1g o> vasonooy wey AGA Report No. 9 ‘Measurement of Gas by Multipath _ Ultrasonic Meters - Second Edition April 2007 2 Ne Gas, Association — “comimun in ens faa ‘ne = Pune eos mn oN fn session anes DESIAGA Report No. 9 Measurement of Gas by Multipath Ultrasonic Meters Second Edition April 2007 Transmission Measurement Committee Aca American Gas Association Copyright 2007, Operating Section, American Gas Association 400 North Capitol Street, NW, 4th Floor, Washington, DC 20001, U.S.A. Phone: (202) 824-7000 + Fax: (202) 824-7082 « Web: www.aga.org Catalog # XQO701 “{ypvi uoaesossy sep ueavoury sea Woy ase 105 092-Few-va vo land0} UE iro pan ‘woo jsonstsarmwys oaRstse) fa pomnqusig “peUlad s: BuysoMieU 1 UoRonpOIda: JIN ON “AO Bsn S886DISCLAIMERS AND COPYRIGHT The American Gas Association’s (AGA) Operating Section provides a forum for industry experts to bring collective knowledge together to improve the state of the art in the areas of operating, engineering and technological aspects of producing, gathering, transporting, storing, distributing, measuring and utilizing natural gas. ‘Through its publications, of which this is one, AGA provides for the exchange of information within the ‘gas industry and scientific, trade and governmental organizations. Each publication is prepared or sponsored by an AGA Operating Section technical committee. While AGA. may administer the process, neither AGA nor the technical committee independently tests, evaluates or verifies the accuracy of any information or the soundness of any judgments contained therein. AGA disclaims liability for any personal injury, property or other damages of any nature whatsoever, whether special, indirect, consequential or compensatory. directly or indirectly resulting from the publication, use of or reliance on AGA publications. AGA makes no guaranty or watranty as {0 the accuracy and completeness of any information published therein, The information contained therein is provided on an “as is" basis and AGA makes no representations or warranties including any expressed or implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. In issuing and making this document available, AGA is not undertaking to render professional or other services for or on behalf of any person or entity. Nor is AGA undertaking to perform any duty owed by any person of entity to someone else. Anyone using this document should rely on his or her own independent judgment or, as appropriate, seek the advice of a competent professional in determining the exercise of reasonable care in any given circumstances. ‘AGA has no power, nor does it undertake, to police or enforce compliance with the contents of this document. Nor does AGA list, certify, test or inspect products, designs or installations for compliance with this document. Any certification or other statement of compliance is solely the responsibility of the cattifier or maker of the statement. AGA does not take any position with respect to the validity of any patent rights asserted in connection with any items that are mentioned in or are the subject of AGA publications, and AGA disclaims liability for the infringement of any patent resulting from the use of or reliance on its publications, Users of these publications are expressly advised that determination of the validity of any such patent rights, and the risk of infringement of such rights, is entirely their own responsibility Users of this publication should consult applicable federal, state and local laws and regulations. AGA does not, through its publications intend to urge action that is not in compliance with applicable laws, and its publications may not be construed as doing so. This report is the cumulative result of years of experience of many individuals and organizations acquainted with the measurement of natural gas. However, changes to this report may become necessary from time to time. If changes to this report are believed appropriate by any manufacturer, individual or organization, such suggested changes should be communicated to AGA by completing the last page of this report titled, “Form for Proposal on AGA Report No. 9” and sending it to: Operations & Engineering Services Group, American Gas Association, 400 North Capitol Street, NW, 4" Floor, Washington, DC 20001, U.S.A. Copyright 2007, American Gas Association, All Rights Reserved, wy osue0y spun eye panko, (voy) voreposey seo weave L002-4eyn-y2us dnvende1 wen pre posueon ‘Woo veonsuser mv Yoanst28! Aq PaNREID “paRLLd S| BuNVONaL30 UONRAPEAEOL JUD ON “Ajo oan s.aaeue>NFOREWORD This report is published in the form of a performance-based specification for multipath ultrasonic meters for gas flow measurement, It is the result of a collaborative effort of users, meter manufacturers, flow measurement research organizations and independent consultants forming Task Group R-9 of AGA’s Transmission Measurement Committee (TMC). In addition, comments to this report were made by the Committee on Gas Flow Measurement (COGFM) of the American Petroleum Institule (API), Gas Processor’s Association (GPA), International Standard Organization's ISO/TC 30/SC S/WG 1, Pipeline Research Council Intemational (PRCI) and the committee members of Intemational School of Hydrocarbon Measurement (ISHM). ‘This version of AGA Report No, 9 is intended to supersede all prior versions of this document. However, this document does not reference existing multipath ultrasonic meter installations. The decision to apply this document to existing installations shall be at the discretion of the parties involved. Research conducted in support of this report and cited herein has demonstrated that multipath ultrasonic ‘meters can accurately measure gas flow and, therefore, should be able to meet or exceed the requirements specified in this report when calibrated and installed according to the recommendations contained herein. Users should follow appropriate installation, use and maintenance of an ultrasonic meter as applicable in each case. Various combinations of upstream fittings, valves and lengths of straight pipe can produce profile disturbances at the meter inlet that may result in flow-rate measurement errors. The amount of meter error will depend on the magnitude of the infet velocity profile distortion produced by the upstream piping configuration and the meter’s ability to compensate for this distortion. Research results and flow-meter calibration data have indicated that multipath ultrasonic flow meters can accurately measure gas flow rai when installed with unstream piping lengths and/or flow conditioning systems sufficient to maintain the integrity of the flow calibration, Other effects that may also result in flow-rate measurement errors for a given installation include levels of pulsation, range of operating pressures and ambient temperature conditions. Flow-calibration guidelines are provided for ovcasions when a flow calibration is requested or required to verify the meter’s accuracy or to apply a calibration factor to minimize the measurement uncertainty. (See Report text and Appendix A) Unlike most traditional gas meters, multipath ultrasonic meters inherently have an embedded microprocessor system, Therefore, this report includes, by reference, a standardized set of international testing specifications applicable to electronic gas meters. These tests, summarized in Appendix B, are used to demonstrate the acceptable performance of the multipath ultrasonic meter’s electronic system design under different influences and disturbances, AGA Engineering Technical Note M-96-2-3, Ultrasonic Flow Measurement for Natural Gas Applications, is included in Appendix C, as @ source of background information on ultrasonic gas metering, Contents of this technical note were based on the information available when the note was written in March 1996, Therefore, in case of any conflict between the information in the main report and the technical note (Appendix C), the content in the main report prevails. uy 24 ey e804 spun vanbov aA eng o} Poeun ete panulaeo gi z & ‘ive woo weansyser mn Yeansyoo, Ke PAINAINSG ‘iUuad | EulOMieU 10 uoNDNPOIM! ayn} ON -AIuO-En Batuedy 0} ZoOe-AeH ye LS‘The flow meter andior flow conditioner performance verification test found in Appendix D is intended to provide a method by which an ultrasonic flow metering system can be shown to perform acceptably (ic., within the performance specifications described in Sections 5.1, 5.1.1 and 5.1.2 of this document) under varying test flow conditions. An example of overall measurement uncertainty calculations is provided in Appendix E with assumed numerical values for estimating measurement uncertainty for sites using ultrasonic gas flow meters. “{voy) uoseosgy 280 ueouowry spo We tnsonooy we) regen peau 1 L002: co reanaqpar mi YeaasYos Aq PaNNUIEIG “paMUAd = BuRONLeU 0 UONRNROAdeL Ups ON “AUD aen seosuO3yACKNOWLEDGMENTS AGA Report No. 9, Measurement of Gas by Multipath Ultrasonic Meters, was revised by a Task Group of the American Gas Association's Transmission Measurement Committee under the joint chairmanship of Paul LaNasa of CPL & Associates and Warren Peterson of TransCanada Corporation. Individuals ‘who made substantial contributions to the revision of this document are: Jim Bowen, formerly of Instromet, Inc. Fd Bowles, Southwest Research Institute Joe Bronner, Pacific Gas & Electric Co Larry Fraser, Fraser & Associates Gamet Grudeski, TransCanada Calibrations John Lansing, Sick - Maihak Dan Rebinan, Columbia Gulf Transmission Co. Jim Witte, El Paso Pipeline Group ‘Other individuals who contributed (o the revision of the document are: Frank Brown, Consultant Cary Carter, Texas Gas Transmission Claire Becker-Castle, Sempra Utilities Craig Chester, Williams Gas Pipeline Joel Clancy, CEESI Peter Bspina, Controlotron Corporation Angela Floyd, Panhandle Energy Bill Frasier, Northern Border Pipeline Robert Fritz, Lone Star Measurement Jim Griffeth, Bristol Babeock, Inc. Terrence Grimley, Southwest Research Institute Danny Harris, Columbia Gas Zaki Husain, Chevron Texaco Mark Imboden, Controlotron Corporation Jim Keating, Consultant Allen Knack, Consumers Energy Rick Ledesma, EI Paso Pipeline Group Brad Massey, Southern Star Central Gas Pipeline George Mattingly, Consultant Dannie Mercer, Atmos Energy Kevin Moir, DTE Energy Dr. Thomas Morrow, Southwest Research Institute John Naber, Emerson Process Management, Daniel Div. Dan Peace, Sensus Metering Systems, Mark Pelkey, National Fuel Gas Thanh Phan, Duke Energy Reese Platzer, Questar Pipeline Alex Podgers, American Meter Co. Hank Poellnitz, 111, El Paso Pipeline Group King Poon, Thermno Electron Corporation James Robertson, Pacific Gas & Electric Co. Blaine Sawchuk, Canada Pipeline Accessories Mike Scelzo, GE Sensing ates panyBiKGoD “(yoy voweossy 505 vesysuy aa wy seve) sepun 192 US Vosancer ue) ip oF posse ‘woo eausyooy ave oosty994 Aq porneneG ‘poled BupvoNteu 10 YoKanpoxdo!oquny ON LO 2S $.90SU8D4 10) LOOR-FE>K2epun wibustog Walt Seidl, CEES! Tushar Shah, Fagle Research Corporation Jerry Paul Smith, Consultant Karl Stappert, Daniel M&C John Stuart, Stuart Gas Measurement Consulting Fred VanOrsdol, Southern Petroleum Laboratories Kevin Warner, Instromet, Inc. Wayne Wenger, Kinder Morgan Klaus Zanker, Emerson Process Management, Daniel Div, (voW) uonecossy coo uesyeury ax oy ‘9¢ ® fuoponiau 10 uonanpasdes;oqun} on “Avo 96n $.286u291 0) 2092-KEN-H2 LS Salonen UU pri of erceor ace ns of the above individuals and thanks them for their time and effort in AGA acknowledges the contrib zgotting this document revised Lori Traweek Ali Quraishi Senior Vice President Staff Executive, Engineering Services Director ain YeaUROaY fe pemnaUIG “P4. INTRODUCTION... AL 12 2. TERMINOLOGY, UNITS AND DEFINITIONS, 24 22 23 3. OPERATING CONDITIONS. 33 34 as 36 4 Ml 41 42 43 43.1 43.2 433 434 438 43.6 43.7 44 44.1 442 Table of Contents Scope. Principle of Measurement Terminology. Engineering Units. Definitio Gas Quality Pressures. ‘Temperatures, Gas and Ambient... Gas Flow Consideration Upstream Piping and Flow Profiles. Acoustic Noise. aesseesstesD IETER REQUIREMENTS .......... ssn Codes and Regulations iuonsunsnnmesonensnnsn Quality Assut Meter Body. 9 Maximum Operating Pressure. 