Determination of steam quality and flow rate using pressure data from an orifice meter and a critical flowmeter

Journal Article · Mon May 01 04:00:00 EDT 1995 · SPE Production and Facilities

DOI:https://doi.org/10.2118/24832-PA· OSTI ID:49270

Chien, S F ^[1]; Schrodt, J L.G. ^[2]

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1. Texaco Inc., Houston, TX (United States). E and P Technology Dept.
2. Texaco Inc., Bellaire, TX (United States). E and P Technology Dept.

A method for measurement of steam quality and flow rate has been developed, laboratory tested, and packaged for thermal EOR applications. The method consists of an orifice flow meter in series with a critical flow meter. The flow through the orifice is subcritical. The critical-flow meter can be a static choke, a venturi, a nozzle, or a thick orifice, etc. Steam flow rate equations for orifice flow and for critical flow were established with empirically derived constants. These two equations were combined and solved to determine the steam quality and flow rate. The basic mechanical parts of the measurement system are rugged and inexpensive. The pressure transmitters and flow computer are portable and can be used for spot checks or for continuous monitoring. The steam quality and flow rate information obtained make it possible to evaluate the performance of steam distribution systems and thus to identify where modifications to the distribution system piping are needed.

• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE
• OSTI ID: 49270
• Journal Information: SPE Production and Facilities, Journal Name: SPE Production and Facilities Journal Issue: 2 Vol. 10; ISSN 1064-668X; ISSN SPRFEZ
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

02 PETROLEUM
DESIGN
ENHANCED RECOVERY
FLOWMETERS
INJECTION WELLS
OIL WELLS
PERFORMANCE
PROCESS CONTROL
STEAM INJECTION
WELL STIMULATION