Concept implementation of small scale active control volumetric flow rate meter

Abstract

Despite many shortcomings, methods claiming to measure volumetric flow rate (VFR) have been widely applied to delta flow integrated on land drilling operations. Sensors, paddles, and Coriolis meters appear scattered around location trying to detect an influx/loss before the bit makes hole. While this approach is interesting, the fact remains that the mud pump is the only equipment on location capable of truly identifying VFR (other than the efficiency loss). Current methods have failed to measure VFR at the return until now. The Active Control VFR Meter operates off the mass continuity principle using a progressive cavity pump PCP to maintain a fluid level of returns in a cone bottom tank, filled from the return line. The lab tested small scale Active Control VFR Meter demonstrates the ability to quickly identify changes in VFR before increasing or decreasing the pump output to measure the volumetric flow rate of the return line. Fluid density is calculated at the Active Control VFR Meter using tank sensor measurements. PCPs can pump a wide range of multiphase media typical to drilling operations, so the testing and implementation of this VFR meter has the potential to change how future drilling operations measure return flow rate, early influx detection, and measure VFR with gpm accuracy.