SECTION 3 Measurement ‘The information presented in this section provides sufficient information for determining flow quantities with a reasonable degree of accuracy, but not necessarily to the accuracy desired fur custody transfer. Agreement of acceptable accuracy for eus- ‘ody transfer should be between the parties involved, snd sup- plemental information and procedures may be required, such as Chapter 14, Scetion 8 ofthe API Manual of Petroleum Meas urement Standards. FIG. 34 Nomenciature masimum lransverve dimension of a straightening vane passage cross sectional area of any passage within an wssembled straightening vane Equation factor in Reynolds number calculation ratio ofthe orifice or throst diameter to the internal diameter of the meter run, dimensionless Pitot tube flow eoefficient the product of multiplying ull erfice correction factors volume indicated by the number of pulses or liquid pressure correction factor. Correction for the change in volume resulting from application cf pressure. Proportional to the liquid compressi- bility factor, which depends upon both relative density and temperature, ‘correction factor for effect of pressure on stecl ‘See API Manual of Petroleum Mensurement Standards, Chapter 12, Section 2 [gravity correction factor for orifice well tester te change from a gas specific gravity of 0.6 liquid temperature correction factor. Proportional to the thermal coefficient which varies with den: ity und temperature correction factor for effeet of temperature on steel ‘orifice diameter, in, interasl pipe diameter of orifice meter run or prover section, in ‘The difference hetween the flowing pressure and the equilibrium vapor pressure of the liquid. Flowing fluid density, Ib/t! orifice edge thickness, i. onifice plate thickness, in modulus of elasticity for steel (3010) psi liquid compreasibility factor orifice thermal expansion factor. Corrects for the metallic expansion or contraction ofthe orifice plate. Generally ignored between 0° and 120°F basic orifice factor specific gravity factor applied to change from specific gravity of 1.0 (air) to the specific gravity of the flowing gas gravity-temperature factor for liquids units conversion factor for pitot tubes pressure base factor applied to change the base pressure from 14.73 psia pressure factor applied to meter volumes to cor- rect to standard pressure, See API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards, Chapter 12, Section 2 Fy = supercompressibility factor required to correct for deviation from the ideal gas laws = V1 F, = Reynolds number fictor. To correct the ealeulated basic orifice factor ta the actual Nawing Reynolds number steam factor temperature bast feetor. ‘To chunge the tempera: ture base from 60°F ta another desired base flowing temperature factor to change from the assumed flowing temperature of 60°F to the we- tual flowing temperature temperature correction factor applied to displace- ment meter volumes to correct to standard term- peruture. Seo API Manuul of Petroleum Measurement Standards, Chapter 12, Sect spocifie gravity at 60°F specific gravity at flowing temperature pressurs, inches of mercury differential prossure measured across the orifice plato in inchos of mercury at B0"F differential pressure measured across the orifice plate in inches of water at 60°F pressure extension. The square root of the differen tial pressure times the square root of the abso- lute statie pressure ratio of the specific heat at constant pressure (0 the specifie heat at eonstant volume ‘a numerical constant. Pulses generated per unit volume through a turbine or positive displace- ment meter length of straightening vane element meter factor, a number obtained by dividing the actual volume of liquid passed through the meter during proving by the volume registered by the meter pressure. psia base pressure, pstFIG. 3-1 (Cont'd) Pfi, Ph; = static pressure at either the upstream(1) or down- stream(2} pressure tap, pia B,, = operating or observed pressure, psig P, = prossure at which the base volume of a meter prover was determined, usually 0 peig pressure ratio ‘gas flow rate, cu Rday rate of flow, usually in std. cu fuhr or gale maximum differential range, in. of water ‘maximum pressure range of pressure spring, psi S = square of supercompressibility ‘Ty = base temperature, °F Ty = Mowing temperature, °F ‘Too = Teforence temperature of the orifice plate bore, °F ‘expansion factor to compensate for the change in density as the fuid passes through an orifice critical low constant compressibility factor ‘The American Petroleum Institute Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards is the source of large portion ofthe information presented in this Section, The information most used in the Cas Processing Industry has been extractod and reprinted. Copies of the completo APT Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards or specific chapters and sections ean be ordered from: American Petroleum Institute Publications and Distribution Section 1220 L Street Northwe ‘Washingzan, D.C. 20005 (CHAPTER Veeabalary ‘Tank Celibration ‘Tank Gauging Proving Systems Metering | Metering Assemblies ‘Temperature Determination Sampling Density Sediment and Water Physical Properties Calealation f Petroleum Quantities Statistical Aspects of Messuring and Sampling ‘Nataral Gas Fluids Moaavrement Metrieation Petroleum Measurement by Weight Marine Accountability Chapter 14 is of particular interest to Gas Processors be- cause it applies specifically to the measurement of gas and liquefied gas products. Chapter 14 is further divided as fol- lows: ‘SECTION FTE, TE | Consentric, Square-Baged Orica Meters (ANSUADT 2680" (GPA BIND), (AGA. Report No.3) M4 | Converting Mass of Natural Gas Liquids and Vapore 