9 Comosion Resistance. .oeeerennninansnnin Sala smn Meter Body Lengths and Bores. 9 Ultrasonic Transducer POPS sexnnmnnsnninnnsnsnannne suruoenannnnansnne 10 Pressure Tap. Miscellaneous. Meter Body Markings Rate of Pressure Changernnn-n “Wov) voreacssy sen ueauay ey woH 984804 J20UN 7¢ Uo usiana07 ue (DN OL POsUaDS feueTew POISED \wortsansunar am Yaensu994 fq PEINgUEID “PaRLUAS 5 BuopoNseU 10 UoHonpe:des sy ERY “LD e8ns.2e8Ue01 10) Lo9e-Key443° Exchange. 444 Transducer Tests 12 48 Electronics ” wl? 43.1 General Requirements. 12 45.2 Output Signal Specifications... 2 453 Electrical Safety Design Requirements. B 4.54 Component Replacement B 4.6 Computer Programs. 4.6.1 Firmware... i . 4.6.2 Configuration and Maintenance 4.63 Inspection and Auditing Functions. 464 — Alarms. 7 4.6.5 Diagnostic Measurements 4.7 Documentation canon 18 47.1 After Receipt of Order. 16 4.12 Before Shipment. 16 8, METER PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS. AT wl al SA General Meter Performance Requirements SLL Large Meter Accuraoy . 5.12 Small Meter Accuracy 9 5.2 Pressure, Temperature and Gas Composition Influences 6. INDIVIDUAL METER & METERING PACKAGE TESTING REQUIREMENTS....20 GL Leakage Te 100 6.2 Dimensional Measurements. Preparation for Flow Calibration 64.2 Calibration of Metering Package. 6.443 Calibration Adjustment Factors GAA Calibration Test Reports 64.5 Final Considerations 7. INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS. 7.1 Environmental Considerat TLL Temperature aa 71.2 Vibration Sanemaenininn 7.1.3 Electrical Noise. 714 Palsation, vonenossy se uesuetuy eta Woy asus yo z 5 j i é 2 i g i z “woo eansuper ny eeHs224 Aa peinqsig “pad 6: BunsoMIoU 10 wononpOidasJauUry ON “Kuo sen ss0su7.2 Piping Configurat 72.1 Flow Diteetionrnnn 7.2.2 Piping Installations. 723 Prow 7.24 Inveral S 7.2.5 Thermowells and Sarnple Probes. 712.6 Plow Conditioners. 7.2.7 Orientation of Meter 72.8 Filtration. a 7.2.9 Meter Tube Ports. 7.3 Associated Flow Computer 7.3.1 Flow Computer Catcutations. 7.4 Maintenance, 8. FIELD VERIFICATION TESTS 9. ULTRASONIC METER MEASUREMENT UNCERTAINTY DETERMINATION ..32 9.1 Types of Uncertainties. 9.2 Meter Cali Uncertainty . 9.3 Uncertainties Arising From Differences Between the Field Installation and the Calibration Lab...32 9.3.1 Parallel Meter Runs. 9.3.2 Installation Effects... vs 933 Pressure and Temperature Effects... 9.34 Gas Quality Effects... 9.4 Uncertainties Due to Secondary Instrumentation. 9.8 Uncertainty Analysis Procedure 10. REFERENCE LIST. APPENDIX A: MULTIPATH ULTRASONIC METER FLOW-CLAIBRATION ISSUES. 39 AL Why Flow-Calibrate a Multipath Ultrasonic Meter? 39 1 A2 — Methods for Correcting a UM's Flow-Measurement Error. A3 Example of a Flow-Weighted Mean Error (FWME) Calculation, APPENDIX B: ELECTRONICS DESIGN TESTING, B.L_ Static Temperature, Dry Hea Br Temperature, Col (yoy) uayeoossy seo uecueuy 2g toy 08485 spun (72 U3 uaianoor UE) peso 928s "wooreensyaor Yonsipe] fq perrqneig “poyUUeC 5) BunoNeU Jo UoRanpoXdeu smuNy ON “Kuo Bens 9esU29H 0) L008 AyBd Damp Heat, Cyeli BS Random Vibration... B.6 Sinusoidal Vibration. B.7_ Mechanical Shoek. BS Power Voltage Variation... B.9 Short Time Power Reduction. B.10 Bursts (Transients) B.11 Electrostatic Discharge . B.12. Electromagnetic Susceptibility APPENDIX C: ULTRASONIC FLOW MEASUREMENT FOR NATURAL GAS APPLICATIONS CA. Introduction CALL Task Group Scope... C.1.2_ Engineering Technical Note Seope C2. Principle of Operation . C.2.1 Introduction €2.2 Theory of Ulirasonic Flow Measurement. C.3.1. Speed of Sound in Natural Gas... €.3.2. Installation Requirements. C33. Meter Constructor C34 Performance Characteristics. C35. Pield Checks. CA. Evaluation of Measurement Performance.. a C4.1_ Signal Amplitude, C42 Pulse Shape . CA3 Noise. C44 Batch Diagnostics. 7 CAS Diagnostic Message Block Example. for Analysis. “tyoy) uowenossy seo ussyoury ‘weoaenstoornwnTeeRs\%e) At panavIg ‘paMuOd 5 SunzoMaU 0 UosanpENAL in ON “ua Aen s.2suoa1 0) Zone-tenre OLR ay Soy ee©663. Calibration Facilities. C64 Transducer Replacement C7 Recommendations CoA Industry C2. Users. C73. Manufacturers CTA Researchers nen TABLE Cl: Ultrasonic Meter Research Literature. ‘TABLE C2: Ultrasonic Meter Research Activities Appendix C References. APPENDIX D: FLOW METER AND/OR FLOW CONDITIONER PERFORMANCE, VERIFICATION TEST. APPENDIX E: EXAMPLES OF OVERALL MEASUREMENT UNCERTAINTY CALCULATIONS ~ ULTRASONIC METER... El General... E.2 The Mathematical Mod E.3 Contributory Variances E.3.1 Uncertainty in the Uncorrected Volume Flowrate, Qr E.3.2 Uncertainty in the Measurement of Pressure. £.3.3, Uncertainty in the Measurement of Temperature. B.3.4 Uncertainty in the Determination of Compressibility E.4 Combined Uncertainty (percent) uo ES Expanded Uncertainty . APPENDIX F: FORM FOR PROPOSALS ON AGA REPORT NO. 9 suey spun powubukoD i § é Q : i i : 5 i § 5 i : 2 7 3 i ‘ 3 : 2 5 3 } g ° i i z : 5 jL Introduction LI Scope This report was developed for multipath ultrasonic transit-time flow meters used for the measurement of natural gas. Multipath ultrasonic meters have at least two independent pairs of measuring transducers (acoustic paths). Typical applications include measuring the flow of gas through production facilities, transmission pipelines, storage facilities, distribution systems and large end-use. customer meter sets 1.2 Principle of Measurement Multipath ultrasonic meters are inferential meters that derive the gas flow rate by measuring the transit times of high-frequency sound pulses. ‘Transit times are measured for sound pulses transmitted and received between pairs of transducers positioned on or in the pipe. Pulses transmitted downstream with the gas flow are accelerated by the flow and pulses transmitted upstream against the as flow along the identical acoustic path are decelerated. The difference in these transit times along, the acoustic paths is related to the average gas flow velocity. Numerical calculation techniques are then used to compute the average axial gas flow velocity and the gas volume flow rate at Tine conditions through the meter. ‘The accuracy of an ultrasonic gas meter depends on several factors, such as: ‘+ Precisely measured dimensions of the meter body and ultrasonic transducer locations The velocity integration technique inherent in the design of the meter The shape of the velocity profile at the meter Levels of pulsation that may exist in the flowing gas stream The accuracy of the transit-time measurements. Flow calibrations, The accuracy of the transit-time measurement depends on * The electronic clock accuracy and stabili Accurate, consistent detection of sound pulse transmit and receive times + Proper compensation for signal delays of electronic components and transducers ‘+ Dimensional integrity of the meter body. Ultrasonic meter (UM) accuracy is dependent on these fundainental characterizations and theit continued integrity over time. " These accuracy dependencies may be adversely influenced by operational degradation of the UM over time (e.2., dirt build up on the internal surfaces of the meter, elecironics drift, etc.). Emphasis on UM diagnostic data collection and interpretation in this document is made to impress upon users the need to continuously monitor UM integrity so that accuracy is maintained. US Uesenooy weh prison pocusey teorcpenaeakseD 4 (yoy) usserosay 25 ueauouy oy wos osu80y sep ‘wooveeneune: mmm ieoasioa, Aq pemnaviig “Panui 8 BupLONOU 19 Uopanpoides JouT| ON “KUO ssn s.easv0dH 15 2002-Kone ae TE) ‘heroine =e era ‘Terminology, Units and Definitions For the purposes of this report, the following terminology, definitions, and units apply: 24 Terminology auditor designer inspector manufacturer operator SPU UM 22 Representative of the operator or other interested party that audits operation of multipath ultrasonic meters Company that designs and constructs metering facilities and purchases multipath ultrasonic meters Representative of the designer who visits the manufacturer's facilities for quality-assurance purposes. Company that designs, manufactures, sells and delivers multipath ultrasonic meters. Company that operates multipath ultrasonic meters and performs normal maintenance. Signal Processing Unit, the portion of the multipath ultrasonic meter that is made up of the electronic microprocessor system. Multipath ultrasonic meter for measuring gas flow rates, ering Units ‘The following units should be used for the various values associated with the UM. Parameter US. Units density Thin energy Bu mass b ke pipe diameter in mm pressure psi or Ibffin? bar or kPa temperature SFor’R Cor °K velocity fs mis viscosity, absolute dynamic lbifisec) cP or Pass volume efor? mi actual (at flowing conditions) volume flow rate acth am" standard volume sof nov? Teuaiels panbnsog ‘wo voumacssy 300 ease aig woy sye04 22puN soto Laisiooy won nei 8 psu lWortaansiparm iaaisinaL Aa paInaneG ‘peued s BuowowaL 10 vomanpoides souury oN “ALO 88m =;88U=0H 30) L002-Ae2.3 Definitions Accuracy Confidence Level Discrete Error Value Error Inside Pipe Diameter Maximum Error Maximum Error Shift with One Path Failed ‘Maximum Peak-to-Peak Error ‘Maximum SOS Path Spread Mean error Metering Package Nominal Pipe Diameter (ND) The degree to which an indicated value matches the actual value (or recognized reference value) of a measured variable. The degree of confidence, expressed as a percent, that the true value lies within the stated uncertainty. A proper uncertainty statement would read: “qy,=500 cfh 21.0% at a 95% level of confidence”. This ‘means that 95 out of every 100 observations are between 495 and 505 cth. An estimate of error for an individual measurement, expressed in ‘percent of reading’ or in engineering units. The result of a measurement minus the true value of the measurand Note: Since a true value cannot be determined, in practice, a conventional true (or reference) value is used, The inside diameter ofa pipe, as determined from direct physical measurement or calculated from pipe schedule and wall thickness. ‘The allowable error limit within the specified operational range of ‘the meter, as shown in Figure I and Sections 5.1.1 and 5.1.2 ‘The maximum deviation between the observed error, at one flow rate, with all paths in operation compared to the observed error, at the same flow rate, with any one of the meter’s paths inactive. ‘The largest allowable difference between the upper-most error point ‘and the lower-most crror point as shown in Figure I and Section SilsD and 5.1.2 ‘The maximum difference in speed of sound values between the acoustic paths. The arithmetic mean of all the observed errors or data points for a given flow rate, Note: Mean error to be determined for at least seven different flow rates, such as 2.5, 5, 10, 25, 50, 75, 100 percent of maximum flow rate, A mean error corresponding to 95% confidence level shall be reported for the data collected at each flow rate along ‘with the number of samples used to compute the mean error. A. imum number of three flow rate error values shail be ‘determined at each flow rate to compute mean error. A piping package that consists of an ultrasonic meter and adequate upstream and downstream piping, as defined in Section 7.2.2, along with thermowell(s), sample probe, and any flow conditioning to ensure that there is no significant difference between the velocity profile experienced by the meter in the laboratory and the velocity profile experienced in the final installation. Pipe diameter corresponding to Nominal Pipe Size. For example, the ND of schedule 40 NPS 4 pipe is 4 inches, whereas the Inside Pipe Diameter may be 4.026 inches. Iyoy) voneioossy S25 vesweury ota wy esueny sepun hey-y2 UO uaieto0% Ue) pny 6] Posse) Busleu Poutearsoy ‘wooTeensyoer mn taansype) KapeInaeA “PapNLIeEs Bunoau 4 voponzcude ouUry ON “AO Ban 588LE9H.0) L002a The actual measured gas flow rate passing through a meter under 2 specific set of test conditions. ‘The manufacturer specified maximum allowable gas flow rate through the meter (see Figure 1). Gein ‘The minimum gas flow rate through the meter as specified by the ‘manufacturer (see Figure 1). a ‘The flow rate specified by the manufacturer at which the meter error limit and allowable peak to peak error limit change, prior to flow calibration adjustment, where qt < 0.1 qusx- (See Figure 1). Reference Gas ‘A gas of known physical properties, eg., nitrogen, Reference Meter ‘A meter or measurement device of proven flow measurement accuracy. Repeatability Closeness of the agreement between the results of successive measurements of the same measurand carried out under the same conditions of measurement, Notes: 1. These conditions are called repeatability conditions. 