Flow Measurement Research Does It Have A Future?
Abstract/Introduction:
When you see the number of people attending a Symposium such as this, and consider also the frequency with which Flow Measurement Conferences are held around the world, the answer to this question might seem obvious. However we have to consider what the driving forces are which lead people to embark on a Flow Measurement research project, because if it is done for the wrong reasons there will be no long-term future in it. Carrying out research is always attractive to intelligent young people with enquiring minds, but if they are to be able to continue in research after, say, they have completed PhD studies, there are two basic things necessary:
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Document ID:
B586FDB0
The Effects Of Pipe Wall Roughness Upon The Flow Field Downstream Of Two Close Coupled 90O Out Of Plane Elbows
Author(s): Gerald L. Morrison, Karine Tung
Abstract/Introduction:
A numerical simulation of the flow field inside a 0.203 m ID pipe operating at a Reynolds number of 7,300,000 with natural gas has been performed. The pipeline geometry consists of two diameters of straight pipe upstream of two 90o elbows separated by one pipe diameter of straight pipe. The two elbows are mounted such that the planes of the elbows are at 90o to each other. Downstream of the elbows, fifty pipe diameters of straight pipe are present. The inlet condition to the pipeline segment is fully developed flow. The initial solution obtained was for smooth pipe walls. The two elbows out of plane generated a large vortex centered on the pipe centerline which causes the flow to swirl around the pipe centerline. Subsequent simulations incrementally increased the wall roughness. As the pipe wall roughness was increased, the flow became axisymmetric quicker, the axial velocity centerline velocity increased along with the axial velocity near the wall decreasing and the swirl decreased in magnitude.
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Document ID:
627315F6
Measurement Accuracy Of 1/4 (6.35 mm) Thick Orifice Plate Installed In An 8 (200 mm) Orifice Fitting Designed For 1/8 (3.175 mm) Thick Plate.
Author(s): Zaki D. Husain, John B. Roussel, Franklin D. Goodson
Abstract/Introduction:
In the current Standards 1, 2, the recommended orifice plate thickness for an 8 (200 mm) orifice flow meter is 1/8 inch (3.175 mm). A 1/8 thick orifice plate installed in an 8 fitting has a maximum allowable differential pressure limit of 150 inches of water column (37.3 kPa), which limits the maximum flow rate through the meter. The plate clearance, in a commercially available 8 orifice fitting designed for 1/8 thick plates, is adequate for installation of 1/4 (6.35 mm) thick plates with a special seal. Mechanical tolerances specified in the standard do allow installation of 1/4 thick orifice plates in an 8 orifice fitting designed for 1/8 thick plates, provided the beta ratio is less than 0.64. This experimental study was to evaluate the measurement accuracy of a 1/4 thick orifice plate installed in an 8 fitting designed for 1/8 thick orifice plates. Based on the data presented here, a 1/4 thick plate with beta ratios between 0.2 and 0.6 can be installed in an 8 fitting designed for a 1/8 thick plate and precise flow rate measurement is achieved without any modification to calculation method and/or secondary instrumentation. For the same beta ratio, a 1/4 thick orifice plate can be subjected to a higher differential pressure than a 1/8 thick plate. Hence increased flow rates through the meter can be achieved by using a 1/4 orifice plate in existing 8 orifice fittings designed for 1/8 thick plates.
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Document ID:
01AB6BA5
Compact Orifice Meter Station Project
Author(s): E. Kelner, T.B. Morrow
Abstract/Introduction:
This paper presents the preliminary results of a research effort aimed at developing a compact multi-tube orifice flow meter/header installation configuration. By exploiting the benefits of flow conditioners as part of the meter installation, it may be possible to reduce the overall size, footprint, and weight of a typical multi-tube meter/header installation by approximately 50% without adversely affecting flow rate measurement uncertainty. Capital savings due to such a reduction in size of typical offshore flow meter installations are estimated to be on the order of 250,000 to 500,000 (1999 U.S. dollars) per offshore structure. It may also be possible to extend the allowable range of orifice beta ratios (i.e., the ratio of the orifice diameter to the meter tube diameter) in such installations. The current beta ratio limit for short orifice meter tubes is 0.45.
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Document ID:
8B7C43ED
Scale Up Tests On The Nova Flow Conditioner For Orifice Meter Applications
Author(s): U. Karnik, W.Studzinski, J. Geerligs, R. Kowch
Abstract/Introduction:
The NOVA-50E flow conditioner has been extensively and successfully tested for its performance as an isolating type of flow conditioner in orifice meter applications. However, it has only been tested in 4inch meter tubes. Although the flow conditioner is designed to be scalable, the claim was verified in the present tests in an 8 inch line size. The disturbance was generated by using two elbows out of plane, with zero spacer between the elbows. The 8-inch flow conditioner has been placed at several distances from the installation and from an 8 inch orifice meter. The tests were carried out at the Didsbury Gas Dynamic Test Facility in natural gas, at static pressures in the range 5000 to 6000 kPa. The orifice meter performance in the presence of the flow conditioner was compared to its baseline performance when placed downstream of a 19 tube bundle + 80D long meter run. The reference flow, in both cases, was a bank of sonic nozzles traceable to the primary gravimetric system. Results indicate that the flow conditioner is scalable and performs as expected in larger meter runs. In addition to the flow conditioner performance tests, some results of the 8-inch orifice meter without the flow conditioner are also presented. These results agree very well with the data available in literature.
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Document ID:
09A5391E
Qualification Of A Flow Condtioning Device According To The New AGA Procedure.
Author(s): Klaus Zanker, Dale Goodson
Abstract/Introduction:
The new AGA 3/API 14.3 standard on concentric square edged orifice meters suggests that if installation effects can be shown to be less than about 0.23%, then there is no need to apply any additional uncertainty to that of the basic discharge coefficient. This has revived interest in flow conditioners that can assure this performance, without the need for long straight upstream lengths of pipe. A feature of the new standard is that it specifies performance acceptance tests for evaluating other flow conditioners, which were not included in the previous versions of the document. In this paper we will review this procedure, and show results from a device that is currently being qualified in this manner.
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Document ID:
F7CA2D74
Uncertainty In Theoretical Mass Flowrate Of Pure Gases Through Critical Flow Nozzles
Author(s): D. G. Stewart, J. T. R. Watson, A.M. Vaidya
Abstract/Introduction:
The critical flow nozzle is a very accurate and reliable flowmeter and as such is frequently used in laboratories to calibrate other flowmeters. The critical flow nozzle must initially be calibrated itself, usually against a gravimetric facility or some other primary standard, in order to obtain the coefficient of discharge. The uncertainty in Cd is also analysed. However, this uncertainty analysis does not take into account fully the thermodynamic uncertainty in the theoretical mass flowrate, most likely because it is not known. This paper rectifies this situation by developing a method to estimate the thermodynamic uncertainty in the theoretical mass flowrate of a gas through a critical flow nozzle. The method estimates this uncertainty by considering the uncertainties in density, speed of sound, enthalpy and entropy from the equation of state used to calculate the theoretical mass flowrate. Over the range 250-400 K and up to 15MPa the uncertainty in the theoretical mass flowrate for nitrogen, methane, argon, and carbon dioxide lies in the range 0.06/0 to 0.4/0.
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Document ID:
119D9FC1
Compressible Flow Effects In Subsonic Venturis
Author(s): Thomas Kegel
Abstract/Introduction:
When a subsonic venturi is used to measure the flow of a compressible fluid there will be a density difference between the two pressure taps. This effect needs to be accounted for by a term called the gas expansion factor. A theoretical gas expansion factor is traditionally applied to measurements made with a venturi element. The degree to which the theoretical value is applicable to a particular venturi depends on the design as well as the flow conditions. In some cases a meter specific gas expansion factor must be determined. This paper describes the process for determining gas expansion factor based on calibration data. A test plan has been developed and applied to two different devices. The effects of Mach number, Reynolds number and gas species are described. Calibration data from both devices are presented and discussed.