19 Equivalent Liquid Voluines (GPA S173) 145 Caution of Gros Heating Yale. Spsifc ity, nd Comapreseibity of Nasaral Gas Mixtures ftom Compentional Analysts (GPA:2172) 146 Installing and Proving Density Meters 167 Mage Mesourement of Natural Gas Liquids (GPA: 18a) Liquofiod Potroloum Gas Measurement 32 FLOW CALCULATION GUIDE ‘The Flow Calculation Guide (Fig. 3-2)is the suggested start- ing point for any fluid measuring determination. This chart identifies the necessary data to determine flows of gas, liquid, ‘and steam using mechanical meters or differential pressure devices, The equations to determine either volumetric or mass ‘Quantities are shown in Big. 33 GAS MEASUREMENT Orifice-Meter Measurement ‘The most commonly used differential measurement device, tho orifice meter, is widely accepted for use in measuring vol- ‘umes of liquids or vapors. Acorrectly installed and maintained orifice may provide an overall accuracy within plus or minus 24. ‘The procedures presented in this chapter for calculating flow by use of an orifice meter are designed to provide approxi mate golutions using s hand calculator or equivalent, and do not include the rigorous, iterative solution procedures e- quired when using the Reader-Harrie/Gallagher flow equation recommended for accurate, custody transfer calculations with computing equipment. The procedures for applying the Reader-Harvis/Gallagher equation can be found in Chapter 14.3ofthe API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards publiched after 1994, ‘The orifice meter consists of static pressure and differential- pressure recording gauges connected to an orifice lange or orifice fitting, The orifice meter tube (meter rn) consists of ‘upstream and downstream sections of pipe for which size and tolerance have been determined through calculation and which conform to specifications set forth in ANSVAPI 2530 (GPA 8185). ‘Tho orifice plate is held perpendicular to flow by flanges or a fitting. Bore, circumference, edge sharpness, and other tol- frances must meet specifications as set forth in ANSUAPT 2590 (GPA 8185). Orifice Flanges (Fig. 3-4a) — When slip-on or serevwod orifice flanges are used, the end of the pipe shall extend ‘through the flanges so that there is no recess greater than 1/4" between theend ofthe pipe and theonfice plate, Ibis preferred ‘that no recess exist. When weldneck flanges or woldend orifice fittings are used, the average inside diameter of the section of pipe connected to the inlet side of the fitting or flange should equal the insideFIG. 32 Flow Calculation Guise a oo Factors Unite Mas | Fig, [lniotiarement dC wir | ‘Square Root of Differential tin. HaO) vine -|[- . . . Beste Hi i Cn eo rm on | et | sa pases pan ove IneicOnforFuer Ey acre tl fr] an eee ec 0 | Prue Bae Facer eal eer) eel se eles] ea [ios [owing Temperature Fader ie ea) [face ae ae face a empratare Faster sfc |P=1= P= as hp Carin Far Una ee) ice) a | oe | [Pressure Correction Pactor (Liquids) Ee I eee eee See eee reece ebro ge Presure Facer a) tate [ce at |g Seppe Faso oe ee ro Soper Fase | Deny ee) eee ae se genase ‘Square Root of Density _ + Scere toe Pee . Specific Gravity Factor — Gas _ = = * eee eee — Gey enperai iter — i | ee | Betr Paso a) (Se een ee een) Tea = [out Ve ae] (see feeeen eee ee fazer ase] eee [nes constant i voaie] —jhrone) || 1 Seam Pr [oe =| fea [Reynolds Number Factor Fe p= * * * * ap ed Ese sit [Expansion Factor ¥ =} . * se == * S18 operon Bas ec te Pos ico hehe bape be te lps dria termaligeanicer ef b= oe hs S(T Teta] ae 1 Taide gt sein inne nproxinate Rows when used in onjueton with dt consi thin scion a 2 Tpobain flow, substitute areas containing dots with known numbers and multiply top to bottom 8. The numbor of factors used may vary depending on mothod of calculation in specific application, content of Howing stream, and Individual eontractual apreement 4. Factors appearing in shaded areas are not generally ncecssary for calculating approximate flows 5. The factors Fpe 8, Cu, Cp, Fr, ¥, and Fy must be obtained for the specific substance being measured, aaFIG.33 Flow Calculation Guide Equations f ‘revorsiaawos Upp 20) Tee pure ZI ‘BLL 998) bp tb 2 20% “4 Sp) rao’ "* Gomes" arate, ator, 79 oh“ fog seems one 2 ‘a ran ae MoM yO=D suopnba s0m0 avn eta antago «9 seta peraoras wo acunt vets rong zouno eoby = ze-bs reba NeNaDasIO ‘wo aNreun 24Fig. 3-4 Orifice Plate Holders iterential Pressure Taps Standard Once Flange (a) ‘Single Chamber (Junior) Oritice Fitting (by Cover Differential Pressure Taps Senior Orifice Fitting Flanged Senior «) Side Sectional View 36diameter of the fitting or flange within the telerance given in ig. When flanged orifice fittings are used they should be aligned with the inside diameter of the flange on the meter tube so that there are no sharp edges or offeets at the flange connec: tion. In order to prevent slipping at the flange joint after aign- ‘ment, it is suggested that dowel pins or other alignment ‘methods be used, Where separable gaskets are used to seal an orifice plate in an orifice holder, eare must be taken te assure proper alignment and prevent gasket extension into the flow ing stream. Orifice flanges require that the line be shut down and de- pressured in order to inspect or change the arifice plate. The flange bolts are loosened and removed. The flanges are spread. by use of "jack" bolts, and the plate is removed, gle Chamber Orifice Fitting (Fig. 3-4) — This, fitting also requires that the line be shut. down and depres- sured in order to inspect or change the orifice plate. However, this fitting doos not require breaking apart the flanges Tstead, the bolts are loosened on the cover plate and the cover plate removed. The orifice plate holder and orifice plate are then removed