2. Repeatability conditions include: The same measurement procedure + Thesame observer The same measuring instrument used under the same conditions, + Thesame location + Repetition over a short period of time 3, Repeatability may be expressed quantitatively in terms of the dispersion characteristics of the results. 4, A valid statement of repeatability requires specifications of the conditions of measurement, such as pressure, ‘temperature, and gas composition, When a value of repeatability is given, following note shall be provided: “The stated value for repeatability is in accordance with the note 3 of the repeatability definition as it quantifies the dispersion of flow data.” Closeness of the agreement between the results of measurements of the same measurand carried out under changed conditions of measurement. Reproducit Notes: 1, A valid statement of reproducibility requires specification of the conditions changed 2. The changed condi ‘+ principle of measurement + method of measurement + observer ‘+ measuring instrument ns may include: pu {yoy) uowepossy sem vesveury aug wing 28 92 UD aLonCO7 LEA Jy oF BOBS eIeL peRDKEDD ‘woo Taansyoer men Yeaxevo94 fe poineyeg -pamued a! Suysongeu x0 uoHanpoAde, JeuLn ON “AO Bsn S=88420140} L002: AeyResolution ‘Speed of Sound (SOS) Deviation ‘True Value Uncertainty Velocity Sampling Zero-Flow Reading + reference standard + location + conditions of use + time 3. Reproducibility may be expressed quantitatively in terms of the dispersion characteristics of the results. 4. Results here usually are understood to be corrected results. ‘The smallest change in the measure and that can be observed. See Section 5.1 ‘The maximum difference, in percent, between the average speed of sound reported by the meter and the speed of sound of the gas being measured, as calculated per AGA Report No.10. ‘The value determined with a perfect measurement process. The true value is always unknown because all measurement processes are imperfect to some degree. An estimate of the interval bounding the measured value within which the true value lies, ‘The time interval between two succeeding gas velocity ‘measurements by the full set of transducers or acoustic paths. ‘Typically, between 0.05 and 0.5 seconds, depending on meter size. See Section 5.1 ‘The maximum allowable flow-velocity reading when the gas is assumed to be at rest, ic. both the axial and non-axial velocity, ‘components are essentially zero, See Section 5.1 waikso, feumeut pon 3 (voy) uaserosey seo ursuauy > 200e-fen-y2 80 Vorenear US) fg 91 pes ‘Woorasqsysarien YoansY991 AQ Pana “pened «| BuPLONAU 19 UOK:NpENdes xpi o4) Ajo BBn 6. se5be‘The meter shall, as @ minimum requirement, operate with any of the “normal range” natural gas composition mixtures specified in AGA Report No. 8. This includes relative densities between 0.554 (pure methane) and 0.87. ‘The manufacturer should be consulted if any of the following are expected: 1) carbon dioxide levels are above 10%, 2) operation near the critical density of the natural gas mixture, or 3) total sulfur level exceeds 20 prains per 100 standard cubic feel, including mercaptans, HS, and other sulfur ‘compounds, Deposits due to normal gas pipeline conditions (e.g., condensates, glycol, amines, inhibitors, water or ‘traces of oil inixed with mill-scale, dirt or sand) may affect the meter’s accuracy by reducing the meter’s cross-sectional area. Independent of transducer mounting, deposits may also attenuate or obstruct the ultrasonic sound waves emitted from and received by the ultrasonic transducers or reflected by the internal wall of the meter. 3.2 Pressures Ultrasonic transducers used in UMS require a minimum ges density (a function of pressure) to ensure acoustic coupling of the sound pulses to and from the gas. Therefore, the designer shall specify the ‘expected minimum operating pressure as well as the maximum operating, pressure. 3.3 Temperatures, Gas and Ambient ‘As a minimum, the UM should operate over a flowing gas temperature range of -4° to 140° F (-20° to ‘60° C). The designer shall specify the expected operating gas temperature range. ‘The operating ambient air temperature range should be at a minimum -40° to 140° F (-40° to 60° C). This ambient temperature range applies to the meter body with and without gas flow, field-mounted electronics, ultrasonic transducers, cabling, ete. If the meter and the associated electronics are in direct sunlight, the temperature limits stated may not be adequate, Therefore, itis recommended that a sun shield be considered, ‘The manufacturer shall state the flowing gas and ambient air temperature specifications for the multipath ultrasonic meter, if they differ from the above. 3.4 Gas Flow Considerations The flow-rate limits that can be measured by a UM are determined by the actual velocity of the flowing gas. The designer should determine the expected gas flow rates and verify that these values are within the renge specified by the manufacturer. ‘The designer is cautioned to examine carefully the maximum velocity for noise and piping safety (erosion, thermowell vibrations, etc.) concerns. (For further information on probe vibration, see API MPMS Chapter 14, Part 1, Section 14.1.7.4.1) UMSs have the inherent capability of measuring flow in either direction with equal accuracy; i.c., they ate bidirectional, The designer should specify if bi-directional measurement is required so that the menufacturer can properly configure the SPU parameters. ‘The designerfoperator is cautioned that operating ultrasonic meters at low gas velocities, less than 2 f/sec, may incur greater measurement uncertainty due to thermal gradients across the pipe. 6 pun wenosey se uespewy ays wos esx) “wow! 72 UE veH007 VEN nyo pasion eaedels PenLBNEOD ‘woo iansuoer wm ieensioes Aq pamnasig ‘pone 81 ByppoNtaU 20 uoyarposdos soupy on “ALO Ean seesue2H 1) 200e-AeHt3.5 Upstream Piping and Flow Profiles Upstream piping configurations (ie., various combinations of upstream fittings, valves, regulators, and lengths of straight pipe) may affect the gas velocity profile entering a UM to such an extent that significant flow rate measurement error results. The magnitude and sign of the error, if any, will be, in part, a function of the ability of the meter to correctly compensate for such conditions. In general, research results have shown that this effect is dependent on the meter design, as well as the type and severity of the flow field distortion produced at the meter. Although a substantial amount of data is, available on the effect of upstream piping, the full range of field piping installation configurations has not been studied in detail. Meter station designers/operators may gain insight into expected meter performance for given upstream piping installation configurations by soliciting available test results, from meter manufacturers or by reviewing test data found in the open literature. However, to truly confirm meter performance characteristics for a particular piping installation configuration, flow calibration of the metering package is usually required. In order to achieve the desired meter accuracy, it may be necessary for a designer/operator to alter the original piping configuration or include a flow conditioner as part of the meter installation. Further recommendations are provided in Sections 7.2.2 and 7.2.7 of this report. 3.6 Acoustic Noise ‘The presence of acoustic noise in a frequency range coincident with a UM's operating frequency, ‘may interfere with pulse detection and, therefore, transit time measurement. If the UM cannot detect, pulses, their transit times between transducers can’t be measured and flow measurement ceases. Acoustic noise interference can also cause pulse “mis-detection” resulting in erroneous transit time ‘measurements that translate into volumetric errors. Users must consider whether interfering acoustic noise is anticipated at a particular installation and take steps to prevent adverse effects on UM. performance during the station design phase. Acoustic noise may be generated from numerous sourves related to gas flow turbulence: high gas velocities through piping and/or fittings, protruding probes, flow conditioners, or pressure and regulating control valves, etc. Since UM manufacturers specify the operating frequencies of their transducers, the frequency range in which a particular meter might be affected by acoustic noise is known. Dynamic operating conditions (flow, pressure and temperature) and the variety of acoustic noise generators make prediction of offending noise frequencies difficult, Consequently, decoupling 4 UM's operating frequency from piping system noise can be challenging, Manufacturers recognize the potential for operating problems, and most UMs have diagnostic outputs that indicate when acoustic noise impairs meter performance. Strategies, as follows, have also been devised by users and manufacturers to estimate and/or limit 2 UM's susceptibility to noise interference, Enhanced signal processing to improve ultrasonic pulse recognition and detection Signal filtering to narrow the bandwidth surveyed for better/faster pulse recognition Installation of fittings, such as blind tees or filters, to isolate noise source from the UM Development and deployment of specialized silencers that are installed in the piping between UM and noise sources to isolate the meter from the offending noise Evaluation of UM response to acoustic noise prior to station installation ‘© Additional attenuation between noise source and UM, if required, could include blind tees or other fittings or acoustic filters. (The user should be aware that close-coupling of pipe fittings, such as blind Tee fittings, may distort velocity profiles.) iio pa 2 wey 20420960 {yoW) uonerosey se5 venue sp2 WS Unsanto7 we) pry pes 5 c00e-fen iad 9 Bupwomau 0 venenpeade spi) ON “suo a8n $.pasua ‘wor wonsyermn YeaRs\oe| Aa panes ‘ponIn general, noise sources upstream of UMs have a more adverse impact on meter performance than those installed downstream, although downstream installation of pressure reduction or other noise generating equipment doesn’t guarantee interference won't occur. Also, greater separation between a noise source and the UM equipped with an increased number of fittings, provides more attenuation than if meter and source are installed in close proximity to one another. When considering installation of a UM, particularly in the vicinity of pressure or flow regulators, the following factors should be assessed during the station design phase. * The valve’s (je, noise source) installed position relative to the meter upstream or downstream, distance between meter and source, number and type of fittings between meter and source. + Operating frequency of the meter’s ultrasonic transducers and the range of fi gencrated by the noise source (noise reduction trim valves are of particular concern design generates noise exceeding audible frequencies, which are often times in the ultrasonic range) ‘+ Whether additional attenuation between noise source and UM is required, which could include blind tees or other fittings or acoustic filters. ‘+ Whether enhanced filtering of digital signal processing should be applied, and if so, whether it slows signal processing time beyond acceptable limits (limits prescribed for a li measuring device are in API MPMS Chapter 21.1) When installation of a UM near a potential noise source is anticipated, it is recommended users ‘contact manufacturers for recommendations specific to their products prior to finalizing station design, Cooperation between users and manufscturers during facilities design can avoid the need for potentially expensive remedial actions at a completed meter installation, (Woy) woreaossy se0 usspouy sia wo esvemy epun pg uo Uasando} WEN sr a1 B>BueDy NEL PaLUBUAGED 25 2008 Ae ‘woo wensyserm aons}91 hq PajIs ‘pauwed B SusioNeU 10 UoNENpeIdOse\bTY ON “AUD 88h 3eASUED4, Meter Requirements 4.1 Codes and Regulations ‘The meter body and all other parts, including the pressure-containing structures and external electronic components, shall be designed and constructed of materials suitable for the service conditions for which the meter is rated and in accordance with any codes and regulations applicable to each specific meter installation, as specified by the designer. Unless otherwise specified by the designer, the meter shall be suitable for operation in a facility bject to the U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT) regulations in 49 C..R. Part 192, Transportation of Natural and Other Gas by Pipeline: Minimum Federal Safety Standards. 