Vertical multiphase flow correlations for high production rates and large tubulars

Journal Article · Thu Feb 01 04:00:00 EST 1996 · SPE Production and Facilities

DOI:https://doi.org/10.2118/28465-PA· OSTI ID:194746

Aggour, M A; Al-Yousef, H Y ^[1]; Al-Muraikhi, A J

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1. King Fahd Univ. of Petroleum and Minerals, Dhahran (Saudi Arabia)

Numerous correlations exist for predicting pressure drop in vertical multiphase flow. These correlations, however, were all developed and tested under limited operating conditions that do not match the high production rates and large tubulars normally found in the Middle East fields. This paper presents a comprehensive evaluation of existing correlations and modifications of some correlations to determine and recommend the best correlation or correlations for various field conditions. More than 400 field data sets covering tubing sizes from 2 3/8 to 7 inches, oil rates up to 23,200 B/D, water cuts up to 95%, and gas/oil ratio (GOR) up to 927 scf/STB were used in this study. Considering all data combined, the Beggs and Brill correlation provided the best pressure predictions. However, the Hagedorn and Brown correlation was better for water cuts above 80%, while the Hasan and Kabir model was better for total liquid rates above 20,000 B/D. The Aziz correlation was significantly improved when the Orkiszewski flow-pattern transition criteria were used.

• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE
• OSTI ID: 194746
• Journal Information: SPE Production and Facilities, Journal Name: SPE Production and Facilities Journal Issue: 1 Vol. 11; ISSN 1064-668X; ISSN SPRFEZ
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

02 PETROLEUM
03 NATURAL GAS
FLOW MODELS
MULTIPHASE FLOW
NATURAL GAS WELLS
OIL WELLS
PRESSURE DROP
PRODUCTION