circumference of the EM pipeline are placed wave elements (-5). 700) Referring to Figure (7e) is shown an elevational diagram of a © pipe configuration model with a flowmeter (0-001) detailing the components of a multiphase flow metering system and two metering transducers (VYY) Ultrasound gas (811); this model has a Doppler array for example only; a thin layer Doppler array (17) may include seven Doppler ultrasound waves (171); as is Illustrated in Fig. (7e); Thin (Tr) along the circumference of the upper hemisphere of the pipeline (VY) ultrasonic randomly some (ITY) and transducers (171) gal probes can distribute object models in their corresponding hemispheres and not necessarily along the same circumference as the other m.‎ -700) with reference thereafter to the form “a; A horizontal projection of a cross-section of the Vo tube configuration is shown where the cross-section is in a plane generally parallel to the gas-liquid boundary 1) L(Y) wave transducers point around the center or in the upper hemisphere of the pipeline (YT) (Y+A) ultrasonic transit time ( ) towards each other and are embedded in the plastic lining in this model; But it can be installed in other models. Other elements of a metering system are not shown in this cross section and are not shown. (1 - 001) Multiphase Flow Yo va

Referring to Figure B; A horizontal projection of a cross section of the pipe configuration model (Y-701) is shown

where the cross section is in a plane generally parallel to the gas-liquid (YT) boundary

In addition to the statement of transit time (IVT) ultrasound transducers this model is shown

aa Pulsed-Doppler Ultrasound Probes Ally (VY) are part of the Doppler array (117) oo.

Referring to Fig. JV Horizontal Cross-section Projection of the Tube Configuration Pattern (701-7)

Where the cross section is in a plane generally parallel to the gas-liquid boundary (91).

In addition to showing the elements in the oF model, this model shows gas-moisture transducers

Ultrasound (1071) is set into the plastic liner (817); however other 0 models may use a body mounted on it.

With reference to the oF figure, a horizontal projection of a cross section of the tube configuration model -701 (4) is shown where

The cross section is in a plane generally parallel to the gas-liquid boundary (YTV) shown

Figures oY and d Numbers of the (V+) WLR meter and its “(VY£) EM receiving/transmitting wave elements

(1748). Only a single (VY £) EM wave receiver is shown in the cross-section of the oF shape, but it must be understood that there are many (VE) EM wave receivers distributed in such a way that they are from

It is likely to be in the vicinity of the liquid phase (YE).

in this form; A dupe (VY A) EM wave and multiple (VY£) EM wave receivers are used

To measure water retention and water salinity in a layered liquid bed using microwave [RF] methods; According

one of the models of the present invention. As shown in the figures “d 5 of an EM wave transmitter is installed

YVao

Ye on the underside of the tube (with a suitable semiconductor material window); Transmits frequency in range from (VYA)

EM in the few MHz to few GHz classes; For example. Wave receivers shall be fitted around the circumference of the tube (with windows of suitable semiconductor material also) in angled positions; For example (175)

EM wave receiver is selected (17). EM and 90 degrees from the example 11 and 00 wave transmitter. appropriate according to its position relative to the position of the gas-liquid boundary (770). Normally (1)? (4) © (1"1) liquid = Sle whose position is above the boundary (4) EM jig-wave receiver that has the maximum percentage of its sensing path covered by the most measurable liquid IV (£-1;) in the form ;d). EM can be done for example wave receiver Je) the appropriate sensitivity ("-1;) by means of the EM cut-off measurement information assisted selection Ultrasound wave receiver. (VY) gas-liquid. Result by Doppler matrix measurements 0 of its transmission path which is covered by water. Microwave edn sensitive to [RF] wave measurement [RE] and is much less sensitive to the difference between oil and gas. In itself; Minute dilution and the like shall be proportional to water retention for a constant water conductivity (salinity). Water retention measured by the method using layered pulsed Doppler ultrasound probe(s) may be incorporated); Alla if there is slip between oil and water (as in 3 WLR to derive (001) 0 use the slip value; either estimated from a slip model or measured directly by the method using the WLR measurement gives in determining the (VY) Pulsed Doppler Ultrasound Probe(s) Relevancy Guy Microwave Also Direct Determination of Water Conductivity and Water Salinity Thus for Water Phase What is Explained in US Patent No. 6,831,470 Which ia Under Flow Tip polyphasic; is hereby incorporated in its entirety into this patent for all purposes.‎ 000