from the fitting. These fittings provide precise alignment of the orifice plate, Senior Orifice Fitting (Fig. 3-4e) — This fitting al- lows the removal and inspection of an orifice plate while the line remains under pressure. It allows the orifice plate holder and orifice plate to be raised into the upper cavity of the fitting by the use of a crank handle. Avalve is then closed to separate the upper eavity from the lower cavity of the fitting, The upper cavity is then depressured, the top cover plate removed, snd the orifice plate cranked out. Orifice Plates — The thickness of the orifice plate for 2 in, through 10 in. nominal diameter pipe shall be at least 0.115 in., while that for 12 in, pipe shall be at least 0.175 in, AAs shown in the Fig. 35, the maximum thickness varies from 0.190 to 0.998 in. as pipe size is increased from 2 to 12 in ‘These values are abstracted from ANSI/API 2530 (GPA 8185), and that standard should be consulted if more detail is de- sired. ‘The thickness ofthe orifice plate at the orifice edge shall not, exceed the smaller of: ‘4, 1/50 of the pipe diameter, D b, 1/8 ofthe orifice diameter, d If the thickness of the orifice plate must be greater than permitted by these limitations, the downstroam edge shall be ‘cut away (beveled or recessed) at an angle of 45° or less to the face of the plate, leaving the thickness of the orifice edge ‘within these requirements, Al orifice plates which are beveled should have the square-edge side (ie., the side opposite the develing) stamped “inlet” or the beveled side stamped “outlet” The upstream face of the orifice plate shall be flat and per- pendicular to the axis of the moter tube, when in position be- ‘bween the orifice langos or in the erfice fitting. Any plate that does not depart from flatness along any diameter by morothan 0.010 inch per inch of the dam height, (D-d)2, shall be consid: ered flat. ‘The upstream edge of the orifice shall he square and sharp so that it will not show a beam of light when checked with an orifice edge gauge, or alternately will notreflecta beam oflight 36 when viewed without magnification. The orifice shall not have ‘a burred or feathered edge. It shall be maintained in this con- dition at all times, Moreover, the orifice plate shall be kept clean at all times and free from accurmulation of dir, ice, and other extraneous material. Orifice plates with small nicks in the edge ean be expected to incresse the flow measurement uncertainty. In centering orifie plates, the orifice must be concentric with the inside of the meter tube or orifice fitting. The concen- ‘icity shall be maintained within 3% of tho inside diameter of both the upstream and downstream sections of the orifice ‘meter tube or fitting along all diameters. This restriction is, ‘more critieal in small diameter tubes, in meter tubes with lange beta ratio orifice plates, and when the orifice is offset toward the pressure taps. ‘The measured orifice diamoter is defined as the arithmetic average of four or more inside diameter measurements evenly spaced. The measured orifice diameter shall not differ from ‘the orifice diameter used in computing the basie orifice factor, or from any diameter, by an amount greater than the toler. ances shown in Fig. 36. ‘The measured orifice diameter should be used in the coeff- cient equations for the caleulation of the flow cooffcient with ‘minimum uncertainty. The orifice plate temperature at the time of measurement and the actual diameter measurement should be recorded for use in the ealeulation of the arifice ther ‘mal expansion factor, F., when appropriate. ‘The orifice to meter tube diameter ratio, B = A/D, should be Limited as follows ‘With meters using flange tape, 8 shall be between 0.16 and 0.70 + With meters using pipe taps, shall be between 0.20 and 087 When using the above beta ratios, the tolerance ofthe orifice coefficient (F, factors) is plus or minus 0.5% for flange taps and plus or minus 0.75% for pipe taps. Beta ratios down to 0.10 and up to 0.78 may be used for flange taps but the coeffi- cient tolorance increases, Beta ratios down to 0.10 and up to 0.70 may be used with pipe taps but the coefficient tolerance Meter Tubes — The term "meter tube" shall mean the straight upstream pipe of the same diameter (of length Aand ‘A’ on Figs, 3-8 to 3-13) between the orifice flanges or fittings, and the similar downstream pipe (length B on Figs. 3-8 to 3-18) beyond the orifice. ‘The sections of pipe to which the orifice flanges are attached or the sections adjacent to the orifice Mange or fitting shall comply with the following: ‘+ Seamless pipe or cold drawn seamless tubing may be used. The pipe walls may be honed, machined, or ground. ‘The wall finish should simulate that of new smooth pipe or cold drawn tubing. + Grooves, scoring, pits, raised ridges resulting from seams, distortion caused hy welding. offsets, ete. (regardless of the size of such irregularities) which affect the inside di- ameter at such points by more than the tolerance given in Fig. 3-7 shall not be permitted. When these measure- ments are exceeded, the roughness may be corrected by filling in or grinding or filing off, s0 as to obtain smooth- ness within the tolerance,; oot sown Prensoeoaweren | Sie Seman Dei ai ; ee ‘Published ‘1687 eae 3.1527 ' 9362 fia.an2i Taide 1939) 2900 3.438 4897 5.761 ‘7.981 |10,020| in |15.000|19,000) pa. |29.000| | rots | Bor] eso! 30 |asv sous: dar | soars] sti ais 7e124n9 aso talaga nde 09 9 ‘ie Pte Tater Ela z Eel cman |oie| aie] 0115 an] outs[ons|unie tis otis aio Teste OT] 050] oom eam [oro NSE [ign|oaan anaes |oss| 01s] oso] ase|oaue|osio caro eat. oan. oo os! s| oar aaealosre Recornenended | 0.125 | 0.125 | 0.225 | 0.125 | 0.125 0.125 | 0.125 0.125 |0.125_ 0.250 | 0.260 | 0260 | 