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Document ID:
279DEBCF
Pulsation Free Rotary Piston Meters For Use As Reference Standards
Author(s): H. H. Dijstelbergen
Abstract/Introduction:
The paper describes a novel positive displacement meter that features an extremely large range of more than 1 : 400 and pulsation free operation. This meter, when used as a reference meter will allow a significant improvement in the uncertainty that can be achieved in meter calibration. Its performance is virtually insensitive to installation effects such as swirl or uneven velocity distribution. Being of a true positive displacement construction, its pressure dependence, if at all present, will be very small. The pulsations of this meter have been minimised by using two metering cartridges in parallel and connecting the rotors to generate pulsations in opposite phase. The elimination of any residual pulsations by incorporating a flexible membrane retains the superior characteristics of the meter at high pressures. Experimental data on range, repeatability, sensitivity to installations and on pressure dependence are given in the paper.
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Document ID:
A61F55EA
Gas Flow Transfer Standard Procurement Of Usaf Correlation Standard
Author(s): D.S. Madden
Abstract/Introduction:
The United States Air Force Metrology and Calibration Program has recently procured a sonic nozzle/venturi Gas Flow Transfer Standard (GFTS) for use as a correlation standard. The purpose of the correlation standard is to verify the specifications of gas flow primary standards at Air Force Precision Measurement & Equipment Laboratories (PMELs). The GFTS will be sent to individual PMELs for dynamic testing of bell provers, piston provers, and other gas flow measurement standards. The paper discusses the specific features of the GFTS hardware and software. The initial calibration data from the National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST) is presented. Plans for deployment and operation in a remote calibration mode are discussed. The paper will provide a basic overview of the USAF correlation-testing concept for gas flow measurement standards. The intended audience consists of individuals who are considering the addition of a correlation method to their current support of gas flow measurement standards. The correlation method can reveal errors that are not detectable with a fundamental unit calibration.
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Document ID:
2C41B7F8
Noise Reduction In Ultrasonic Gas Flow Measurement
Author(s): Kevin Warner, Klaus Zanker
Abstract/Introduction:
Ultrasonic meters are becoming increasingly accepted for the custody transfer measurement of natural gas. This is reflected in the most recent standards, regulations, and codes of recommended practice, such as the AGA Report Number 9, the Regulations and Guidelines of the Norwegian Petroleum Directorate, and the UK Department of Trade and Industrys Petroleum Measurement Guidelines. Although these documents encourage the use of ultrasonic meters, they do not provide rigorous installation instructions and it is possible for design engineers to place meters in locations not suitable for ultrasonic measurement. One common concern for operators is the possibility that ultrasonic noise present in the pipeline might interfere with the meter and thereby compromise its performance. Such noise is typically generated at points with significant pressure reduction, such as flow control valves.
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Document ID:
F000AEBE
Novel Transducers For Ultrasonic Flow Measurement
Author(s): I. Ladabaum, K. D. Patel, A. J. Cittadine
Abstract/Introduction:
Recent developments in microfabrication technology have spurred novel designs of ultrasonic transducers. This paper presents the characterization and modeling of capacitive microfabricated ultrasonic transducers. Such transducers, which are made using the techniques of the semiconductor in- dustry, can transmit and receive ultrasound in both liquids and gases. Trans- mission has been demonstrated in air at atmospheric pressures at frequencies from 1 MHz to frequencies in excess of 10 MHz. The devices have a dynamic range of at least 110 dB at a bandwidth of approximately 5%. Devices with bandwidths of approximately 50% have been realized, but have a dynamic range of approximately 90 dB. Preliminary data indicates that the devices are extremely broad band in high pressure environments, though at the time of press conclusive data was not available. Data is presented which demon- strates that no substrate cross-coupling between array elements is observed in air, thus conrming the feasibility of beam steering applications. Broad- band transmission has also been demonstrated in liquids. Transmission from 1 MHz to 20 MHz has been observed width bandwidths in excess of 50% in the low MHz range. Capacitive microfabricated ultrasonic transducers are anticipated to enable new generations of ow measurement devices.
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Document ID:
11D42F58
A Measurement Assurance Program Map() Using Critical Flow Venturis
Author(s): Richard W. Caron, Thomas m. Kegel, Charles L. Britton
Abstract/Introduction:
Ford Motor Company is involved in accurately measuring the air mass flow rate into their internal combustion engines for improved fuel economy and for meeting the required level of pollutant output. In this endeavor, Ford has constructed many different flow stands which measure air mass flow rates during various fabrication and manufacturing processes. To be assured that each flow stand is measuring the mass flow correctly, a Measurement Assurance Program (MAP) has been implemented. This paper describes the physical hardware (artifact) which consists of piping sections and three Critical Flow Venturis (CFV). It presents the methodology of obtaining calibration data on two CFVs (installed in series), and how to combine the results for the three CFVs to determine the accuracy of the measured air mass flow rate. The MAP artifact has been used for inter-laboratory comparison. Data from several internationally known flow laboratories is presented. Two laboratories (NIST and CEESI) have performed multiple calibrations on the artifact over a period of several years, while four other laboratories have performed a single calibration. The presented data shows the comparison between laboratories and estimates whether the differences are due to systematic or random effects by a Youden analysis.
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Document ID:
067F9DED
A Study Of The Repeatability And Reproducibility Of The Critical Flow Venturi
Author(s): Thomas Kegel
Abstract/Introduction:
The critical flow venturi (CFV) has long been recognized as a high quality gas flow calibration artifact. A program is underway to compile data to be used in determining the intrinsic repeatability and reproducibility of a CFV. This paper describes the initial results of the program, it is divided into three parts. First, primary calibration data from a single CFV are tracked over a 30 year period. Second, results of a test program are presented with the objective of classifying short and long term random effects. Third, results from two test programs are presented with the objective of identifying the source of random effects.
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Document ID:
D250133D
Timely Accurate Measurement Information Management Of Data Collection, Validation, Maintenance And Publication Of Measurement Information
Author(s): R. B. Rans
Abstract/Introduction:
Advances in natural gas primary device metering research, technological evolution of instrumentation and the wide-spread implementation of electronic flow measurement has enabled the timely creation of accurate measurement data for a meter run. This paper presents the implementation of an information management system which: collects measurement data from 2000+ electronic flow measurement devices at 1000+ measurement points validates the operation and maintenance of the measurement facility automatically finalizes the data as custody transfer measurement for use in the gas allocation and billing systems or initiates corrective maintenance and finalization of the data manages the changes to measurement data resulting from the corrective maintenance and finalization process summarizes the individual meter run data to meter station data and meter station data into summary meter station data for management of groups of stations creates estimates of future measurement and manages the refinement of these estimates until valid measurement data has been received from the meter station and publishes the resulting hourly meter station custody transfer transaction records (with validity and business acceptability values), operation and maintenance, and audit information.
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Document ID:
B274A508
Investigation Into The Accuracy Of Multiple Critical Flow Venturis Mounted In Parallel Within A Common Plenum
Author(s): Richard W. Caron, Charles L. Britton, Thomas m. Kegel
Abstract/Introduction:
An experimental test program was conducted to investigate various combinations of parallel critical flow venturis (CFVs) mounted inside a common inlet chamber. The test program was designed to determine if an increase (or decrease) in accuracy or repeatability is obtained by utilizing multiple CFVs to measure an air mass flow rate instead of a single CFV. Data is presented for various CFV combinations ranging from a single CFV to eight CFVs operating in parallel at three distinct flow rates. In addition to the classical data presentation of throat Reynolds number versus discharge coefficient, Youden analysis is presented. The test program was repeated at three different time intervals to investigate long term repeatability as well as short term repeatability from a single test.
