CHAPTER OVERVIEW
The vast majority of this book relates to âconventionalâ flowmeters, for example, the admonition about single-phase flow. Obviously, this comment does not apply to multiphase meters. Other exceptions are noted as they appear.
The bookâs general approach is to look first at basic principles, particularly with respect to differential and linear meters and the types used in the oil and gas industry for fluid flow measurement. After a review of basic reference standards, âtheoryâ is turned into âpractice,â followed by an overview of fluids and the fluid characteristics. âFlowâ itself is examined next, followed by operating and maintenance concerns. Next, comments are offered on individual meters and associated equipment with a detailed review of the two classes of meters: differential and linear readout systems. Meter proving systems are covered in detail followed by âloss and unaccounted forâ procedures. The book concludes with a discussion of conversion to volumes, conversion of the volumes to billing numbers, and the audit procedures required to allow both parties to agree to the final measurement and money exchange.
Emphasis is not so much on individual meter details as on general measurement requirements and the types of meters available to solve particular problems.
Specifically, this first chapter presents some background information, overviews the requisites for âflowâ and defines major terms used throughout the book. Chapter 2 introduces various relevant subjects, starting with basic principles and fundamental equations. Chapter 3 details the types of fluid measurement: custody transfer and non-custody transfer. Chapter 4 is devoted entirely to listing basic reference standards. Chapter 5 applies theory to the real world and describes how various practical considerations make effective meter accuracy dependent on much more than simply the original manufacturerâs specifications and meter calibration. Chapter 6 covers the limitations of obtaining accurate flow measurement because of fluid characteristics. Chapter 7 looks at flow in terms of characteristics required, measurement units involved, and installation requirements for proper meter operation.
Chapter 8 reviews the necessary concerns of operating the meters properly with examples of real problems found in the field. Chapter 9 covers the maintenance required on real metering systems to allow proper performance over time. Chapter 10 reviews meter characteristics, with comments on all major meters used in the industry. Chapters 11 and 12 detail head and linear meters. Chapter 13 deals with related readout equipment. Chapter 14 discusses proving systems. Chapter 15 covers material balance calculations and studies (i.e., loss and unaccounted for). Chapter 16 introduces auditing required in oil and gas measurement.
REQUISITES OF FLOW MEASUREMENT
In this book, fluids are common fluids (liquids, gases, slurries, steam, etc.) handled in the oil and gas industry in a generic sense. But each fluid of interest must be individually examined to determine if: (a) it is flashing or condensing; (b) has well defined pressure, volume, temperature (PVT) relationships or density; (c) has a predictable flow pattern based on Reynolds number; (d) is Newtonian; (e) contains no foreign material that will adversely affect the flow meter performance; (e.g., solids in liquids, liquids in gas); (f) has a measurable analysis that changes slowly with time.
The flow should be examined to see if it: (a) has a fairly constant rate or one that does not exceed the variation in flow allowed by the meter system response time; (b) has a non-swirling pattern entering the meter; (c) is not two-phase or multiphase at the meter; (d) is non-pulsating; (e) is in a circular pipe running full; (f) has provision for removing any trapped air (in liquid) or liquid (in gas) prior to the meter. Certain meters may have special characteristics that can handle some of these problems, but they must be carefully evaluated to be sure of their usefulness for the fluid conditions.
Measurement can usually be accomplished with any one of several meter systems, but for a given job, certain meters have earned acceptance for specific applications based on their service record. This is an important factor in choosing a meter. Reference to industry standards and users within an industry are important points to review in choosing the best meter for the given applications.
Figure 1-1 Many different types of meters are available for measuring flow. Proper selection involves a full understanding of all pertinent characteristics relative to a specific measurement job.
BACKGROUND OF FLOW MEASUREMENT
The subjects below form the background for fluid flow measurement that should be understood before embarking on the task of choosing a flow measurement system. âFluid,â âflowâ and âmeasurementâ are defined in generally accepted terms (Websterâs New Collegiate Dictionary) as:
Fluid: 1. having particles that easily move and change their relative position without separation of the mass and that easily yield to pressure; 2. a substance (as a liquid or a gas) tending to flow or conform to the outline of its container.
Flow: 1. to issue or move in a stream; 2. to move with a continual change of place among the consistent particles; 3. to proceed smoothly and readily; 4. to have a smooth, uninterrupted continuity.
Measurement: 1. the act or process of measuring; 2. a figure, extent, or amount obtained by measuring.
Combining these into one definition for fluid flow measurement yields:
Fluid flow measurement: the measurement of smoothly moving particles that fill and conform to the piping in an uninterrupted stream to determine the amount flowing.
Further limitations require that the fluids have a relatively steady state mass flow, are clean, homogenous, Newtonian, and stable with a single-phase non-swirling profile with some limit of Reynolds number (depending ...