0,375 |0.75 0.375 0.375 | 0.376 0.500 0.500 aoe a, ecan Maxi Os le Thins nn sob ar if a TRE aT wa oa | Set rave Set | aot ‘too «ine el ans | ane | ane ass_| be eel Sas | oa seo | Sat eae oars | bet rel nee | nen two |e | | tee | we { tte | aes : tet ats | a6 LE san : ial Or | aS eT is [oe Tee ee | om ua | Se hal ate [ute ane | ane ios | a i i ioe, et ia why ae] | + Ls. | 16 jes tse] tow |" we te | aa is | om easel om | sas ! epee Laer ine aoe ae | Ste ‘eve ao omer ie) cas met] apa ae 20042064 ae Bye oe ae [a8 Sao | wee sbeebs | sa aoe | ine | | jel ‘oe | | sn jes soe ses ae 50 1a nea | aS te | te | airs Be | ase | ; | van tae tie_| oe i i: ene] sas ‘es i So [Soe iio_|'ss so mum ens and ye ein Seo te mre er pean te 9. idan dan wre dandy 08 Seren cine Seok ta meal rent i ea Fie he a i esateone te Daye a Seeger ea bts eee yas arnemnee avert hreas a ana So et intees prune SNS aFIG.3-6 Practical Tolerance for Orifice Diameters (inches) vee | gan 0.250 0.0003 ait cme S coo = con ouise | sams FIG. 3-7 Maximum Pipe Diameter Tolerance FG.3-9 ‘Less Than Ten Pipe Diameters (0) Between Two Ells in ‘Same Plane Upstream of Meter Tube FIG. 3-10 ‘Two Ells Not in Same Plane Upstream of Meter Tube FIG. 3-11 Reducer or Expander Upstream of Meter Tube FIG. 3-8 Greater Than Ten Pipe Diameters (D) Between Two Ells In the Same Plane Upstream of Motor Tube FIG. 3-12 Partly Closed Valve Upstream of Meter Tube 28FIG, 3-13 Minimum Meter Tube Lengths in Terms of Pipe Diameters ‘and Beta (8) Ratio - Use For All Pipe Sizes Fai os] oe | ont] a | om co | on | as Pus | wr as! ao aa | aa | as wo, aa) ua | 190 | 20 v0 | ws | mt isa) 198 co | so] s5| 2 | os | ta c | aol an] ss | se| oz a fas) dof az | as | as vea10 a | a08 | a0! ann | sto | as2 x lie na a6 | is | 150 ao) ss] s2 | as te c | so|ss| es | 20) 7 a | as] ao] a2 | 43 | 4s ves | 4 | ots | or] as | aan | me a fas) ar | a2 | aa | as nevi a | aso | mo! wo | ane | 435 wa ma a2 | 59s ©) wo) 88 | a2 6) 70 c | s2| er| 0) a9 | ws agra Frat a nest ena ‘The mean inside diameter of the meter tube shall be deter- ‘mined as follows: + Measurements are lo be made on at least four diameters ‘equally spaced in a plane one inch upstream from the ‘upsteeam face of the orifice plate, The mean (arithmetic average) of these four or more measurements is (defined fas the measured meter tube diameter) to be used in the Calculation of the flew coefficient when minimum uneer- tainty of this variable is desired. Check measurements ofthe upstream meter tube inside diameter shall be made at two or more additional cross- sections, The actual locations ofthe check measurements of the diameter, ereumferentially and axially along the tube, are not specified. These checks should be taken at, points that will indieate the maximum and minimum of diameter that exists, covering at least two pipe diame- tors from the face of the orifice plate, or past the flange or fitting weld, whichever is the greater distance. Check measurements aro used to verify the uniformity of the upstream meter tube but do not become a part of the measured meter tube diameter, “The tolerance for the measurements of meter tubes is: ‘+ The difference between the maximum measured diame- ter and the minimum measured diameter on the inlet section shall not exceed the tolerance allowed by Fig. 37 ‘percent of the published diameter, Fquation 3-9 may be used to calculate the variance of the upstream section of the meter tube ‘Max Dia — Min D Dia (100) < percent tolerance Eq 3-9 inFig. 3-7 38 ‘+ Abrupt changes in diameter (shoulders, offsets, ridges, ‘and so forth) shall not exist in meter tubes, ‘The meter tube diameter must agree with the published inside diamegers within the tolorance allowed by Fig. 3-7. ‘The absolute value of any diameter measurement in the downstream section shall not vary from the published diameter of the meter tube by mote than the tolerance ‘allowed by Fig, 3-7. The following equation may be used tocalculate the varianee of the downstream section ofthe (100) = percent tolerance a Jam < pen Note use of absolute value in Bq 3-10. Application of this equation doubles the tolerance of the downstzeam section of the meter tube. ‘The tomperature at which the moter tube measurements ‘are made should be recorded for possible correction to ‘operating conditions, Within a temperature range of 0"F +0 120°F, however, this deviation is ordinarily no greater than the tolerances allowed and such correction is not required. Length of Pipe Preceding and Following an Orifice — Figs, 3-8 through 9-12 show common types of me: ter tube installations, Fig. 3-18 lists the minimum length at ‘various beta ratios for lange tap meter tubes in terms of pipe diameters for each of the figures. ‘The lengths in Fig, 3-18 are based on flange taps. For pipe taps, add two pipe diameters of length upstream and eight pipe diameters downstream, Do not install any connection biker than pipe taps in the upstream or downstream tube minimum length, Any Dia~D| "4 Eq 3-10 ( Ifthe meter tube installation under consideration is not ex- plicitly covered in the installations presented in Figs. 3-8 through 3-12 or if there are other fittings close to the first fitting on the inlet of the meter tube which could cause flow disturbances, use dimensions for Fig. 3-12 Straightening Vanes — The purpose of straightening ‘vanes is to eliminate awirls and cross currents set up by the pipe fittings and valves upstream of the meter tube. The speci- fications which follow apply particularly to the type of vanes shown in Fig. 8-14. In the construction of vanes, the maximum transverse di- ‘mension "a," Fig, 3-14, of any passage through the vanes shall hot exceed one-fourth (1/4) the inside diameter, "D,” of the pipe. Also, the cross-sectional area, "A," of any passage