42 Quality Assurance ‘The manufacturer shall establish and follow a written comprehensive quality-assurance program for the production, assembly and testing of the meter and its electronic system (e,g., ISO 9000, API Specification QI, etc.). This quality-assurance program should be available to the inspector. 43 Meter Body 43.1 Maximum Operating Pressure Meters should be manufactured to meet one of the common pipeline flange classes — ANSI Class 150, 300, 600, 900, etc. The maximum design operating pressure of the meter should be the lowest of the maximum design operating pressure of the following: meter body, flanges, ‘transducer connections, transducer assemblies. The required maximum operating pressure shall be determined using the applicable codes for the Jurisdiction in which the meter will be operated and for the specified environmental temperature range. The designer should provide the manufacturer with information on all applicable codes for the installation site and any other requirements specific to the operater. 4.3.2 Corrosion Resistance All wetted parts of the meter shall be manufactured of materials compatible with natural gas and related fluids. Alll extemal parts of the meter should be made of @ non-corrosive material or sealed with a gorrosion-resistant coating suitable for use in atmospheres typically found in the natural gas industry and/or as specified by the designer: 43.3 Meter Body Lengths and Bores ‘The manuficturer shall publish standard its overall face-to-face length of the meter body with flanges, for each ANSI flange class and diameter. For meters without flanges, the manufacturer shall publish its standard overall length of the measurement section for each diameter size and schedule, ‘The meter inside diameter in the measurement section shall be of constant diameter to within 0.5% of the average intemal diameter of the measurement section, The measurement section average internal diameter shall be determined by a minimum of four equally-spaced individual intemal diameter measurements made in a plane at the meter measurement section entry, middle, and exit, Jgpun ie \wov) vowecossy S85 vaoueuty ota Woy ass0 2 Aeye Uo Uesor00"|UeA Bey oh Pasusor eUSTEW 93h {wooTeoasi2orm iaaso9) ha peinaasa “pemeds SupyoWU 1 LosonpoAs sor ON ALE 981 598U0} 0 JONFor a meter having a bore diameter different from the associated metering package piping « transition taper is allowed as long as it conforms to the meter performance requirements outlined in this document. ‘The designer shall specify requirements, such as pinning or companion flanges, for ensuring alignment of the meter and the associated metering package piping. Alignment is necessary to ensure that meter performance in-situ is not degraded from that during calibration because of changes in the alignment of upstream and downstream components, such as conditioners and probes. 4.3.4 Ultrasonic Transducer Ports Because natural gas may contain some impurities (¢.g., light oils, glycols, amines, inhibitors or condensates), transducer ports should be designed in a way that reduces the possibility of liquids or solids accumulating in the transducer ports If specified by the designer and available from the manufacturer, the meter should be equipped with valves and necessary additional devices, mounted on the transducer ports in order to make it possible to replace the ultrasonic transducers without depressurizing the meter run. In that case, a bleed valve may be required in addition to the isolation valve to ensure that no pressure exists behind a transducer before releasing the extraction mechanism. 43.5 Pressure Tap At least one pressure tap shall be provided for measuring the static pressure in the meter body. This pressure tap is designated for use in determining corrected volume. Each pressure-tap hole should be between 1/8" and 3/8" nominal inside diameter and cylindrical over a length at least 2.5 times the diameter of the tapping, measured from the inner wall of the meter body. The tap hole edges at the internal wall of the meter body should be free of burrs and wire edges, and have square edges. For a meter body with a wall thickness less than 5/16", the hole should be 1/8" nominal in diameter. Female pipe threads should be provided at each pressure tap for a 1/4" NPT or 1/2" NPT isolation valve, Turning radius clearance should be provided to allow a valve body to be screwed directly into the pressure tap, Pressure taps can be located at the top, left side, and/or right side of the meter body. Additional taps may provide the designer with flexibility in locating pressure transducers for maintenance access and proper drainage of gauge line condensates back into the meter body. 43.6 Miscellaneous ‘The meter should be designed in such a way that the body will not roll when resting on a smooth surface with a slope of up t0 10%. This is to prevent damage to the protruding transducers and ‘SPU when the UM is temporarily set on the ground during installation or maintenance work. ‘The meter should be designed to permit easy and safe handling of the meter during transportation and installation, Hoisting eyes or clearance for lifting straps should be provided. The end users can request that the flanges directly up and downstream of the meter be dowelled to ensure exact positioning upon reassembly in the field. 0 No eA orgs 8% DEEL {wov) uouecosay 229 wesuotny S "wor y2ansuoernnw ioeusioo| ha pangs ‘penuiad | SupHowes.o uewanpaxde:equnj oN “Auo.¥en goes4 43.7 Meter Body Markings ‘A nameplate containing the following information should be affixed to the meter body + The manufacturer, model number, serial number and month and year manufactured Nominal meter size, ANSI flange class and total weight Internal diameter ‘Maximum and minimum storage temperatures Body design code and material, and flange material Maximum and minimum operating pressure and temperature Maximum (qnox) and minimum (yin) actual (at flowing conditions) volumetric flow rate per hour Direction of primary or forward flow ‘+ (Optional) purchase order number, shop order number and/or user tag number ‘The name plate(s) and markings shall be made of materials that will not deteriorate, fade, or peel when meter is located in an outdoor environment. Each transducer port should be permanently marked with a unique designation for easy reference, If markings are stamped on the meter body, low-stress stamps that produce a rounded bottom impression should be used. Ultrasonic Transducers 441 Specifications The manufacturers shall state the general specifications of their ultrasonic transducers, including critical dimensions, maximum allowable operating pressure, operating pressure range, operating temperature range and gas composition limitations. ‘The manufacturer shall specify the minimum operating pressure based on the ultrasonic transducer model, UM size and expected operating conditions. This minimum pressure shall be marked or tagged on the UM to alert the operator’s field personnel that the meter may not register flow at reduced pipeline pressures 44.2 Rate of Pressure Change Sudden depressurization of an ultrasonic transducer can cause damage if trapped volume of gas expands inside the transducer. Clear instructions shall be provided by the manufacturer for depressurization and pressurization of the meter and transducers during installation, start-up, maintenance and operation, 44.3 Exchange It shall be possible to replace or relocate transducers without a significant change in meter performance. This means that after an exchange of transducers and a possible change of SPU software constants directed by the manufacturer, the resulting influence in the meter’s performance shall replicate the relationships established during calibration to within the meter’s repeatability as shown in Section 5,1. ‘The manufacturer shall specify procedures to be used when, ‘transducers have to be exchanged, and possible mechanical, electrical or other measurements and adjustments have to be made, " Jap ‘wo uoweoessy sep ussuey out WOH ave: ;9u804 10} L002-Ae-¥2 08 UsEIOO LEA BIR pase amie DaR eID, ‘woo wansyonrwiee YaansueL Aapainained ‘paunziad =; Buppomou 1 Voronpaide, Jini ON “Ao O80 5444 Transducer Tests Each transducer or pair of wansducers shall be tested by the manufacturer and the results documented as part of the UM's quality-assurance program. Each transducer shall be marked or tagged with a permanent serial number and be provided with the general transducer information in Section 4.4.1. If the SPU requires specific transducer characterization parameters, each transducer or transducer pair shall also be provided with test documentation that contains the specific calibration test data, calibration method used and characterization parameter(s).. 4.8 Electronics 45.1 General Requirements The UM's electronics system, including power supplies, microcomputer, signal processing components and ultrasonic transducer excitation circuits, ete., referred to as a Signal Processing Unit (SPU), may be housed in one or more enclosures and’ mounted on or next to the meter. Circuit boards shall be uniquely identified by the manufacturer. Optionally, a remote unit containing the power supplies and the operator interface could be installed in a non-hazardous area and connected to the SPU by multi-conductor cable, ‘The SPU shall operate over its entire specified environmental conditions within the meter performance requirements specified in Sections 5.1, 5.1.1 and 5.1.2. It shall also be possible to replace the entire SPU or change any field replacement module without a significant change in Ieter performance. “Significant change” is explained in Section 44.3. ‘The manufteturer is responsible for notifying the designer/operator if it is not possible to replace the entire SPU or change any field replacement module without a “significant change” in meter performance. ‘The system should contain a watch-dog-timer function to ensure automatic restart of the SPU in the event ofa program fault or lock-up. ‘The meter should operate from a power supply of nominal 120V AC or 240V AC at 50 or 60 Hz. ‘oF from nominal 12V DC or 24V DC power supply battery systems, as specified by the designer. 4.5.2 Output Signal Specifications ‘The SPU should be equipped with at least one of the following outputs. ‘+ serial data interface; eg,, RS-232, RS-485 or equivalent ‘+ frequency, representing flow rate at line conditions ‘+ analog current loop (4-20mA, DC) output scaled for flow rate at line conditions Flow-rate signal should be scaleable up to 120% of the meter’s maximum flow rate, day A low-flow cutoff function should be provided that sets the flow-rate output to zero when the indicated flow rate is below a minimum value, ‘An option should be provided that allows the user a selection to make the flow rate output go either to zero, maximum meter flow rate, or a user-selected value, when the maximum meter capacity flow rate is exceeded. Two separate flow-rate outputs and a directional state output or serial data values should be provided for bi-directional applications to facilitate the separate accumulation of volumes. 