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Document ID:
E7589ECC
Flow Induced Uncertainties For The Ultrasonic Flow Meter
Author(s): T. Lland, R. Sakariassen, L. R. Stran, I. R. Gran, R. Olsen
Abstract/Introduction:
In the present article the authors present results from model cavities using numerical simulations, visualisations and Laser Doppler Velocimetry (LDV). The agreement between the three different methods is good, both inside the cavities and in the main flow past the cavities. The present results show that the combination of using experimental investigation together with numerical simulations is a powerful tool when investigating complex flow structures.
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Document ID:
14CDC09A
Uncertainty Analysis For The CEESI Iowa High Flow Test Facility
Author(s): Thomas Kegel
Abstract/Introduction:
In March of 1999 CEESI completed construction of a natural gas calibration facility located in Clear Lake, Iowa. This facility is specifically designed for the calibration of high flowrate custody transfer meters. The calibration of these flowmeter must be made using a method that is traceable to NIST with an uncertainty analysis of that traceability. This paper describes certain aspects of the traceability methodology and uncertainty analysis.
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Document ID:
17640AEF
A High-Accuracy, Calibration-Free Multiphase Meter
Author(s): G.J. Miller, C.J. Alexander, F. Lynch, D.J. Thompson
Abstract/Introduction:
The need for accurate and reliable measurement of three-phase flow streams is well documented. To this end Daniel have developed a high-accuracy multiphase flowmeter based on the sound measurement principle of gamma-ray absorption. The ultimate aim of such technology is to replace the measurement function of the traditional test separator with a cheaper, lower-maintenance and calibration-free alternative. At present, due to its high-accuracy water-cut (WC) and real-time performance, MEGRA has also been utilised for well management programs downstream of such traditional test separators. This paper outlines the basic principles behind the multiphase flow measurement and highlights some of the advantages of the present technology. The use of relatively low-energy gamma-ray emissions and high-resolution solid-state detectors lends an enhanced sensitivity to the measurement. Consequently, water-cuts and gas volume fractions can be determined to high accuracy ( 2%) in relatively short measurement times (seconds). A method of measuring changes in the process water salinity, which seriously affects most multiphase flow measurements, and an extension of this method to achieve full calibration-free operation in the field, is discussed.
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Document ID:
511DF5AA
Effect Of Liquid On Orifice Meter Measurement Accuarcy In High Pressure Natural Gas
Author(s): R.K. Mcbrien
Abstract/Introduction:
The effects of low liquid (ethylene glycol) loads on orifice metering of high pressure (4600 to 5000 kPa) natural gas has been examined for three different orifice beta ratios (b), 0.31, 0.60 and 0.69. Using orifice flow correlations developed for dry gas flow, a measurable meter shift (MS) in predicted gas flow rate from dry gas conditions has been observed for liquid to gas mass ratios (z) ranging from 0.25 to 6.0 %. The magnitude and direction of the observed shifts varies with z, meter gas flow Reynolds number, Reorf (2.8x106Reorf11x106) and b. The greatest positive shifts (up to 1.4%) occurred for the larger values of z (2%) and the lower values of b. For z 2% and b of 0.60 and 0.69, MS was initially negative (as low -0.7%). The results observed in this work agree with trends from earlier work reported in the literature, done with different liquid/gas combinations and pressure ranges. The reason for the observed shifts has been speculated but at this time more research is needed to confirm if these speculations are correct. Flow visualization would be an important next step to enhancing the evaluation of these phenomena.
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Document ID:
1BAB8CD4
Performance Characteristics Of An Extended Throat Flow Nozzle For The Measurement Of High Void Fraction Multi-Phase Flows
Author(s): J. R. Fincke,C. Ronnenkamp, D. Kruse, J. Krogue, D. Householder
Abstract/Introduction:
An extended throat flow nozzle has been examined as a device for the measurement of very high void fraction (a 0.95) multi-phase flows. Due to its greater density and partial contact with the wall, the equilibrium velocity of the liquid phase appreciably lags that of the lighter gas phase. The two phases are strongly coupled resulting in pressure drops across the contraction and in the extended throat that are significantly different than those experienced in single-phase flow. Information about the mass flow rates of the two phases can be extracted from the measured pressure drops. The performance of an extended throat flow nozzle has been evaluated under multi-phase conditions using natural gas and hydrocarbon liquids at 400 and 500 psi. Two hydrocarbon solvents were used as the test liquids, Isopar M O (sp 0.79) and Aromatic 100a (sp 0.87). These data are compared to prior air-water data at nominally 15 psi. The high and low pressure data were found to be consistent, confirming that the temperature, pressure, and size scaling of the extended throat venturi are correctly represented. This consistency allows different sized devices to be applied under different fluid conditions (temperature, pressure, gas and liquid phase composition, etc) with confidence.
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Document ID:
6662953A
Advances In Precision Clamp-On And Clamp-On Spool Transit-Time Ultrasonic Flowmeters
Author(s): Joseph Baumoel
Abstract/Introduction:
Until recently, the universe of Transit-Time Ultrasonic Flowmetering has been divided into the worlds of Clamp-On and Insert Spool Section instruments. The obvious convenience, higher reliability, lower installation and maintenance cost advantages of Clamp-On instruments was tempered by the security in having transducers pre-installed on a flow profile conditioned and factory calibrated Insert Spool. Advances in Clamp-On Transit-Time Flowmeter and Wide Beam transducer design have now permitted development of Custody Transfer capable field installed Clamp-On (Refractive Beam) ultrasonic flowmeters, and pre-calibrated Wide Beam Clamp-On Spool Section instruments with superior performance to that achievable by the Wetted Transducer (Orthogonal Beam) Spool Section. This has been made possible by advances in Clamp-On Transducer technology which permit matching the transducer to the Sonic Waveguide parameters of the Spools pipe, so that the pipe now becomes an integral part of the ultrasonic flowmeter, rather than an uncertain interposition into the sonic beam. Liquid Signal to pipe Noise ratios exceeding 1000 to 1 has been achieved permitting calibration stability of better than 0.1%. Advances in Sonic Signal Analysis, such as the development of MultiPulse transmission, have resulted in extremely high flow detection sensitivity and calibration stability. Injection of Phase Markers in the MultiPulse sonic transmission signal permits precise measurement of the actual sonic Transit-Time, essential to accurate flowrate computation. Accordingly, Dual Beam Clamp-On Spool Sections now achieve accuracy better than 0.25% of actual flow over flow ranges as high as 100:1. Custody transfer accuracy is also maintained despite substantial variation in the sonic properties of the liquid, as is frequently encountered in actual applications. The paper describes these Wide Beam based Transit-Time instruments, and provides experimental and field data in support of their accuracy and stability. Also presented is data testifying to the accuracy of Wide Beam Clamp-On Transit-Time ultrasonic flowmeters installed in multiple Site Station pipeline management systems.
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Document ID:
5FCFA2FF
Ultrasonic Multi-Channel Flowrate Measuring Method For A River And System Thereof
Author(s): Khaksu
Abstract/Introduction:
The measurement of a natural river flowrate based on a traditional ultrasonic multi-channel flowrate measuring method for an open sluice way has not been firmly fixed on the basis of the theory and experiment to evaluate the accuracy (error) of the flowrate measurement with a higher reliability. That is why seeing the distribution of the water stream cross section along the river length as much as 3 to 5 times longer than the river width the cross section shape and area are not equal even at any place, and also the flow velocity of the revolving component is compositely developed. For it, river flowrate measuring hydrology circles does not have a higher reliability on the ultrasonic flowrate measuring method. The paper is supposed to question problems in the flowrate measuring hydrology circles and suggest several methods for resolving these problems.