within the assembled vanes shall not exceed one-sixteenth (1/16) of the cross-sectional area of the containing pipe. It is not neces- sary that all the vane passages be of the sume size, but their arrangement should be symmetrical. The length “L’ of the Vanes shall be at Jeast ten (10) times the largest inside "a" dimension, ‘The vanes may be built of standard weight pipe or thin-wall ‘tubing, Round, square, or other shape tubing may be used. The ‘vane tubes should he securely welded together at each tangent point and can be built with or without a supporting band at each end, All weld metal should be ground off smooth so as not to cause disturbances to the flow. Vanes should be securely anchored in the meter tubeby use ofa flange ring or set serews,FIG. 3-14 Flow Straightening Vanes °W AREAS FIG. 3-15 ‘Typical Test Set-Up for Measuring Gas from a Separator Vent ontrice eno ¥, SEPARATOR 7 peessunE eGtiNEGTION Ww 2 FLANGE Om WITHIN z ‘THREE DIAMETERS g ‘OF ORIFICE ‘xox PRESSURE = REGULATOR) 5 Y. 2 ORMICE, INSTALLATION, \ PORTABLE RECORDER Gas Orifice Calculations Te determine the approimate rfc size required the cor- rae responding F,, is caleulated using appropriate terms o i Orifice Sizing — A simple calculation is often needed to paar properly size an orifice plate for new or changing flow rates, Q = Phe Bue Fee Vig «Pr from Eq 3-4 through existing meter tubes. The procedure uses an existing or assumed flow quantity, a desired differential pressure at a _-Rearranging, specific static pressure, an estimated flowing temperature, and a determined or assumed specifie gravity. The basicorifice R Bq ot coefficient is calculated from the gas flow equation. This cal- Fue ky culated value is then compared to the Fy, table, Fig. 9-16, and the next larger size is usually selected. R Example 3-1 — Sizo an orifice plate in gas service. Given Data: Line Size, D 4.026 in, = 0.700 100°F 75 psia 14,200 eu far 50 in, of water Flowing Temperature Flowing Pressure Flow Rate Desized Differential 0.9636 (1.1952) V0 + 75 Ry = 201.342 Referring to the F, (Fig. 3-16) for a 4.026 line with lange taps, access the F, value which approximates the calculated Fy. 'A 1.000 in, orifice size would be selected which has a 201.99 F;, value. More precise calculations would include other corrections, Orifice Flow Rate — The following example illustrates a calculation of low rate through an orifice.Fig. 316 Flange Taps, Basic Orifice Factors, Fo Sera es ORG onFIG. 3-16 (Cont'd) Flange Taps, Basie Orifice Factors, FoFIG. 3417 “b" Values for Reynolds Number Factor, Fr~ Flange Taps g E859 25982588 e Tl rf a | sUS0EES THEE eMSEESSS SEE6 SEGE34E 28203 e882 222 SEEGER 28 a eee aie oe pa tes ToFIG. 3-17 (Cont'd) “b" Values for Reynolds Number Factor, Fr Flange TapsFIG. 3:18 Expansion Factors — Flange Taps, ¥2 (static downstream)Fig. 3-19 Steam Coetficiont Factors, Saturated Steam 0s 618 yar ele Type Motors YP ‘a Prema. Scam Quali Fer Cont Fe 0634 a7 0539 05342 0545 0648 051 ona | 0587 L036 0663 os | Se | os | ee | Sa) mat | cer | tom coms ose aes foe | a0 | cossr | osse | ‘orp | oer | ewe | teat) sees fo | tee) tees | cosst | ese | cer | oem oem nses |) am a | om | cosas | ooo | loses | set | ested | am] ste | ee os | oe | ser | oso | mae | oop assez ons oa | osuo | oma | sie % | ton | tom | cone | looms | ‘omar eae | cset | tase | ose] ss | nse S| fee | sos | com | ‘oer | conte nie | osm | cases | ue | sm | ss fm | ts | tom | fos | fou aso | sete | aras | ooo | eon) sae | an im | amo | oo | sos | Sis tena | aes | tite | tone | cose | san |r sm | owe | oso | mas | om06 —osos | asin | anse | corr | suis | osee | sos Ye | sir | bio | tome | low. or | oio | cpus) teas | sis |] oot | “oes ze | Saw | couse | Sam osm jose | tes |e | sme | asi? | tao | tree io | fuse | our | oom osm | sor | osm | os | asm | ass | ne | ost | ties | tse Sem oom | sen | oom] cm | a | as | tun | 0 so | om | ous on, osm | osm | oop] ome | osm | asin | ots | asin se | Ss | Sas. lan | too | som | tsar] tos |i | sea tote ane fs | ties | ‘oes | oo | tein | tem} osts | sm | om | bog te eee So | ‘ties ctwe | ous | ctser | loses | ‘osop | osm | sts ta ‘a S| tase ‘Save | ows | sot | osoe | ocos | osm | stn ste sao coo acon ower | on | om | coon | sor | om ose, oss | oni | onto Fia. 320 ‘Steam Coefficient Factors, Superheated Stoam 5, 2 MB or satus Maes wre ta —— Fran Se 5 - paig. 3003800080 600 700 300 =| oss) ow auna | use ous 04s | aa so | nn | oo ons | eww | our ws | ‘bios ou * os out | oun | ee twos | ‘ous ‘ne to ise) arm | ou | ate ous | ‘owt | ome & on | om | oe ait oir | ur | i 10 oss ates uta ows | nos | oo ) caer | cs i foo beat | tee | cae | aon | | tome 0 sor | om j ows owt | ooo | ows | om | oom ae = tue | fee twee | oa | ou | me | ime top i cat | tee mr | be | mt | tana | oes oan as ows | one j one | one | oun | oma | mass | co fo om | ooo | oa oem | ona | anos) moee | Ho “ see | ou oa | ous | ame | toes | tao cy ars | oan oe | ue | ame | fe | oso oo ows | ‘owe | ee | ous | ame | aes | ton | om | oct ' ome | owe | ome } mn so aso | owt oes | own | amr | mel om ass | acres | tuna | taea | ee soto tam | bls um | tos | Sten | ane an oir | uss wr | como | tame sano ows | oss ou | om | ona x0 oar | nue j one oem | toe tino coos | ‘ous | ome ste | toes tino ters | ow | one ome | 316Example 3-2— Caleulate an approximate flow rate for the ori= fice using appropriate terms from Eq 3-4. Given Data: Line Size, D Orifice Size, d Flange Taps Plowing Temperature Flowing Pressure Differential Specific Gravity 6.085 in. 8,500 in. From Fig. 3-3, = Fue Pee Byte @ = 2655.0 (0.9005) 1.1547) V60-90 @ = 223,144 ea vbr “More precise calculations would inchude Fy and Fy corrections. Orifice Well Test Often it is necessary to determine an approximate flow ‘quantity from