Turbine Vs Orifice

Comparative Study on Orifice versus Turbine Meter for
Gas Flow Measurement
By
Md. Golam Faroque
Master of Engineering in Petroleum Engineering
Department of Petroleum Engineering

Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka.
June 2009
Candidate’s Declaration
It is hereby declared that this project or any part of it has not been submitted elsewhere for
the award of any degree or diploma.
Signature of the Candidate
--------------------------------
( Md. Golam Faroque )
ii
Recommendation of the Board of Examiners
This project titled “Comparative Study on Orifice versus Turbine Meter for Gas Flow
Measurement” submitted by Md. Golam Faroque, Roll No. 040313018P, Session: April
2003, has been accepted as satisfactory in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the
degree of Master of Engineering in Petroleum Engineering on 28th June, 2009.
1. Mohammad Sohrab Hossain

Assistant professor Chairman
Dept. of Petroleum & Mineral Resources Engg. (Supervisor)
BUET, Dhaka.
2. Dr. Mohammad Mahabbubur Rahman Member

Assistant Professor & Head
Dept. of Petroleum & Mineral Resources Engg.
BUET, Dhaka.
3. Zaved Chowdhury Member

Director (Gas)
Energy Regulatory Commission, Dhaka.
Date: 28th June, 2009
iii
TABLE OF CONTENT
TITLE PAGE -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- i

DECLARATION----------------------------------------------------------------------------- ii
RECOMMENDATION OF THE BOARD OF EXAMINERS------------------------ iii
TABLE OF CONTENTS------------------------------------------------------------------- iv
LIST OF TABLES -------------------------------------------------------------------------- viii
LIST OF FIGURES ------------------------------------------------------------------------- x
LIST OF ABBREVIATION --------------------------------------------------------------- xi
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT------------------------------------------------------------------ xii
ABSTRACT---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- xiii
CHAPTER –1 INTRODUCTION 1
1.1 Background and present status-------------------------------------------------------- 1

1.2 Objectives with specific aims and possible outcome------------------------------- 5
1.2.1 Outcome ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 5
1.3 Methodology ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6
CHAPTER –2 FUNDAMENTALS OF FLOW MEASUREMENT 7
2.1 General ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 7

2.2 Pressure measuring devices ----------------------------------------------------------- 7
2.2.1 Manometer ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8
2.2.2 Dead Weight Tester ------------------------------------------------------------------ 8
2..3 Temperature measuring devices ------------------------------------------------------ 8
2.3.1 Filled thermal system ----------------------------------------------------------------- 9
2.3.2 Thermocouple ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 9
2.3.3 Liquid in Glass thermometers ------------------------------------------------------- 11
2.3.4 Thermoresistance or RTD ----------------------------------------------------------- 11
2.4 Fluid physical properties --------------------------------------------------------------- 12
2.4.1 Density (at flowing condition)------------------------------------------------------- 12
2.4.2 Density based on real gas relative density (specific gravity)-------------------- 13
2.4.3 Compressibility ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 14
2.4.4 Super compressibility ---------------------------------------------------------------- 14
iv
2.5 Flow measurement through Orifice meter ------------------------------------------- 15
2.5.1 Volumetric flow measurement ----------------------------------------------------- 15
2.6 Measuring principle of Turbine meter ------------------------------------------------ 15
CHAPTER –3 CALIBRATIONS 17
3.1 General------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 17
3.2 Calibration of Orifice meter------------------------------------------------------------ 17
3.2.1 Calibration results --------------------------------------------------------------------- 18
3.3 Turbine meter calibration -------------------------------------------------------------- 22
CHAPTER – 4 INSTALLATION AND PERFORMANCE OF METER 24
4.1 Installation of Orifice meter----------------------------------------------------------- 24

4.2: Installation of turbine meter for gas flow measurement--------------------------- 25
4.3 Flow conditions ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 25
4.3.1 Velocity profile and swirl ------------------------------------------------------------ 25
4.3.2 Reynolds number --------------------------------------------------------------------- 26
4.4 Operation and maintenance of Orifice meter ---------------------------------------- 27
4.5 Operation and maintenance of turbine meter --------------------------------- 27
4.6 Factors related to measurement accuracy for transmission system--------------- 27
4.6.1 Pressure Measurement ----------------------------------------------------- 28
4.6.2 Temperature measurement ------------------------------------------------- 29
4.6.3 Density Measurement ----------------------- ------------------------------ 29
4.6.4 Pulsation Effect ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 29
4.6.5 Requirements of pre-heating the gas ----------------------------------------------- 30
4.7 Performance of turbine meters -------------------------------------------------------- 31
4.7.1 Rangeability --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 31
4.7.2 Stability--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 32
4.7.3 Influence of flow variations---------------------------------------------------------- 32
4.7.4 Performance test of SM – RI Turbine meter--------------------------------------- 33
4.8 Orifice meter performance test--------------------------------------------------------- 35
4.9 Influence of internal pipe roughness on flow measurement ---------------------- 38
4.10 Measurement error caused due to not perfect operating conditions ------------ 38
v
CHAPTER – 5 UNCERTAINTY ANALYSIS OF ORIFICE AND
TURBINE METER
5.1 Measurement Uncertainty-------------------------------------------------------------- 40

5.2 Uncertainty analysis of Turbine meter------------------------------------------------ 40
5.2.1 Analysis procedure-------------------------------------------------------------------- 40
5.2.1.1 Data Reduction Equation----------------------------------------------------------- 40
5.2.1.2 Uncertainty Components----------------------------------------------------------- 41
5.2.1.3 Sensitivity Coefficients------------------------------------------------------------- 41
5.2.1.4 Numerical Uncertainty Values---------------------------------------------------- 42
5.2.1.5 Combining Uncertainty Components--------------------------------------------- 42
5.2.2 Pressure measurement---------------------------------------------------------------- 43
5.2.3 Temperature measurement----------------------------------------------------------- 44
5.2.4 Compressibility------------------------------------------------------------------------ 46
5.2.5 Uncertainty on volume at flowing conditions------------------------------------- 47
5.3 Uncertainty analysis of Orifice meter------------------------------------------------- 48
5.3.1 Derivation------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 49
5.3.2 Orifice meter uncertainty calculation----------------------------------------------- 51
5.3.2.1 Sample Calculation ----------------------------------------------------------------- 52
5.3.2.2 Detailed Calculation ---------------------------------------------------------------- 54
CHAPTER – 6 CALCULATIONS 60
6.1 Measurement error analysis of Orifice meter --------------------------------------- 60

6.2 Flow difference between two Orifice meters while installed in series ----------- 64
6.3 Comparison between Orifice and Turbine flow rate ------------------------------- 67
CHAPTER -7 RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS 72
CHAPTER- 8 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS 74
8.1 Conclusion ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 74

8.2 Future Recommendations 74
vi
REFERECES --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 76
APPENDIX – A ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 77
APPENDIX – B ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 87
APPENDIX – C ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 90
vii
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1.1: Meters used in Gas intake point---------------------------------------------- 3

Table 1.2: Meters used in big Bulk Customers------------------------------------------- 4
Table 1.3: Meters used in District distribution & transmission points---------------- 5
Table 2.1: Different types of Thermocouple type Thermometer ---------------------- 10
Table 2.2: Temperature range for different RTD ---------------------------------------- 12
Table 3.1: Differential pressure element calibration data------------------------------- 18
Table 3.2: Pressure element data----------------------------------------------------------- 19
Table 3.3: DP calibration data of ITT Barton recorder---------------------------------- 19
Table 3.4: Pressure element calibration results of ITT Barton recorder-------------- 20
Table 3.5: DP element calibration data of recorder with 15″ Orifice meter-------- 21
Table 3.6: Verified results of Static pressure element----------------------------------- 21
Table 3.7: Test results of Turbine meters------------------------------------------------- 23
Table 4.1: 20.32cm (8-inch) Orifice Meter Liquid Entrainment Experiment-------- 37
Table 5.1: Gas Components uncertainty-------------------------------------------------- 47
Table 5.2: Absolute value of Orifice meter Uncertainty parameter------------------- 53
Table 5.3: Sensitivity coefficient and Uncertainty of variable terms for 55

different flow rate
Table 5.4: Overall Uncertainty of Orifice meter for different flow rate-------------- 56
Table 6.1: Flow difference from standard value for 2″ & 1″ W.C deviation of DP- 60
Table 6.2: Flow difference from standard value for 0.6″ & 0.4″ W.C deviation of 61
differential pressure
Table 6.3: Flow difference from standard value for 3 psig deviation of flowing 62
pressure
pressure
pressure
Table 6.6: Flow difference between two Orifice meter at Narshingdi Counter 64
Metering Station
Table 6.7: Flow difference between two Orifice meter at Titas Gas location-3, 66
Counter Metering Station
viii
Table 6.8: Gas flow comparison between Orifice and turbine meter for series 68
installation at APS, RMS.
Table 6.9: Comparative flow statement between Orifice & Turbine meter for 69
GPS, RMS
Table A.1: Standard Conditions ----------------------------------------------------------- 78
Table B.1: Gas flow calculation Through Orifice meter at APS 450 MW, RMS --- 88
Table B.2: Calculation of Orifice flow Constant-C′ of APS(450MW) --------------- 89
Table C.1: Gas flow calculation Through Turbine meter at APS 450 MW, RMS -- 91
ix
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 2.1: Different components of fluid filled thermometer ------------------------ 9

Figure 2.2: Thermocouple Circuit --------------------------------------------------------- 10
Figure 3.1: Calibration setup for Mechanical recorder --------------------------------- 17
Figure 4.1: Standard meter tube length for Orifice meter ------------------------------ 24
Figure 4.2: Recommended Installation of an in-line gas turbine meter( Minimum 25
Length)
Figure 4.3: Velocity profiles in laminar and turbulent flow --------------------------- 26
Figure 4.4: Maximum allowable error according to ISO 9951 ------------------------ 32
Figure 4.5: ISO 9951 Configuration for low level perturbation tests ----------------- 34
Figure 4.6: ISO Perturbation Unit for high level ---------------------------------------- 35
Figure 4.7: Flow Test Schematic Water Injection Tube and holder ----------------- 36
Figure 4.8: Water Injection Tube and holder -------------------------------------------- 36
Figure 5.1: Uncertainty variation with Reynolds number for Orifice meter -------- 57
Figure 5.2: Uncertainty variation with volume flow rate ------------------------------ 57
Figure 5.3: Uncertainty comparison for different variables ---------------------------- 58
Figure 6.1: Differential pressure error percentage curve ------------------------------- 61
Figure 6.2: Orifice meter static pressure error percentage curve ---------------------- 63
Figure 6.3: Flow difference between two Orifice meters when installed at 65
upstream & downstream site.
Figure 6.4: Flow difference between two Orifice meters when installed in series - 67
Figure 6.5: Gas flow difference Orifice and Turbine meter for series installation-- 69
at APS, RMS
Figure 6.6: Comparative flow through Orifice & Turbine meter for same quantity 70
Figure A.1: Absolute, atmospheric and gauge pressure -------------------------------- 79
Figure A.2: Orifice tapping location ------------------------------------------------------ 80
x
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS
AGA = American Gas Associations

ANSI = American National Standard Institute
API = American Petroleum Institute
APS = Ashuganj Power Station
ASME = American Society of Mechanical Engineers
CGS = City Gate Stations
DRS = District Regulating Stations
DP = Differential Pressure
GPS = Ghorasal Power station
GLE = Gauge Line Error
GERG = Group European Recherché Gaziers
HHV = Higher Heating Value
IOC = International Operating Companies
IPP = Independent Power Production
IGE = International Gas Engineers
ISO = International Standard Organization
MMSCFD = Million Standard Cubic Feet Per Day
MUT = Meter Under Test
OIML = Organization International Metrology Legal
PDB = Power Development Board
PCRC = Pipe Line and Compressor Research Council
RMS = Regulating & Metering Stations
SRE = Square Root Error
SG = Specific Gravity
TBS = Town Border Stations
TGTDCL = Titas Gas Transmission & Distribution Co. Ltd.
WC = Water Inch Column
xi
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I am immensely pleased to my adviser Mohammad Sohrab Hossain, Assistant Professor of

the Department of petroleum and Mineral Resources Engineering for his accurate direction,
continuous monitoring, supervision, good advice and involvements over the entire work.
I would like to express my respect to Dr. Mohammad Tamim, Professor of the Department of
Petroleum and Mineral Resources Engineering, for his co-operation, inspiration and extended
support at the initial stage of this work.
I also intended to pay gratefulness to Dr. Mohammad Mahbbur Rahman, Assistant Professor
& Head of the Department of Petroleum and Mineral Resources Engineering for his
enormous assistance, and important suggestions to complete this work.
I especially like to thank Engr. Zaved Chowdhury, Director(Gas), Energy Regulatory

Commission, Dhaka. for his valuable suggestions and co-operation regarding preparation of
the report.
I also like to thank Engr. Md. Golam Sarwar and Engr. Md. Mahbub Hossain of Titas Gas T
& D Co. Ltd. for their providing necessary data, documents and facilities.
xii
ABSTRACT
In Titas gas system Orifice and Turbine meters are most widely used for gas flow
measurements in bulk customer’s RMS, CGS, TBS and DRS. Generally at the purchase
points, Orifice meters are used in gas delivery line. The total gas input measurement that
made by production companies depend on Orifice meters reading. About 1300MMSCFD gas
is purchased from the production companies and delivered to the customer end through the
Orifice and Turbine meters in Titas franchise area, so it is apparent that accurate
measurement is very important for companies.
This project aims to perform a comparative study on measuring principle, measuring devices,
Operation & installation standards, metering accuracy and uncertainty analysis of Orifice &
Turbine meters. As Titas Gas Company has to procure and install a large number of meters
for gas flow measurement for various load applications and operating conditions, therefore,
selection of meters for various types of customers is one of the major objectives.
In this project Calibration method of Orifice meter with secondary devices have been studied
and analyzed the calibration results to determine what affect the accuracy of gas flow
measurement. For an Orifice meter due to differential pressure measurement deviation, it has
been found that 4.7% flow measurement error occurs at minimum flow rate and 1.5 – 2.0%
error occurred in normal operating range (range of customer demand).Similarly, from the test
results of Turbine meters, it has been observed that Turbine meters with higher capacities,
show below 0.5% error and Turbine meters with lower ranges perform below 1% error with
respect to reference/standard meter.
Analyzing the uncertainty of Orifice meter with 0.71439 beta ratio, 1.06% measurement
uncertainty have been found. For Turbine meter the measurement uncertainty value is 0.68%.
If two Orifice meters are installed in series in Titas Gas Transmission system for counter
measurement, a significant flow difference have been found in gas flow measurement by two
Orifice meters. The comparison of flow measurement between Orifice and Turbine meters
have been made by considering measured variables data over 15 months when the two meters
installed in series. From that analysis, it shows that Turbine meter measurement is 1.992%
better than that of Orifice meter with considering calibration and uncertainty analysis.
xiii
CHAPTER- 1
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background and present status

