Integrating HydraCHEK® with Multi-Phase Flow Meter
PROPOSED PROJECT OBJECTIVE:
The main objective of this project is to demonstrate that integration of HydraCHEK (a device for determining the concentration of salt and hydrate inhibitors) with Multi-Phase Flow Meters (MPFM’s) can improve the accuracy of MPFM’s and alsoincrease the reliability of hydrate prevention strategies.
After an initial small scale investigation and numerical modelling at Hydrafact, the concept will be investigated in a suitable flow measurement laboratory on MPFM’s using various fluid systems (e.g., fresh water, saline water, MEG solutions and combination of salt-MEG systems). We propose the use of the NEL facilities in East Kilbride, Scotland.
BACKGROUND AND BUSINESS INCENTIVE TO INVEST:
Hydrates are a serious flow assurance concern and chemical inhibitors (e.g., methanol, glycol, etc) are added to prevent hydrate formation, depending on the fluid composition, salinity of the produced water, operating conditions, losses to hydrocarbon phases, etc.
Multi-Phase Flow Meters are widely used in the industry. Despite their apparent differences, they commonly measure two physical properties of the mixed fluid systems. The relevant physical properties of each phase (i.e., water, oil and gas) are generally fed to the system. Adding material balance, the system can determine the amount of each phase. However, the presence of salts and/or hydrate inhibitors can change the properties of phases, in particular the aqueous phase. From discussions with MPFM manufacturers, current MPFM’s are not able to take into account the effects of changes in the concentrations of salts and hydrate inhibitorson the properties of the system. Consequently, the resulting changesarein the overall physical properties (i.e., mixed fluid system) and are interpreted aschanges in the flow rates of the phases (in particular the aqueous phase).
Hydrafact is currently commercialising itsHydraCHEK®technology, developed by Heriot-Watt University through a joint industry project. The technology is based on measuring electrical conductivity and ultrasound velocity of the aqueous phase and determining the amount of salt and hydrate inhibitors. The technology has been field tested worldwide and on various fluid systems. Knowing the produced hydrocarbon composition, the system can determine the hydrate stability zone and super-imposing the system/pipeline P&T profile (or operating conditions) the system can determine the hydrate safety margin.
The main objective of this projectis to demonstrate that the integration of HydraCHEK with an MPFM will help improve the accuracy of the MPFM for changing concentrations of salt and/or hydrate inhibitor. Additionally, the reliability and economy of the hydrate prevention strategy will be improved by providing the hydrate safety margin and ability to optimise inhibitor injection rates.
PROPOSED SCOPE OF WORK:
- Initial small scale modelling and measurements for designing large scale laboratory tests
- Identifyingsuitable MPFM for large scale test program in consultation with project sponsor
- Designing large scale test program in consultation with project sponsor and the test facility provider
- Large scale testing on MPFM
- Data evaluation and recommendation
Hydrafact isseeking MPFM manufacturing companies to partner with to further develop this technology. If this proposal is of interest to your company, or you require further information please contact .
HYDRAFACT LIMITED – Hydrate and Flow Assurance Consulting and Technologies