The gas flow rate is given by the above equation (Y); lly in which the gas velocity 7 is measured by the ultrasound transit time method and confined by other ultrasound methods (Doppler and/or tube transmission. Although the fractional accuracy of the dry gas velocity measurement is high (sl) within a percentage few for commercial measure); in case multiple lsh) and in particular Loveie

© There is a large slip between the gas and the liquid droplets; Accuracy may be spoiled. If the gas retention measurement error is set to; Assume +75 (This relative precision may be achievable for trapping a gas larger than Ve as

is in typical wet gas flows); Then a gas flow rate of + .70 lad can be achieved. The liquid flow rate is determined from a combination of velocity and retention both measured by Doppler ultrasound methods; Jie What is described in British Patent 2363455 .GB may be an accuracy

0 Measuring velocity achievable + .701 Relative detention measurement error may be; On the other side; Difficult to reduce particularly at low liquid retentions. So one would expect an increased fluid rate error as the fluid flow rate decreases and the 6177 increases. Designing the Bla transducer for in-line use and advanced signal processing can lower the error level.

0 The attribution to a WIR error may come from a water retention measurement error and a liquid retention measurement error and also from the difference between water retention and WLR due to slip between the water and oil phases. Slippage is likely to occur if the oil is separated in a layered distribution. In this case; Neglecting this Jie slip will result in an inaccurate estimation of the WLR's thrust and thus inaccurate oil and water flow rates. Doppler matrix (VYY) may be used with multiple probes (171) (eg; shown in Figure (YF).

Yviao

-11- To measure the velocity of the separated oil and that of the separated water with a layered distribution; Thus sliding. This can change the models to self-estimate the Jie when it is likely to slip (111) The processor perceives it more accurately. (WLR-70) A horizontal projection of a cross section of the tube configuration model al is indicated by Then to form - wherein the cross-section is in the plane generally parallel to the gas separating surface (0 ©

Lal for this model is a Doppler array (7?1) that extends from front to back (YT (liquid) (17) tubes. In addition, there is a thin-layer (Yor) phase ultrasound transducer Gaseous (Yeo) shown so that it is one of many to measure the liquid thin film where (701-1) with reference to Fig. General on the flow inside the pipe (;10). Ve is indicated in this project. Specifically, (1-001) only some of the multiphase flow metering system are shown at the bottom of the pipeline (;10) to measure the flow (171) Pulsed Doppler Ultrasound Probe (YT) liquid - Sle and boundary height (Ye) liquid phase -701) A horizontal projection of a cross-section of a cnt tube configuration model is indicated by the sign after This indicates that the cross-section is in a plane generally perpendicular to the flow inside the Cua (YO) pipe (7-001). For the multiphase flow measurement system (1 YY). This projection shows the Doppler matrix (01). In this model. (71" 1) five pulsed Doppler ultrasound probes are used - the fifth pulsed Doppler ultrasound probe (0-14) is on top of the gas separation surface and the fourth pulsed Doppler ultrasound probe is (£37) below. Analyzing (11) Questions 5 and 7:

—Yy— The readings from these probes (15-17); (17"1-4); the processor can set the boundary to be

Je is a gas - a liquid between the two. Furthermore it; Other sensors below the boundary can estimate the height using reflections from the pulses. (V0 8) The cross-section is in a plane generally perpendicular to the in-pipe flow © in this projection. Specifically; (YoY) Demonstrating parts of a multiphase flow measurement system The passage of ultrasound signals is shown (018). Doppler array with gas hygrometer back and forth between ultrasonic gas moisture transducers (107) (Dotted line

