A multi-phase flow meter

New technology for well testing

In order to optimize its production
operations, Maraven, through its
Production Technology Department, with
Intevep's support, started a multi-phase
flow meter for high gas void fractions
(GVF) and high gas/oil ratios (GOR) in
Barua V Flow Station, located in DOP's
Barua-Motatan field, as an alternative to
traditional well testing system.
Emilio Guevara, Production Technology
Fluid Management Superintendent, stated
that the flow meter, Agar MPFM-400, for
high gas void fractions is capable of
measuring gas contents as high as 99.9%
and is an extension of Agar MPFM-300
series (limited to a maximum of 97.5%
gas) to which has been added a flow
diverter.
it, the MPFM measures simultaneously and in real time, each
phase flow (oil, water and gas). In the table shown, an example
of performed measurements is presented.
The use of this technology in future developments is important
since it reduces space and costs (inversion/operation),
improves well test (more representative data and shorter test
times/costs), which is important for Reservoir, Production and
Operations Departments. Real time data allows a more efficient
and continuous remote supervision, thus reducing deferred
production due to failures. It is important to emphasize also that,
for performing a particular well test, this meter does not require
fluid characterization (API gravity, gas or crude oil composition,
viscosity, water cut, salinity).
Economic feasibility studies, based upon conventional systems
(test separator and heater) have demonstrated it is possible to
save up to 35%, depending on application and field conditions.

This diverter, using the difference in

momentum between phases, diverts most
of the free gas in the multi-phase stream
(oil-water-gas) towards a bypass, whilst
the remaining portion continues through
the multi-phase flow meter. The gas is
measured in the bypass line before it is
combined again to the mainstream at the
MPFM-300 outlet where total gas, oil and
water are computed.

Both gas portions are added and the result

is a meter capable of measuring gas-
dominant flow streams with an accuracy of
+/-10% of relative error and whose results
appear in the screen as shown in the
figure. This approach extends the
measuring range, especially for the GOR,
and reduces costs eliminating the need of
a bigger unit.

The meter is currently under evaluation in

Barua V flow station and is connected in Agar
series with the test separator. Results to Well Gas Oil (bpd) Water (bpd)
date are satisfactory, demonstrating once (mcfd)
more, the equipment versatility as a
Bara-6 1379 342 8
substitute to well testing separator. Unlike
Bara-7 1120 150 5
Bara-9 1393 100 189