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Document ID:
59D8D0C5
Performance Evaluation Of A 3 Inch Micro-Motion Mass Flow Meter In High Pressure Natural Gas Applications
Author(s): U. Karnik, J. Geerligs, R. Kowch
Abstract/Introduction:
This paper presents results obtained from the testing of a 3inch Micro-Motion Coriolis mass flow meter. The meter was tested at the Didsbury Gas Dynamic Test Facility (GDTF), near Calgary, in natural gas, at static pressures of around 5700 kPa. The meter performance was compared to a bank of sonic nozzles traceable to the primary gravimetric system. Results indicate that the meter showed a bias of 0.49% when compared to the reference nozzle bank. Such a bias could be eliminated by flow calibrating the meter in natural gas. A flow calibrated meter has a repeatability (2s) of 0.3%. This is within the stated accuracy of the device which is 0.5%. Within its repeatability and accuracy, the meter can be used downstream of installations such as two elbows in plane and elbows out of plane without the use of a flow conditioner.
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Document ID:
E66615E8
Performances Of The New Smm Flow Conditioner
Author(s): D. Dutertre, V. De Laharpe, G. Mouton, A. Strzelecki, P. Gajan
Abstract/Introduction:
Although widely used, turbine meters are very sensitive to installation effects. They require minimum straight pipe lengths, even when existing flow conditioners are installed. Therefore, Gaz de France has developed a new flow conditioner, the SMM conditioner, specially designed for use in pressure reducing stations upstream of turbine meters. The use of this conditioner results in much smaller stations, meaning less building work, lower installation costs and reduced environmental impact, while at the same time providing an excellent measurement accuracy. This device totally eliminates the effects of strong flow disturbances. It allows the turbine meter to be mounted directly downstream of any pressure regulator, without affecting the metering accuracy. The conditioner was rigorously tested by Gaz de France, Gaz du Sud-Ouest and CERT/ONERA, using LDA experimental measurements, and compared to the most efficient existing flow conditioners. Validation tests have been successfully carried out under real operating conditions, on a delivery station of the Gaz de France network. This paper presents this new flow conditioner, the experimental tests and their results, and gives some conclusions on its efficiency.
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Document ID:
ACBBCDD8
Tachometric Type Flow Meter, Past, Present And Future
Author(s): Y.Z. Sun, Y.N.Zhao, D.J.MO, H.Tian, S.R.Yao
Abstract/Introduction:
Tachometric gas flow sensor with levitating rotor is a kind of novel electrifiable flow sensor, which has a very simple structure. This paper introduces the sensors operating principle and its structure. In this paper the levitation and the rotation mechanism of the rotor are described. The design considerations cmthe levitating rotor and the sensors internal flow channel are outlined. The experimental test results are reported, The leading features for this new type flow sensor are summarized. It is expectant that this new type flow sensor VW become next generation for tachometric flow sensor.
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Document ID:
733ACCF6
A Turbine Meter With Built-In Transfer Prover W. m. Schieber
Abstract/Introduction:
A new class of gas turbine meter is presented that evaluates the accuracy of the meters mechanical output by using the well-known transfer proving method. The accuracy is determined under actual operating pressures and temperatures without interrupting the normal service of the meter. No pressure or temperature measurements are required for determining accuracy. The built-in master meter is a second turbine meter built into the outlet of the meter body. Other types of transfer proving systems could be integrated into the meter, however, such as, a differential pressure meter or an ultrasonic meter. The primary function of the built-in master meter is to determine error in the main cartridge resulting from changes in mechanical friction. A second function is determining meter error due to upstream swirl caused by the effect of the installation. Tests have shown that the meter accuracy agrees within 0.20% of the accuracy obtained from a primary standard for extreme changes in mechanical friction or severe upstream swirl. The meter can also detect and warn of other causes of meter error, such as, jetting, pulsating flow, on-off flow, partial blockage, and bent or broken rotor blades although the measured accuracy may differ from the true accuracy.
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Document ID:
F06DFC39
A Four-Laboratory Intercomparison Of Water Flow Measurement Facilities In Asia Pacific Area
Author(s): Lung-Hen Chow, Jiunn-Haur Shaw
Abstract/Introduction:
To assure the consistency in their individual claimed error and measurement uncertainty, four participating laboratories in Asia Pacific area, including Center for Measurement Standards/ITRI (CMS) in Taiwan, Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science (KRISS), Shanghai Institute of Process Automation Instrumentation (SIPAI), and Daqin Design Institute & Measurement Research Institute (DDIMRI) in China agree to adopt the generally accepted practice of the international flow measurement community to conduct an inter-laboratory comparison round-robin test of water flow measurement facilities. Test program exhibits DN 100 twin-orifice plates with associated tubings used as a transfer standard, DN 100 water flow measurement facility chosen in each laboratory with test flowrate selected about from 19.7 to 117 m3/h, and precision differential pressure measurement ranging from 4.4 to 156.8 kPa approximately. The resulting Time Youden plots finally were drawp from intercomparison data to statistically illustrate degree of conformance at 95% confidence level for all four facilities. The measuring capability and performance of precision differential pressure measuring device Rosemount Model 3051 C applied for intercomparison program during these two years is also being reviewed and reassessed. This intercomparison test campaign is part of a continual realization and promotion to prospectively facilitate formation of a regular group for exercising the key comparison in flow measurement field around the Asia Pacific area.
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Document ID:
9FCEEA2A
An Instrument For Gravimetric Calibration Of Flow Devices With Corrosive Gases
Author(s): J. . Hylton, C. J. Remenyik
Abstract/Introduction:
An instrument was developed for the direct mass flow calibration of gas flowmeters that does not require measurement of temperature, pressure, or specific volume. This instrument measures the weight of gas collected in a container and makes measuring those thermodynamic variables unnecessary. The need to measure the weight of the gas container is eliminated by submerging it in a liquid (presently water) and balancing its weight with the force of buoyancy. The accuracy of this Gravimetric Calibrator is unaffected by the pressure and temperature of the gas. The Calibrator can also measure reactive, corrosive, and non-ideal gases. The container remains connected to the process by a torsion capillary, and a load cell measures the changing gas weight continuously throughout the measuring process. A prototype was designed for gas flows ranging from 1 sccm of hydrogen to 10,000 sccm of tungsten hexafluoride, constructed, tested, and used to calibrate flow devices. Experience with the prototype and results are presented, and plans for further developments are discussed.
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Document ID:
2A8DEB2B
Flow Investigations On Free Vents
Author(s): K.G. Sivaprakash, As. Murali, Dr. V. Jayaraman
Abstract/Introduction:
This paper describes the test methodology and results of the flow test conducted on various pipe vent configurations. Free vents like long radius bend, mitre cut bend, canopy vent normally used in petroleum storage vessels, were tested for establishing its breathing capacity. Wire meshes of various porosity, were kept at the vent inlet to study its effect on the breathing capacity of the free vent. The tests were carried out in the suction mode so as to simulate the conditions as that during the outflow of petroleum products from the storage vessel. Suction pressure of 20, 25.3 and 30mm of water column was maintained inside the vessel during these flow tests, to establish the flow curve for each free vent. For some of the vents out-breathing flow capacity was established by operating the system in the pressure mode, so as to simulate the conditions of flow into the storage vessel.
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Document ID:
D23B0E73
Efficiency Evaluation Of Frequently Used Flow Conditioners
Author(s): B. Mickan, D. Dopheide, G. Wendt, R. Kramer
Abstract/Introduction:
The paper reports about velocity profiie measurement downstream of several pipe configurations according to OIML-recommendation OIML-R-32 and systematic investigation of the efficiency of well-established flow conditioners to figure out their most useful application. The report covers the experimental verflcation of OIML-R-32 by means of flow profde measurement downstream of the pipe configuration and flow conditioners, the evaluation of the efficiency of flow conditioners and the investigation of the development of the flow profdes. Up to now more than twelve flow conditioners have been evaluated.
