ABSTRACT

Slug flow data are collected from two crude oil multiphase flow lines. The dimensions are 8 and 14 inches and the lengths are about 14 km. For some flow conditions hydrodynamic slugs grow and generate pressure fluctuations in the flow lines and risers. The analysis concludes that long hydrodynamic slugs are generated in upward inclined sections, where transition from stratified to slug flow occurs, referred to a flow map, and grow large in the downstream stratified section. The field data are attempted to be reproduced by means of dynamic simulations. The discrepancies between the data and the simulations are discussed. A methodology using flow pattern maps in combination with field data are presented for prediction of the onset of instabilities caused by hydrodynamic slugging.

Keywords:
production control, production logging, pressure fluctuation, inch flow line, pipeline transient behavior, slug catcher, flow rate, flow line, multiphase production technology 12, reservoir surveillance
Subjects:
Well & Reservoir Surveillance and Monitoring, Pipelines, Flowlines and Risers, Production logging, Downhole and wellsite flow metering, Pipeline transient behavior, Risers
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2005. BHR Group 2005 Multiphase Production Technology 12
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