a well head or field separator vent to the atmos- phere for test purposes. The use of w “woll head tester” has been a common practice since the early days of the oll and gas industry. An orific is installed between a pair of flanges, at ‘the outlet of a pipa nipple whieh is at least eight pipediameters Jong. The square edge of the orifice fa0es the flow. The diame- ter ofthe pipe nipple should not he greater than the preceding fittings. The pressure connection may be mado in the up- stream flange or at any point in the pipe nipple within three digmetors from the orifice, The pressure differential across the orifice is the difference between the upstream pressure and ‘atmospherie pressure, from Eq 3-4 An approximate flow rate may be caleulated from: Q = 16,330 (1 + Bt) (YH 29.824 0H) « Fy- Cy Eq oz For conditions other than 60°F (flowing) and G of 0.6, eor- rection factors must be applied. 70, Fy aeorr Bq 3-13 D0 & e Eq314 Example 3-3 — Calculate the daily gas flow through a 1-inch orifice in a nominal S-inch pipe. The gas gravity is 0.70, the ‘lowing temperature is 60°F, and the pressure upstream of the rie is 8 ioehes He, The published ID of a 2ineh pipe is 3.068 in y1 se } je aera eam) 3.068 ly @ = 16,520|1+/ (eieaa 11,000 - 0.9258 = 190,000 std cu ft per day Pipe (Tube) Rupture - Gas ‘The volume of gas that escapes through & pipeline rupture cor hole caused by corrosion or mechanical damage can be es- a7 timated. Critical flow occurs when the downstream pressure is less than approximately 50% of the source pressure, P. The following equation approximates a critical flow volume: Q = 578,400 d? Vox Eq 3.15 (where ys *R) k/(_2,) Yeu Lites] Eq 316 Example 3-4 — Find the loss from a 6 inch pipeline transport ing methane, with a 1 inch (circular equivalent area! hole. P= 500psia G= 055 Z Tr = 10°F = 560°R k = 132 ai 5 i 8.4000" 069.) a5" 55 11,370,000std cu f per day For subsonie or suberitieal low, first estimate an equivalent circular area for the hole in the pipeline and then calculate & flow based on the orifice equation, 0.95 [a2 (_2 (095 [Baz You 169 LIQUID MEASUREMENT Orifice Meters ‘The rate of flow in liquid-meter measurement is determined from the equation given in Fig. 3-3. When measurement of Iydrocarbon liquids at igh pressure is undertaken, it may be necessary to apply a compressibility factor. This factor should NOT he confused with Fy, for gases. Fig. 3-21 supplies liquid hydrocarbon compressibility, F, and Fig. 3-22 the temperature ‘correction facto Orifice Sizing — An orifice plate can be sized for a par- ticular liquid flow rate ifthe line size and fluid characteristics are known. All physical orifice requirements defined for gas measurement are also required for liquid orifice moasuro- ‘ment. The liquid orifice equation from Fig, 8-3 is used to solve for Fy, the basic coefficient. After finding F., Fig. 3-16 is en tered at the proper line size. The next largest Fy would then. relate to a specific orifice size that would be the initial selec- tion. For an initial estimated size, only the F., correction is, used in the equation. For more precise calculations the entire Fig, 33 equation can be used with all the correction factors, Example 9-5 — Calculate an approximate orifice size for the given flow rate and line size Line Size, D = 81068 in. Flange Taps Specifie Gravity at 60°F = 0.690 Flowing Temperature = 40°F Flow Rate 3400 gal. per hr Desired Differential 30 in. of waterFIG. 3.21 ‘To determine the approximate orifice size required, the cor- responding, is calealated using appropriate terms of Eq 3-7 Liquid Compressibilty,F Parattnie Hydrocarbon Mixtures NOTE: Ai ct de nt a 0.00 led i otf sa ba aaa “repr oar Sk | Rs ME Fm fw |e | m | | us om sn [we | aa | or | oe | at we | ae | se] oS | | oa BBE | fs [is | oe Soi |S | Su |e ou | Ss ous aa | oe, a | an | 30 os Bot oe | | | oe te | gut | oh | a | ast on to | te | om | ant | a oe iS | ite | te | an | 2a oon vas | iss | ae | a7 | aos oa m3 | AS | it | i |e oh foo | ts |i | im io as miei is | ie is on HS |B [ist | aoe ss wos | i | us | ue | sr ot df tos | tis i | te oa Ge | te | tse in | tp oa 3 | to | So | te | tt | ox om | cs | oon | ao | ae on ote | tr | Sa | dr | te a rt | ter | Se | tr | ie tm Sr tes eo | cer | om on Sei tno te | tx | ot os cor | oss ara | on | oss | 18 oe SS j SS | oo | oe | os | ae sn 82 | or | oa | on | ont | om SS) oh | os | ce | S| cae oS 82 | om | So | cer [on ox oi | oso | os | cer 70: me a Se |r | ie | Soo at | on S| a j cs | tr yo | om os oe | ts | os | tr | | re i Se | oe | oS |S | oes | ous owe | om | ou sa | one | 0 SS | BS |S | aS] cee as | se | ser om | Sr | oe | a | ait) oe | Ss | oe Sim | ies | Sor | tuo | ox | coe | et | os om | Be] Se | a8 88 | os |S [es om | ar | ows | ou | on | ou | ou | ow Se RE | Se! Ge 1 os | oe | oar | ot ge | we | oe es | oa | om | oc Se | Be | OS ae: tr | oo | out | oc SB Ba | oS | St | ee | Se | om | est om | ars | on | os | oe | os | ou om Sm | BS |S |S | at | ae ect oa Se | et | ow | i | Go | Ge | or Sie | SS) a | So | Ge | as | ee | om Les Lito |e | es | ae | oe | ct Te API" Petroleum Measurenent Standards” Chapter 4 Note: Liquid Compressity = Fee kee The o R= From Eq 3 Bye Ve = — Si ~ 304.35 1.219950 Referring to the F, values (Fig. 3-16) for a 3.068 line with flange taps, access the F, value listed whieh approximates the calealated F,, A 1.375 orifice diameter would be selected, which has a 393,09 F, value, Orifice Flow Rate — The liquid flow rate through an orifice is calculated using the appropriate equation in Fig. 3-3. ‘The initial calculation can be completed using only the Fy and the Fy, correction factors to salve for Qa since those factors are most significant, culate a liquid flowrate for the given orifice Line Size, D 8.071 in, Orifice