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Document ID:
D652A9B6
A Systematic Approach For Correcting The Reading Of A Flow Meter In Disturbed Pipe-Flow
Author(s): C. Wildemann, W. Merzkirch, K. Gersten
Abstract/Introduction:
We demonstrate a method for correcting the reading of flow meters exposed to notfully developed pipe flow. The method is demonstrated with the measurement of the two components of the wall shear stress along the circumference of the pipe wall slightly upstream of the meter. Making use of a physical model for characterizing the disturbances in the flow as caused by installations and a neural network approach allows to correct the reading of a meter (here: Venturi) without having knowledge of the specific type of installation.
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Document ID:
1100B0C6
In-Line Multiphase Metering Using A Radio Frequency Resonator
Author(s): A. Gasch, P. Riegler
Abstract/Introduction:
A new type of non-invasive multiphase meter is presented which is based on a radiofrequency dielectric measurement principle using a slow-wave resonator. A major advantage of the metering system is that it requires neither flow modifiers nor field calibration. The data analysis is based upon a theoretical treatment of the metering system where the fluid constituents determine the dispersion and hence the measured resonance spectrum. The measurement concept is explained and the theory is verified by experimental results.
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Document ID:
5B5E0F0F
Effect Of Liquid On Orifice Meter Measurement Accuracy In Low Pressure Air
Author(s): R.K. Mcbrien
Abstract/Introduction:
The effects of small amounts of entrained water on orifice metering of low pressure air flows (58 kPaa) has been examined for a 101 mm, 0.61 beta ratio (b) orifice plate at an orifice flow Reynolds number of 1.3x105 . Using orifice flow correlations developed for dry gas flow 1, a measurable meter shift (MS) in predicted flow rate from dry gas conditions was observed for water to air mass ratios (z) ranging from 0.22% to 5.9 %. All observed shifts were positive, with some reaching a maximum and then decreasing as z was increased to greater values. The shifts were not as expected based on previous studies reported in the literature. It was found that the MS could depend on the location of the orifice temperature measurement in some circumstances (i.e. upstream or downstream of the meter). The unexpected MS trends were due to evaporation of the water when the air entering the test section was unsaturated. This was evident form the different trends observed in measured flow temperatures upstream and downstream of the orifice plate. Such trends should be used as an indication that phase change is occurring. These results illustrate the importance of accounting for phase change between the liquid and gaseous states of gas/liquid mixtures to properly characterize metering errors that may occur with orifice meters.
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Document ID:
3431BBC7
Response Of A Slotted Orifice Flowmeter To An AIR/WATER Mixture
Author(s): Gerald L. Morrison, K. R. Hall
Abstract/Introduction:
The ability of a flow meter to respond predictably to the presence of liquid and gas is important to the natural gas industry and to users of steam. In both cases, the gas can become saturated and some liquids can condense in the line. The response of orifice flow meters to the presence of liquids is erratic and produces considerable uncertainty. Turbine flow meters can sustain severe damage when subjected to two phase flow. The slotted orifice flow meter (Morrison, et al.1) has been developed to address the problem of upstream flow conditioning. This device has been shown to be insensitive to the upstream velocity profile. To further evaluate the flow meter for use by the natural gas industry, the effects of adding liquid to a gas flow upon the meter performance has been investigated by subjecting a slotted orifice flowmeter with an equivalent ratio of 0.50 to a two phase flow consisting of air and water.
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Document ID:
93A6179A
A European Collaboration To Evaluate The Application Of Multi-Path Ultrasonic Gas Flow Meters
Author(s): K. R. Wild
Abstract/Introduction:
There is an increasing interest in using ultrasonic gas metering technology in gas production and transmission. However, there still remains some hesitation in applying the technology for fiscal and sales gas metering until wider experience has been obtained, and industry standards have been established. This interest is highlighted by the research groups of nine of the leading European gas companies joining together to undertake studies on a number of practical problems associated with multi-path ultrasonic meters. In this paper, the participants share some of the concerns they have experienced in the use of ultrasonic meters, and the results from this research work which addresses those concerns.
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Document ID:
97627632
Ultrasonic Gas And Fluid Flowrate Measuring Method And System Thereof
Author(s): Khak Su
Abstract/Introduction:
An ultrasonic multi-channel flowrate measuring system has a bright prospect, if the gas transportation pressure loss does not occur and the calibration inspection is simple and cheap, under the conditions that the inner diameter of a gas transportation pipe becomes larger and the range of measuring the flowrate gets wider. But, under these conditions, there are problems in realizing a flowrate meter based on the traditional ultrasonic pulse transit time difference method or the phase dtierence flow velocity measuring method. The fundamentalproblem is to result from the drifi (deflection) of the ultrasonic transit due to the damping of the ultrasonic wave in gas and the larger changing width of the gas flow velocity. As the problems questioned in the paper and their resolving method, a radial ultrasonic multichannel flowrate measuring method based on a new phase difference method and a transit time difference method using a fi-equency modulated ultrasonic wave is suggested. The flow velocity measuring method is also successfidly adaptable to a liquid flowrate measurement.
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Document ID:
63197DFC
A New Acoustic Flowmeter Measuring The Mean Pipe Flow Velocity
Author(s): Wan-Sup Cheung, Jin-Sung Suh, Jong-Seung Paik
Abstract/Introduction:
This paper proposes a new technique of directly measuring the flow velocity averaged along the finite length of the pipe as well as over its cross-sectional area. Unlike the conventional flowmeters, the proposed technique exploits the onedimensional plane waves that propagate uniformly across the pipe cross-sectional area. When a fluid flows along the pipe, the plane waves are superimposed with the flow field such that the positive-going and negative-going plane wave components undergo the change of their wave numbers. Such wave number variation due to the mean flow velocity has provided a major motivation for developing a new way of measuring the mean flow velocity in the pipe. To shed light on theoretical understanding about the acoustical phenomena and to examine the feasibility of the new measurement technique of the mean flow velocity in the pipe, dedicated experimental setups have been also developed in this work. It consists of three major parts: the microphone arrays used to measure the change of wave number along the pipe, the horn-driver generating a standing wave inside the pipe, and a flow rate controller tuning the flow conditions along the pipe. Experimental data observed so far, including the comparison of measured results obtained by the KRISS standard flow measurement system, are shown in with discussions.
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Document ID:
B0DFEE27
Three Acoustic Flow Measurement Methods
Author(s): Paul Alves
Abstract/Introduction:
Three acoustic methods for flow measurements in pipes or ducts are presented here. These methods are based on plane wave acoustics and on the fact that the phase of a traveling plane wave will vary monotonically with frequency and distance traveled and will carry information about the flow velocity, The proposed methods have the advantage of being non-intrusive, and insensitive to pulsation. In fact, the pulsation and the noise present in the fluid serve as the acoustic source in the measurements. The first method called Three Station Method explores the changes in the phase of standing waves between two points in a pipe. The computation of the flow was made simple by effecting the calculation at certain frequencies where significant simplification was possible. This method provided reasonable results as an estimator method for the flow. The second method, the Two Station Method makes use of a single two-channel measurement of dynamic pressures at two stations located some distance apart in the pipe. The simplicity of the calculations required by this method makes it very attractive for field use. A variation of this method is also included here. The third method, called the Four Station Method makes use of four measurement transducers in the pipe. This method is sophisticated in its demands for data manipulation and computation but can be easily incorporated into an on-line flow measurement system. This method can be very precise in determining the mean flow rate under various conditions.
