Flow loops for validating and testing multiphase flow meters

Falcone, G. (2009) Flow loops for validating and testing multiphase flow meters. In: Multiphase Flow Metering. Series: Developments in petroleum science (54). Elsevier: Amsterdam, pp. 295-302. ISBN 9780444529916 (doi: 10.1016/S0376-7361(09)05409-0)

Abstract

Publisher Summary This chapter reviews all the major facilities around the world that provide a broad range of operating conditions for testing multiphase flow meterings (MFMs.) The need to validate and test multiphase flow meterings (MFMs) and to assess their range of applicability caused a significant rise in the number of multiphase flow loops around the world. Flow loops provide measurements of different fluid phases, for a wide range of pressure and temperature under controlled experimental conditions. They can also be configured in various ways to reflect different pipe geometries, inclinations, and diameters. Thus, flow loops are used intensively to test and validate the performance of MFM's, but there are limits to what can be achieved. The initial testing of a meter is usually carried out in the manufacturer's factory first, then in specialized laboratories where two- or three-phase flows can be established. In this type of testing, fluids with well-known properties are used and flow rates are controlled that greatly reduces and even eliminates many uncertainties. Flow loops used to verify and calibrate MFM's have either vertical or horizontal (or both) test sections in order to accommodate some or all the possible metering configurations. Each facility has its own specifications in terms of operating pressure and temperature, phase flow rates, fluid properties, pipe diameter, length of the test section, and available instrumentation and equipment.

• Item Type: Book Sections
• Additional Information: Authors: Falcone, G., Hewitt, G.F., and Alimonti, C.
• Status: Published
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Falcone, Professor Gioia
• Authors: Falcone, G.
• College/School: College of Science and Engineering > School of Engineering > Systems Power and Energy
• Publisher: Elsevier
• ISSN: 03767361
• ISBN: 9780444529916