Size, d 4.000 i Flange Taps Specifie Gravity at 60°F = 0.630 Flowing Temperature = 80°F Differential 36 in, of water ‘To determine the flowrate from Fig. 8-2, @ ‘The value of F, from Fig. 3-16 js 8962.9 for an 8.071 in. tine with @ 4.0 in, orifice, The vaiue of Fy is calculated from the Fig. 88 equation. oe Rye VE From Eq 3-7 ‘Therefore, 2362,.9- 1,2560-V36 = 25,343 gal./hr Q More precige calculations would inelude F, and compress bility corrections. Refer to Chapter 14.8 ofthe API Manval of Petroleum Meas: ‘urement Standards for calculation of F. ‘Turbine Meters Turbine meters are velocity-sensing devices. The direction ‘of flow through the meter is parallel toa turbine’s rotary axis and the speed of rotation ofthe rotor is proportional tothe rate of flow, ‘The turbine meter normally consists of one moving parti an impeller held in place by high pressure, low drag bearings. A magnetic transducer mounted in the meter body is used to ‘count revolutions as the flow passes. The pulses from the transducer are determined for a known volume passing through the meter to develop a factor in pulses per gallon, or other desired unit volume. Turbine meter components are shown in Fig. 3-23. ‘Expected accuracies of plus or minus 0.25% can be attained by certain turbine meters where proper stream conditions are ‘maintained and the meter is properly installed, 348FIG. 3.22 Volume Correction Factors for Temperature, Cy Paratfinic Hydrocarbon Mixtures Tigid Sees [Demers APL [Temperature of flowing Aid crrsty eae | AGEs oso us | roe | 1064 | 000 | 100 | aos on ose | ast ass | toss | toot | insi | tom | ser ose ase i os wos | ioe | toss | 109 | ioe 09 ose 0500 058 sass | roe | Lost | ites | 1000 | og . oma soe | 058 105 | Lom Lost | 106 | 1000 ost. oma 08ta 035 vss toa .ove | Los | Lom ose ose. ome 058 112 Lom) LOH 0m | Lom ote | Oana | ots 58 ms 108) | Lor” Loet L000, ote | ogee | agen | | 059 iosd Lost | Low Lom Lom | og | ose | osa0 | oso ois | 087s | aaase 10198 10000 | aes | oso | oso61 osm ast ios | teser | tues | tows , tooo | coms | cose | sse6 | cous | ose so7 | ome | toast | toirs | tooo | ome | nase | assis | oasis | osra 088 #31 | 10906 | Lesio | orm ) Loo | ose27 | o96ss | osas2 | aoui0 | oaTee 084 a8 | toe | Lasso | 1016s | Loom | osss2 | asses | osks0 | oseK | ossm 085 eo2 | roars | ren | rover | roo | assne | ooere | oo4s7 | ass | cass 098 s29 | rouse | tostr | toiss | 0009 | o9se2 | oonss | o9sss | 092m | onars oer ne7 | 104s0 | soso | cow | Lomo | asse7 | oge9 | 09498 | os500 | 990s ons res | roar | ome | coir | 100m | asase | ogre | ossis | oi2s | OA 059 nae | voeee | Lozst | toa | somo | o9es6 | oom | asse7 | ona | aso ros | 1012 | rose | ro1a9 | 10000 | ass60 | oorte | asst | oss62 | 09001 acs | rowi | toage | ross | Loom | ose | osrer | ospse | asus | o9nes sso | tos | teas | rom | Lomo | asess | oone | 09367 | cass | 09087 23 | rosso | to2ss | roies | 10000 | oosrt | oo7ee | over | cone | o90ss sor | tomo | toear | xo | L000 | ooms | 0979 | 09890 | 094% | oot: siz | rosso | rozet | ror | roo | osets | 09785 | asm | oss | asia | sar | toast | 10035 | toms | Loo00 | oosat | oo7s2 | oo6it | 094s) | osiss sis | Lose | 1029 | tons | to. | ooms | o97ss | ogni | o9ars | oair7 99 | Losta | Loz | roma | Loom | osss7 | oor | oss | o9NsS | Oa1as | osenE sts | roses | tazrr | roto» | 1000 | ose | 99780 | onser | ass | 09219 | omits asa | oss | razz | ror | roo | ov | o9ras | oss | assis | 09203 | 08990 42 | tomo | tomor | Loins | tomo | seas | osrar | oocas | osses | osusr | assy | Lovo2 | Lome | Lotor | L000 | owe | a9 | a96s7 | 0956 | oer | cone 590 | 1oams | tows | roe | Loo | ove | oom | overs | oss | o8eas | ose | osrtt soa | 028s | L019 | Lover | 10000 | 0900s | o9eos | ovese | ovsse | oom | 090 | 08807 uso | roa | roxas | 10096 | 10000 | o9905 | ooso | 09a | o9ss9 | o9sa5 | o90s | 883s, 30 | 102s | toxas | tous | L000 | over | oasis | o9ear | oss80 | ose | osi0s | asses sir | 1oa66 | oir | roo | 10000 | osoio | ovsi9 | o9ros | O98 | cuss | Osis | asso 3 | tom | rire | tooss | too | ovr | o9m2 | o9711 | o9sas | caste | cates | oasis ris | toast | Loe | Loos | Loom | ogeta | osser | o9zi7 | o9ea | o9ass | o9iss | ossss 257 | 10251 | toxer | ones | 10000 | oveis | ovat 09616 | 09400 | 09188 | oss58 os 240 | rome | Loree | too | 10000 | ogerr | ome fo9625 | otis | 0920 | 08085 oo 223 | io | tore | room | Loom | ogoi9 | oom? ses | o9e7 | oor | oss 038 207 | ozo | roisr | 1o0Te | 10000 | ogset | o9set ‘sei | 906 | over | can os 180 | oes | roise | voor | Loo | oma | o9bas vse | 0951 | 0922 | osnst 095 m5 | 0226 | sort | 10076 | 14000 | oge2e | oases | osrs2 | o9ess | oss | asxsr | o2oro 096, aso | rez | rows | Lo0% | 10000 | 09926 | osss: | osrsr | osess | asers | ozs | 09000 ost isa | tear | tows | Loos | Loom | oager | oasss | ostaz | osero | o94as | asze7 | ooio0 008 29 | Lome | Lowe | Loo | Lom | oggao | osase | Osis: | ser? | seas | osste | osizn 098 ng | 10208 | 10139 | i007 | 1000 | ogss0 | ossan | 9772 | oaeas | oasas | oases | cous 1.00 100 e204 | 10126 | 1.0068 | 12000 | ooeae | oases | o9r76 | oa | o9sis | a9s40 | oorss 101 Se | 10189 10133 | 10067 | 10000 | o99ss | o9sss | oorst | o9mas | oosas | oasss | ooo 102 73 to ters | 10066 | Loom | oases | o9sso | ogzas | ogra | o9sas | o9as5 | osisr os 59 aise 10125 | 1006 | L000 | oases | oss | ogra | oovor | asses | ossrs | osznr 104 46 | 10188 10135 | 10060 | 10000 | oseer | o9e73 | ogres | oaria | osssa | oat00 | comet 105, sa | rows 126 | 10062 | 10000 | ogee | agers | og7e7 | o9mi9 | ogsar | ogo2 | omar 106 20 | sorsi | Leia | soos: | L000 | casas | oer | oseoi | caves | o2sse | oasis | oonse tor oo | ors | roe 10056 | ooo | ove | oase: | osens | ore | ossrs | asus | o92TtFIG. 