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Document ID:
C0940A21
Characterization Of A Pyroelectric Anemometer Profilometer
Author(s): Jay N. Zemel, Carlos Lopez-Reyna
Abstract/Introduction:
Mass flow measurement systems employing both thermal and acoustic methods have reached a high level of sophistication in recent years. 1, 2, 3 The use of Doppler shift methods for measuring average gas speed in a duct is one of the more actively studied areas in flow measurement research and development 4. While this technique has many attractive features, it is an expensive and computationally intensive methodology. The latter issue relates to the algorithms needed to extract the flow information from the multiple sensors heads and not to the steadily decreasing cost of the computation itself.
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Document ID:
5B74751D
Uncertainty Analysis Of Large Water Flow Calibration Facility
Author(s): Y. Terao, m. Takamoto
Abstract/Introduction:
The NRLM large water flow calibration facility, which sets the primary standard of water flow rate in Japan, is one of the largest calibration facilities for water flow meters in the world. This facility covers a flow rate range of 0.014 to 0.83 m3/s (50 to 3000 m3/h). The test lines range from 100 to 1100 mm in diameter (D) with a minimum upstream straight pipe length of 100D. The flow rate is measured using the weighing and timing method. The uncertainty of this facility has been estimated in accordance with the ISO Guide to the expression of uncertainty in measurement. The expanded uncertainty of the flow rate (k 2) was estimated to be 0.034%. The major error sources and their contribution to the standard uncertainty of the flow rate were the measurements of (a) the mass of the water in the weighing tank (0.0130%), (b) the duration for which water flow was diverted to the weighing tank (0.0085%), (c) the buoyancy for the correction of the mass of water in the tank (0.0070%) and (d) the density of the water (0.0025%). The results of an international comparison with the primary standard in Sweden are also described.
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Document ID:
816A2FBD
The Effect Of Using Atmospheric Air In Critical Flow Nozzles.
Author(s): D. G. Stewart, J. T. R. Watson, A. m. Vaidya
Abstract/Introduction:
The critical flow nozzle is commonly used with atmospheric air. This poses a problem as the equations of state used to calculate the theoretical mass flowrate for air are based on dry CO2-free air. The air must be dried, and the CO2 removed before use or the effect of atmospheric air accounted for. This paper analyses the effect of water vapour and CO2 on the critical flow of air. The analysis utilises the AGA8 equation of state, which can be used for dry and moist air. Using recent data for the water vapour pressure enhancement factor, the analysis covers the temperature range 0 - 50C at pressures up to 15 MPa. The results show that the effect of the carbon dioxide present in atmospheric air is small, but that the effect of water vapour can be significant. As the maximum mole fraction of water vapour in air goes down with increasing pressure and up with increasing temperature, the effects can be most significant at low pressures and high temperatures. A previous correction factor for water vapour in air, developed for low pressure, is shown to apply well over the range. A new correction factor is presented which removes the need to calculate the mole fraction of water in air.
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Document ID:
210D1713
Discharge Coefficient Of Super Accurate Critical Nozzle At Pressurized Condition
Author(s): Masahiro Ishibashi, Masaki Takamoto
Abstract/Introduction:
Critical Venturi nozzles of ten pieces essentially complying with 1S09300 whose machining errors were less than lpm were calibrated by a constant volume tank system using air at absolute pressure of 0.1-O.5MPa with the Reynolds number of 5X104-1.2X10G. All the measured discharge coefficients were distributed along a fitted curve, which had been obtained from calibrations of other 23 critical nozzles with negligible machining error performed at atmospheric pressure and lower with Reynolds number up to 2.4x105, with scattering of 0.l?ZO. The curve agrees with 1S09300 with the uncertainty of the 1S0, but it has a steeper gradient and significant deviation from the 1S0. One of the nozzles indicated a boundary layer transition at the Reynolds number around 106 as abrupt decrease of the discharge coefficient by 0.0570. In view of the fact that the 1S0 is rather suitable for larger Reynolds number up to 107 with turbulent boundary layer, the fitted curve is considered to be better to be employed at low Reynolds number below 106 where the laminar boundary layer is expected.
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Document ID:
CC5D0A5A
Influence Of Thermodynamic Calculations On The Flow Rate Of Sonic Nozzles
Author(s): F. Vulovic, E. Vincendeau, , J.P. Vallet, C. Windenberger, O. Villanger, J. Bosio
Abstract/Introduction:
This paper describes the results of two intercomparisons using a sonic nozzle as the transfer standard. They were initially conducted in line with the activities of EUROMET, a grouping of European flow metering laboratories which were subsequently joined by NOVA, CEESI and SwRI. Two types of comparisons were made, between European and North American gas flow metering installations and between the methods used by those laboratories to calculate the critical flow function C*. The transfer standard used was a critical flow Venturi nozzle. The calculation methods considered were the ISO 9300 standardized equations for dry air and natural gas, the different versions of the AGA8 method, as well as several other methods developed by the laboratories, some of them based on the free energy equation. A comparison of these calculation methods shows that deviations exist in the results found in natural gas and that the deviations are smaller in dry air.
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Document ID:
81DCA952
Installation Effects Of A Compact Nozzle Array With Two And Four Elbows
Author(s): Fong-Ruey Yang, Jiunn-Haur Shaw, Wen-Bin Wang
Abstract/Introduction:
This paper describes the investigation of the Cd deviation between the actual and the theoretical compact nozzle Cd due to different kinds of piping configurations. The compact nozzle array consists of thirteen single nozzles. Each nozzle has actual volumetric flow rate of 40 m3/h and was calibrated individually by the primary nozzle based on the ISO 9300 pipe configuration (designated as reference case A). Other piping configurations for the nozzle array constitute a straight pipe with flow conditioners (case B), two and four elbows (cases C & D), respectively. To avoid the interference effect between nozzles, the distance between neighboring nozzles was placed following the requirements of Park 1 and Stevens 2. In case A, except for one nozzle, all other Cd values lay within a band of f0.2/0 1S0 9300 curve. In case B, deviation of C. varies from 0% to -0.3%, when actual volumetric flow rate was raised from 40 m3/h to 520 m31h. Deviations of Cd for cases C & D were less serious. However, the data had a similar trend as that in case B, with the ed deviation changing from 0.05/0 to -O.12/0. The expanded uncetiainties of these Cd deviation were O.155/0 at 95/0 confidence level. The reason for the strong shifl of Cd as observed in case B is not clear but may attribute to difference in temperature measurement of the in-coming flow. Thus, firther study will focus on the interaction of asymmetric flow field with the temperature probe to resolve the phenomenon observed in the present research. It is believed that for accurate flow measurements, the discharge coefficient Cd of a compact nozzle array would best not be taken directly from single nozzle data.
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Document ID:
C292A11E
Venturi Tube Discharge Coefficients
Author(s): m. J. Reader-Harris, W. C. Brunton, J. J Gibson, D. Hodges, I. G. Nicholson
Abstract/Introduction:
This paper describes 15 Venturi tubes manufactured in a range of diameters from 50 mm to 200 mm and of diameter ratios from 0.4 to 0.75. They have been calibrated in water and high-pressure air. An equation for the discharge coefficient in water has been obtained with an uncertainty of 0.75 per cent. In air the situation is considerably more complicated. Equations fitting all the air data with an uncertainty of approximately 1.25 per cent have been derived. Of these equations the one with a physical basis gives an uncertainty of the difference between the air and the water data of 0.75 per cent. However, when modifications are made to the tappings to seek to determine the limitations of the equations, the data fit the equation which is less well founded physically further work is being undertaken to understand the phenomena observed.