An Orifice meter is a fluid measuring device that produces a differential pressure to infer
flow rate. When fluid is flowing within a closed conduit (a pipe) and passing through Orifice
plate, a pressure drop is developed. This pressure drop and the condition at which the Orifice
is being used, is related to the flow rate of the fluid. In an Orifice meter, the measured
variables are the differential pressure, flowing gas temperature and static pressure. These
variables are recorded on a circular chart, then interpreted to find flow rate.
The development of the modern plate Orifices began in the 17th century in Europe, from that
times later on, as a part of the continuation of research, ‘Pitot tube’ and Bernoullis equation
were developed that were the basis of Orifice flow measuring equation. In America, the Pitot
tube was used during the 1880 to measure well gas production flows but need was apparent
for a meter that could more readily change with the capacity. Between 1903 and 1912, when
Thomas Weymouth delivered a paper ‘measurement of natural gas’ at the ASME conference,
he undertook a series of tests to calibrate square-edged, thin-plate orifices, using Pitot tubes
as the reference meters. The orifice plate was mounted between heavy pipe flanges with
pressure tappings at 1″ centres from upstream and downstream of the faces of the plate. The
static pressure was measured at the downstream tapping. There are generally three types of
pressure types used, being corner, flange and pipe[1].
Since the Orifice plate has been used for flow measurement applications for about 100 years,
therefore considerable data has been collected on its performance and applications. A number
of variants have been developed where the profile of the plate and the location of the
differential taps can be significantly different. The Orifice plate meter is designed for
unidirectional flow. Should reverse flow occur, or the plate installed in reverse, a substantial
flow error in the order of 20% may be observed.
The number of variables involved in flow measurement by Orifice plate measuring system is
more than that of turbine system. Many factors associated with an Orifice installation
influence the overall error in flow measurement. These errors are due to uncertainties about
the following:
1
 Representation of reality by mass flow equation.
 Uncertainty about actual physical properties of the fluid being measured.
 Impression in the measurement of important installation parameters(Such as Orifice
diameter and beta ratio)
Modern Orifice meter installations calculate flow using computers rather than charts. Orifice
meter can be installed with multiple differential pressure transducers for higher and lower
range. Differential pressure transducer do not give accurate value in a temperature
uncontrolled environment.
Flow measurement is a common part of transmission Company’s daily life. In Titas gas
system about 1300MMSCFD of gas is taken from country’s source and IOC that is measured
by Orifice plate metering system. Of the bulk Customers, the maximum amount of gas
(around 650MMSCFD) delivered to the customer end is measured by Orifice meter. Besides,
at present the natural gas has become more expensive, so the need for improved measurement
accuracy becomes increasing important.
The Turbine meter is classified as a rotary inferential meter. Turbine meters were first used in
Europe for low pressure gas flow measurement applications. After a decade of research and
field testing, Rockwell international introduced its improved design to the United States in
1963 for high pressure gas flow measurement applications. A Turbine meter works on the
principle that a flowing gas stream turns a turbine rotor at a speed directly proportional to gas
flow rate. An index, revolution counter geared to the rotor, shows the meter’s volumetric
throughput at operating condition, so the meter reading must be corrected to standard
condition.
While various questions were raised about Turbine meter, after extensive research and
development which improved the accuracy, rangeability and reliability of Turbine meters and
then used for gas flow measurement. Turbine meters are individually calibrated and resulted
accuracy level within ±1% over a wide range of both pressure and flow rate. They are capable
of ±0.25% accuracy over a specified flow range if individually calibrated near line operating
conditions. If Turbine meters are calibrated once, they can maintain high accuracy level for a
period of 2 years[2].
2
At present Turbine meters are widely used in varying load applications that are located in gas
transmission and distribution lines. Turbine meters are also used in a solely manner for
industrial gas flow measurement. AGA Report no. 07 provides the basis for natural gas
custody transfer contract using this type of meter[4].
Titas gas T &D Co. Ltd. uses five types of gas measuring installations in large scale which
are Intake Metering Station (IMS), City Gate Station (CGS), Town Bordering Station (TBS),
Bulk Customer Gas Regulating and Metering Station (RMS), District Regulating Station
(DRS) where wide variety of flow conditions exist and may have non-ideal flow (i.e swirl
effect, flow transients, Reynolds number below 1000000 etc) condition. These conditions will
cause increasing uncertainty in measurement. Orifice and Turbine meter are used in the above
station for gas flow measurement in large scales. The meters are installed on the mentioned
stations are known as Custody Transfer meter. For high capacity power plants, fertilizer
factory requiring high pressure and flow rate, there Orifice meters are used. For industrial
customers and small power plants, usually Turbine meters are used in Titas Gas T& D Co.
Ltd. Moreover in most of the TBS, DRS, CGS Turbine meters are used for input gas
measurements in Titas system.
Meters used at Gas purchase points and in different locations of Bulk measurements are
described with tabular form respectively.
Table 1.1: Meters used in Gas intake points or Purchase points
Serial Description Operating conditions(Pressure, Type of

no. Temperature, Gas delivery etc) meter used
1 Titas Gas Field, Loc-1, B.Baria P- Around 900 psig, T-80°F. Orifice Meter
Around 195 MMSCFD
2 Titas Gas Field, Loc-3, B.Baria P- Around 900 psig, T-80°F. Orifice Meter
Around 156 MMSCFD
3 Habiganj Gas Field, Habiganj P- Around 1000 psig, T-80°F. Orifice Meter
Around 75 MMSCFD
4 Narsingdi Gas Field, Narsingdi P- Around 1000 psig, T-80°F. Orifice Meter
Around 35 MMSCFD
5 Bangura Gas Field, Comilla P- Around 1000 psig, T-80°F. Orifice Meter
Around 100MMSCFD
6 Fenchuganj Gas Field, Sylhet P- Around 1000 psig, T-80°F. Orifice Meter
Around 100MMSCFD
7 From GTCL system measured P- Around 1000 psig, T-80°F. Orifice Meter
at Valve Station#3, Ashuganj Around 70MMSCFD
8 From GTCL Metering Station P- Around 1000 psig, T-80°F. Orifice meter
at Bakhrabad Gas Field Around 374MMSCFD
3
Table 1.2: Meters used in big Bulk Customers such as Power Stations (PDB, IPP) and
fertilizer or sales points
Serial Description Operating Conditions Meter used

no.
1 Ashuganj Power Station(APS), 128 P- 492, T – 76°F, Around Turbine meter, G-
MW 30.53MMSCFD 1000
2 Ashuganj Power Station(APS), P- 495, T – 85°F, Around Turbine meter, G-
450MW 85.5MMSCFD 4000 & Orifice
meter in series
3 Ashuganj Power P- 480, T – 80°F, Around Turbine meter.G-
Station(APS),(90+60)MW 30.35MMSCFD 1000 & Orifice
meter in series
4 Ghorasal Power Station(GPS) Unit P- 200 psig, T- 72°F, Turbine meter.G-
no.1-2,110MW About 10.35MMSCFD 1600
7 Haripur Power P- 180 psig, T- 72°F, Turbine meter.G-
Station(HPS),100MW,Narayunganj About 25.50MMSCFD 2500
8 ShiddirganjPower P- 165 psig, T- 75°F, Orifice meter
station(SPS),210MW,Narayanganj About 34.48MMSCFD
9 Tongi Power Station, 80MW P- 165 psig, T- 75°F, Turbine meter
About 34.48MMSCFD
10 RPCL Power Station,140MW, P- 298 psig, T- 84°F, Turbine meter.G-
Mymensingh About 22.55MMSCFD 1000
11 NEPC Power Station, 110MW, P- 175 psig, T- 78°F, Orifice meter
Haripur, Narayanganj About 20.11MMSCFD
12 Haripur Power Ltd. 360MW, P- 160 psig, T- 78°F, Orifice meter
Narayanganj About 50.12MMSCFD
13 Megnaghat Power Ltd. 450MW, P- 180 psig, T- 81°F, Orifice meter
Narayanganj About 75.10MMSCFD
14 Zia Fertilizer Co. Ltd.(ZFCL), P – 650 psig, T – 75°F, Turbine meter.G-
Ashuganj About 45.25MMSCFD 1000
15 Urea Fertilizer Factory. Ltd.(UFFL), P – 400 psig, T – 78°F, Turbine meter.G-
Palash, Narsingdi. About 35.25MMSCFD 1600
16 Jamuna Fertilizer Co. Ltd. Tarakandi P – 315 psig, T – 68°F, Turbine meter.G-
Jamalpur. About 41.78MMSCFD 2500
4
Table 1.3: Meters used in District distribution & transmission points
Serial Description Operating Conditions Meter used

no.
1 Demra CGS Complex (Run-1,Run-2 P- 240 psig, T- 75°F Around Turbine meter
& Run-3) 160 MMSCFD G -2500, G-
4000 & G-
1600
2 Siddirganj TBS - 1 P- 288 psig T - 73°F, Around 44 Orifice meter
MMSCFD
3 Siddirganj TBS - 2 P- 280, T - 80°F, Around 60 Orifice meter.
MMSCFD
4 Tarabo TBS/DRS P- 220 psig, T- 72°F, About Turbine
50MMSCFD meter, G-2500
5 Joydevpur CGS a. P- 200 psig, About 25 Turbine
a. Joydevpur DRS(Local supply MMSCFD meter,
b. Joydevpur – Tangail Line b. P- 190 psig, 45 MMSCFD Turbine meter
c. Joy devpur – Tongi Line c. P- 92 psig, 30 MMSCFD Turbine meter
6 Madhobdi TBS cum DRS P- 75 psig, T- 72°F, About Turbine
14MMSCFD meter,G-4000
7 Haripur TBS/DRS P-108, 15 MMSCFD Turbine
meter, G-1600
8 B.Baria TBS cum DRS P – 45 psig, 5 MMSCFD Turbine meter
9 Meghnaghat TBS P- 138, 5 MMSCFD Turbine
meter,G-2500
10 Ashuganj TBS cum DRS at VS -3 P – 25 psig, 0.75MMSCFD Turbine meter
11 Narsingdi DRS P – 61 psig, 12 MMSCFD Turbine meter
12 Ghorasal TBs cum DRS P – 65 psig, 4 MMSCFD Turbine meter
13 Mymensingh M & RStation P – 334 psig, 4 MMSCFD Turbine meter
14 Dhanua TBS, towards Dhaka P – 180 psig, About Turbine
80MMSCFD meter.G-1600
15 Elenga TBS, Towards Dhaka P – 200psig, About 38MMSCFD Turbine
meter.G-2500
1.2 Objectives with specific aims and possible outcome

a) Acquire the knowledge of gas metering and measuring devices(basic theory,
Installation, Operation, relative advantages & disadvantages of two metering system
etc)
b) Perform a comparative study between Orifice and Turbine meter.
c) Uncertainty analysis of Orifice and Turbine meter.
d) Suggest suitable meters for various gas metering installations with different operating
conditions.
5
1.2.1 Outcome
i. Efficient measuring, accuracy of the measurements in field
ii. Advantage and disadvantages of the metering systems
iii. Limitations of the meters.
1.3 Methodology
1) Data collected from field level regarding calibration of Orifice and Turbine meter and
flow measured variables(Differential pressure, flowing pressure and temperature)
2) From collected data, deviation of flow measured variables have been determined
3) Finding flow measurement error of Orifice meter due to deviation of above mentioned
variables
4) Compare accuracy level from test results of Turbine meters, error due to deviation of
measured variables and uncertainty.
5) Make comparative flow statement between Orifice and Turbine meter when installed
in series.
6
CHAPTER- 2
FUNDAMENTALS OF FLOW MEASUREMENT
2.1 General
Flow measurement is a common and continuous issue in our all cases and financial matters.
With respect to fluids either liquid or gas that we regularly use such as water, natural gas, and
petrol are subject to flow measurement.
For the discussion of fundamental component of flow measurement, it is important to be
aware of measured variables related to flow measurement such as pressure, temperature and
their measuring devices. Basic measurement variable’s definitions are given in Appendix-A.
Properties of the fluid being measured and flow measurement through Orifice & Turbine
meter with short brief will also be discussed.
2.2 Pressure measuring devices

There are a number of devices and instruments available for gas pressure measurement. Only
more commonly used devices are discussed here. Most commonly used pressure measuring
device for gas flow measurement is bourdon tube type pressure gauge because of its
simplicity and easy operation. Accuracy level of Bourdon tube type gauge is about ± 1% at
upper range value of pressure measurement. Three types of Bourdon tubes, C- types, Spiral
and Helical are available. Highest range of measurement may be 7000kgf/cm2. Spiral and
Helical Bourdon tube are used for the measurement of low pressure precisely.
Besides this bellows type pressure element are generally used in flow recorder for differential
pressure measurement and may also used in pressure gauge. It can be made of different
ranges up to 40Mpa of pressure value. Electronic or Pneumatic pressure transmitters are also
used for pressure measurement and they convert pressure into voltage or current signal which
is transmitted to the control centre. This standard output signal of transmitter is 4- 20 mA for
0 – 100% pressure measuring ranges.
Pressure elements of flow recorder and transmitters must be calibrated on a routine basis to
maintain accurate measurement. For high and medium pressure measurement Dead weight
Testers are used as standard or reference devices. In case of low pressure measurement or
differential pressure measurement element calibration Manometer are generally used as
standard devices[3].
7
2.2.1 Manometer
This is the most simple of pressure measuring devices. The glass U-tube manometer, which
has been known as basic pressure standard for a long time, to measure pressure by balancing
pressure forces directly against a liquid column. When a differential pressure is applied, the
difference between the heights of the two columns of liquid is read on a graduated scale.
2.2.2 Dead Weight Tester