2 hr pensaune3D (Woy) uogersossy 280 ueavouy avg way ese -9pun 110 ‘pentwiod = Burpontou 10 Uoyenpaade: oyun) ON “AsO 98n 9854024 0} oe KEV V2 US esDNOOT UE) AL oF poBUey i46 All outputs should be isolated from ground and have the necessary voltage protection to meet the electronics design testing requirements of Appendix B. 453 Electrical Safety Design Requirements ‘The design of the UM, including the SPU, should be analyzed, tested and certified by an applicable laboratory, and then each meter should be labeled as approved for operation in @ National Electric Code Class |, Division 2, Group D, Hazardous Area, at a minimum. Intrinsically safe designs and explosion-proof enclosure designs are generally certified and labeled for Division I locations. The designer may specify the more severe Division | location requirement to achieve a more conservative installation design, Cable jackets, rubber, plastic and other exposed parts shall be resistant to ultraviolet light, heat, oil and grease 4.5.4 Component Replacement The ability to replace or relocate transducers, cables, electronic parts and software without a significant change in the meters performance is @ requirement. The manufacturer shall provide proven procedures for the user and sufficient data to demonstrate that following the replacement or relocation for any of these components will not shift the meter outside the performance requirements in Section 5.1, 5.1.1, 5.1.2. Changing any of these components without recalibration may lead to additional measurement uncertainty, The operator should maintain a set of normal reference data (see Section 4.6.5). When components are replaced, the operator should compare the indicated path relationships, velocity ratios, SOS ratios, etc. to the reference data. The previous normal function should be compared with the post-replacement condition. Computer Programs 4.6.1 Firmware ‘Computer codes responsible for the control and operation of the meter should be stored in nonvolatile memory. All flow-calculation constants and the operator-entered parameters should also be stored in nonvolatile memory. For auditing purposes, it should be possible to verify all flow-calculation constants and parameters while the meter is in operation, ‘The manufacturer should maintain a record of all firmware revisions, ineluding revision serial number, date of revision, applicable meter models, circuit board revisions and a description of changes to the firmware, The firmware revision number, revision date, serial number and/or checksum should be either available to the auditor by visual inspection of the marking on the firmware chip or capable of being displayed by the meter or ancillary device. ‘The manufacturer may offer firmware upgrades from time to time to improve the performance of the meter or add additional features. The manufacturer shall notify the operator if the firmware revision will affect the accuracy of a flow-calibrated meter. 8 su304 Jepun yeu paeutdog a0ssy se ueouay "1 ue) ne 0 pass ‘woo ieaisuner mn YesnstaL Aa paInaMNG “AaNRHedS;BuRVOMYaN Jo LORonpoute: oyuny oR “suo o8n .e2euson 0 L00e-henrne TE)46.2 Configuration and Maintenance Software ‘The meter should be supplied with a capability for local or remote configuring of the SPU and for monitoring the meter operation. AS a minimum, the software should be able to display and record the following measurements: flow rate at line conditions, mean velocity, average speed of sound, speed of sound along each acoustic path and ultrasonic acoustic signal quality received by each transducer. 4.6.3 Inspection and Auditing Functions It should be possible for the auditor or the inspector to view and print the flow-measurement configuration parameters used by the SPU; eg., calibration constants, meter dimensions, time averaging period and sampling rate. Provisions shall be made to prevent an accidental or undetectable alteration of those parameters that affects the performance of the meter. Suitable provisions include a sealable switch or Jumper, a permanent programmable read-only memory chip or @ password in the SPU. It should be possible for the auditor to verify that all algorithms, constants and configuration parameters being used, in any specific meter, are producing the same or better performance as when the meter design was originally flow-tested or when the specific meter was last flow- calibrated and any calibration factors were changed. The auditor may have to rely on the manufieturer for portions of this verification because of the proprietary nature of some UM algorithms. In general, the metering system should conform to the requirements provided in American Petroleum Institute’s (API) Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards (MPMS) Chapter 21.1 for electronic gas measurement. In addition, the operator should create a baseline for the meter by documenting the relationships between path transit times (if available), path automatic gain control (AGC), path velocity of sounds, meter average velocity of sound, meter average flow velocity (where applicable), and meter uncorrected volume (where applicable) during meter dry calibration, flow calibration and initial instalation. These baseline relationships are useful in ‘establishing acceptance criteria for the various relationships and determining the need for meter recalibration after changing components and/or firmware, See Section 4.5.4, 5.1, 5.1.1 and 5.1.2 for tolerances, 464 Alarms ‘The following alarm-status outputs should be provided in the form of fail-safe relay contacts or voltage-free solid-state switches isolated from ground. ‘+ Output invalid: when the indicated flow rate at line conditions is invalid ‘+ ptional) trouble: when any of several monitored parameters fall outside of normal operation for a significant period of time + Cptional) partial failure: when one or more of the multiple ultrasonic path results is not usable 46,5 Diagnostic Measurements The manufecturer should provide the following and other diagnostic measurements via a data interface; e.g,, RS-232, RS-485 or equivalent © Path AGC levels + Path transit times ‘+ Average axial flow velocity through the meter “ (wo) uogecossy sep ueavouy 04 way sue) s9pun 1 Uo UalaN60} EA yO} Desuaoy eva; paiBlteoD “won ansiparawn ensue! fq papqusia ‘panied e Bunponiou 10 UeHonpoides royuny oN “AUD osm s,90SU99% 05 ZnQY+ Flow velocity for each acoustic path (or equivalent for evalustion of the flowing velocity profile) Speed of sound along each acoustic path Average speed of sound Velocity sampling interval Averaging time interval Percentage of accepted pulses for each acoustic path Status and/or measurement quality indicators Alarin and failure indicators 4.7 Documentation Other sections of this report require documentation on eceuracy, installation effects, electronics, ultrasonic transducers and zeto-flow verification, The manufacturer should also provide all necessary data, certificates and documentation for 2 correct configuration, set-up and use of the particular meter 0 that it operates correctly, This includes an opersior’s manual, pressure test certificates, material cttficates, measurement report on all geometrical parameters of the meter body and certificates, specifying the zero-flow verification parameters used. Quality-assurance documentation should be available for the inspector or the designer upon request. ‘The manufacturer should provide the following set of documents, at @ minimum, All documentation should be dated, a. A description of the meter, giving the technical characteristics and the principle of its operation b. A perspective drawing or photograph of the meter . Anomenclature of parts with a description of constituent materials of such parts d. An assembly drawing with identification of the component parts listed in the nomenclature © Adimensioned drawing £. A drawing showing the location of verification marks and seals, where provided 8. A dimensioned drawing of metrologically important components 1h. A drawing of the data plate or face plate and of the arrangements for inscriptions, i, A drawing of any auxiliary devices J. Instructions for installation, operation, periodic maintenance and trouble-shooting k, Maintenance documentation, including third-party drawings for any field-repairable ‘components 1. A description of the electronic SPU and its arrangement, and 2 general description of its ‘operation m, A description of the available output signals and any adjustinent mechanisms 1. A list of electronic interfaces and user wiring termination points with their essential characteristics 0. A description of software functions and SPU configuration parameters, including their default value and operating instructions p. Documentation that the design and construction comply with applicable safety codes and regulations 4. Documentation that the meter’s performance meets the requirements of Section 5, “Meter Performance Requirements” + Documentation that the meter’s design successfully passed the tests in Appendix B, “Electronics Design Testing” s. Recommended upstream and downstream piping configurations in mininum length that will not create an additional flow-rate measurement error of more than 0.3% 6 PBN) 2essy S20 uesLOUr ate wo4 28420} pum "BA pmo pasu} vow) u0 ‘oo veausuber wm TWeNSWAL Aq PEINAUEIG "PoRRIES S| BupHoWO Jo UoKaNpo!t, Jay ON “Ave een saasueen 0) sove-Ken-no TS Yeet. A ficld verification test procedure as described in Section 8 uA fist ofthe documents submitted ‘A recommended list of spare parts 4.71 After Receipt of Order The manufacturer should furnish specific meter outline drawings, including overall flange face- to-face dimensions, inside diameter, maintenance space clearances, conduit connection points, estimated weight, and other meter-specific details as required by the designer. The manufacturer should also furnish meter-specific electrical drawings that show customer ing termination points and associated electrical schematics for all circuit components back to the first isolating component; e.g., optical isolator, relay, operational amplifier, etc. This will allow the designer to properly design the interfacing electronic circuits 4.7.2 Before Shipment Prior to shipment of the meter, the manufacturer should make the following available for the ingpector’s review: metallurgy teports, weld inspection reports, pressure test reports and final dimensional measurements as required in Section 6.2. 6 pn feumeus panto i i (yo) uonepoesy sep ueavouy “woo aansiner nian eerste) Aa pajnaqNsig ‘pam UHeS 6 BupyoAIaUJ0 LaHenpo;desMUMY ON ARO.BEN BaeBLEAS 05 L9Ce-KEw-72 US Valance Tah BG oF sueUeNMeter Performance Requirements This section specifies a set of minimum measurement performance requirements that UMs must meet. It is recommended that UMs be flow-calibrated per Section 6.4 to improve measurement accuracy beyond the minimum performance requirements, When a meter is flow-calibrated, it shall meet the minimum ‘measurement performance requirements detailed below before the application of any calibration-factor adjustment, The amount of calibration-factor adjustment, for the meter only, shall be within the error limits stated in these performance requirements, This is fo ensure that 2 major flaw in the meter is not masked by a large calibration-factor adjustment. However, if the ultrasonic meter is to be used for ‘custody transfer, Section 6.4 requires that the metering package be flow calibrated. For calibration-factor adjustment of a metering package, see Section 6.4.2. Calibration-factor adjustments are made to minimize a meter’s measurement bias error. The designer is referred to Appendix A and Section 6.4.1 and 6.4.3 for an explanation of the methods and benefits of flow-calibrating a meter and for calibration-factor adjustment. The designer should also follow carefully the installation recommendations of Section 7, as any installation effects may add to the overall ‘measurement uncertainty For each meter design and size, the manufacturer shall specify flow-rate limits for qui y 2N4 Guus 8S defined in Section 5.1, 5.1.1 and 5.1.2. 