TY) with reference thereafter to form ;d; A horizontal projection of a cross-section of a pipe configuration model is shown ;) where the cross-section is in a plane generally perpendicular to the in-pipe flow 0 in this projection. (4-700) Parts of the L(Y 8) polyphase flowmeter system are shown distributed at different angles around the circumference of the lower hemisphere (the four) EM wave receivers (V8) shown. At the bottom of the pipeline (VYA) EH, the wave transmitter (701) of the pipeline is placed. A horizontal projection of a cross-section of a pipe configuration model (5-700) is indicated, where af with reference to a figure showing oY 8) The cross-section is in a plane generally perpendicular to the intubational flow 1 of the multipart flow measurement system (++ (07) with transducers 1 (YY) this projection is matrix Doppler nine pulsed Doppler probes are present Thin-layer ultrasound (137) is used for this model; however, other models (17) in matrix Doppler (71" 1) ultrasound can have any quantity between six and ten. Take Each of the three transducers measures ultrasonic thin film at 175 AH

Yeo and Models (071) Read the film. By knowing the position of the gas-liquid (FY) boundary. Acoustics (0011). Fluid kinematics; the amount of liquid in the film can be estimated by the three processor Frequency (therefore as spatial characteristics and velocity (VY) high Doppler transducers) may be fitted to the top of the tube (10) to measure the velocity and thickness of the liquid film in the flow near this (Yeo) Jill dada part The information with the measured annular fio. © and with the flow rate of the carried liquid droplets derived by the flow meter oY + £) at the bottom of the tube may then be combined to produce the total liquid flow rate (VA) and the gas hygrometer. (VIA) gas velocity using a frequency lower than that (Yer) of the ill layers can be measured around the fall layer The spatial discrimination is proportional to the dale used to measure the thickness of the thin film. In general, the speed measurement range is la and the multiples are proportional to the frequency ©©. For a pulsed Doppler system 0 for example only; For a relatively fast moving liquid layer of maximum inversely proportional to 1 MHz in some embodiments depending near the bottom of the tube; A frequency may be used depending on the size of the tube and for a slow-moving layer on the tube wall; A frequency of mm in water may be used. 17 MHz. The © MHz frequency has a thickness discrimination of A to with reference thereafter to the shape of ©; A phased schematic of a pulsed Vo Doppler probe is shown

ABS with multiphase flow. A (Yr) meshed with a mass-absorbing (VY+) ultrasonic tube is used (171). To increase the accuracy of the pulsed Doppler ultrasound probe (51 0), energy from a transducer crystal (171) is used. (018) and the impedance is matched to the plastic (0 51) liner. The function of the plastic block (010) is to attenuate the kinetic energy in the plastic (718).