The principle of a dead weight tester is similar to that of a balance. The dead weight tester
has a piston of known area which is inserted into a cylinder. The piston is connected to a
platform on which standard masses are placed. The cylinder is usually filled with oil which
under applied pressure causes the standard masses to be raised. In this situation the force
exerted by the oil pressure over the piston area is balanced by the standard masses (Weight).
Pneumatic dead weight tester is also available.
T o obtain good accuracy the dead weight tester should provide the following items
• the dead weight tester and applied masses have been certified and are traceable
• the proper correction has been made for local gravity
• all friction has been minimized and
• the unit is operated correctly
An accuracy of 0.1% or better of calibration should be achievable.
2.3 Temperature measuring devices

The most common temperature measurement devices are:
• Filled thermal system
• Thermocouples
• Liquid in glass thermometers
• Thermistors
• Resistance temperature detectors(RTD’s)
• Radiation pyrometers and
• Bimetallic devices.
8
2.3.1 Filled thermal system
These systems are simple and inexpensive and generally responses are fast with fluid
dynamic.
Filled thermal system are classified into four different classes,
Class 1 : Liquid expansion
Class 2 : Vapor –pressure
Class 3 : Gas – pressure and
Class 4 : Mercury expansion
Each class has some specialties, like class1 has high accuracy, uniform scales and small
sensors. Class 2 system is inherently accurate and requires no compensation for ambient
temperature effects. The important components of a fluid filled thermometer are
1. A bulb
2. Capillary tube
3. Measuring element
4. Fluid as shown in Figure 2.1
When temperature of the bulb as well as its fluid increases then the pressure of the fluid
increases and this increased pressure is transmitted to the measuring element through the
capillary tube.
Figure 2.1: Different components of fluid filled thermometer.
2.3.2 Thermocouple
A thermocouple is a junction of two dissimilar metal wires as shown in Figure 2.2
9
Figure 2.2: Thermocouple Circuit
Here an electromotive force is developed if the junction is kept at a temperature that is

different than that of terminals. The electromotive force is measured between the two
terminals. There are some suitable combination of two different wires which gives the
electromotive force proportional to the temperature difference, between junction temperature
and terminal temperature. If terminals are kept at temperature T 1 and junction are kept at
temperature T 2 then the electromotive force, E is found as follows:
E ∝ (T 2 -T 1 )
⇒ E = α(T 2 -T 1 )
Where α is proportionality constant called temperature sensitivity or seebeck co-efficient

(after the name of its inventor) for a thermocouple made by a particular pair of wires. The
value of α depends on materials of two wires. To measure the temperature of a fluid the
junction of thermocouple must be immersed into that fluid.
Depending on the material of two wires there are different types of thermocouple. These are
shown in Table 2.1.
Table 2.1: Different types of Thermocouple type Thermometer
Serial Type Temperature Positive wire (A) Negative wire (B) α(avr)
no range(°C) µν/°C
01 E -200 to 900 Chromel:10%Cr, Constantan:55%Cu, 68.0
90% Ni 45%Ni
02 J 0 to750 100% Fe Constantan 52.6
03 K -200 to 1250 Chromel Alumel: 2%Al, 39.0
10
0.5%Fe, 2.5%Mn,
95%Ni
04 T -200 to350 100% Cu Constantan 40.5
05 B 0 To 1700 70% Pt, 30% Rh 94% Pt, 6% Rh 7.6
06 R 0 to 1450 87% Pt, 13%Rh 100% Pt 12.0
07 S 0 to 1450 90% Pt, 10% Rh 100% Pt 10.6
08 C 0 to 2320 90% W, 5% Re 74% W, 26% Re 16.6
09 D 0 to 2320 97% W, 3% Re 75% W, 25% Re 17.0
10 G 0 to 2320 100%W 74% W, 24% Re 16.0
2.3.3 Liquid in Glass thermometers

The mercury filled glass thermometer is the most common example of the liquid in glass
thermometer used for flow measurement applications. Glass thermometers are cheap, have a
good workable temperature range and can have a long life, however they have to be directly
read and in the case of the mercury thermometer can present a hazard when broken.
2.3.4 Thermoresistance or RTD

There is some material whose electrical resistance changes with change of temperature. In
some cases the change of resistance with change of temperature is linear and some cases it is
nonlinear. For measurement of temperature the linear change is desirable.
Temperature Co-efficient of resistance:
Assume a material whose electrical resistance at 0°c is Ro • and at t°c is R t • . Hence the
change of resistance is ( Rt- Ro )ohm. The change of resistance per 1 ohm and per 1 degree
Celsius is called temperature co-efficient of resistance. If α is the temperature co-efficient
then,
α = (R t – Ro)/R o × t
⇒ R t = Ro (1+ αt)
⇒ t = ( R t – Ro )/ αRo degC
Ro and α given, hence if we measure Rt then t is found.
Most widely used platinum (Pt), Nickel (Ni) and Copper (Cu) metal type RTDs can measure
different range of temperature are given in the following Table:
11
Table 2.2: Temperature range for different RTD
Serial no. RTD Temperature range (°C)
1 Pt -250 to + 650
2 Ni -70 to + 250
3 Cu - 50 to + 150
Selection of the best sensor for a given application can be a function of temperature range,
sensitivity, response time, initial cost, maintenance, accuracy, reliability and power
requirements. Overall control requirements are also important. This can lead to the selection
of a mechanically or pneumatically transmitted system, giving freedom from external power
sources and simple maintenance requirements. On the other hand, the higher accuracy and
sensitivity and multi scanning ability may make the electronic transmitted system more
attractive.
2.4 Fluid physical properties

The physical properties of gas that are involved in flow measurements are discussed as
follows:
2.4.1 Density (at flowing condition)
The flowing density (ρt,p) is a key component of a certain equations. It is defined as the mass
per unit volume at flowing pressure and temperature and is measured at the selected static
pressure tap location. The value for flowing density can be calculated from equation of states
or from the relative density (specific gravity) at the selected static pressure tap. The fluid
density at flowing conditions can also be measured using commercial densitometers.
Density based on ideal gas relative density (specific gravity)
M rgas M rgas
We know Gi = =
M rair 28.9625
⇒ M rgas = 28.9625 × Gi
m 144 × Pf1 × Mrgas

ρ t ,p 1 = =
v Zf1 × R × Tf
12
m Pf1 × Gi (144 × 28.9625)
=
v Zf1 × R × Tf1
2.69881 × Pf1 × G i
=
Zf1 × Tf
m 144×Pb × M rgas
And ρ b = =
Vb Zb × R × Tb
× × 28.9625 × 144
⇒ ρ b = Pb G i
Zb × R × Tb
2.69881 × Pb × Gi
=
Zb × Tb
Where, R = Universal gas constant = 1545.35 lbf-ft/lbmol-°R.
2.4.2 Density based on real gas relative density (specific gravity)

The relationship between real gas relative density (specific gravity) and ideal gas relative
density (specific gravity) is given below
Z bair
Gr = Gi
Z bgas
Zbgas
or Gi = Gr
Zbair
Z b air = Zsair = 0.99590
The gas density based on real gas relative density (specific gravity) is given by the following:
2.69881× Pf1 × Gr × Zsgas

ρt,p 1 =
0.99590 × Zf1 × Tf
2.69992 × Pf1 × Gr × Zsgas
=
Zf1 × Tf
2.69881 × 14.73 × Gr
and ρ s =
0.999590 × 519.67
= 0.0765289 Gr [3].
13
2.4.3 Compressibility
Ideal and real gas concepts are used to define compressibility of gas. An ideal gas is one that
conforms to the thermodynamic laws of Boyles and Charles (ideal gas laws), which
expressed as follows:
144PV = nRT (2.1)
P1 × V1 P2 × V2
= (2.2)
T1 1
T2
But at reality, all gases deviate from the ideal gas laws to some extent. This deviation is
known as Compressibility and is denoted by symbol Z.
For real gases the above ideal equation (2.1) becomes to the following real relationship.
144PV = nzRT
To convert the volume at the upstream flowing condition to the volume at base condition by
use of above equation (2.2)
V b = V f1 ( Pf1 )( Zb )( T b ) (2.3)
Pb Zf1 Tf
Where:
V b = volume of gas at base condition
V f1 = volume of gas at flowing condition
Z b = compressibility of gas at base conditions (P b , T b )
Z f1 = compressibility of gas at flowing condition (P f1 , T f )
T f = Absolute temperature of flowing gas in 0R
2.4.4 Super compressibility

In orifice measurement Z b and Z f1 appear as a ratio to the 0.5 power. This relationship is
termed the super compressibility factor and may be calculated from the following equation:
Fpv = Zb Where: Fpv = super compressibility factor

Zf1
or Z f1 = Zb
Fpv2
14
2.5 Flow measurement through Orifice meter
Orifice metering is the most common form of gas metering used throughout the world for the
measuring of large volumes of natural gas. It is also used for the measurement of liquid.
The Orifice meter relies on the principle of flowing fluid within a closed medium and
pressure drop is developed across the plate. This pressure is directly related to the flow rate of
fluid. By measuring the differential pressure across the Orifice plate and the conditions at
which the Orifice is being used, then this pressure differential can be translated into a volume
flow rate according to a formula.
An orifice plate flow meter system consists of three discrete components which are meter
tube, the orifice assembly and the differential pressure gauge. The meter tube and orifice
assembly are considered to be the primary element and the differential pressure, pressure &
temperature gauge or Recorder/transmitter are being regarded to as secondary element.
2.5.1 Volumetric flow measurement

In the measurement of natural gas, the general practice is to state the flow in Cubic feet per
hour at some Specified standard or base conditions of pressure and temperature using the real
gas relative density.
The volumetric flow rate equation is as follows:
Qv = Fn (F c +F sl ) Y1 F pb F tb F gr F tf F pv Pf 1 hw
(2.4)
Or Q v = C′ Pf 1 hw
Where C′ = F n (F c + F sl )Y 1 F pb F tb F tf F qr F pv
C′ = Composite orifice flow factor Ev = Velocity approach factor
Fpb = Base pressure factor Fc = Orifice calculation factor
Ffb = Base temperature factor Fsl = Orifice Slope factor
Ftf = Flowing temperature factor. Fpv = Super Compressibility factor
Y 1 = Expansion factor (upstream tap) Fn = Numeric Conversion factor
Fqr = Real gas relative density factor.
hw = Orifice differential pressure, in inches of water at 60°F.
Qv = Volume flow rate at standard conditions of Z b , T b and P b , in Cubic feet per hour [3].
2.6 Measuring principle of Turbine meter
15
The turbine meter is a velocity measuring device that depends upon the flow of gas to cause
the meter rotor to turn at a speed proportional to the flow rate. Rotor revolutions are counted
mechanically or electrically and converted to a continuously totalized volumetric registration.
Since the registered volume is at flowing pressure and temperature conditions, it must be
corrected to the specified base conditions for billing purposes. The index of the turbine meter
indicates volume at flowing conditions, so this value must be corrected to the base conditions.
The basic law relationship is expressed as follows:
(P f )(V f ) = (Z f )(N)(R)(T f ) for flowing conditions
(2.5)
and
(P b )(V b ) = (Z b ) (N) (R) (T b ) for base conditions
(2.6)
Where P = Absolute pressure T = Absolute temperature
V = Volume R = Universal gas constant
Z = Compressibility factor Subscripts f = Flowing conditions
N = Number of moles of gas b = Base conditions
Since R is a constant for the gas regardless of pressure and temperature, and for the same
number of moles of gas N, the above two equations can be combined to yield
V b = v f × Pf × T b × Zb (2.7)
Pb Tf Zf
Equation (2.7) can be calculated for the specific conditions at the meter or tables can be
employed. The following is an expansion of equation (2.7) that includes factors to convert V b
to any pressure or temperature base other than 14.73 psia and 60°F. The equation is in a form
similar to that used in orifice metering and certain factors are the same:
Vb = (V f ) × (F pm ) × (F pb ) × (F tm ) × (F tb ) × (S)
(2.8)
16
Where F pm = Flowing Pressure factor F tm = Flowing temperature factor
F pb = Pressure base factor F tb = Temperature base factor
S = Compressibility ratio factor [4].
CHAPTER-3
CALIBRATIONS
3.1 General
Natural gas is always being measured on flowing stream state. Accurate metering is very
important because of registered volume will be used for billing purposes. In this chapter,
Calibration of Orifice & Turbine meters will be discussed.
3.2 Calibration of Orifice meter
At first calibration means a comparison is made between an instrument and a reference
standard for the purpose of adjusting the instrument characteristics to provide agreement with
the reference standard. Generally, every measuring device, Instruments must be calibrated
according to appropriate primary or secondary standards. The orifice meters with three pen
recorders are used in different locations (purchase point & counter check meters, bulk
Customers of power, fertilizer, captive power, TBS, CGS, DRS) in TGDTDCL. For gas flow
measurement most commonly used transmitter and recorders of various types and ranges in
Titas Gas system are Barton, Clif Mock, Dry Flow pen recorder, Smart type & ABB
transmitters.
A typical Calibration setup for secondary devices of an Orifice meter which is recommended
by manufacturer is shown in the Figure below:
17
Figure 3.1: Calibration setup for Mechanical recorder
3.2.1 Calibration results
The calibrations of some Orifice meters with recorder and transmitter that have been
conducted by TGTDCL in different times are described as follows:
Case study # 01
Metering run: Orifice meter
Internal pipe diameter, D = 11.75 inches
Orifice bore diameter, d = 5.5 inches
Recorder Model: D7904
Make: CLIF MOCK COMPANY
Checking points of differential pressure elements are as follows:
Preliminary check zero:
Arcing:
Pen:
Tension:
Friction:
Type: helical, Range: 0 to 200″w.c
Differential pressure element calibration data are given below:
Table 3.1: Differential pressure element calibration data
SL No Manometer reading Chart reading during Deviation Average

Chart
( inches of water c calibration (W.C″) deviation
reading after calibration
column)
18
Up Down Up Down Up Down
1 00 200 00 200
2 50 150 50 150 No Nil Was not

deviation needed
3 100 100 100 100
4 150 50 150 50
5 200 00 200 00
During pressure element calibration the following parameters should be checked

Preliminary zero point: OK
Arcing: OK
Pen tension: OK
Clock: OK
` Type: Helical, Range: 0 - 1500 psig.
Table 3.2: Pressure element data
SL No Dead weight tester reading Deviation Comments