5.1 General Meter Performance Requirements ‘The general flow-measurement performance of alll UMs shall meet the following requirements, prior to making any calibration-factor adjustment. Repeatability: 40.2% for q Sq $ dm 40.4% for Quin S Qi <4 Resolution: 0.003 fs (0.001 m/s) Velocity Sampling Interval: <1 second Zero-Flow Reading: <0.020 fs (6 mm/s) for each acoustic path Speed of Souud Deviation: 40.2% Maximum SOS Path Spread: 1.5 fps (0.5 mis) S11 Large Meter Accuracy UMS of 12-inch (nominal) diameter size and larger shall ineet the following flow-measurement accuracy requirements, prior to making any calibration-factor adjustment. Maximum Error: 40.7% for q.< qj < aan (See Figure 1) 44.49% for dau Sqyoury og wou! asu22q s9pun (vow) vores rye ua waco ueA ny 01 pass euavels peLeNEOD 29) s00e-Fepy "woryaanaunor nm aaqeyoo), ha peinainsig panied 5; BupLonteu so ueyznpaxdes guy of “Avo 86n sesuFinally, the laboratory shall configure the test in such a way that the meter is calibrated using the ‘output signal requested by the operator. 64.2 Calibration of Metering Package The calibration will involve flowing gas though one or more reference meters in series, with the ‘metering package under test at the flow rates outlined above. Flow rate, temperature, pressure and gas composition data will be acquired and an error for the meter will be calculated at each flow rate. Any change in meter performance as a result of the influence of the metering package will be accounted for in the meter calibration adjustment factor. If the resulting meter calibration adjustment factor exceeds an error limit of 1.0% for large meters and 1.3% for small meters between q and gan, against the calibration facility reference, then further investigation is recommended. Calibrations will be designed in such a manner as to yield a statistically significant measurement by considering techniques to determine the number of calibration points, the number of samples at each point and the size of each sample. At least one verification point will be taken after applying adjustment factor(s) as outlined in Section 6.4.3, to verify that the adjustment was calculated and applied properly. {fa linearization algorithm is used to adjust the performance of the meter, at least two verification points will be taken. During the calibration, meter log data will be accumulated at each flow rate, At least 120 seconds of log data at each flow rate are required, This data can be used to develop a baseline of the meter's performance. At least one speed-of-sound check should be done during the calibration, 64.3 Calibration Adjustment Factors Calibration adjustment factors shall be applied to eliminate any indicated meter bias error. The ‘accepted methods of applying adjustment factors are: 1. Use the flow-weighted mean error (FWME) over the meter’s expected flow range (calculation of FWME is shown in Appendix A). 2. Use a polynomial algorithm, piece-wise linear interpolation or other industry accepted method, For bi-directional flow calibrations, a second set of calibration adjustment factors shall be used for reverse flow. 64.4 Calibration Test Reports ‘The results of each test required in Section 6 shall be documented in a written report supplied to the designer or the operator. For each meter, the report shall include at a minimum the following. ‘The name of the manufacturer ‘The name and address of the facility ‘The model and serial number of the meter The SPU firmware revision number The date(s) of the calibration The name and title of the person(s) who conducted the ealibrations A description of calibration procedures ‘The upstteam and downstream piping configuration including flow conditioner ‘The serial numbers of alt piping and flow conditioners, if available 2 i E 5 2 U3 vaianco Uh wey oy peeney UNIEL Ab (yoy) uosesossy 29 uesuouy Looe sey ' Suppomau 9 uornpoide sxpmy on) “ko a8 = 2660 “woo sensuner avn Yoansyoe) Aa paresis “pan10. A diagnostic report of the software configuration parameters atthe time of calibration 1H. All calibration data, including flow rates, velocities, errors, pressure, temperature and gas ‘composition 12. A statement of uncertainty for the facility with reference to the method used and date of last verification of traceability to a recognized national/internationel standard 13, An identification of adjustment method applied and adjustment factors used 14, Number of pages in the calibration document, e.g. (I of 3) 15. Typed names below signatures of all people who sign calibration document. At least one copy of the complete report shall be sent to the designer or the operator. For new meters one copy will be retained in the manufacturer's files. The manufacturer shall ensure that the complete report is available to the operator upon request, for a period of 10 years afier shipment of any meter. 64.5 Final Considerations Upon completion of the calibration, the complete metering package will be marked to indicate alignment of flanges at time of calibration. Designers may consider leaving the complete metering package assembled for shipment to the final installation location. Flow conditioner alignment should also be marked if not already done so by the flow conditioner manufacturer. ‘Thermowells may remain installed to ensure proper installation in the field. A copy of the as-left configuration file and baseline fog file should accompany the meter to the field installation location. ‘The meter log file generated at calibration establishes the meter baseline data. Meter log analysis and SOS checks should be included to provide # baseline of the metering package performance, This baseline data can be used to verify the meter’s performance upon startup, during operation and after component changes. The baseline data can also be useful in conducting historical health checks of the metering package. 5 ¢ : 3 sSw8 1 Aa peingusig “po s BupoAjoU 10 UoNpcIdes s\equny ON “ALO 08n =;998K0H 05 00-AEYY : i7. Installation Requirements This section is directed to the designer to ensure that the UM will be installed in a suitable environment and in 2 piping configuration in which the UM can meet the expected performance requirements. 72 mental Considerations Temperature ‘The manufacturer shall provide ambient temperature limits for the UM. Consideration should be given to providing shelter, heating, and/or cooling for the UM package to ensure meter reliability, ow flow performance, and improved low flow temperature measurement during operation. 7.12 Vibration UMS should not be installed where vibration levels or frequencies might excite the natural frequencies of SPU boards, components or ultrasonic transducers when these are installed in the meter body. The manufacturer shall provide specifications regarding the natural frequencies of the UM components. 7.1.3 Electrical Noise ‘The designer and the operator should not expose the UM or its connected wiring to any Unnecessary electrical noise. The manufacturer shall provide instrument specifications regarding electrical noise influences. 7.14 Pulsation The designer should consider the possible existence of flow-induced pulsations in the vicinity of the ultrasonic meter and provide an appropriate piping design or dampening to mitigate the Potential increase in measurement uncertainty caused by the pulsations. An analog or digital pulsation study may be requiced to arrive at the correct pulsation dampening equipment ‘configuration and loc Piping Configuration 7.2.1 Flow Direction ‘The eriteria that apply to the inlet sections ofa meter in uni-directional service shall apply to both ends ofa meter in bi-directional service. 72.2 Piping Installations As previously noted in Section 3.5, various combinations of upstream fittings, valves, and lengths of straight pipe can produce velocity profile distortions at the meter inlet that may result in flow rate measurement errors. The amount of meter error will be dependent on the type and severity of the flow distortion produced by the upstream piping configuration and the meter’s ability to compensate for this distortion. “A UM may be able to compensate for some level of flow profile disturbance. However, for optimum meter performance the designer must be awere that the combined effects of various piping elements may affect the UM's performance. Research has demonstrated that asymmetric velocity profiles may persist for 50 pipe diameters or more downstream from the point of initiation. Swirling velocity profiles may persist for 200 pipe diameters or more, In order to achieve the desired meter performance, it may be necessary for the designer to alter the original piping configuration or include a flow conditioner as part of the metering package. A 2s ey asuoge sapan vale pastas yoy) ueneaossy seo vessowy yr92 Uo Wa.n0o} UE Ie 05 peas 2000 1a 8) Gurpomau 29 uoganpo;do) Jay ON “Kuo een 9.905080) "wos yeoasysormu eansueL ha parngusia “peflow conditioning element(s) properly installed upstream of a UM can produce an exit velocity profile sufficient to eliminate the effects of an upstream flow disturbance. For custody wansfer applications, the use of flow conditioning is recommended fo minimize flow distortion and to Provide the basis for a metering package design. To ensure that the UM, when installed in the operator’s piping system, will perform within the specified flow rate measurement accuracy limits defined in Sections 5.1, 5.1.1 and 5.1.2, the ‘manufacturer shall do one of the following, as directed by the designerfoperator: 1. Recommend at least one upstream and downstream piping configuration without a flow conditioner or one configuration with 2 flow conditioner, as directed by the designer/operator, that will not create an additional flow rate measurement error of the meter of more than 0.3% due to the installation configuration. This error limit should apply for any gas flow rate between qnin ad Ga. This recommendation shall be supported by test data. If the metering package is flow-calibrated, see Section 6.4.2 for acceptance criteria 2, Specify the maximum allowable flow disturbance (e.g, the limits on swirl angle, velocity profile asymmetry, turbulence intensity, etc.) at the meter’s upstream flange, or at some specified axial distance upstream of the meter, that will not create an additional flow rate measurement error of the meter of more than 0.3% due to the installation configuration, This error limit should apply for any gas flow rate between Quis and Quo, This recommendation shall be supported by test data. If the metering package is flow- calibrated, see Section 6.4.2 for acceptance criteria, In lieu of following the manufacturer’s recommendation in 1 or 2 above, the designer may choose to flow calibrate the UM in-situ (where practical), or in a flow calibration facility, in which the test piping configuration is identical to the planned installation or with flow conditioning elements that effectively isolate the meter from upstream piping conditions, By the law of similarity, it is presumed that the meter performance obtained in the flow lab may be reasonably reproduced in the field installation. OF course, no bias is desirable, but may not be achievable without in-situ validation 26rectional and Bi-directional Installations ‘When any of the previously discussed conditions exist in the field installations and are different from the flow calibration facility conditions, the law of similarity does not apply. Itis, therefore, considered prudent for the designer to be conservative with the installation design by applying & qualified flow conditioner and longer pipe dimensions than the manufacturer's minimum recommendations, A qualified flow conditioner is one that has been tested and shown to meet the. requirements of Appendix D. If options 1 and 2 (above) are not available or if in-situ calibration is not feasible, one conservative design is to use 10 nominal pipe diameters (10 ND) between the ‘meter tube inlet and the qualified flow conditioner, 10 ND between the qualified flow conditioner and the meter, and 5 ND between the meter and the first downstream disturbance (See Figure 2). For bi-directional meters the upstream dimensions (20 ND and a qualified flow conditioner) would apply to either side of the meter (See Figure 2). In this context ND is intended to be the nominal pipe diameter truncated to the nearest integer value commonly used to describe the pipe size; e., 2,4, 6, 8, efc, Altematively, if possible, the designer/operator may decide to flow-calibrate a complete metering, package that incorporates the exact piping configuration of the field installation, In that case, the acceptance criteria provided in section 6.4.2 shall be followed. 