Yo and thus produce a predictable ray pattern in the flow. CAN (YA) PLASTIC LINING WALL (010) Other models use materials other than plastic for mass Detailed description of Doppler measurement principle and signal processing methods for determination of fluid velocity and confinement based on frequency shift and Doppler resonance energy level for flow measurement gas - layered liquid; According to one of the embodiments of the invention | for me; In US Patent No. 6,758,100; Its disclosure is thus fully incorporated into © af this patent may be made as a reference for all purposes. Also supplied in the form of Doppler Ultrasound Transducers (VYY) Liquid and Array Doppler Confinement which may be fitted around the outside of a tube liner so that it is non-invasive (VY) is open range (because .) 177) to flow. In such a configuration, the circumference of the tube may be scanned by matrix Doppler (V+) transducers receive only strong Doppler echoes from the region covered by the liquid phase Vo and fluid retention may be determined from the Doppler power distribution around the circumference The liquid phase velocity (1 40) may be measured from the Doppler frequency shift. With reference to Fig. 1, a phase diagram of a model pulsed Doppler ultrasound probe having beam focusing capabilities is shown. The rigid tube wall broadens the Vo beam of ultrasound and thereby causes reduced spatial resolution of the scan.by itself;and in certain features (YA) the rigid tube by plastic lining (Da) of the present invention; as possible; The pipeline may be cut off; Which allows the use of a focusing mechanism to improve discrimination. As shown in Figure 1, a concentration delay line can be made with a primer (108) which has a higher sound velocity than that 170 ye in (YA) Jie tube lining the same sound velocity ( Te A) for the plastic liner. The second material has a smaller angle of divergence. By adjusting (01 A) this will have a refracted ray in the Jie liner in a form. A different focus can occur in this form. Other models may use algal matrices; Fig. Multi-element transducer and phase electrical excitation to achieve concentration. For multi-flow measurement (Ver) a flow map of the oF process model is shown with reference then to Fig. © (4 700) Phases of in-tube hydrocarbons (?10). The portion shown for the process in the stage begins with layers. A horizontal section of the tube (You) (Yee) where the liquid and gas phases are, may be used to make the multiphase mixture flow layers. On specific features may be specified part length (001?) expanded having an inner diameter greater than the horizontal gia Jia to provide layered flow and in other features a system; pipe or similar to reduce flow rate of multiphase mixture and provide layered flow production 0 tube horizontal (?107).In certain features, the multiphase mixture flow (esa) in may be interrogated by ultrasonic and/or microwave sensors and/or optical sensors and/or other Similar to determining whether a multiphase mixture flows in a layered flow system. For example; Doppler interrogation may be used to determine if and/or where there is a liquid-gas boundary in the Vo tube. The velocity (VIA) ultrasonic gas flowmeter (V2£) can measure in phase may One or more gas-phase (1) ultrasonic transducers or (You) are immersed in a liquid when operating in the field. If this is the case; The AT processor notices that it is very dirty

—Yv-— Error status and may take corrective action; but may not be able to collect a reading (114) Pulsed Doppler ultrasound probe(s) (Yor) can measure the gas phase further; The liquid-phase probe (718) can measure the flow velocity of the liquid phase (746) in the phase (11). The gas-liquid (V4) surface height (OF) pulsed Doppler (OF) probes using reflections and/or a record where the probes (0 Y) appear to be in phase (130) oe not immersed in the liquid phase. (VYY) phase-array Doppler WIR determination of CARY and receivers (11); ); enables stage (YYA) EM using a layered liquid emitter which is confirmed by measurements carried out in the previous stages. (Yor) in gaseous phase (Yeo) in stage (177); optionally measured Liquid film (VT) using ultrasonic thin film measurement transducers 0 to determine whether gas flow measurement is likely (VY £) Gas moisture in phase is measured to determine or estimate (111 gas flow by the information gathered in the previous phases; the gas phase flow rate and/or the liquid phase flow rate and/or the liquid hydrocarbon flow rate is determined in the phase ( 7778) by means of this information may be communicated to other systems and/or displayed. (111) Processor 1 in the features of the present invention; The following information can also be provided by ultrasound transit-time and open-range Doppler systems: Phase or nde flow Very low values of a tube-section shape of power Doppler are indicative of phase gas flow (often with noticeable velocity readings; there are Mostly impurities/dispersions in the Yvio liquid sie water flows