(psig) Chart reading
during calibration
(Psig)
Up Down Up Down Same deviation has been
n found in case of up & down
calibration
1 375 1500 374 1499 -1

2 750 1125 749 1124 -1
3 1125 750 1124 749 -1

4 1500 375 1499 374 -1
Case study # 02
Mechanical chart recorder, Model: 202 F-Bulk- 26610E

Make: ITT Barton
19
Metering Run: Orifice meter,
Pipe internal diameter: 15.25 inches
Orifice bore: 7.99563 inches
Checking points of differential pressure element:
Preliminary zero check: Error
Arcing: OK
Pen tension: OK
Friction: OK
Type: Bellows
Range: 0 - 200″ w.c
Table 3.3: DP calibration data of ITT Barton recorder
SL. No Applied DP (W.C) As found DP(W.C) As found Remarks

in chart Error
1 00 1.5 1.5
2 50 51 1
3 100 103 3
4 200 201 1
Pressure element calibration points:

Preliminary zero check: OK
Arcing: OK
Pen tension: OK
Friction: OK
Type: Bourton tube
Range: 0 - 500 psig
Table 3.4: Pressure element calibration results of ITT Barton recorder
Sl No. Applied static Chart reading As found Error Comments

pressure (psig) (psig)
1 145 147 2
2 240 242 2
3 360 362 2
Temperature element calibration

In normal water thermometer reading is 87.5°F and at the same time chart reading is 88.5°F,
deviation is 1.0°F
20
Case study # 03
Mechanical recorder that installed in Bulk Customer, Gas Regulating & Metering Station
(RMS) sometimes it was verified and such tested results are illustrated below:
Recorder Model: 202E Bulk 19311

Make: ITT Barton
Metering Run: Orifice meter
Internal pipe diameter: 15.236614 inches
Orifice bore diameter: 8.4514 inches
Differential pressure element calibration checking points

Preliminary zero check: OK
Arcing: OK
Pen tension OK
Friction: OK
Type: Bellows element
Range: 0 - 200″ w.c
Table 3.5: DP element calibration data
Serial No. Manometer reading Chart reading Deviation Remarks

(inches of W.C) (inches of W.C)
1 40 42 2 Initial first six readings
2 60 62 2 were taken
3 80 82 2 when DP pen is going
upward
4 120 122 2 and next six readings are
5 160 162 2 in case of downward
6 180 182 2 going
7 180 180 0
8 160 160 0
9 120 122 2
10 80 82 2
11 60 62 2
12 40 42 2
Pressure element calibration

Pressure Range: 0 - 290 psig
21
Table 3.6: Verified results of Static pressure element
SL.No. Dead weight Tester Chart reading (psig) Deviation Remarks

reading (psig)
1 50 50 Nil Static pressure
2 100 100 Nil Element has
3 150 150 Nil been found ok
4 200 200 Nil

5 250 250 Nil
Temperature Element calibration

Atmospheric condition in normal water thermometer reading was 76°F and its chart reading
was also found 76°F i.e deviation is nil.
Orifice meter accuracy must be determined considering the error of recorder and transmitter
error
3.3 Turbine meter calibration

Here, brief descriptions of turbine meter test /calibration bench procedure that are practiced in
Titas Gas system are presented. The high pressure calibration unit consists of turbine
reference meter and meter under tested. In the calibration unit one turbine meter can be tested
at a time. One reference meter and the Meter Under Test (MUT) will be connected in series.
The flow rate measured through the MUT is compared with the flow rate measured by the
reference meter. The reference meter is part of the high pressure calibration equipment,
whereas the MUT is the meter to be checked.
In general the line conditions for the MUT and the reference meters are not the same. The
temperature and pressure are measured at both the reference meter and the MUT. A
correction for pressure, temperature and compressibility is used to calculate the flow rate
measured by the reference meter and MUT at line conditions making an accurate calibration
possible.
During the MUT calibration the volume flow rate at standard conditions is calculated at both
the MUT and the reference meter. The flow rates at standard conditions are compared. For
testing a flow meter the sequence of events is the following:
• Install meter to be tested and connect secondary instruments.
22
• Select test pressure and set pressure regulator if appropriate.
• Pressurize test run.
• Check for leakage
• Start test and set flow rate
• Observe calculated error and its standard deviation.
Error/deviation calculation
The error for measured flow rate is calculated using the following formula:
E = [ Qmut/Qref -1]*100%
Where E = error %
Qmut: Flow rate from MUT (m3/h)
Qref: Flow rate from reference meter at MUT conditions (m3/h)
Sometimes turbine meters of different capacities have been tested or verified for comparing
the accuracy level with their calibration certificate or as per demand of Customer’s quarries.
Test results are given in the following Table:
Table 3.7: Test results of Turbine meters
Sl. Description of meters Deviation (%) Remarks

No
01 Model :TRZ 03, RMG Messtechnik GmbH (-) 0.23%
Range : G----- 2500
Size : 12″ DN, ANSI Class 150 RF
Accuracy : ± 1% for Qmin to 0.2 Qmax and ±
0.5% for 0.2 Qmax to Qmax
Rangeability : 1 to 20
Qmax : 4000 m3/h
Qmin : 200m3/h
02 Model : SM-RI-X, Instromet (-) 0.20%
Range : G--- 1000
Size : 8″ DN, ANSI Class : 150 RF
Accuracy : Qmin to 0.2 Qmax : ± 1%
0.2 Qmax to Qmax : ± 0.5%
Qmax : 1600 m3/h
Qmin : 80 m3/h
23
03 Model :SM-RI- X, Insromet (-) 0.15%
Range : G – 650, Size 6″ DN
ANSI Class : 150 RF
Qmax : 1000 m3/h
Qmin : 50 m3/h
04 Model : SM-RI-X, Instromet (-) 0.80%
Range : G--- 1600
Size : 8″ DN, ANSI Class : 150 RF
Rangeability : 1 : 20
Qmax : 2500 m3/h
Qmin : 130 m3/h
05 TRZ 03, RMG Messtechnik GmbH (-) 0.19%

Range : G----- 2500
Size : 12″ DN, ANSI Class 150 RF
Accuracy : ± 1% for Qmin to 0.2 Qmax and ±
0.5% for 0.2 Qmax to Qmax
Rangeability : 1 to 20
Qmax : 4000 m3/h
Qmin : 200m3/h
CHAPTER- 4
INSTALLATION AND PERFORMANCE OF METER
Installation, flow condition, operation and maintenance have great influence on accurate
measurement by Orifice and Turbine meter i.e Performance of meters depend upon these
factors At first the above mentioned factors are to be discussed. Besides this there have some
contributing factors that influences performances of meter especially factors are more active
for Orifice meter rather than Turbine meter.
4.1 Installation of Orifice meter

If fully developed profile and swirl free flow conditions are not conformed at near upstream
and down stream section of primary device, a flow conditioner shall be installed in upstream
section. In such cases the straight length between the fitting and the conditioner itself shall be
24
equal to at least 20D, and the straight length between the conditioner and primary device shall
be equal to at least 22D that is recommended by AGA - 3 & ISO 5167 [3]. These lengths are
measured from the upstream face and the downstream face respectively of the conditioner.
Here mentioned that flow conditioners are not installed for Orifice meter installation in Titas
Gas system.
Figure 4.1: Standard meter tube length for Orifice meter.
4.2 Installation of Turbine meter for gas flow measurement

According to AGA Report No.07 the recommended installation requires a length of 10
nominal pipe diameters upstream with the straightening vane outlet located at five nominal
pipe diameters from meter inlet as shown in figure 4.2. A length of five nominal pipe
diameters is recommended down stream of the meter. Both inlet and outlet pipe should be of
the same nominal size as the meter[4].
25
Figure 4.2: Recommended Installation of an in-line gas Turbine meter (Minimum Length)
4.3 Flow conditions

Certain flow conditions must be met, if fluid to be measured with reasonable degree of
accuracy. Before the fluid measurement process is initiated, some fundamental characteristics
of fluid to be measured and most common field conditions must be determined. Some of
these are as follows:
• Velocity profile and swirl
• Reynolds number
• the composition
• influence and/or presence of foreign material
• Condensing or flashing during the measurement
4.3.1 Velocity profile and swirl

The Reynolds number characterizes the velocity profile and stability of the fluid flow pattern.
For laminar flow (Re < 2,000) the profile is parabolic and it is not influenced by the pipe wall
roughness. At these conditions, flow situations can be regarded as non-ideal flow conditions.
In the total turbulent region, the flow profile can be considered to near about ideal flow
conditions. The exception is that particles which close to the pipe wall interface travel at a
lower velocity.
Upstream and downstream pipe length, the location of bends, valves, reciprocating plant,
changes in pipe diameter and general conditions of the internal pipe walls within the
immediate and general proximity of the orifice plate, can result in non-ideal flow conditions
such as swirl, transients flow and profile distortion or jetting. These non-ideal flow conditions
can produce errors which magnitude is higher than the basic uncertainty in the orifice meter
co-efficient. The use of straight lengths of pipe can reduce or eliminate swirl.
26
4.3.2 Reynolds number
The Reynolds number should be kept above 1,000,000 if flow accuracy is to be maintained.
When the value of Reynolds number is below 2,000, the flow is termed as laminar. Turbulent
flow is said to exist when the value is above 40,000. For Reynolds numbers which fall
between these two values, the flow may be laminar or turbulent – this being termed the
transition area.
Figure 4.3: Velocity profiles in laminar and turbulent flow
Re < 2000 laminar flow

2000 < Re < 40000 transition area
Re > 40000 turbulent flow.
For the measurement of natural gas, the Reynolds number will be normally well above the
transition zone. It is always advisable to check the Reynolds number sensitivity when
considering a particular flow meter type for a given application [10].
4.4 Operation and maintenance of Orifice meter

Since the value of natural gas is being raising along with increasing energy demand &
operating cost, so the accurate gas measurement is vital for gas industry. Accurate gas
measurement is obtained only through an efficient maintenance and operating schedule after
a properly designed measuring station has been installed. If there is any discrepancy shown in
the chart that must be corrected immediately, it is not always possible in TGTDCL to report
describing the condition of meter and take corrective measures immediately. Discrepancy
reports, along with calibration reports are necessary for the calculation of accurate volume.
27
Since the orifice plate can deteriorate with usage over time, therefore, periodic inspection
and cleaning of an orifice plate is required to maintain initial equipment condition. Secondary
instruments such as the differential pressure transmitter should be regularly calibrated against
a standard. Standards would have demonstrated traceability to an International Standard held
within a recognized laboratory or metrology institution.
4.5 Operation and maintenance of Turbine meter

To get better accuracy and maximum life, turbine should be operated within their specified
flow range Overspeeding of meter must be avoided to protect the rotor from damage.
Generally turbine meters are capable of operating at modest overloads for short period of
time, but continued overloading must be avoided by proper meter sizing. Like all other
meters, turbine meters should be pressured and placed in service slowly. Shock loading by
opening valves quickly will usually result in rotor damage.
In addition to proper design and installation procedures, turbine meters accuracy is dependent
on good maintenance and frequent adequate inspections. Basically the time interval between
the two inspections depends upon the gas quality and contract specification.
Regular lubrication, with manufacturer specified lubricating oils, is also required. The
frequency of lubrication depends on the operating conditions. For example, a meter operating
in dirty gas needs to be lubricated more often than a meter operating in clean gas. Under
normal conditions, meters should be lubricated 2 to 3 times per annum.
4.6 Factors related to measurement accuracy

1) Pressure measurement
2) Temperature measurement
3) Density measurement/specific gravity
4) Metering station configuration
5) Meter run design
6) Installation effect
7) Pulsation effect
8) Preheating of natural gas
9) Meter repeatability
10) Calibration of meter
11) Calibration of secondary instruments such as recorder gauge, transmitter and transducer
12) Gas quality
28
13) Isentropic exponent usage for calculation
14) Elevation / Barometric effects
15) Primary flow element
16) Metering run inlet header
17) Chart recorder and chart reading
18) Meter rangeability.
4.6.1 Pressure Measurement

Static pressure measurement has an important effect on accurate measurement because of
incorrect pressure measurement directly affects the gas flow rate calculation.
The most commonly used pressure measuring devices such as ‘Bourdon Tube’ has an
accuracy of about ± 1% and differential pressure element with an accuracy of ± 0.5% of full
scale are also utilized in gas transmission system.
Now a days-smart transmitter with HART’ (High-Way Addressable Remote Transmitter)
protocol is used for pressure measurement. The error of this type of transmitter is 0.1% or
less. Now it will be useful to discuss some of the potential error about pressure measurement
For Turbine Meter in close vicinity of the wheel, a special reference pressure point Pr is
provided. An error will be introduced in pressure measurement, if reference point pressures
are not used. In Titas, it is not always possible or practical, to have the pressure tap at the
ideal location and for turbine meter special pressure tapping point, Pr are not being followed
as per indication, So there may raise an error for pressure measurement.
Sometimes pressure gauges, recorders and transmitters are not calibrated as per manufacturer
recommended interval. This may create error in gas measurement. Moreover, when pressures
are read manually from gauges or recorders then there may have chance to read pressure
incorrectly which may also increases error in gas measurement.
4.6.2 Temperature measurement

Like incorrect pressure measurement, incorrect temperature reading causes flow
measurement error to some extent. How incorrect measurement of temperature experienced
in gas measurement would be discussed. For instance, in some cases temperature tapping
points are not installed according to AGA – 03 or ISO – 5167 standard for Orifice meter and
not accordance with AGA – 7 for Turbine meter. Sometimes under or over size thermopiles
are used for temperature measurement which causes incorrect measurement for Orifice and
Turbine meter.
29
Besides this, for correct temperature sensing of the flowing gas the thermo-well should be
filled with oil. This completes heat transfer from gas to oil. But in the existing system the
thermo-well are not filled with oil. At present it is filled with air or water, therefore it is not
possible to get the correct temperature of the flowing gas.
4.6.3 Density and Specific gravity measurement

Continuous density measurement of flowing gas is necessary for accurate volumetric flow
measurement. In most cases density and or SG is measured by taking sample from the pipe
line once per month and this value is used for gas flow calculation over the month that may
impractical for measurement purpose, so this may cause measurement error. Online Gas
Chromatograph should be installed for continuous density & specific gravity measurement,
but it is not practiced in TGTDCL.
4.6.4 Pulsation Effect

