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US 6,971,259 B2Granted
Fluid density measurement in pipes using acoustic pressures
AssigneeWeatherford/Lamb, Inc.
InventorDaniel L. Gysling
Life of this patent
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AssigneeWeatherford/Lamb, Inc.
InventorDaniel L. Gysling
Estimating the term…
The density of at least one fluid in a pipe is determined using a pair of effective sound speeds a1eff and a2eff of the fluid/pipe system. The pair of effective sound speed measurements is taken at two sensing regions along the pipe wherein each of the sensing regions has a different cross sectional area compliance. The pair of effective sound speeds a1eff and a2eff is provided to signal processing logic 60, which determines the density of the fluid flowing in the pipe. The effective sound speeds a1eff and a2eff may be provided by a pair of sound speed meters positioned at the sensing regions wherein the sound speed meters utilize a spatial array of acoustic pressure sensors placed at predetermined axial locations along the pipe. The acoustic pressure sensors measure one-dimensional planar acoustic waves that are lower in frequency (and longer wavelength) signals than those used for ultrasonic flow meters, and thus is more tolerant to inhomogeneities in the flow. In addition, no external acoustic source is required and the meters may operate using passive listening.
An apparatus for determining the density of at least one fluid within a pipe, the apparatus comprising:
A method for measuring the density of a fluid within a pipe, the method comprising:
An apparatus for determining the density of at least one fluid within a pipe, the apparatus comprising:
A method for measuring the density of a fluid within a pipe, the method comprising:
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.