Offshore Gas Well Flow and Orifice Metering System: An Overview

Okoro Emeka E,Mamudu Angela,Onuh Charles,Ekeinde Bose Evelyn,Igwilo Kevin

doi:10.4172/2576-1463.1000163

Abstract

This research presents a concise account of offshore surface well test from objective, organization, to practical approach and in relation to orifice metering system of natural gas; against the perspective of regulatory standards. With reference to reliability, availability, affordability and including control measures governing the design, the orifice meter sometimes called a head loss flow meter is chosen most often because of its reputation in the oil and gas industry. Alternative metering system of natural gas, including robust and cost effective innovations within the industry which addressed some key limitations of orifice meter was examined. The advanced flow computer with transducers suited for orifice measurement installations is a cost effective electronic flow real time measurement system. It has telemetry features and improved accuracy under fluctuating flow conditions based on functional differential pressure root mean squared volume calculation principles. These new developments and their capabilities have reduced the market share of the mechanical orifice chart meters. Except that Electronic flow meters has environmental limitations; thus, the proven mechanical orifice metering systems are still an effective solution for many flow measurement applications.

Highlights

The cost of exploration activities, drilling and completions, surface and subsurface production operations would be futile if the wells are not and routinely tested within its productive life
Accurate metering of gas flow rates is an important issue in offshore production
Surface flow meter is fundamentally changing the way we measure complex flow from producing wells. Most of these transformations are driven by new technology that can accurately measure rapid variations associated with gas flow

Summary

Introduction

The cost of exploration activities, drilling and completions, surface and subsurface production operations would be futile if the wells are not and routinely tested within its productive life. The understanding of the actual well flow rates and other critical factors will enhance production allocation, well management and optimum field development. Accurate metering of gas flow rates is an important issue in offshore production. Surface flow meter is fundamentally changing the way we measure complex flow from producing wells. Most of these transformations are driven by new technology that can accurately measure rapid variations associated with gas flow. The type of differential metering system often used in Nigeria gas fields is the orifice meter This metering system consists of a thin flat plate with an accurately machined circular hole that is centered in a plate holding device in a straight section of smooth pipe.

Conformance with accepted standards and regulations

Objectives of Surface Well Testing

The primary element

The secondary element

Conclusion