Pulsation created by flow control valves, regulators and some piping configurations may
cause significant errors in gas flow measurement. In recent years the Pipeline and
Compressor Research Council (PCRC), a subsidiary of the Southern Gas Association,
commissioned and funded various pulsation research projects at South West Research
Institute (SWRI) in San Antonio Texas. This is discussed in “Appalachian Gas
Measurement” short course — 1999, U.S.A.[5]. The PCRC sponsored research programs
concluded that pulsation induced measurement errors fall into two broad categories.
a) Primary Element Error
This includes Square Root Averaging Error (SRE), inertial errors, and shifts in the Orifice co-
efficient.
a.1 Square Root Error

In Titas transmission system Square Root Error occurs in orifice metering system. Due to
pulsation the flow becomes unsteady state condition. Under unsteady condition there creates
frequent ∆P modulation or changes thus causes measurement error. This measurement error
is called square root error (SRE). SRE is the largest component of primary element error
caused by pulsation.
a.2 Other primary element errors
30
Though SRE is the largest component of pulsation induced primary element error, under
extreme pulsation conditions, inertial error and coefficient shifts will both increase in
magnitude. A brief explanation of each follows:
a.2.1 Inertial Error
Pulsating gas flow will tend to remain in motion due to its inertia. As a result, flow velocity
changes lag behind ∆P changes. Inertial errors are insignificant unless pulsation amplitude
and frequency are both relatively high.
a.2.2 Co-efficient Shift
Though difficult to quantify test data indicates that pulsation level above 1.5% SRE
contribute to shift in the orifice co-efficient.
b) Secondary Element Errors
It is consist of gauge line distortion and gauge line shift, together commonly referred to as
Gauge Line Error (GLE). Gauge line error exists when ∆p at the taps does not equal to the ∆p
at the end of gauge lines. It is caused by pulsation.
4.6.5 Requirements of pre-heating the gas

When temperature of the gas falls below the dew point, hydrates can form and freezing
occurs in and on the pipeline and operation becomes seizes. This creates operational hazard
and incorrect flow measurement. To prevent this, particularly at the stage when pressure
reduction takes place, it is necessary to ensure that the temperature of the gas remains above
that of the dew point at the exit to the pressure reduction section of the system. During
pressure reduction the temperature is reduced by approximately one degree F, for every bar
by which the pressure is reduced. Preheating of gas is necessary for smooth operation and
correct flow measurement.
4.7 Performance of turbine meters

The performance parameters of turbine meters manufactured by different companies have to
recognized by ISO – 9951, OIML and AGA 07. For example, Instromet Turbine meters are
made to satisfy the requirements of ISO – 9951. Rangeability, Stability and performance with
flow variations of Instromet Turbine meters would be discussed here. The performance test of
SM – RI, Instromet Turbine meters carried out by GERG a co-operative effort of the major
European gas transmission companies and these tests conducted with ISO 9951 which have
31
been reprinted in 1995 International Gas Research Conference, Cannes 6-9 November 1995
would also be discussed in this Chapter.
4.7.1 Rangeability
The minimum and maximum flow rates between which a meter operates within specified
accuracy limits is defined as the range. The maximum error for this purpose is specified in
ISO 9951 as plus or minus 2% of the actual value at low flow rates and plus or minus 1% at
high flow rates (see Figure 4.4).
The minimum flow rate under operating conditions Q min operating can be determined from
by the following relation:
Q min (operating) = Q min air √[(P atmos /Pm)* (1/d)]
Where P atmos is the atmospheric pressure (1.01325 bar or 14.7psi) and Pm the absolute
operating pressure of the meter in the same units. For natural gas d is normally 0.6 to 0.7 and
Q min air is the minimum flow rate with air under atmospheric conditions.
For example:
Size : G 160
Rangeability : 1:20 for air at atmospheric pressure
Maximum flow rate : 250m3/h
Minimum flow rate with air at atmospheric pressure : 250/20 = 12.5m3/h
For gas at specific gravity of 0.6 with atmospheric pressure:
Minimum flow rate 12.5/(√0.6) = 12.5/0.775 = 16.1m3/h
For gas at atmospheric pressure, as the gas density is lower than that of air, the minimum
flow rate increases therefore the range decreases.
Next consider the same gas at 6 bar gauge:
Density is approximately 0.6*(6+1) = 4.2 times the density of air.
Therefore minimum flow rate is 12.5* √(1/7*1/0.6) = 12.5/2.05 = 6.1m3/h
For gas of 0.6 s.g at an absolute pressure of 7 bar, the minimum flow rate decreases and
therefore the range increases with respect to atmospheric air.
The above discussion is applicable for only lower end or minimum flow rate of turbine meter.
On the high end, the range is limited by overspeeding of turbine wheel. The maximum flow
rate is therefore fixed and independent of pressure or density.
Therefore, Turbine meters have rangeability of normally 1:20, in contrast Orifice meters have
rangeabilitry of 1:3.
32
2
1
Error 0
%
-1
-2
20% Flow Rate Qmax
Figure 4.4: Maximum allowable error according to ISO 9951
4.7.2 Stability
Stability of the INSTROMET turbine meters has been demonstrated clearly in a recalibration
exercise carried out by Gasunie, the Dutch gas transmission Company. They have found that
for 128 meters over a period of up to 15 years, the weighted mean error do not shift by more
than plus or minus 0.6% apart from one exception at 0.9% .
Due to continual development of turbine meters at INSTROMET the present meters will
exhibit a performance superior to this excellent record [6].
4.7.3 Influence of flow variations

Turbine meters have normally a fast response to flow variation. They follow increasing flow
variations faster than decreasing flow variations. At high flow rates, the meter response is
very fast, even for decreasing flow.
The effect of flow variations of a sinusoidal nature is negligible for very low frequencies of
pulsation. The rotor speed follows the flow variations accurately. Under pulsating flow
conditions turbine meters operate at less than ±1% overrun.
4.7.4 Performance test of SM – RI Turbine meter

This test has been performed on four different manufacturers (I, П , Ш , νI) made Turbine
meters of two sizes (DN 150 and DN 300). It has been carried out by GERG, a co-operative
effort of the major European Gas Transmission Companies and this test also conducted with
ISO 9951, the international standard on Turbine meters as reference.
Flow meters are calibrated under such inlet conditions where it has to assess the extent of
measuring errors caused by installations Tests are conducted under ISO 9951 Perturbation
33
Unit(Figure 4.5 & 4.6 ) in which all probable perturbations seen in the measuring Stations
must maintained.
4.7.4.1 Testing included

• Four different meter types of different manufacturers(I, П , ν)
Ш ,tested
I for their
sensitivity for distributed flows downstream of the ISO perturbation unit,
• Two diameters (DN150 and DN300) to establish whether it is sufficient to test only one
meter size for type approval ,
• Three different pressures (atmospheric, 10 bar and 25 bar) to determine possible
differences in meter.
• Two distances (2D and 5D )
• The four DN 150 meter makes at a distances of 2D/5D downstream of the pressure
reducer, to allow comparison of the results with the high level perturbation; two
different inlet/outlet pressure ratios were selected.
4.7.4.2 Results for DN 300 Meters

There is no real difference between the perturbation tests carried out at 1 bar and those
performed at high pressure (10bar and 25 bar). Meter behavior is practically the same.
Meter I(SM- RI-X, Manufactured by Insromet) with the perforated plate in the inlet met the ±
0.33% tolerance criterion defined by ISO 9951 under all test conditions. But the meter П
(TRZ 03, Manufatured by RMG, Messtechnik GmbH) showed the poorest results with
deviations for the high pressure at a distance of 2 DN of up to -1.5%. So meter I is the best
meter.
4.7.4.3 For DN 150 Meters

In all cases meter I satisfied the tolerance requirement denoted by standard range of ± 0.33%
while meter IV fulfilled the partial requirement of standard range. For meter Ш and meter П
met the tolerance limit of ±0.4% and ±0.5% range respectively [7].
34
Figure 4.5: ISO 9951 Configuration for low level perturbation tests
Figure 4.6: ISO Perturbation Unit for high level
4.8 Orifice meter performance test
35
The orifice meter performance has been accomplished by determining the effect of liquid
entrainment on the accuracy of orifice meters for gas flow measurement. A series of tests
sponsored by Chevron Petroleum technology Company was carried out under controlled
conditions (at 600 psia & Reynolds number range from 4 to 9 million) at the Colorado
Engineering Experiment station, Inc (CEESI). In this test two 8″ Orifice meters and one
Turbine meter were horizontally mounted and water was injected at upstream of the orifice
meter to simulate field conditions.
4.8.1 Experimental system and procedures

a) A blow down system was used to supply dry air to the test section for calibration of two
Orifice meters & one Turbine meter. Later on, when water was injected into the line, the
Turbine meter was used to determine the volumetric flow rate of the dry air component and
then determine the mass flow rate of the dry air component.
b) During the wet air tests water was injected into the upstream line of the orifices (see Figure
4.7). The mass flow rate of water in the wet air was calculated using the fitted data.
c) Water was injected into the test section by using a horizontal tube of 9.525 cm or (3/g”)
diameter. The tube has seven sets of radial holes and each set is consisted of eight holes (see
Figure 4.8). The hole sizes were made in such ways that they met up the desired mass
fraction or ratio of the mass flow rate of water to the mass flow rate of dry air. The water was
accumulated along the bottom half of the pipe or on the Orifice.
Figure 4.7: Flow Test Schematic
36
Figure 4.8: Water Injection Tube and holder
Seven mass ratios were selected for the tests. Table 4.1 summarizes the test parameters used
in the experiments.
Table 4.1: 20.32cm (8-inch) Orifice Meter liquid entrainment Experiment — Test Parameters
Gas Flow
Range
Pressure MPa Temperature °C
Gas Liquid Beta Ratio (Orifice Mass Ratio
(psia) (°F)
Reynolds
Numbers)
Air Water 4.13 (600) 15.6 (60) 0.5 and 0.7 4,000,000- 0.0002,0.0005,
9,000,000 0.0008, 0.001,
0.005, 0.01,
and 0.02
Performance determination:
37
The orifice meter discharge coefficients at wet conditions (Cwet) and that of at dry air (Cdry)
were obtained from experiments for different mass ratios. To characterize Orifice meter
performance the deviation of wet air discharge coefficient from dry air were calculated by
using following equation.
(Cwet − Cdry )
%of deviation =
×100 [4.1]
C dry
In addition, the wet air mass flow rate (q mwet ) measured by the orifice meter was compared
with the dry air mass flow rate (q mdry ) measured by the turbine meter. Equation (6.3) defines
the % deviation of the indicated wet air flow rate from the reference dry air flow rate.
(qmwe t − qmdry )
% Deviation =
× 100 [4.2]
qmdry
It has been found from the performance test for Orifice Meters at 0.7 & 0.5 Beta ratios as
results are stated bellows
Orifice Meter at 0.5 Beta ratios
Water injection rate were maintained in such ways that the mass ratios varied from a mass
ratio of 0.000196 to 0.0208 and Reynolds number range remains form 4 to 9 million. The
test results for 0.7 beta ratio shows that the gas flow rate becomes less than previous flow
rate with increasing mass ratio and Reynolds number, reaching an extreme of -1.7%.
Orifice Meter at 0.5 Beta ratios
Here tests were conducted with mass ratio from 0.0005 to 0.0 187 and Reynolds number
range 4 to 9 million. Test results indicated that the deviations are within ±0.5%. Discharge
coefficient and flow rate deviation is not like as that of Orifice meter at beta ratio of 0.7
4.9 Influence of internal pipe roughness on flow measurement

Internal pipe roughness has also recently received considerable research attention. The
National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Colorado, U.S.A. has performed
some research regarding internal pipe roughness would cause flow measurement error for
Orifice meter. It has found that around one percent flow measurement error occurs due to
pipe roughness. The results from research studies into orifice metering at tile Nova Husky
38
“Research Corporation in Canada and NIST in U.S.A. ” has been demonstrated in the
following [8].
a) Orifice meters with beta ratio (β = d/D) greater than 0.6 are more sensitive to pipe
roughness but no significant statistical effect could be found for beta ratios less than 0.5.
b) A relatively short piece of rougher pipe (about 2.5 pipe diameters) can have a major
influence on reading accuracy.
c) If an orifice meter of beta ratio 0.73 have value of approximately 7.6 µm roughness in its
upstream pipe wall the discharge co-efficient deviate 1% excess due to effect of pipe
roughness.
d) Orifice meter with beta ratio less than 0.75 having value of 3.8µm pipe wall surface
roughness in its upstream site caused effect on discharge co-efficient and value is less than
0.5%.
4.10 Measurement error caused due to not “near perfect” flowing conditions
The Orifice Meter requires constant checking and calibration of its differential pressure
device. Despite regular checking by qualified personnel, if orifice meters are not operating at
near perfect conditions, measuring errors of monumental proportions do occur, as was shown
during a special orifice meters evaluation program conducted by Columbia Gas Transmission
Corporation [8].
Columbia Gas Transmission Corporation under an extension investigation of orifice metering
found the small deviation from perfect metering conditions that result the following
measurement errors:
4.10.1 Dirt accumulated upstream site of the Orifice Plate
Dirt usually accumulated upstream against the bottom part of the orifice, which reduces flow
velocity causing a (—) 6.2% measurement errors.
4.10.2 Dirt accumulated downstream of the Orifice Plate
This reduces turbulence at the orifice plate and causes flow streamlining downstream of the
plate. This increases the throat of the vena contracta lowers the differential pressure and
causes a low registration of (—) 2.3%.
39
4.10.3 Dirt accumulated on both sides of the Orifice Plate
This reduces the area of the orifice opening and creates a higher differential across the orifice
plate resulting in over registration of(+) 3.0%.
4.10.4 Dirt accumulated on the upstream face of the Orifice Plate
Usually wet or oily, the dirt covers the upstream face of the plate. It streamlines the gas and
can cause a measurement error of (—) 23.12%.
4.10.5 Round and Nicked upstream edge of the Orifice Plate
This damaged edge streamlines the flow, making the vena contracta larger, resulting in a
lower differential pressure and a measurement error of (-) 11.25%.
These are the five most common and most easily duplicated conditions. Columbia Gas
Transmission Corporation concluded that near perfect conditions must be attained and
retained when constructing, operating and maintaining Orifice meters.
CHAPTER-5
UNCERTAINTY ANALYSIS OF ORIFICE AND TURBINE METER
5.1 Measurement Uncertainty

