Ultrasonic flowmeters offer oil line leak-detection potential

Journal Article · Sat Apr 01 04:00:00 EST 1995 · Pipe Line and Gas Industry

OSTI ID:64463

Hettrich, U ^[1]

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1. Transalpine Pipeline Co., Munich (Germany)

Ultrasonic flowmeters (USFM) installed on Transalpine Pipeline Co.`s (TAL) crude-oil system have proven to be a cost-effective flow measurement technique and beneficial in batch identification and leak detection. Through close examination, TAL has determined that clamp-on USFMs offer cost-saving advantages in installation, maintenance and operation. USFMs do not disturb pig passage. The technique also provides sound velocity capabilities, which can be used for liquid identification and batch tracking. The instruments have a repeatability of better than 0.25% and achieve an accuracy of better than 1%, depending on the flow profiles predictability. Using USFMs with multiple beams probably will improve accuracy further and it should be possible to find leaks even smaller than 1% of flow.

• OSTI ID: 64463
• Journal Information: Pipe Line and Gas Industry, Journal Name: Pipe Line and Gas Industry Journal Issue: 4 Vol. 78; ISSN 1079-8765; ISSN PLGIFV
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

02 PETROLEUM
ACCURACY
COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS
FLOWMETERS
LEAK DETECTORS
LEAKS
PERFORMANCE
PETROLEUM INDUSTRY
PIPELINES
ULTRASONIC TESTING