Next-Generation Ultrasonic Flow Meters Enable Improved Oil and Gas Measurement Accuracy

Emerson Process Management (USA) has introduced new Daniel multi-path gas and liquid ultrasonic meters that feature a next-generation electronics platform. The accuracy, line size breadth, and flexibility make the new JuniorSonic one-path (3411) or two-path (3412), and SeniorSonic four-path (3414) gas ultrasonic meters ideal for a number of flow measurement applications. In addition, the new four-path (3814) liquid ultrasonic meter expands on the functionality and performance of its predecessor, the 3804 liquid ultrasonic meter, to offer improved reliability for custody transfer applications.

Designed for speed, reliability, ease-of-use, and measurement integrity, the new ultrasonic flow meters provide exceptional measurement accuracy and repeatability. With faster flow sampling rates, the new electronics platform significantly increases the data set used to calculate average velocity, allowing rapid recognition of changing flow dynamics. Users will have access to high-volume data capture as well as detailed flow parameters, including pressure, temperature, and gas composition, allowing the meter to act as a redundant flow computer. Improved calculations for auditing or invoice resolution are enabled by the electronics’ ultra-fast delivery of key data from the meter’s audit trail. The audit trail complies with American Petroleum Institute Standard 21.1, and is supported by a standard 128 MB non-volatile memory. Access to alarms, events and configuration changes is provided in a matter of seconds.

Additionally, the meters’ electronics feature a compact circuit board for increased reliability and maintainability, simplifying field removal and reinstallation. The electronics retrofit Daniel legacy ultrasonic meters and are expandable, enabling future upgrades to help meet changing customer needs. The electronics support remote access as well as true 100BaseT Fast Ethernet connectivity to facilitate enterprise-wide communication and integration.  

“Reliable, stable and accurate measurement is critically important to our customers’ business,” said Peter Syrnyk, vice president of engineering of Emerson’s Daniel Measurement and Control business.  “We remain focused on designing products that serve these important market needs and are continually improving the performance of ultrasonic flow measurement technology to provide excellent long-term measurement accuracy.”

To further improve reliability and uptime, each Daniel gas ultrasonic meter is supplied with new, rugged T-20 Series transducers that are engineered for wet, rich and/or dirty gas applications. The transducers facilitate troubleshooting by enabling operators to quickly detect and isolate problems, preventing unnecessary depressurisation of the meter.

The new Daniel gas and liquid ultrasonic meters are also equipped with an updated version of MeterLink (v1.20), a configuration and diagnostic software that utilises an intuitive interface to improve overall functionality and ease of use. MeterLink displays abnormal flow profiles, upstream blockage, deposit build-up within the meter, and the existence of liquid hydrocarbon in gas – an invaluable benefit for shale gas applications and new pipelines where remains of hydro test water may still exist. In addition, a guided wizard tool helps configure the meter in the field, decreasing commissioning time and minimising start-up costs and operator error.