When a measurement is made there are two important values associated with the result of
measurement process. The first is the numerical value of the variable being measured, the
second is the uncertainty associated with that numerical value.
When an instrument is used to make a measurement there is uncertainty associated with that
measurement. The uncertainty is an estimate of the interval width that contains the true value
being measured. For example, the statement “100 ± 1psi” means the true value is estimated to
be between 99 and 101 psi.
5.2 Uncertainty analysis of Turbine meter
40
It includes analysis procedure and components that contribute uncertainty are such as
pressure measurement, temperature measurement, compressibility and volume at flowing
conditions.
5.2.1 Analysis procedure

The simplified analysis procedure consists of the five basic steps listed below
a. Write an equation, called the data reduction equation that gives the desired output as
a function of one or more variables (components).
b. Identify those components of the data reduction equation that potentially contribute
uncertainty.
c. Determine the sensitivity coefficients for each component in Item 2.
d. Obtain numerical values for the uncertainty of each component in Item
e. Combine the numerical values obtained in Item 4 to give a numerical value for the
uncertainty.
5.2.1.1 Data Reduction Equation

At a basic level the data reduction equations for ultrasonic and turbine meters are the same.
That equation is:
 Pf  Tb  Z b 
Vb = V f    
  Z 
 Pb  T f  f  [5.1]
Where:
V= volume
P= pressure
T = temperature
Z= compressibility
and the subscript b and f refer to base and flowing conditions.
5.2.1.2 Uncertainty Components
The following variables are present in Eq. 5.1:
P b , P f , T b , T f , Z b , Z f and V f
Each variable has the potential to contribute uncertainty.
5.2.1.3 Sensitivity Coefficients
41
A sensitivity coefficient must be determined for each of the variables that contribute
uncertainty to Eq. 5.1. The sensitivity coefficients are required when the components of
uncertainty are combined at the end of the analysis procedure. Given an output y that is a
function of n variables:
y = f (x 1 , x2, x3, ....x n )
[5.2]
The sensitivity of y to x i . is given by:
 ∂y  xi 
S xi =    [5.3]
∂
 i  y 
x
From a practical standpoint, the sensitivity coefficient can be interpreted as the percent
change in y that results from a one percent shift in xi. In the specific case of Eq.5.1 the
sensitivity coefficient absolute values are all unity:
S vf = S pf = S tb = - S zb = -S tf = -S zf
meaning a ±1% change in any variable will result in a ± 1% change in V b .
5.2.1.4 Numerical Uncertainty Values

In order to combine the numerical values of uncertainties in the individual components, it is
needed to estimate standard uncertainty for each component. The standard Uncertainty is
defined as u = 0.58×U, where ± U is the limit in which true value lies.
The pressure and temperature values that define base conditions (P b and T b ) are fixed and
contribute no uncertainty. The important consideration is that consistent values of P b and T b
are maintained. The values of flowing conditions (P f , T f Z f and V f are determined from
measurements and therefore contribute uncertainty to the value of V b .
The uncertainty in base compressibility is a bit more complex. On one hand it is based on
fixed values of P b and T b and would contribute no uncertainty. On the other hand it is based
on gas composition which requires a measurement and therefore contributes uncertainty.
The uncertainty analysis process is best described based on numerical values. A hypothetical
set of measurements has been developed to provide these values. They are not intended to
42
represent an actual measurement. The resulting numerical values of uncertainties for each
component are summarized below:[9]
Upb = Utb = 0
Upf = 2.73psi = 0.26%
Utf = 0.73degF = 0.14%
Uzf = 0.20%
Uzb = 0.06%
Uvf = 0.58% (Turbine meter)
5.2.1.5 Combining Uncertainty Components

The individual component standard uncertainty values are combining to result in the
combined standard uncertainty. The combining equation is:
U y2 = Σ ( SxiUxi)2
[5.4]
In the present example eq.7.4 is written as:
(Uvb)2 = (Upf)2 + (Utf)2 + (Uzf)2 + (Uzb)2 + (Uvf)2
Combining the numerical values:
(Uvb)2 = (0.26)2 + (0.14)2 + (0.20)2 + (0.06)2 + (0.58)2
Results in Uvb = 0.68% for the turbine meter.
Now Uncertainties during pressure & temperature measurement, compressibility and volume
at flowing conditions would be illustrated as follows.
5.2.2 Pressure measurement

Consider a pressure transmitter is configured as follows:
Upper Range Limit (URL) = 2500 psig
Span = 1400 psig (20 mA)
Zero = 500 psig (4 mA)
Measured Pressure = 1054 psig (13.85 mA)
The uncertainty in pressure measurement is made up of six components:
a) Combined Performance Specification
b) Stability
c) Ambient Temperature Effect
d) Calibration Process
43
e) Barometric Pressure
f) Data Acquisition
Let’s determine numerical values for six components that are shown bellows
5.2.2.1 Combined performance specifications

For this example, the vendor claims the “accuracy is ±0.15% of span” and the span is fixed.
This uncertainty component can be calculated in units of psig.
 0.15% 
U =±0.15%span = ±   x l400 psig
 100% 
= ±2.l0 psig
u = 0.58(2.lO) =1.22 psig
5.2.2.2 Stability
As the vendor claims the stability is ±0.25% of URL, Calculating the uncertainty in pressure
units and results in:
 0.25% 
U = ±0.25%URL = ±   × 2500 psig
 100% 
= ±3.75 psig
u = 0.58(3.75) = 2.18 psig
5.2.2.3 Ambient temperature effect

In the present example the pressure transducer is installed in an environment where the
temperature variation is controlled to within ±2.5°F which represents a total potential
temperature change of 5°F. For every 100°F change in the ambient temperature the vendor
states an uncertainty which is given bellows
U = ± (0.45%URL + 0.35%span)
In the present example the uncertainty due to the ambient temperature effect therefore
becomes
 50 F 
U = ± (0.45%URL + 0.35%span) x  0

 100 F 
44
= ±0.81 psig
u = 0.58(0.8 1) = 0.47 psig
5.2.2.4 Barometric pressure
It is assumed that the barometric pressure can vary by ±0.2 psia due to meteorological
conditions. This variation represents an uncertainty in the fixed value.
5.2.2.5 Data acquisition

 0.15% 
U = ±0.10%span = ±   × 1400 psig
 100% 
= ±l.7l psig
u = 0.58(1.71) = 0.99 psig
Now combining the numerical values of each component for pressure measurement using
equation 5.4:
u2 pf = 1.222 +2.182 + 0.472 + 0.122 + 0.992
Results in u pf = 2.73 psig which is 0.26% of 1068 psia.
5.2.3 Temperature measurement

The hypothetical temperature transmitter is configured as follows:
Span = 100°F
Zero = 0 °F
Measured Temperature = 50 °F (12 mA)
The uncertainty in temperature measurement is made up of the following components:
1. Combined Performance Specification
2. Stability
3. Ambient Temperature Effect
4. Calibration Process
5. RTD Probe
6. Self Heating
7. Heat Transfer Effects
8. Data Acquisition
5.2.3.1 Combined Performance Specification

In the present example the vendor claims the accuracy is 0.25% of span
45
 0.25% 
U = ±0.25%span = ±   × 100 F
0
 100% 
= ± 0.25°F
u = 0.58(0.25°F) = 0.l5°F
5.2.3.2 Stability
In the present example the vendor claims the stability is 0.25% of span. The standard
uncertainty is u = 0.15 °F.
5.2.3.3 Ambient temperature effect

The vendor states an uncertainty,
U = ± (0.4°F+0.25%span) for every 50°F change in the ambient temperature.
In the present example the temperature transducer is installed in an environment where the
temperature variation is controlled to within ±2.5°F which represents a total potential
temperature change of 5°F. The uncertainty due to the ambient temperature effect therefore
becomes:
 50 F 
U = ± (0.4° F + 0.25%span) ×  0 
 50 F 
= ±0.05°F
u = 0.58(0.05) = 0.03°F
5.2.3.4 RTD Probe
The vendor claims an uncertainty that varies with temperature.
For this example that value is defined by U
i.e U = 0.63°F
u = 0.63×0.58 = 37°F
5.2.3.5 Heat transfer effects

In the present example it is assumed that the gas velocity is 20 ft/s and the pipe wall
temperature is 80°F. Under such conditions the difference between the RTD reading and the
flowing gas temperature (Δ Tht ) = 0.02 °F
i.e u = 0.02× 0.58 = 0.01°F
5.2.3.6 Data acquisition
46
The 4-20 mA transmitter output is converted into engineering units by the same flow
computer as used for pressure measurement. The standard uncertainty is u = 0.59°F.
Combining the numerical values same as used for pressure measurement
u2 Tf = 2(0.152) + 0.032 + 0.372 + 0.012 + 0.592
u Tf = 0.73°F which is 0.14% of 510°R
5.2.4 Compressibility
The process of uncertainty determination is made up of four components:
1. State equation
2. Chromatograph repeatability and reproducibility (R and R)
3. Chromatograph calibration standard (Cal Std)
4. Sensitivity coefficients
5.2.4.1 State equation
According to AGA 8 the uncertainty in the state equation is U = ±0.1% i.e u = ±0.58×0.1 =
0.06
5.2.4.2 Chromatograph repeatability and reproducibility
The repeatability and reproducibility of a typical gas chromatograph is described in the GPA
2261 standard and stated values are contained in Table 5.1
5.2.4.3 Calibration standard
The chromatograph is calibrated using a gravimetric gas standard. The uncertainty (by mass)
in a typical calibration standard is:
• U = ±1% (u = 0.58%) for components that make up between 2% and 49% of the
mixture
• U = ±2% (u = 1.16%) for components that make less than 2% of the mixture
The calibration standard uncertainty values are given in Table 5.1.
5.2.4.4 Sensitivity coefficient

The standard deviation values are u = 0.19% for Z f and u = 0.002% for Z b . These values
account for the uncertainties associated with the chromatograph repeatability and
reproducibility and calibration standard.
Combining the numerical values the uncertainty of compressibility becomes:
u2 zf = 0.062 +0.192
= 0.0397
u2 zb = 0.062 + 0.0022
47
= 0.003604
Result in u zf = 0.20 % and u zb = 0.06 %.
5.2.5 Uncertainty on volume at flowing conditions

The uncertainties on volume flow measured by Turbine meter is specified by the AGA 7 and
AGA 9 standards. For operation at higher flow rates the uncertainty is ±1% i.e u = 0.58%.
Table 5.1: Gas Components uncertainty
Component Mole R and R Cal Std

Fraction [U%] [U%]
Methane 90.8015 0.2 0.25
Ethane 2.0988 1.0 1.0
Propane 2.0020 1.0 1.0
n-Butane 0.9003 2.0 2.0
i-Butane 0.9001 2.0 2.0
n-Pentane 0.4000 3.0 2.0
i-Pentane 0.4000 3.0 2.0
C6+ 0.2000 10.0 2.0
Nitrogen 1.4982 2.0 2.0
Carbon Dioxide 0.3991 3.0 2.0
Hydrogen 0.4000 2.0 2.0
5.3 Uncertainty analysis of Orifice meter