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Document ID:
4E9ED709
Enhanced Performance Of An Integrated Gas Chromatograph For On-Line Natural Gas Analysis
Author(s): Teresa J. Lechner-Fish
Abstract/Introduction:
The physical properties of the gas, the composition of the gas during upset and the operation in hazardous locations can affect the analytical method development and the hardware design. The gas chromatograph must be compatible with the physical properties (e.g., the physical state) of the sample. The sample must be introduced to the gas chromatograph as a single phase. Since on-line gas chromatographs are installed at the pipeline to analyze sample continuously, the system must be designed for fast analyses and low maintenance. The thermal conductivity detector (TCD) has been used extensively in the on-line gas chromatographs due to its simplicity, stability, durability and universal detection. Many analyses require the measurement of fixed gases (H2, O2/Ar, N2, CO and CO2) and light hydrocarbons (C1 - C10) for which the TCD is ideally suited. Optimization of a thermal conductivity detector for on-line gas chromatography inevitably involves improvements in detectability and linearity while minimizing degradation of column performance by the detector itself. To optimize the chromatography, the column module should be warmer than the valves and detectors while minimizing the inter-connecting temperature gradients. With our design (patents pending), the increased thermal mass and improved insulation minimizes the impact of environmental temperature changes. By integrating the valves and detectors into a single structure, the lengths of interconnecting tubing and flow path can be greatly reduced. With this arrangement, the dead volume of the system has been reduced by approximately 60%. In addition, the maintenance process has been greatly simplified. This paper describes the enhanced operating characteristics and performance of a new integrated gas chromatograph. Of particular interest are design improvements, which greatly affect the data quality. In addition, repeatability data for a light hydrocarbon (C1 - C10) application is discussed. This data represents an order of magnitude improvement from data presented in previous publications
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Document ID:
0824B731
A Flameless Calorimeter Using Auto-Ignition Processes
Author(s): W. H. Vander Heyden, R. A. Berg
Abstract/Introduction:
A newly developed referencing calorimeter is described which performs with accuracy, provides rapid measurement, is robust and economic both in its initial investment and for continuing costs of ownership. A flow of gas is mixed with air and directed to a ceramic/platinum element (PIM) which is operated at a constant temperature above 800C. The temperature of the mixture rises rapidly when passing through the temperature gradient between the structure entrance and the PIM body. In passing through this gradient, all gas components are heated and auto-ignition temperatures are exceeded. Oxidation of the gas releases chemical energy which is immediately quenched transferring the heats of combustion to the PIM. Molar gas flowrate is measured using pressure methods. No catalysts are involved or required. The PIM temperature is maintained constant by changing the supplied electrical power. Combustion energy contacting the PIM is interchangable with electrical energy and is a direct measure of heat evolution. The PIM is confined within a structure designed to contain explosive conditions. Quenching is very effective, prevents flames and provides rapid cooling of combusted products. Measurement are made at the stoichiometric ratio or with excess air where the gas/air mixture is always maintained lean.
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Document ID:
F332B677
Real-Time Optical Btu Measurement Of Natural Gas At Line Pressure
Author(s): N. Goldstein, m. Gersh, F. Bien, S. Richtsmeier, J. Gruninger, S. Adler-Golden, D. Griffies, C. Ronnenkamp, D. Householder, J. Krogue, D. Gould
Abstract/Introduction:
A method and device have been developed which accurately measure the BTU content of hydrocarbons at pipeline conditions. The cost of this device will allow some users who currently collect samples to have the advantages of on-line BTU measurement. The device measures, reports, and logs the BTU value per unit volume several times per minute. As the cell is nearly isobaric with the pipeline, the energy flow through the pipeline can be computed directly as the product of the BTU value per unit volume times volumetric flow rate. BTU and composition are measured via optical absorption spectroscopy in the vicinity of 900 nm using a spectrograph and a silicon array detector. In contrast to longer infrared wavelengths, the natural gas absorption spectrum in this spectral region is a linear combination of the spectra of the component species. The observed spectrum can therefore be accurately fit to yield the concentration, in molecules per unit volume, of all C1 to C6 hydrocarbon components and water. The energy content of the components is then summed to yield the BTU per unit volume. Additional information such as the compressibility, density, and specific gravity can also be obtained from the measured gas compositions.
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Document ID:
18A25FD3
API/IP/ASTM Petroleum Measurement Tables
Author(s): R. A. Webb
Abstract/Introduction:
The Petroleum Measurement Tables document the volume correction factors (VCF) which correct the effect of thermal expansion and compressibility on hydrocarbon liquids. This paper gives insight into the format of the 1980 revision to the tables which transformed the tables from hard copy format to an algorithm and implementation procedure format. The Petroleum Measurement Tables are designated as API MPMS Chapter 11, ASTM D1250, and IP 200. Details are provided on the various updates and revisions to the tables which include the integration of compressibility and thermal expansion correction into one process, the use floating point math over integer math techniques, the expansion of the tables limits to higher density and lower temperature ranges, and the introduction of a new temperature base (20o C), are discussed. Finally, the paper discusses future considerations in the publication of the tables. Possible formats and mediums are presented.
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Document ID:
D2E34B3E
Internal And External Comparison Measurements For Ensuring Accuracy And Traceability In Flowmeter Calibration
Author(s): Walter Poeschel
Abstract/Introduction:
Comparison measurements become more and more important to perform traceability and to confirm the accuracy of flowmeter calibration facilities. But intercomparisons between different laboratories are very complicated, expensive and time consuming. Therefor a method is proposed to prove different components of the the total measurement uncertainty by internal comparison measurements between different flow measurement devices within the laboratory. The paper describes this method and its realization in the new primary standard for water flow measurement at PTB (being under construction now). This test rig represents a combined double type standard containing a gravimetric and a volumetric part, connected by a set of turbine meters in parallel, and offers the possibility for carrying out comparison measurements between two metrologically independent measurement devices, a gravimetric and a volumetric one. The set of turbine meters is needed to overcome differences in volume and flowrate ranges. The influence of the turbine meters on the uncertainty of comparison measurements (it is expected to be smaller than 0.01 %) was investigated using a special test installation. The results of various measurement series using this test installation are reported.
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Document ID:
C1F7D2A1
Analysis Of The Traceability Chain And Calculation Of Uncertainty Of A High-Pressure Test Facility For Flow Rate Measurements
Author(s): Thomas Kurschat, Ottokar Brandt,Wolfram Bremser, Werner Hasselbarth
Abstract/Introduction:
pigsar is an officially recognised high-pressure test facility designed for testing and calibrating gas meters used in fiscal metering at flow rates between 8 m/hr and 6,500 m/hr and pressures ranging from 14 - 50 bar. This paper presents the test facilitys calibration chain and describes an analysis of its uncertainty based on closed uncertainty propagation of all influential variables. This approach meets the requirements of the ISO Guide to the Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement. Owing to the relatively short calibration chain, the exclusion of installation-related uncertainties by consistently avoiding changing meter installation configurations during the calibration process and the use of uncertainty-reducing regression methods, the calibration uncertainty achieved for gas meters calibrated at the high-pressure pigsar test facility is not much above 0.1 %. Correlations between standards connected in parallel are taken into account. The results of the uncertainty analysis have been confirmed by the scatter found when recalibrating the pigsar working standards. Employing uncertainty budgets to make the sources of uncertainty and their effects on calibration uncertainty transparent not only makes it possible to specify individual uncertainties in detail but also to optimise the calibration and test methods of the test facility itself. Where deviations are found between calibration levels of different test facilities, the uncertainties determined for the test facilities involved can be used to decide whether the deviations observed are significant or whether - in view of the prevailing uncertainties - the results can be considered the same.
