Multiphase flow metering: current trends and future developments

Over the last decade, the development, evaluation, and use ofmultiphase-flow-metering (MFM) systems have been a major focus for the oil andgas industry worldwide. Many alternative metering systems have been developed,but none can be referred to as generally applicable or universally accurate.Both established and novel technologies suitable to measure the flow rates ofgas, oil, and water in three-phase flow are reviewed and assessed within thisframework. Technologies already implemented in various commercial meters thenare evaluated in terms of operational and economical advantages or shortcomingsfrom an operator's point of view. The lessons learned about the practicalreliability, accuracy, and use of available technology are discussed. Asoperators now realize, use of MFM systems (MFMSs) is essential in exploitingmarginal fields. A new approach to flow assurance, deepwater developments,downhole/seabed separation systems, and wet-gas fields is foreseen. The authorssuggest where additional research to develop the next generation MFM deviceswill be focused to meet the as yet unsolved problems