One misconception with uncertainties associated with the orifice plate is that the performance
of it does not change with time. This is because the plate is viewed as a solid, static object.
Unfortunately the orifice plate uncertainties can change with time due to general wear and the
plate becoming coated with deposits. The wear can be caused by the abrasive action of
particles (grit, sand, etc.) in suspension in the fluid stream. For a new orifice plate, an
uncertainty on the discharge coefficient of about 0.6% or better can be expected. This value
can be expected to increase with usage over time.
48
In calculating the uncertainty in flow measurement for an Orifice plate meter, the
contribution of a number of factors must be taken into account. The more dominant factors
being the uncertainty in line pressure, differential pressure and temperature measurements,
variations in ambient and process conditions, and the condition of pipe work, especially
immediately upstream of the orifice plate. By taking these factors into account, the vast
majority of orifice plate meters are measuring flow to about one percent full scale deflection
total uncertainty at best.
Reynolds number and beta ratios are the keys to accuracy limits for Orifice p1ates. For the
flow equations to be valid, with minimum errors, the following factors are vital
• The Orifice plate and meter run must be kept clean and retain the original conditions
specified by the standard, and
• To assure this, periodic inspection should be conducted to reaffirm conditions.
Inspection frequency depends on historical observations and records.
Recent research by Brennan et al at the National Institute of Science and Technology,
Boulder Colorado, have demonstrated that flow measurement errors of around one percent
can result from the use of pipe that has an internal surface finish that is too rough but
complies with given standards
For Orifice metering systems, an International Standard, namely ISO 5169 “Measurement of
fluid flow - Estimation of uncertainty of a flow rate measurement” has been developed to
provide a means to calculate such an uncertainty
For brevity, a number of assumptions have been made which has led to significant
simplifications to the calculation process. The calculations have been derived and extended
from ISO 5168.
5.3.1 Derivation
The formula for the determination of mass flow rate, by means of an orifice plate, can be
expressed as:
q m = απ ε / 4d 2 (2 ∆pρ)0.5 (5.5)
49
The quantities, as given in this expression, are not independent of one another. Therefore, to
define the uncertainty of measurement with a reasonable degree of confidence, the
independent variables from which the quantities are derived must he determined. For the first
variable, α which is the flow coefficient, it will be found that it is derived from
(i) β - the ratio of orifice diameter to the diameter of the internal bore of the pipe,
(ii) Re - the Reynolds number and
(iii) δα - the uncertainty in the experiments which allowed the dependence of α on these
variables to be determined.
Now β= d/D where d = diameter of orifice
D = pipe internal diameter
Actual diameter of pipe
D = D(t 0 ) [1 + γ D (t r - t 0 )]
Where D = pipe internal diameter at t r
D(t 0 ) = value of D at temperature to
γ D = expansion coefficient of pipe material
t o = operating temperature
t r = reference temperature
Actual diameter of orifice,
d = d (t o ) [1 +γ d (t r — t o )
Where d = diameter of orifice at tr
d(t 0 ) = value of d at temperature to
γ d = expansion coefficient of orifice material
Therefore the independent variables for β are,
D(t 0 ), γ D , . t r , t 0 , d(t 0 ) and γ d (assumption that reference temperature for measurement of D
and d is identical).
For Re, which is the Reynolds number and is a dimensionless variable which represents the
nature of the flow in the pipe, the variables can be derived from the following
Re = 4qm /(πDoµ)
Where µ = dynamic viscosity
Above equation is derived from Re = (v d ρ)/µ,
knowing v = q v /A and A = πd2/4.
From further subdivision, the following independent values are derived for Re
50
D(t 0 ), γ D , t 0 , tr, q m p s and δ µ
Where δ µ = uncertainty in derived value of µ
Ps = static pressure
The total independent variables for α are;
D(t 0 ),γ D tr, t 0 , d(t 0 ), γ d, Ps, q m, δµ and δα.
Now that is the first variables as given in equation (5.5) taken care of the other variables,
namely
ε = expansion factor,
d= orifice diameter,
ρ = gas density, and
∆p = differential pressure across the orifice plate
A more convenient way which gives reasonable results but is strictly not correct because the
quantities are not independent, is to use the terms as they appear in equation (5.5). The values
of static pressure and test temperature are included if the density has been calculated. The
pipe diameter, D is also included as it is incorporated in α.
Therefore, for an Orifice meter system which uses measured density, the following variables
would be used for this simplified method
d(to). D(to), α, ε, ∆p and ρ
If the value of ρ is calculated, then Ps and tr are added [D is included as it is incorporated in
α]
Using these variables the uncertainty, eq for q m is given by
e q = [(e d {∂q/ ∂d(to)})2 + (e D { ∂q/ ∂D(to)})2 + (e α { ∂q/∂α})2 + (e ε { ∂q/∂ε})2 + (e ∆p {
∂q/∂∆p})2 + (eρ{∂q/∂ρ})2]0.5
[5.6]
By performing the partial differentiation’s for the terms of equations [5.5] gives
∂q m /∂d(to) = ∂q m /∂α . ∂α/∂β . ∂β/∂d . ∂d/∂d(to) + ∂q m /∂ε . ∂ε/∂β . ∂β/∂d . ∂d/∂d(to) +
∂q m /∂d2 . ∂d2/∂d . ∂d/∂d(to)
now ∂d/∂d(to) = 1 + γ d (tr – to)
∂β/∂d = 1/D
∂q m /∂α = q m /α
51
therefore, ∂q m /∂d(to) = q m /α . ∂α/∂β . {1/D(1+ γ d (tr- to ))} + ∂q m /∂ε . ∂ε/∂β . {1/D (1+ γ d (tr-
to))} + ∂q m /∂d2 . ∂d2/∂d(1 + γ d (tr – to))
= [1 + γ d (tr – to)][(q m /α . ∂α/∂β . 1/D) + (q m /ε . ∂ε/∂β . 1/D) + 2q m /d]
= [1 + γ d (tr – to)][(q m /αD . ∂α/∂β + q m /εD . ∂ε/∂β + 2q m /d]
The terms ∂α/∂β and ∂ε/∂β can not be equated directly from the equation, therefore these
values are obtained from tables or other data.
Likewise ∂q m /∂D(to) = [1 + γ D (tr – to)][- q m β/αD . ∂α/∂β + q m /α . Re/D ∂α/∂Re - q m β/εD .
∂ε/∂β]
∂q m /∂α = q m /α
∂q m /∂ε = q m /ε
∂q m /∂∆p = q m /ε . ∂ε/∂∆p + qm/2∆p, and ∂q m /∂ρ = q m /2ρ
Therefore, to solve for e q need e d , e D , e α , e ε , e ∆p , and e ρ , also ∂α/∂β, ∂ε/∂β, ∂α/∂Re, and
∂ε/∂∆p[10].
5.3.2 Orifice meter uncertainty calculation

Let consider an Orifice meter which is installed in Titas Gas System and used for gas flow
measurement of bulk customer. About 70 to 90 MMSCFD gas passing through this Orifice
meter and such type of meters are installed in different measuring stations in Titas franchise
area.
Given data:
Orifice beta ratio, β = 0.71439 q m = 740.03 kg/s
Pipe diameter, D = 0.3048 m α = 0.65
Orifice dia, d = 0.2177 m ε = 0.998
γ d = 2 ×10-5 k-1 tr = 15 Deg.C = 288.71 k
γ D = 1.5 × 10-5 k-1 to = 92.266 Deg. F = 306.631 k
P = 3536.188 kpa ∆p = 13.32 kpa
µ = 11 × 10-6 pa.s
5.3.2.1 Sample Calculation

(і) To derive e d at to say uncertainty of measurement in orifice diameter is ± 0.1mm and
measuring equipment uncertainty is ± 0.05mm
Therefore, e d = [(0.1)2 + (0.05)2]0.5
52
= 1.12 × 10-4m
(ii) To derive e D of pipe diameter, assume uncertainty of measurement of pipe diameter is ± 1

.0 mm and measuring equipment uncertainty is
± 0.05 mm
Therefore, e D = [(1 .0)2 + (0.05)2]0.5
= 1.00l2 × l0-3 m
(iii) For given conditions, α is obtained from Chart as 0.65, the uncertainty given by the
appropriate standard as ± 0.7 %, therefore uncertainty becomes
δα = ± 0.0046
(iv) From equations, the uncertainty for ε is given by
± 4 × (∆p / Ps) % = 0.0151 %
= ± 0.000151
(v). Take uncertainty in reading ∆p as ± 0.35 %, the uncertainty for ∆p = ± 0.0466 kPa
(vі) Take uncertainty in reading ρ as ± 0.3%, uncertainty of reading = ± 0.0751kg/m3
For convenience take ∂α/∂β as 0.6
∂ε/∂β as - 0.001
∂α/∂Re as 7.112 × 10-9
∂ε/∂∆p as -1.0 ×10-6
The density of ρ of a non-ideal gas mixture can be determined using the formula,
ρ = (pM)/(ZRaT)
Where p = absolute pressure, kpa Ra = Universal gas constant
M = molar mass, kg/kmol T = absolute temperature, k
Z = compressibility factor
Taking example ρ = (3536.188 × 16.793)/(0.93 × 8.31441 × 306.631)

=25.046 kg/m3 [5.7]
Value of Z is at measured conditions, for z at standard conditions value would be
approximately 0.997.
Take typical orifice metering system and apply above derived sensitivity coefficients to
obtain value of eq
Now ∂q m /∂d(to) = [1 +γ d (tr – to)][q m /αD . ∂α/∂β + q m /εD. ∂ε/∂β + 2q m /d]
53
= [1 +2×10-5 (288.71-306.83)][740.03/0.3048×.065 ×0.6
+(740.03/0.3048×0.998) × (-0.001)+2×740.03/0.2177]
= [1+(-18.12×10-5) ][740.03(3.028 - 0.00335 + 9.187)]
= 9035.18kg/ms
Similarly, ∂q m /∂D(to) = [1 +γ D (tr – to)][-q m /αD . ∂α/∂β + q m /α Re/D. ∂α /∂Re –q m β /εD
×∂ε/∂β]
=[1+1.15×10-5(288.71-306.83)] [740.03( - 3.028 +10.087+0.00235)]
= 5236.195kg/m.s
∂q m /∂α = q m / α = 1138.5082kg/s.
∂q m /∂ε = q m /ε = 741.5134kg/s
∂q m /∂Δ p = q m / ε × ∂ε/∂Δ p +qm/2 Δ p = 27.7886 kg/s.pa
∂q m /∂ρ = qm/2ρ
= 14.773m3/s
Table 5.2: Absolute value of Uncertainty for following parameter
Term Sensitivity Uncertainty Absolute value

coefficient
∂qm/∂d(to) 9035.18kg/m.s ± 1.12×10-4m 1.01194kg/s
∂qm/∂D(to) 5236.195kg/m.s ± 1.0012×10-3m 5.24248kg/s
∂qm/∂α 1138.5082kg/s ± 0.0046 5.23714kg/s
∂qm/∂ε 741.5134kg/s ± 0.000151 0.11197kg/s
∂qm/∂Δ p 27.7886Kg/s.pa ± 0.0466kpa 1.29495kg/s
∂qm/∂ρ 14.773m3/s ± 0.0751kg/m3 1.10945kg/s
Therefore, eq = ± [(1.01194)2 + (5.24248)2 + (5.23714)2 + (0.11197)2 + (1.29495)2 +

(1.10945)2]0.5
= ± 7.6717 kg/s
Expressed as percentage uncertainty, with q m of 740.03 kg/s
= (7.6717/740.03)×100%
= 1.0367%
54
5.3.2.2 Detailed calculation
Taking average gas flow passing through the meter for 3 month and respective differential
pressure (Δ p), gas pressure and temperature then Uncertainties of Orifice meter are calculated
for each reading. The uncertainties of different components in Orifice metering system those
are calculated and sensitivity coefficients and overall uncertainties of Orifice meter against
each reading are shown in the following Tables 5.3 & 5.4.
Table 5.3:Sensitivity coefficient and Uncertainty of variable terms for different flow rate
Avera Different
Sl. ge Average ial Volumetric Mass Gas Reynold Uncertainity Uncertainity of
No Press Temp. Pressur Gas Flow Flow Number of ∆P Expansibility
ure e ∂qm/∂d
(Kpa) (Deg.K) (Kpa) (MSCFD) kg/sec PSIG %
6=
{(Col5x42.5 7 = (4xCol6)
8 = ±0.0035 x 9 =(±4xCol4)/
1 2 3 4 5 x1000)/ /(πx0.3x11x 10-
col4 (Col2 x 100)
(35.3147 06
)
x24x60x60)}
1 3532.6 306.83 13.32 90153.05 740.0303 2.81E+08 0.04660 0.000151 9034.0

2 3531.1 307.06 13.67 91371.37 750.0311 2.85E+08 0.04784 0.000155 9114.2
3 3530.3 307.02 13.46 90675.74 744.3209 2.83E+08 0.04711 0.000153 9044.8
4 3530.5 307.76 13.60 91151.69 748.2278 2.84E+08 0.04760 0.000154 9092.1
5 3532.6 307.67 13.50 90738.14 744.8332 2.83E+08 0.04725 0.000153 9050.9
55
6 3532.6 307.11 13.39 90459.98 742.5498 2.82E+08 0.04688 0.000152 9023.3
7 3548.9 307.02 13.76 91926.83 754.5906 2.87E+08 0.04817 0.000155 9169.6
8 3533.7 306.42 12.94 88876.93 729.5552 2.77E+08 0.04530 0.000146 8865
9 3530.2 305.88 12.63 87782.10 720.5682 2.74E+08 0.04419 0.000143 8756.4
10 3527.9 305.95 12.28 86297.00 708.3776 2.69E+08 0.04297 0.000139 8608.2
11 3514.4 305.23 14.13 92812.85 761.8636 2.89E+08 0.04946 0.000161 9258.3
12 3514.4 305.95 12.37 86412.81 709.3282 2.70E+08 0.04328 0.000141 8619.8
13 3520.1 307.08 14.26 93198.69 765.0308 2.91E+08 0.04991 0.000162 9296
14 3548.9 306.60 11.89 84563.40 694.1472 2.64E+08 0.04163 0.000134 8435.2
15 3546.0 306.46 6.12 61320.85 503.3583 1.91E+08 0.02143 0.000069 6116.7
16 3548.9 306.78 6.35 62389.88 512.1336 1.95E+08 0.02221 0.000072 6223.3
17 3548.9 306.60 6.28 62072.65 509.5296 1.94E+08 0.02198 0.000071 6191.7
18 3539.1 306.53 6.23 61780.06 507.1278 1.93E+08 0.02181 0.000070 6162.5
19 3548.9 306.60 6.18 61583.22 505.5121 1.92E+08 0.02163 0.000070 6142.9
20 3539.1 306.83 6.54 63266.58 519.3301 1.97E+08 0.02290 0.000074 6310.8
21 3536.0 306.56 6.30 62085.09 509.6317 1.94E+08 0.02203 0.000071 6193.0
22 3544.3 306.62 6.58 63516.24 521.3794 1.98E+08 0.02302 0.000074 6335.7
23 3538.6 306.28 5.30 56768.14 465.9870 1.77E+08 0.01854 0.000060 5662.6
24 3528.8 304.47 12.09 85926.20 705.3338 2.68E+08 0.04232 0.000137 8571.5
25 3537.4 307.02 11.95 85310.38 700.2788 2.66E+08 0.04183 0.000135 8509.6
26 3537.7 307.94 9.68 76788.29 630.3244 2.39E+08 0.03387 0.000109 7659.4
27 3534.6 306.02 9.82 77651.21 637.4078 2.42E+08 0.03438 0.000111 7745.8
28 3534.6 306.67 10.11 78692.72 645.9571 2.45E+08 0.03538 0.000114 7849.5
29 3531.7 307.39 8.99 73477.23 603.1452 2.29E+08 0.03148 0.000102 7329.2
30 3548.9 306.53 5.63 58787.43 482.5625 1.83E+08 0.01969 0.000063 5864.0
31 3548.9 305.72 5.78 59662.57 489.7462 1.86E+08 0.02023 0.000065 5951
Table 5.4: Overall Uncertainty of Orifice meter for different flow rate
Absolute value of Uncertainty