3-23, ‘Typical Turbine Meter Components Rotor Assembly Spring tip Bearing Recombly us Fig. 3-24 is a sizing guide for liquid turbine meters. An ex- ample of @ turbine meter installation schematic for mass measurement is shown in Fig. 3-25, Positive Displacement Meters Displacement meters take e physically enclosed volume of {uid and move it from upstream to downstream of the meter- ing point, The sum of these operations is an indication of the amount of liquid which is moved over a period of time. An expected accurney of 0.25% for a positive displacement (PD) moter can be attained under proper conditions. Applica tion is normally limited to those fluids that exhibit some la bricating properties because of the multiple moving parts of a positive displacement meter, Typical applications are butane ‘and heavier produets since ethane and propane have minimal Tubrieating properties. Fig. 3-26 shows some internal details ‘of a positive dispincement meter, Meter Selection and Performance Turbine and positive displacement meter installations should include the following considerations: Application to proper flow rangos Upstream strainers to protect meter internals from for- ign material Pulsation and vibration Proper upstream flow conditioning nificant rate changes Changes in flow temperature, pressure, end density Back pressure (2 times AP across meter plus 1.25 times equilibrium vapor pressure is minimum recommended) + Connections to prove the meter FIG. 3-24 Sizing Guide for Typical Turbine Meters 10 7 ie + © Max Extended F 4 Max Linear Flow (Min Linear Flow os 03 02 Pressure Drop, psi Vir if 4 A oa 2.08 0d 03 ace oot Flow Rate, Gallons per Minute eat Or ss, we 320FIG. 3-25, Example Turbine Meter Installation Ish TeRMINa.o6Y pescaFIG. 3-26, Example Positive Displacement Meter - a ea OF BLADES ae a teup ROTOR PLAN VIEW ‘The normally acceptable performance of a turbine or posi- tive displacement motor will result in a change in the pulse count of less than 0.05% between meter prover runs, and less than 0.259 between provings. Ifthe factor changes more than, 0.25% between provings, meter maintenance may be required. More details about turbine and positive displacement meter installations, operation, and proving are available in Chapters, 4,5, 6, and 12 of the API Manual of Petroleum Measurement. Standards, Meter Proving ‘The purpose of proving a turbine or PD meter is to establish a factor which, when multiplied by the meter pulses and divided by the nominal K-factor, will give an accurate, earrectod metered volume. Compensation for meter factors can be accornplished ex- temal to the meter through either mathematical or electronic ‘means, The meter factor may be defined as a number which cor- rects moter registration to actual volume, Ameter factor is appli ‘able toonly one set of operating conditions. To establish a meter factor, the meter must be compared to a known prover volume. By applying the necessary temperature and pressure factors to the prover volume and by dividing by the change in the metor roading, a meter factor is established. ‘Volume of liquid in theprover corrected to standard conditions = “Change in meter reading corrected ‘tw standard conditions Eq3-t7 Standard conditions in liquid measurement are 60°F and the equilibrium vapor pressure of the liquid at 60°F (or atmospheric pressure for liquids with a vapor pressure of less ‘than 0 peig). Meter Proving Systems — Meter proving systems should include the following considerations: ‘+ All proving vessels should be calibrated by qualified per- ‘sonnel using test measures cartified by the US, Bureau of Standards and be issued a "Certificate of Calibration’. All meter proving systems should be equipped with a ‘thermometer and pressure gauge located near the meter. Proving vessels shall have pressure gauges and ther- mometerson the inlet and outlet. Gauges and thermome- ters should be checked periodically against a deadweight toster and cortified thermometer to verify accuracy, All valves in the proving systems which affect the accu- racy of the proving should provide for observation of valve integrity, eg, double block and bleed valves. Proving conditions should approximate operating condi- tions Additional information concerning meter proving ean be found in Chapter 4 of the API Manual of Petroleum Measure- ‘ment Standards, Meter Proving Reports — A meter proving report is the record of meter proving and must be completed to caleu Tate the net volume being measured by the meter being proven. A meter proving report may eontain considerable ine formation but the following information is usually considered the minimum necessary to identify the proving and allow cal: culation of net volumes: proving report number, date and time, meter owner, company of person responsible for proving, fluid used, uid specific gravity, fluid vapor pressure (at oper: sting temperature), meter size, totalizer pulses, prover size, pues per unit volume, uncorrected prover volume, tempera: ture of fluid at meter and prover, pressure of Quid at meter and prover, and operator's name and sigmature. Ifthe proving is being done on a meter used for custody transfer, i is cus: tomary for a representative uf exch custodial company to wit nese the proving and sign the repor if i satisfactory. The parties involved i the proving should agree on what cons futes an acceptable proving, and if it is act aeceptablo, what rust be done to corroct the problem Example 3-7 — The following information was taken from a meter proving report. Caleulate a moter factor with which to correct the routine meter recorded volumes, Given Data: Product = Propane-Butane Mix Specie Gravity = 0548 "Dlalizer Pulses Per Barrel = 19188 Uncorrested Prover Volume = 2.0784 bbl Vapor Pressure = UB psig Prover Size = 12in. pipe with 0.975 in. wall