Development of a Multiphase Flow Metering Procedure Based on the Ultrasonic Technique

In the oil industry, the requirements of multiphase flow measurement pose numerous challenges. In this regard, the ultrasonic technique has been receiving increasing attention in the past years because it is noninvasive, fast responding, and suitable for operation in harsh environments. In this paper, the possibility of eliminating or diminishing the need for flow homogenization or separation in multiphase flow metering (MFM) systems by means of the ultrasonic technique is examined. Visual data as well as ultrasonic attenuation and transit time data in oil-continuous oil-air, oil-sand, and oil-water mixtures in 54-mm diameter acrylic and steel pipes are presented; USP mineral oil and 425 – 600 µm glass beads were used to simulate the petroleum and sand contents, respectively. The potential use of the ultrasonic technique as a substitute for more complex phase fraction measuring instruments is then addressed.