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Document ID:
03FCD47B
Revision Of ANSI-2530 Orifice Meter Standard - Basis Of Recommended Meter Run Length
Author(s): W. Studzinski, U. Karnik P. La Nasa, T. Morrow D. Goodson, Z. Husain J. Gallagher
Abstract/Introduction:
The latest revision of the ANSI/API-2530 orifice meter standard introduces significant changes in order to improve the performance of the orifice meter when subjected to non-ideal flow conditions. In the case of bare tube installations, existing recommendations have been changed and additional recommendations have been provided for new types of pipe fittings. The major finding was that users of orifice meters have to be particularly careful in selecting meter run lengths for installations which generate flow swirl, for example, headers or elbows out of plane. For applications using flow conditioners several revisions have been made. The use of the 19 tube bundle flow straightener has been subjected to several new restrictions. To obtain optimal performance from an orifice meter for a given application, the flow straightener has to be used in accordance with recommendations for its locations, meter tube length and orifice b-ratio. Moreover, the new tube bundle flow straightener has to meet defined mechanical specifications and tolerances to deliver the expected performance. The standard also provides a performance test procedure, which would allow the use of other flow conditioners, for example, isolating type flow conditioners. Specifications for orifice meter run lengths have been revised by using high quality data, evaluated by well defined rules within the framework of practical considerations. These changes will result in a metering device, which is more accurate, repeatable and reliable and can be considered on par with other metering technologies. The present paper describes the process, which was used to accept data and develop new recommendations for the orifice standard. It provides the necessary background information, which can help users understand the reasons behind the proposed changes and demonstrates that the recommendations indeed result in a much improved orifice meter performance.
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Document ID:
0524322B
12-INCH Ultrasonic Meter Flow Verification Testing At The Mrf
Author(s): T. A. Grimley
Abstract/Introduction:
The results presented in this paper are a portion of a suite of flow tests proposed to verify that a meters performance is within the bounds specified in American Gas Association (A.G.A.) Report Number 9. Baseline performance of 12-inch Daniel and Instromet multipath ultrasonic meters with four types of commercially available flow conditioners is presented along with bare meter tube performance. The baseline results are used as a reference for tests involving a single 90 elbow upstream of the meter. The work was sponsored by the Gas Research Institute (GRI) and was performed at the GRI Metering Research Facility (MRF) at Southwest Research Institute. The results indicated that flow conditioners may change the bias associated with a meter, but this change was generally less than 0.2%. When either brand of meter was installed with 10D between the meter and the elbow, the results without flow conditioners showed changes in meter bias error, relative to the baseline, of less than 0.2%. This result was independent of the meter orientation relative to the elbow and as good or better than the results obtained with flow conditioners.
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Document ID:
1E6C2DE9
Advanced Calibration Device For Use In In Situ Calibration Of Nuclear Fuel Assembly Test Facility Flowmeters
Author(s): C. L. Wiltz
Abstract/Introduction:
Many flowmetering devices exist which incorporate a vast range of technological and installation complexity. Much research has been accomplished establishing the applicability, accuracy, and reliability of these flowmeters. The fact remains, the accuracy of any flowmeter is a function of installation configuration, upstream flow characteristics, and calibration. It is optimal, to yield maximum flowmeter accuracy, to perform In Situ flowmeter calibrations using a calibration device which itself is insensitive to installation and upstream flow characteristics. This paper presents design, calibration, and verification results of an Advanced Calibration Device developed for use in calibration of Nuclear Fuel Supply Industry fuel assembly test facility flowmeters. Results from calibration and verification testing are presented illustrating the ability of the Advanced Calibration Device to yield a proper and constant conditioned flow regardless of entrance flow characteristics. While illustrating the accuracy and applicability of the Advanced Calibration Device for In Situ calibration of test facility flowmetering devices, this paper presents actual industry applications of a flow conditioning device, flowmeter, and upstream flow characteristic test results. Calibration testing was performed for the Siemens Power Corporation test facility using the Advanced Calibration Device, confirming previously applied flowmeter mass flow correlations.
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Document ID:
371AFBB6
Impact Of Pipe Vibrations On Vortex Flowmeters Under Operating Conditions
Author(s): E. Van Bokhorst, M.C.A.M. Peters, C.H.L. Limpens
Abstract/Introduction:
The TNO Institute of Applied Physics experimentally investigated the impact of vibrations on the output of five different make 3 inch industrial vortex flowmeters in an air flow circuit under atmospheric operating conditions. To our knowledge the impact of pipe-wall vibrations on the accuracy of vortex flowmeters under flowing conditions has not been investigated in detail so far. Various installation effects, such as swirl, a-symmetry of the flow profile and pulsations are investigated and reported amongst others by Mottram 1. We have investigated the impact of flow pulsations on the accuracy of the five different vortex flowmeters in an earlier study as reported at the Flomeko 1998 2. In the investigation we performed pipe-wall vibrations were imposed in three directions over a wide range of frequencies and vibration amplitudes. It was shown that under these conditions vibrations can cause large systematic errors in flowmeter reading depending on make flowmeter, vibration frequency and amplitude. These errors are caused by the sensor, picking up not only the dynamic forces from the vortex shedding, but also the wall vibration. Subsequently, the sensor cannot distinguish between the vortex signal and the pipe-wall vibration. The reading of the vortex meter at zero or low flow rates is primarily determined by the vibration frequency. This effect was observed already at low vibration acceleration amplitudes in the order of 0.25 g peak. This is, for the frequency range above 20 Hz, below the acceptable level of 20 mm/s peak, regarded as acceptable for pipe systems in a design stage from dynamic stress point of view. This vibration criterion differs from those used in vibration tests intended to check the structural integrity of the meter according to IEC 68-2-6. Concluding, it can be stated that one should be careful with the use of vortex flowmeters when pipe-wall vibrations are present near the metering section with frequencies within or nearby the operating range of the flowmeter, even when the amplitudes of pipe vibrations are small. It should be noticed that the tests are performed for air at atmospheric conditions, the sensitivity for pipewall vibrations will decrease if the medium density increases. The different measures, chosen by manufacturers to decrease the sensitivity of vortex flowmeters for vibrations are so far not fully succesfull and further improvements on construction, electronic filtering, sensor type and sensor location should be investigated.
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Document ID:
1C041A98
Real-Time Measurement Of Vehicle Exhaust Gas Flow
Author(s): J. E. Hardy, T. E. Mcknight, J. O. Hylton
Abstract/Introduction:
A flow measurement system was developed to measure, in real-time, the exhaust gas flow from vehicles. This new system was based on the vortex shedding principle using ultrasonic detectors for sensing the shed vortices. The flow meter was designed to measure flow over a range of 1 to 366 lps with an inaccuracy of +1% of reading. Additionally, the meter was engineered to cause minimal pressure drop (less than 125mm of water), to function in a high temperature environment (up to 6500C) with thermal transients of 150C/s, and to have a response time of 0.1 seconds for a 10% to 90% step change. The flow meter was also configured to measure bi-directional flow. Several flow meter prototypes were fabricated, tested, and calibrated in air, simulated exhaust gas, and actual exhaust gas. Testing included gas temperatures to 6000C, step response experiments, and flow rates from 0 to 360 lps in air and exhaust gas. Two prototypes have been tested extensively at NIST and two additional meters have been installed in exhaust gas flow lines for over one year. This new flow meter design has shown to be accurate, durable, fast responding, and to have a wide rangeability.
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Document ID:
5E2E67D9
Standardization Of Vortex Shedding Flowmeter
Author(s): m. Takamoto, Y. Terao
Abstract/Introduction:
The design of a vortex shedding flowmeter has been optimized for its standardization. The optimization was achieved by evaluating the linearity of the flowmeters with various bluff bodies. It was found that the Strouhal number of the optimized flowmeter has a constant value of 0.2503 in the Reynolds number range of about 105 to 2 x 106. The effect of the installation conditions of the flowmeter on the measurement error was examined. The sensitivity of each flowmeter dimension to the K-factor of the flowmeter was also evaluated. The results indicated that the uncertainty of dry calibration of the flowmeter is satisfactorily small and actual calibration results of many flowmeters demonstrated the practical usefulness of dry calibration. Most of the experiments were carried out using the test facility for water meters at NRLM, and additional experiments to evaluate the performance of the flowmeter in a higher Reynolds number range were performed using high pressure gas meter test facilities in many countries.
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Document ID:
F53EF721