7.2.3 Protrusions and Misalignments Changes in intemal diameters and protrusions should be avoided at the UM inlet because they create local disturbances to the velocity profiles, The UM flanges and adjacent upstream pipe, should all have the same inside diameter, to within 1%, and be carefully aligned to minimize flow disturbances, especially at the upstream flange section. ‘The adjacent upstream flange internal welds should be ground to a smooth transition with the pipe wall, 2 0 9 spun i i yoy) uoteosey 289 esueuy ayy wy av: sets "woo weusuber nme Teonsioe] AG BeINeNSIQ ‘pond 5] BupLONaK 40 uoRonpouto1 Jayuy ON “Aue oan Saasueoq 0 2002-0No part of the upstream gasket or flange face edge should protrude into the flow stream by more than 1% of the internal diameter. During installation, one method to ensure proper gasket installation is to use three or more insulating flange bolt sleeves at the 4, 8, and 12 o'clock positions to keep the gasket centered while the tightening the nuts. ‘Thermowells, located as specified in Section 7.2.5, are excluded from the above protrusion limits. 7.24 — Internal Surface Experience has shown that a meter tube internal surface roughness of 250 jinch Ra or less smoother) can be advantageouis in minimizing contamination buil 7.2.5 Thermowells and Sample Probes For unidirectional flow, the designer should have the thermowell installed downstream of the meter. The distance from the downstream flange face to the thermowell should be between 2ND and SND. Por bi-directional flow installations, the thermowell(s) should be located at least IND, but no farther away than SND from either the UM flange face or the end of measurement section and be installed prior to flow calibration, For flangeless meter installations, see paragraph 4.3.3. Research on the effects of thermowell placement is ongoing and the designer should consult wit the manufacturer for recommendations based on the most current test data. The thermowell ‘orientation with respect to acoustic paths should be recommended by the manufacturer. 1k is important that the thermowell be correctly installed to ensure the heat transfer from the piping and thermowell attachment and radiation effects of the sun do not influence the temperature reading. The recommended insertion length for thermowells and sample probes is between 1/10 and 1/3 of the nominal pipe diameter. Special probe designs may be required for insertion lengths greater than 1/3 ND. ‘The designer is cautioned that high gas velocities may cause flow-induced thermowell or sample probe vibration. Catastrophic metal fatigue failure of these elements could eventually result 7.26 Flow Conditioners Flow conditioners may or may not be necessary, depending on the meter design, the severity of any upstream flow-profile disturbance and the required metering package measurement performance. The designet/operator should consult with the manufacturer(s) to determine the benefits, if any, of installing a particular type of flow conditioner, given the upstream piping, configuration. Refer also to the discussion in Section 7.2.2 above and to Appendix D “Flow Meter and/or Flow Conditioner Performance Verification Test.” 72.7 Orientation of Meter The designer should consult with the manufacturer to determine if there is a preferred meter orientation for a given upstream piping configuration that is known to produce flow profile distortions. 7.2.8 Filtration Filtration of the flowing gas is probably not necessary for most UM applications. However, the accumulation of deposits due to a mixture of dirt, mill scale, condensates and/or lubricating oils, should be avoided (see Section 7.2.4). Filtration may be necessary if any of the above conditions 28 s208sy $25 uEDuRUry oy wey #84094 pun wo ye Uo osenoo7 UEA nbs oposite penueRAEOD 1, L002 Ker 19 ‘Penuued 5 Buopomeu 0 voganocides yung ON “Avo esn 9eesu "woo eansipin av aasus1 Ka poiare known to exist. For new installations, a temporary strainer may be considered by the designer to remove construction debris. 7.2.9 Meter Tube Ports Meter tube inspection port, if utitized, should be located a minimum of 3ND downstream and/or 3ND upstream of the ultrasonic transducers and/or upstream of the flow conditioner inlet position. The port diameter should not exceed 6% of the pipe diameter. Meters that will be Row- calibrated may use threaded inspection port connections and be bored up to 0.750" diameter ports, where physically practical, Meter tube cleaning ports, if utilized, shall be located at either end of the meter tube, 7.3 Associated Flow Computer ‘The UM's output is typically an uncorrected volume, either per unit of time or accumulated. ‘Therefore, an associated flow computer or corrector must be installed by the designer to correct for pressure, temperature, compressibility, and accumulated uncorrected and corrected volumes, and to provide the necessary data retention and audit tral. Optionally, the flow computer functions could be Integrated into the UM's SPU by the manufacturer. For bi-directional applications, the UM should be treated as two separate meters, associated with two “meter runs” in a single flow computer or with two separate flow computers. For other applicable flow computer requirements, the designer should reference API MPMS Chapter 21.1, Flow Measurement Using Electronic Metering Systems, A UM would be considered a “Linear Meter” in that document. 7.3.1 Flow Computer Calculations The equations that should be used in a flow computer for a UM are the same equations as described in A.G.A. Report No. 7, “Measurement of Natural Gas by Turbine Meters.” These equations correct for pressure, temperature and compressibility of the gas, The necessary calculations are summarized in the following expressions: Qe = Op (PP) TolT) Cole) Mo = [Onde Where: Flow rate at base conditions Flow rate at flowing cond Base pressure, typically 14.73 psia Absolute static pressure of gas at flowii ns conditions from meter tap Absolute base temperature, typically 519.67° R Absolute temperature of gas at flowing conditions Zs = Compressibility factor of gas at base conditions, per AGA Report No. 8 Z, = Compressibility factor of gas at flowing conditions, per AGA Report No. 8 ¥,~ Accumulated volume at base conditions J = Integrated over time dt = Integration increments of time, typically one second 28 oy 2esooy sep vote powyDncD joury {Wov) vowwsossy 285 u vgs vawroe ue) ry or pone "woo eaasoor avy ansypeL fq peInqusiq “Pome 5] BupromioU 29 vosanpostes stair} ON “Ao 95n 5,205u80) 40} L0OE- KeThe first equation converts the flow rate at flowing conditions of pressure, temperature and compressibility, 10 a flow rate at base conditions. The second equation represents the accumulation process where flow rates at base conditions are accumulated to volumes over time. For more details, refer to AGA Report No. 7, 2006. 7.4 Maintenanee The internal surface of the UM should be kept clean of any deposits due to condensates or traces of coil mixed with mill-scale, dirt or sand, which may affect the meter’s cross-section area. The UM’s ‘peration depends on a known cross-sectional area to convert mean gas velocity to a flow rate, Ifa layer of deposits accumulates inside the UM, the cross-sectional area will be reduced, causing a corresponding inerease in gas velocity, thus a positive measurement error: In addition, internal deposits on the wall may also cause velocity profile distortion that can influence the performance of the meter, positive or negative. Borescope inspection port(s) can be added to facilitate intemal inspection of the UM. See Section 7.2.9 for port specification. Deposits of oil, glycol, amine, inhibitor or pipeline rouge on the transducer faces may cause ‘measurement error because the contaminant is a better conductor of sound than gas. The resulting shortened transit time may be interpreted by the meter as higher flowing velocity. As discussed in Section 7.2.2, in this instance, the law of similarity will not be applicable to the field condition. ‘The operator should follow manufacturer’s recommendations for maintenance. Periodic maintenance could be as simple as monitoring several SPU diagnostic measurements, such as signal quality and speed of sound for each acoustic path. For example, it may be possible to detect an accumulation of deposits on the transducer faces by measuring a reduction in the received ultrasonic pulse strength. If analysis of the UM's diagnostic data indicates variance from the meter's baseline data rclationships, then physical inspection of the UM package is recommended to determine if cleaning is required, When cleaning, the manufacturer's cleaning procedures should be followed. The decision to perform periodic transfer proving or flow calibration is left to the parties using the UM meter. Periodic transfer proving or re-calibration can be calendar-based or condition-based (depending upon analysis of the UM's diagnostic data as referenced above, meter usage, andor line conditions). A number of companies have tested their meters for re-calibration after having been in service for significant (3 to 5 years) periods of time. These test results have shown that the meters, free from internal contamination, perform as originally flow-calibrated within the uncertainty of the lab. ‘(vo uonepossy sep uesvewy oi way esuooysapun 191 zoce-Kep pg vO Uasanooy wen fry 1 BaEtaay Buon PenBUNeeO i 5 z i 3 é i i a i § : a i8. Field Verification Tests ‘The manufacturer shall provide a written field verification test procedure to the operator that will allow the UM to be functionally tested to ensure that the meter is operating properly. These procedures may include @ combination of a zero-flow verification test, speed-of-sound measurement analysis, individual path measurement analysis, internal inspection, dimensional verification and other mechanical or electrical tests ‘The manufacturer should provide an uncertainty analysis to demonstrate that these field performance Yerification tests are sufficient to validate the meter’s specified physical and electrical performance characteristics. The manufacturer should make reference to the uncertainty method used in this analysis. ‘Some performance aspects of the UM's condition should be evaluated by comparing the speed of sound reported from the meter with the speed of sound derived from the AGA Report No. 10, Speed of Sound in Natural Gas and Other Related Hydrocarbon Gases or another method that produces results that agree with those derived using AGA Report No. 10. An analysis from an on-line g2s chromatograph or a gas sample taken at the time of speed-of-sound measurement is required for valid comparison. An extended analysis (beyond C.) may not be necessary for typical natural gas mixtures. The decision to perform periodic transfer proving or flow calibration is left to the parties using the meter as stated in Section 7.4 3 ry 9 04 e843} spun i emia panieanon {Wov) uonesosey ceo wa) "woo yeansyper a Yaazst08) Aq peInqusig ‘PonAuLOd s BupoMO 0 UoHancoxdas spiny ON “Aus0 B8n 5.298090 4) LoGe-KEA- He YS Lalor ON Sean9. Ultrasonic Meter Measurement Uncertainty Determination Procedures for expressing the uncertainty of measurement using ultrasonic flow meters shall conform to the following guides. 