New Multiphase Flowmeter

Shell (Netherlands) and KROHNE have signed an agreement to commercialise a new multiphase flowmeter for oil and gas field installations based on magnetic resonance technology. The agreement comprises the manufacturing, marketing and sales of the new meter which was developed through a R&D collaboration between Shell and magnetic resonance specialist Spinlock.

Offering a simpler, cheaper and more accurate solution, the new flowmeter addresses the essential need for enhanced flow measurements to further optimise well and reservoir management. The new flowmeter operates across the entire gas volume fraction range, avoiding frequent recalibration. Equally, it has low maintenance requirements, fits around the pipe, thus mitigating internal restrictions, and does not make use of radio-active sources.

“Leveraging enhanced and more cost-effective multi-phase metering solutions in our operations is a priority area for Shell. With KROHNE we have found a recognised partner to commercialise this exciting technology, underpinning Shell’s strategic objective to deliver leading technology solutions through active partnering” said Jeroen Regtien, Vice-President Hydrocarbon Recovery Technologies. “Our aim is to bring the first generation flow meter to our operations by 2012, whilst embarking on a joint technology development program for
future versions in more demanding environments such as subsea.”

“As an R&D company specialised in Magnetic Resonance, it is extremely satisfying for us to see a successful project approaching the market, creating a new application field for the technology” said Dr. Daniel J. Pusiol, President of Spinlock. “Spinlock is deeply committed to broadening the field of application of Magnetic Resonance in the analytic science and trust this project will be a market success.”

“This new and innovative measuring principle fits perfectly in the KROHNE culture and is a strategic addition to the existing product portfolio, “said Stephan Neuburger, Managing Director from the KROHNE group. “Working together with a company like Shell will generate synergy effects leading to a fast market entry.”