-17 or oil field). (VIA) single phase gas flow; Provides a gas flow meter for the transit time of ultrasonic waves Ala in . ic yu Read In some cases to show (118) The measurement of the speed of sound from a transit time meter may also be exploited Moisture of a liquid carried/droplet fraction in the carrier gas). Liquid fraction (eg © JE) The instantaneous velocity or energy readings of a pulsed Doppler system at tube depth(s) [dsb] chosen may be exploited to demonstrate flow perturbations related to flow system information (eg mass; and two Doppler probes may be fitted axially spaced at the bottom side of the tube and/or the side (which is closely related to the gas velocity JE) e.g. the top RSH of the tube to derive the velocity of 0 for the mass flows) by simultaneously correlating the Doppler flow velocity data of its samples or energy data. A number of changes and modifications can also be used to the exposed models. For example flow meters, arrays, transducers, sensors (ve lila) and transmitters can be integrated. and receivers in different ways for a known multiphase flow measurement system. The number of sensors, probes, and transducers are different in different embodiments. While detection principles may be explained in relation to specific devices and methods; It would be clear to understand

Ya. This description is made only as an example and not as a limitation of the scope of detection

Yvqo

Claims (1)

10 1 Protections 1-1 METHOD FOR METHODOLOGY METHODOLOGY OF FLOW PROPERTIES OF A MULTI-PHASE mixture comprising “-gas-liquid” hydrocarbons and water flowing in a tube (;10) with a manifold flow; where there is a gaseous phase (You) ¥ above the liquid oY) and the method includes on the following steps: ; Measurement of flow characteristics of a gaseous phase (You) in the tube (4,10) using a Doppler © ultrasonic pulsed probe (171); 1 Determine the retention of a gas or liquid; VY calculates the gas flow rate in the tube (−10) using the gas retention and flow characteristics of the A gas phase (005*?); and 4 Calculation of the liquid flow rate in the tube (;10) using Jill retention and liquid phase flow characteristics (YE) 1 *- Method for measuring the flow characteristics of a multiphase mixture comprising hydrocarbons Y and water flowing in a tube (?10) with a manifold flow in accordance with claim No. 0; it also includes the following steps: ; determination of the liquid-to-water ratio (WLR) in the liquid phase (6,7); And © Calculation of flow rates of water and liquid hydrocarbon in the pipe (£)Yo using 1 liquid flow rate 5 WLR -F 1 Method for measuring the flow characteristics of a multiphase mixture comprising gas-liquid hydrocarbons flowing in a tube (8 (Yo) with a manifold flow in accordance with claim number oF ¥ where the determination of the WLR includes an electromagnetic signal transmission step (EM) during phase 1 10- ¢ Liquid using a (VY£) EM transmitter and a (VYA) EM receiver each interlocked so as to allow operation in the tube (10) close to the liquid phase (YE) 1 ;- method Measurement of the flow characteristics of the multiphase mixture comprising gaseous-liquid hydrocarbons and water flowing in the tube (?100) with a manifold flow y of any of the elements ¥ protection dll) where Jak also on the gas phase moisture determination step (Yor) ; Ultrasound. 1 > - method for measuring the flow characteristics of a multiphase mixture comprising Y-gas-liquid hydrocarbons and water flowing in a pipe (;10) with a manifold flow in accordance with any of the elements * - of the foregoing protection; It also includes the step of automatically determining the branching of the multiphase mixture. 1 +- method for measuring the flow characteristics of a multiphase mixture comprising gas-liquid hydrocarbons and water flowing in a tube (;10) with a manifold flow Ty of any of the protection ¥ elements cdl) where the pulse Doppler probe is ultrasonic ¢ (011) one of a number of 5 pulsed ultrasonic Doppler probes arranged in a Doppler array #1-method for measuring the flow characteristics of a multiphase mixture comprising Y hydrocarbons gas-liquid and water flowing in the tube (?100) with a manifold flow Ty of any of the protection elements Y dil where the step of determining gas or liquid retention includes determining the height of the gas-liquid interface using a pulse Doppler probe