Aim

The overall aim is to develop a novel measurement system for multi-phase (oil, liquid, gas) pipe flows. The proposed method is to make use of an existing (or possibly new) Bayesian filter method (such as a particle filter) that integrates electrical capacitance sensor measurements of the multi-phase flow in a pipe with a prior state estimate of the pipe flow together with a fluid mechanical model to obtain a new state estimate. This method will then be used iteratively to obtain detailed flow rates for all three phases within the pipe.

Motivation

Measurement of multi-phase (gas and liquid) flow rates within a pipe is an important problem for the oil and gas industry due to the real need for accurate measurement (e.g., for fiscal metering) and due to the lack of an existing metering solution that provides sufficient accuracy. Furthermore, there are many other process industries that would benefit from improved measurement techniques for multi-phase flows. Electrical capacitance tomography (ECT) is a viable solution and prototype measurement systems have been developed.

Method

It is expected that initial work will begin with simulation of flows and of the electrical capacitance measurement. Various types of Bayesian filter will be tested to find one that can best estimate the true flow rate based on a combination of a separate one-step flow simulation from the prior state estimate conditioned on the additional input of the simulated electrical capacitance measurement.

This will then be followed by physical experiments on-site at the National Energy Laboratory (NEL) using a prototype ECT measurement system. First, the existing simulation will be validated. Second, the Bayesian filter will be tested with the ultimate aim of producing a real-time accurate flow-rate estimator.

Candidate specification

• A minimum of a 2:1 first degree in a relevant discipline/subject area with a minimum 60% mark in the Project element or equivalent with a minimum 60% overall module average.
• Or in the event of a first degree classification of less than 2:1, a Masters Degree in a relevant subject area will be considered as an equivalent. The Masters must have been attained with overall marks at merit level (60%). In addition, the dissertation or equivalent element in the Masters must also have been attained with a mark at merit level (60%).
• The potential to engage in innovative research and to complete the PhD within a three-year period of study
• A minimum of English language proficiency (IELTS overall minimum score of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each component)