9.1 Types of Uncertainties ‘The in-situ measurement uncertainty of systems based on ultrasonic flow meters is comprised of: 3, Calibration uncertainties associated with the meter calibration 2. Uncertainties arising from differences between the field installation and the calibration lab, including those that are a function of age, flow conditions or contamination 3. Uncertainties associated with secondary instrumentation, such as pressure and temperature ‘sensors, gas composition measurement, and flow computers 92. Meter Calibration Uncertainty ‘Commercial flow calibration facilities maintain formal estimates of uncertainty for each operatingytest scenario. These estimates recognize the contributing influence of all measurement parameters involved in the calibration, A stated estimate of calibration uncertainty must accompany the documentation of each meter calibration, The stated estimate of uncertainty of meter calibration remains with the meter assembly for as long as the calibration parameters are applied to its operation. In-situ sources of uncertainty are incremental to calibration uncertainty, 9.3 Uncertainties Arising From Differences Between the Field Installation and the Calibration Lab ‘Measurement uncertainty increases when: 1. The in-situ condition of the meter differs materially from its condition during calibration 2. ‘The in-situ characteristics of the gas flow differ materially from those present during calibration 9.3.1 Parallel Meter Runs As described in Annex J of ISO 5168-05, a special situation exists for meters used in parallel. The combined uncertainty of parallel meter runs may be less than that of individual meter runs. The process for estimating uncertainty identifies sources that produce different effects in each meter run and, therefore, are uncorrelated, versus those that produce the same effect in each meter assembly (correlated). 9.3.2 Installation Effects 1, Flow distortions from upstream piping elements (valves, headers, flow conditioners, etc.) may change the registration of a meter. ‘The manufacturer of the meter should be consulted for estimation of the associated uncertainty 2. Acoustic interference, such as that produced by certain types of control valves, may result in oss of acoustic signal quality. Current metering technology provides diagnostic information that will identify the onset and extent of signal quality problems. (vow) voyeroorey 209 ueouaury en Woy 08009) sepa “ uavencoy veq pre pasuaoy eveiew po ‘wooraanstoeymin Yeausi09 ka PanaUIC -PauuAd 8 SuooNe 40 Uotonposde) JeuLn} ON AO en §;88sve0H 10) 2008: AOA ye3. At low flow rates, including temperature-induced convective flows in yard piping, meters may respond with sporadic indications of flow where no flow was expected. Although the symptoms of this effect may be masked with automated “low flow cut-off.” uncertainty may be increased if the cut-off points are too high, resulting in measurement error. 4. Gas pulsation may result in metering error. No generalized, all-purpose methods exist for ‘quantifying the magnitude of such errors. However, some meters may provide an indirect ication of the presence of pulsation, based on sample rejection, gain levels, sound speeds, ete. 9.3.3 Pressure and Temperature Effeets 1, Meter body dimensional changes will result from pressure and temperature changes in the tneter body material. The extent of error can be estimated arithmetically from material specifications. 2. Stratification of gas may occur, especially when flows are low and temperature gradients exist between one side of the pipe and the other. Stratification may produce irregular propagation rates of acoustic signals, leading to increased uncertainty. Chordal variation of sound speed is a symptom of this effect in some designs and can provide an indication of flowing temperature gradient, but should not be used as a basis for adjustment. 9.3.4 Gas Quality Effects 1. Pipe well surface contamination of the meter assembly may produce changes to the internal area of the pipe, as well as changes to the effective roughness. Industry experience has shown that each effect may result in measurement bias. In theory, an unplanned reduction in pipe atea will produce over-registration in an ultrasonic flow ‘meter. However, it is not currently feasible to reliably predict the extent of bias as a fanction of thin liquid coatings or increased pipe wall roughness, 2. ‘Transducer surface contamination, due to liquids or solid buildup, may reduce signal quality or change the effective path length, which affects meter accuracy. 3. Flow conditioner contamination may result in performance changes and, in extreme cases, distorted flow and measurement bias. Diagnostic information, such as velocity distributions, from the meter is useful in identifying the onset of flow conditioner contamination, but not the extent of measurement uncertainty or bias. 9.4 Uncertainties Due to Secondary Instrumentation The uncertainties of field equipment include the permanent, in-situ equipment as well as calibration devices used to maintain the equipment, Local operating conditions, such as ambient temperature and current gas pressure, may influence the performance of in-situ equipment as well as calibration equipment. The performance of pressure and temperature sensors is critical to all metering technologies. For linear meters, such as ultrasonic flow meters, the relationship between pressure, temperature and volume ate directly proportional (vo) uogecesy 289 uroveuiy sn wos "woo aeusyosr wwe Ypons49, AapernaNsig "Pemued 6 Badwowted 0 voraNpoxta!iouuny ON “fv9 osm .995ueH 905 LoDe-KeR-FO NE Losey eae eeSccondary equipment includes devices such as flow computers that are responsible for converting real-time, uncorrected measurement data to fully corrected volume and energy data. Applicable standards, such as API MPMS Chapter 21.1, prescribe the industry-recommended practices with respect to: Sampling and Integration Frequencies Linear Meter K Factors Variable Averaging and Integration Low Flow Cut-off Equations of State 9.5 Uncertainty Analysis Procedure Refer to Appendix -xamples of Overall Measurement Uncertainty Calculations - Ultrasonic Meter (Woy) uonecossy 80 uesueury a9 wow 954991 s8pun 2 Ue aiongon us) ‘pny ot peeve eutet Pa "woo wanayoor mmm Yeoas4oe1 Aq poraunig “PaRuued s SuspomsEU 10 uegaNpe\deOULrY ON “AND e5N S/988U004 10} 002-KEN-10. Reference AGA Transmission Measurement Committee Report No. 7, Measurement of Natural Gas by Turbine Meters, Ametican Gas Association, 2006, Washington, DC. AGA Transmission Measurement Committee Report No. 8, Compressibility Factors of Natural Gas and Other Related Hydrocarbon Gases, American Gas Association, 1994, Washington, DC. AGA Transmission Measurement Committee Report No. 10, Speed of Sound in Natural Gas and Other Related Hydrocarbon Gases, American Gas Association, 2003, Washington, DC. NFPA 70, National Electrical Code, 1996 Edition, National Fire Protection Association, Quincy, MA 02269. APL Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 21, September 1993, Flow Measurement Using Electronic Metering Sysiems, American Petroleum Institute, Washington, DC. ASTM Designation: E 1002 ~ 96, Siandard Test Method for Leaks Using Ultrasonics, American Society for Testing and Materials. West Conshohocken, PA Code of Federal Regulations, Title 49—Transportation, Part 192, (49 CFR 192), Transportation of Natural Gas and Other Gas by Pipeline: Minimum Federal Safety Standards, US. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC. GERG Technical Monograph 8 (1995), Present Status and Future Research on Multi-path Ultrasonic Gas Flow Meters, Christian Michelsen Research AS, the GERG Project Group and Programme Committee No. 2 - Transmission and Storage, Groupe Européen De Recherches Gaziéres. ISO 9951: 1993, Measurement of gas flow in closed conduits — Turbine meters, International Organization for Standardization, Genéve, Switzerland, ISO/TR 12765: 1997(E), Measurement of fluid flow in closed conduits ~ Methods using transit time ultrasonic flowmeters, Intemational Organization for Standardization, Gendve, Switzerland OIML R 6 General provisions for gas volume meters, 1989 (E), International Recommendation, Organization Internationale de Métrologie Légale, Bureau Intemational de Métrologie Légale, Paris, France, OIML D 11 General requirements for electronic measuring instruments, 1994 (E), International Document, Organization Internationale de Métrologie Légale, Bureau International de Métrologie Légale, Paris, France ‘Metering Research Facility Program: Performance Testing of 12-Inch Ultrasonic Flow Meters and Flow Conditioners in Short Run Meter Instllations,” by T. A. Grimley, draft topical report (Jan. 1999 ~ June 2000) to Gas Research Institute, Report No. GRI-O1/0129, GRE Contract No, 5097+170-3937, February 2002, Des Plaines, I. “Overview of GTI MRF Ultrasonic Flow Meter Research Program,” by T. Grimley, Presentation at the NOVA Metcon Meeting, October 11, 2001,Calgary, Alberta, Canada. “Ultrasonic Flow Meter Topics,” by T. Grimley, Presentation to the Houston Gulf Coast Measurement Society, July 23, 2001, Houston, Texas, 12ACO7 USA IR, 8 poe UNE Pe wow) ‘woorianmpor nvm Y8OKSWe] Ka PAMCHSIQ “paRUed 5} BURHOMISL 10 UOHoNpONds lsu ON “AN Ban gaesu004 0 100e-Kenr we YEXE“Numerical Simulation of the Flow Field Downstream of 90 Degree Elbows and the Simulated Response ‘of an Ulirasonic Plow Meter,” by Gerald L. Morrison and Kerine Tung (Texas A&M University), technical report to Gas Research Institute, Report No. GRI-01/0090, GRI Contract No. 5097-170-3937, June 2001 Des Plaines, IL. “Pipe Wall Roughness Effect Upon Orifice and Ultrasonic Flow Meters," by Gerald L. Mozrison (Texas A&M University), (echnical report to Gas Rescarch Institute, Report No. GRE-OI/0091, GRE Contract No. 097-170-3937, April 2001, Des Plaines, IL “GT MRF Ultrasonic Flow Meter Research Progran Association TMC Meeting, February 6, 2001 “Ultrasonic Meter Installation Configuration Testing,” by Terrence A, Grimley, AGA 2000 Operations Conference, May 7-9, 2000,Denver, CO. “Metering Research Facility Program: Performance Testing of 8-inch Ultrasonic Flow Meters for Natural Gas Measurement,” by T. Grimley, topical report (uly 1996 - December 1997) to Gas Research Institute, GRI Contract No. $097-270-3937, November 2000, Des Plaines, I. £* by T. Grimley, Presentation at American Gas “Recent {2-Inch Ultrasonic Meter Tests at the GRI Metering Research Facility,” by Edgar B, Bowles, It ‘TNO Flow Metering Seminar, September 20, 1999, Technick Museum, Delf, The Netherlands, “Recent 12-inch Ultrasonic Meter Testing at the MRE," by Terrence A. Grimley, AGA. Gas Measurement Research Council, September 14, 1999, Seattle, WA. “T2-inch Ultrasonic Flow Meter Verification Testing at the MRF," by Terrence A. Grimley, Fourth International Symposium on Fluid Flow Measurement, June 28-30, 1999, Denver, Colorade. “The Influence of Velocity Profile on Ultrasonic Flow Meter Performance.” by Terrence A. Grimley, A.G.A. 1998 Operations Conference, May 17-19, 1998, Seattle, Washington. “GRI MRF Ultrasonic Flow Meter Research Program Draft Plan 1998/1999,” by Terrence A. Grimley, American Gas Association Winter Meeting, March 11, 1998, Orlando, Florida, “Performance Testing of Ultrasonic Flow Meters,” by Terrence A. Grimley, The North Sea Flow Measurement Workshop 1997, October 27-31, 1997, Kristiansand, Norway. “Multipath and Single-Path Ultrasonic Flow Meters,” by Terrence A. Institute COPM Measurement Seminar, October 13, 1997, San Diego, CA. ley, American Petroleum “Performing Testing of Ultrasonic Flow Meters,” by Terrence A. Grimley and Edgar B. Bowles, Jr, American Gas Association Operating Section Operations Conference, May18-21, 1997, Nashville, Tennessee. miey, U.S, Department of “Performance Tests of 12-Inch Multipath Ultrasonic Plow Meters,” by T. Gi Bnergy"s Natural Gas Conlerence, March 26, 1997, Houston, Texas, “Ultrasonic flowmeters undergo accuracy, repeatability tests," by Terrence A. Grimley, Oil & Gas Journal, December 23, 1996, pp. 101-104, Houston, TX. “Multipath Ultrasonic Flow Meter Performance,” by Terrence A. Grimley, the North Sea Flow ‘Measurement Workshop, October 28-31, 1996, Peebles, Scotland, UK. “Metering Research Facility Program: Performance Test of 12-Inch Multipath Ultrasonic Flow Meters,” by ‘Terrence A. Grimley, topieal report (Oct, 1994-March 1996) to Gas Research Institute, Report No. GRI- 96/0291, Gti Conteaet No. $095-271-3363, August 1996, “GRIMMRF Ultrasonic Meter Research Program,” by Terrence A. Grimley, A.G.A. TMC Ultrasonic Meter Working Group, Montreal, Quebec, Canada, May 21, 1996, “Multipath Ultrasonic Flowmeter Performance,” by Terrence A. Grimley, 1996 A.G.A. Operations Confrence, Montreal, Quebec, Canada, May 19-22, 1996, {yoy uonsoossy s20 unouetry ota wos asued) sepun 10) Looe-Aew-ng US vassr003 UNA pny cl esuNos TeUBIBU PI;IBUEASD ‘won aansyserm “oans494 Ka einai “Panu 8] Buyomeu 0 voHonpoides sary oR “SO asn s2osbs