Ultrasound 0 (OY). Yvqo -11- 1 + method for measuring the flow characteristics of a multiphase mixture comprising gaseous-liquid hydrocarbons and water flowing in a tube (?100) with a manifold flow By any of the previous protection ¥ elements, where: The tube (;17) is arranged so that The polyphase mixture bifurcates; dal © An ultrasonic gas flowmeter (VIA) is engaged so as to enable operation 1 in the upper half of the tube (8) V0 38 horizontal plane along and contains the centerline of the tube V; the Doppler probe is engaged Pulsed Ultrasound (01) A in a form that enables operation with the lower half of the tube (Yet) below a horizontal level 4 along the center line of the tube (014). 1 +- method for measuring the flow characteristics of a multiphase mixture comprising gas-liquid hydrocarbons and water flowing in a tube (;10) with a manifold flow lily of any of the ¥ protection elements dll where the tube is arranged (?10) 1 horizontally to produce bifurcation in the multiphase mixture f and wherein also includes an ultrasonic liquid film measurement step at the top half of the tube (;10) above a horizontal plane along the tube midline (YE) 1-01 Method for measuring the flow characteristics of a multi-phase mixture comprising "-gas-liquid" hydrocarbons and water flowing in a pipe (10;) with a manifold flow Tay of any of the protective ¥ elements cil) where the OVE is greater than 96700 but less than 14 76. - A system for measuring the flow characteristics of a multiphase mixture of gaseous hydrocarbons 1-11 liquid and water flowing in a tube (00) with a manifold flow in which the gas phase (101) is located above Yvao 11- The system includes (YES) JL ; - An ultrasonic gas flow meter (118) designed to interlock the tube (Y+£) in a way that allows (Jail) and includes a number of time-varying ultrasonic transducers1 (111) and placed so that A signaling path between them is located in the (You) gas phase above the (60?7) liquid surface to measure the flow characteristics of the (Yor) A gas phase in the tube; 4 ultrasonic pulse Doppler probes (0171) designed to engage in a 0 shape allowing operation with tube (;10) and designed to measure liquid phase flow characteristics in 11 tube (;100); 1" The (011) wizard is designed to do the following: Determine VF Gas Detention or Bile Calculate Gas Flow Rate in Pipeline (10) Using Ve Gas Detention and Gas Phase Flow Characteristics (You) and calculate the liquid flow rate in the tube (Yo) using liquid retention and flow characteristics of the liquid phase. – a system for measuring the flow characteristics of a multiphase mixture of gaseous hydrocarbons (YY) of claim No. 1; where ly Candy with flow (Y + £) liquid and water flowing in tube Y : also designed for (111) the processor is 7 ; WLR liquid phase determination (0,7); And © Calculation of the flow rate of a liquid hydrocarbon and water in the pipe (;10) using the 1 liquid flow rate WLR - A system for measuring the flow characteristics of a multiphase mixture of gaseous hydrocarbons, F = 11, with a manifold flow and the protection of protection element No. (Yo) liquid and water flowing in the tube Yvae a ¥ Clause ua 0 The system also includes an (YA) EM transmitter; and a (VY€) EM receiver used to measure WLR and water salinity and are engaged © to allow operation with the tube (01©) close to the liquid phase. - System for measuring the flow characteristics of a multi-phase mixture of gaseous hydrocarbons 1-0 1 with a manifold flow according to any of the elements of protection No. (4 01) liquid and water flowing in the tube 7 ultrasonic pulse Doppler where the OF probe to 11© ultrasonic pulsed Doppler is one of a number of 0'011' ;' Doppler acoustic probes arranged in a matrix of © - A system for measuring the characteristics of the flow of the multiphase mixture of gaseous hydrocarbons -1#© 1 liquid and water flowing in the tube (;10) with a manifold flow according to any of the protection elements “doppler” ultrasonic pulse, where it includes Probe 604 to 11 - Pulse Doppler-based Opening on a Transducer Suitable for Probe Measurement (VY); designed to measure the flow velocity and thickness of the liquid phase (7560); f A The thickness of the liquid layer can be evaluated at the speed of sound in the liquid phase and with a time delay 4 has the energy of the Doppler probe opening on a band basis at its maximum.