RF sensor for multiphase flow measurement through an oil pipeline

Abstract

We have developed, in conjunction with Solartron ISA, an electromagnetic cavity resonator based sensor for multiphase flow measurement through an oil pipeline. This sensor is non-intrusive and transmits low power (10 mW) radio frequencies (RF) in the range of 100–350 MHz and detects the pipeline contents using resonant peaks captured instantaneously. The multiple resonances from each captured RF spectrum are analysed to determine the phase fractions in the pipeline. An industrial version of the sensor for a 102 mm (4 inch) diameter pipe has been constructed and results from this sensor are compared to those given by simulations performed using the electromagnetic high frequency structure simulator software package HFSS.

Feasibility study on using microwave sensing technique to analyse silver-based products

“…Microwave sensing technique although in its infancy has been implemented in various industrial applications including glucose concentration monitoring [10], water industry including multiphase flow monitoring [11], characterisation of construction materials [12,13], food industry [14], water level measurements, material moisture contents, healthcare industry, etc. [9].…”

“…A high value of represents a sharp peak that may be easily analysed. However, the change in the resonant peak may also be useful to analyse the properties of a material under test [11].…”

Detection of the gas–liquid two-phase flow regimes using non-intrusive microwave cylindrical cavity sensor

“…Non-polar materials such as oil on the other hand has low permittivity ( = 2.2-2.5). Permittivity of the material can be determined by measuring the resonant frequency inside an electromagnetic wave cavity [12]. A cylindrical cavity is simple to fabricate and consists of a metallic wall with metallic circular ends.…”

“…However, most of these methods have certain disadvantages which make them unsuitable for the industrial use. These include the methods being inaccurate as well as significantly expensive to develop and implement [11,12].…”

Real-Time Monitoring of Bodily Fluids Using a Novel Electromagnetic Wave Sensor

“…In addition, microwave analysis promises the potential for inexpensive equipment, therefore increasing the attractiveness of any device placed into operating theatres, particularly considering the strained nature of many hospital budgets. Microwave spectroscopy has seen use for a variety of purposes, including monitoring of water quality [12], filter monitoring [13] and also for use monitoring oil, gas and water concentrations [14]. It is thought that the use of microwave spectroscopy, as in the previously mentioned applications, will provide affordable and rapid diagnostics for the healthcare scenario described in this work.…”