Overall
∂qm/∂d(to) ∂qm/∂D(to) ∂qm/∂• ∂qm/∂ε ∂qm/∂Δ p ∂qm/∂ρ Uncertainty
eq
(%)
1.011816 5.235355 5.237138 0.111796 1.295019 1.10800672 1.0359918
1.020793 5.408495 5.307912 0.116358 1.312518 1.12298031 1.0452857
1.013022 5.309295 5.267502 0.113744 1.302526 1.11443077 1.0399198
1.018324 5.377014 5.29515 0.11553 1.309363 1.12028033 1.0435823
1.013706 5.318106 5.271127 0.114085 1.303423 1.11519775 1.0403952
1.01061 5.2787 5.254968 0.112834 1.299427 1.11177901 1.0382608
1.026999 5.48835 5.34018 0.11728 1.320497 1.12980702 1.0495905
0.992938 5.056944 5.163006 0.107093 1.276689 1.09232293 1.0261927
56
0.980717 4.906277 5.099406 0.103283 1.260962 1.07886714 1.017944
0.964124 4.705367 5.013134 0.098809 1.23963 1.0606148 1.0068814
1.036935 5.61705 5.39165 0.122769 1.333224 1.1406965 1.0565186
0.965418 4.720887 5.019861 0.100034 1.241294 1.0620381 1.0077402
1.041207 5.673324 5.414064 0.124212 1.338766 1.14543855 1.0595275
0.944744 4.475934 4.912426 0.093242 1.214729 1.03930839 0.99416
0.685079 1.934564 3.562228 0.034836 0.880866 0.75365078 0.8486179
0.697018 2.029638 3.62433 0.036704 0.896222 0.76678948 0.8541116
0.693477 2.001208 3.605901 0.036132 0.891666 0.7628906 0.8524677
0.690209 1.975148 3.588905 0.035791 0.887463 0.75929462 0.8509619
0.688009 1.957702 3.57747 0.035276 0.884635 0.75687544 0.8499537
0.706812 2.109182 3.675259 0.038487 0.908816 0.77756441 0.8587165
0.693616 2.002321 3.606624 0.036363 0.891844 0.76304349 0.8525325
0.709604 2.132099 3.689762 0.038777 0.912402 0.78063275 0.8600443
0.634219 1.553181 3.297754 0.027952 0.815469 0.69769668 0.826756
0.96001 4.655941 4.991593 0.096855 1.234304 1.05605757 1.004152
0.953081 4.574067 4.955819 0.094824 1.225459 1.04848899 0.9996086
0.857857 3.515089 4.460757 0.069104 1.103046 0.9437501 0.9399474
0.867531 3.616335 4.510886 0.070999 1.115442 0.95435558 0.9457294
0.879155 3.740202 4.571388 0.074039 1.130402 0.967156 0.9527776
0.820876 3.139741 4.268412 0.061556 1.055485 0.9030562 0.9184122
0.656775 1.717628 3.415058 0.030655 0.844475 0.72251434 0.8361379
0.666563 1.791252 3.465896 0.031975 0.857046 0.73327003 0.8403635
57
Variation of Uncertainty with Re
1.1
1.05
1
Uncertainty(%)
0.95 Overall
uncertai
0.9 nty
0.85
0.8
0.75
2
3
09
28
91
22
51
57
93
35
08
65
88
22
64
98
05
45
72
02
96
04
77
67
70
49
94
67
32
50
68
80
63
77
11
28
29
67
37
94
06
12
35
20
36
70
60
21
91
60
28
28
28
28
27
28
29
19
19
19
19
17
26
24
22
18
Reynolds number
Figure 5.1: Uncertainty variation with Reynolds number (Re) for Orifice meter
Uncertainty variation with volume flow rate
1.1
1
Uncertainty (%)
0.9
Overall
0.8 uncertain
ty
0.7
0.6
0.5
57
60
62
62
62
77
79
85
86
88
90
91
91
92
93
Volume flow rate(MMSCFD)
Figure 5.2: Uncertainty variation with volume flow rate
58
Comparison of uncertainty for different variables
6.00
Orifice dia
5.00
Pipe dia
4.00
Uncertainty
Orifice
3.00 flow
coefficient
Differential
2.00 pressure
Gas density
1.00
0.00
5
6
.1
.6
.7
.9
.7
.8
.2
.3
.0
.5
.0
.7
.3
.6
.4
.6
90
90
90
91
87
92
93
61
62
61
62
56
85
77
73
59
Figure 5.3: Uncertainty comparison for different variables
The overall Uncertainty of Orifice meter is expressed as percentage (%) with respect to mass
flow rate (q m, kg/sec). From the Figure 5.1, it is found that the maximum Uncertainty value is
1.06% and minimum is 0.84%. It is observed that Uncertainty varies with Reynolds
number(Re) i.e at higher value of Reynolds number the Uncertainty value becomes more and
for smaller value of Reynolds number the Uncertainty value appears to less and it is the key
variable of Uncertainty.
Like Reynolds number the overall uncertainty increases steadily with raises volume flow rate
which is shown in Figure 5.2.
Figure 5.3 shows the comparison of uncertainty values for some contributing variables such
as Orifice flow coefficient, Pipe diameter, Differential pressure, Orifice diameter and gas
density with respect to different volume flow rate. These variables cause significant
uncertainty in gas flow measurement. It is clear that Orifice flow coefficient (α ) and pipe
diameter contributes maximum uncertainty value among the variables and they can be
denoted as more sensitive compare to others.
59
When pipe diameter is not varied with time the uncertainty of flow measurement is more
influenced by differential pressure rather than gas density and Orifice diameter accordance
with contribution. From Figure, it is also apparent that uncertainty values are not changed
abundantly as well as the variation of flow rate for contributing factors differential pressure,
density and Orifice diameter. But in case of pipe diameter and Orifice flow coefficient the
uncertainty varies more with changing flow rate.
60
CHAPTER- 6
CALCULATIONS
Calculations regarding flow measurement error through Orifice meter and what flow
difference occurs when two Orifice meters are installed in series for same amount of gas
passing through the meters would be illustrated in this chapter. Comparative flow statement
between Orifice and Turbine meter while installed in series (Orifice at upstream site and
Turbine at downstream site) would also be discussed here.
6.1 Measurement error analysis of Orifice meter

The measurement error in Orifice metering system is determined mostly by verifying the
measured variable from auxiliary devices which integrated with Orifice meter. During
flowing of gas through Orifice meter differential pressure (dp), flowing gas pressure, and
temperature to be checked for determination of error in volumetric flow calculation. Orifice
meters with secondary devices were calibrated and found error on differential pressure and
static pressure in some magnitudes that are shown in Table 3.2 ---- 3.5. These calibration
programmes have been conducted by TGTDCL in different times. The probable causes for
deviation of measured variables are not following precautions during chart changes by
operator and not purging the accumulated condensate from the meter manifold piping
regularly and in some cases it may be occurred for malfunctioning of measuring devices.
When deviation of different values in differential pressure and static pressure has been found
then what happens to volume calculation in Orifice meter are shown as follows:
Table 6.1: Flow difference from standard value for 2″ & 1″ W.C deviation of DP
SL. Differential For 2″w.c deviation For 1″w.c deviation

No pressure at
operation Gas flow at Flow during Flow Gas flow at Flow Flow
(w.c) operation, calibration difference operation, during difference
P=172psig & (MSCFD) (%) P=171psig calibration (%)
T=66°F &T=84°F (MSCFD)
(MSCFD) (MSCFD)
1 23.042 4.701 31129.646 30412.372 2.375
31699.476 30275.936
2 33.504 3.131 37709.878 37143.172 1.574
38528.674 37358.792
3 41.414 2.509 41939.654 41409.922 1.259
42362.055 41324.786
4 52.935 1.938 47024.723 46581.300 0.970
47612.843 46707.155
5 62.265 1.642 50940.819 50532.624 0.857
51943.793 51104.192
6 71.928 55780.927 55003.302 1.413 54847.705 54468.697 0.706
7 82.768 59626.641 58905.623 1.224 59023.466 58669.787 0.610
61
8 93.229 63287.922 62609.595 1.083 62533.630 62221.528 0.539
Table 6.2: Flow difference from standard value for 0.6″ & 0.4″ W.C deviation of DP
SL. Differential For 0.6″w.c deviation For 0.4″w.c deviation

No pressure at
operation Gas flow at Flow during Flow Gas flow at Flow Flow
(w.c) operation, calibration difference operation, during difference
P=172psig & (MSCFD) (%) P=171psig calibration (%)
T=82°F & T=77°F (MSCFD)
(MSCFD) (MSCFD)
1 23.042 31369.009 30954.882 1.429 31207.935 30934.636 0.953
2 33.504 38020.451 37679.759 0.945 37705.870 37477.522 0.628
3 41.414 41896.835 41992.670 0.755 41882.594 41681.900 0.501
4 52.935 47201.129 46935.928 0.581 47254.491 47069.463 0.385
5 62.265 50841.427 50598.829 0.491 51430.380 51268.120 0.325
6 71.928 54416.229 54192.471 0.421 54970.914 54825.399 0.279
7 82.768 58431.726 58223.556 0.364 59712.154 59571.826 0.240
8 93.229 63408.587 63210.042 0.321
Differential pressure error(%) curve for Orifice meter

5.0
Volume percentage error(%)
4.5
4.0
3.5
3.0 2" W.C
2.5 1" W.C

2.0
0.6" W.C
1.5
0.4" W.C
1.0
0.5
0.0
0 20 40 60 80 100
Differential pressure inch W.C
Figure 6.1: Flow measurement error due to differential pressure deviation for Orifice meter
The Figure 6.1 shows the error percentage (%) on volume flow measurement due to deviation
of differential pressure measurement for an Orifice meter. When an Orifice meter run its 25%
load and if its differential pressure deviation is 2″ W.C, for that case the maximum flow
62
measurement error becomes 4.71% and for 40% ---- 60% load the error is 2.6% --- 1.75%
that is shown in Figure 6.1. For 1″ W.C, 0.61″ W.C and 0.4″ W.C deviation of differential
pressure the flow measurement error at different load operation are also shown in Figure 6.1.
Table 6.3: Flow difference from standard value for 3 psig deviation of flowing pressure
Average
Average flowing Actual Gas
Flowing. Pressure flow at Gas flow found Difference of
Serial no Pressure at found operation during calibration flow
operation during (MMSCFD (MMSCFD) (%)
(psig) calibration )
(psig)
1 50 53 17.784 18.195 2.31106613
2 75 78 25.768 26.12 1.36603539
3 100 103 32.497 32.925 1.31704465
4 125 128 40.828 41.27 1.08259038
5 150 153 48.229 48.674 0.92268137
6 175 178 55.596 56.043 0.80401468
7 200 203 63.351 63.802 0.71190668
8 225 228 71.136 71.591 0.63961988
9 250 253 35.457 35.664 0.58380574
10 300 303 47.369 47.602 0.49188288
Average
Average flowing Actual Gas
flowing. Gas flow found
pressure found flow at Difference of
Serial no pressure at during calibration
during calibration operation flow (%)
operation (MMSCFD)
(psig) (MMSCFD)
(psig)
1 52 50 24.35 23.976 -1.55989323
2 77 75 32.417 32.054 -1.13246397
3 102 100 39.787 39.441 -0.8772597
4 127 125 47.254 46.91 -0.73331912
5 152 150 55.099 54.757 -0.62457768
6 177 175 62.777 62.442 -0.53649787
7 201 200 31.991 31.839 -0.47740193
8 227 225 41.63 41.45 -0.43425814
9 252 250 48.684 48.495 -0.3897309
10 302 300 60.348 60.146 -0.33584943
63
Average
Average
flowing Actual Gas
Flowing. Gas flow found
Pressure as flow at Difference of
Serial no Pressure at during calibration
found during operation flow (%)
operation (MMSCFD)
calibration (MMSCFD)
(psig)
(psig)
1 50 51 29.675 29.906 -0.77843302
2 75 76 37.65 37.87 -0.58432935
3 100 101 45.765 45.97 -0.44794057
4 125 126 53.96 54.16 -0.37064492
5 150 151 28.054 28.146 -0.32793897
6 175 176 36.951 37.053 -0.27604124
7 200 201 44.024 44.133 -0.24759222
8 225 226 52.84 52.961 -0.22899319
9 250 251 60.345 60.467 -0.20217085
10 275 276 67.993 68.12 -0.18678393
11 300 301 76.337 76.474 -0.17946736
Orifice meter static pressure error percentage

curve
2.50
volume percentage error
2.00
1.50 3 psig
2 psig
1.00 1 psig
0.50
0.00
50 75 100 125 150 175 200 225 250 300
flowing pressure
Figure 6.2: Orifice meter static pressure error percentage curve
The Figure 6.2 represents volume flow measurement error (%) at different flowing pressure
for pressure measurement error. From Figure 6.2 it is apparent that what measurement error
happened for different outlet pressure due to deviation of static pressure measurement by 3
psig, 2psig and 1 psig.
64
6.2 Flow difference between two Orifice meters while installed in series
Titas Gas system have a few number of Counter Metering Stations at gas purchase points in
which two Orifice meters are installed and the gas taken from field is measured continuously
through these two meters at the same time. One of the meters is operated by Titas Gas
Company and another is operated by gas production Company. Taking volume flow rate on
daily average from the two Orifice meters, an unacceptable difference has been found for the
same amount of gas which passes through these meters. Such types of example are given in
the following (Table 6.6 & 6.7). As the meters show the significant flow difference for the
same quantity of gas, so it can be termed as the performance of Orifice meter with practical
aspect.
Table 6.6: Flow difference between two Orifice meter at Narshingdi Metering Station
Gas flow measured Gas flow measured at

Gas flow
at upstream Gas downstreamTitas
No. of days difference
field meter counter meter
(%)
(MSCFD) (MSCFD)
1 17851 17534 1.807916049
2 17816 17356 2.650380272
3 17852 17267 3.387965483
4 17839 17388 2.593742811
5 17714 17280 2.511574074
6 17773 17324 2.591780189
7 16238 15935 1.901474741
8 16198 15826 2.350562366
9 17385 17216 0.981644981
10 17904 17541 2.069437318
11 17946 17872 0.414055506
12 17283 17314 -0.179045859
13 17980 17796 1.033940211
14 17564 17522 0.239698665
15 16747 16671 0.455881471
16 17241 17088 0.895365169
17 17755 17534 1.260408349
18 17966 17775 1.074542897
19 17810 17659 0.855088057
20 18811 17805 5.650098287
21 17981 18012 -0.172107484
22 17838 17731 0.603462862
23 17927 17909 0.100508124
24 16767 17048 -1.648287189
25 12568 12412 1.256848211
26 10566 10769 -1.885040394
27 12861 12797 0.500117215
28 13696 13461 1.745784117
29 14293 13858 3.138981094
65
30 14730 14679 0.347435111
Total gas flow 500,900 494,379 1.319028519
Flow difference between two Orifice meters

20000
18000
Upstream
Orifice
Flow(MSCFD)
16000
Down
Stream
14000 Orifice
12000
10000
0 5 10 15 20 25 30
Day
Figure 6.3: Flow difference between two Orifice meters when installed at upstream &
downstream site.
From the above Table 6.6, it has been obtained that the overall flow differences between two
Orifice meters at Narshingdi Metering Station is 1.32% for one month gas flow measurement.
It is noticed in the Figure 6.3 at one point where the upstream flow is 5.65% more than down
stream flow which is unusual respect to others. It may be occurred due to incorrect readings
of measured variables taken by operational personal. Although, the flow difference between
the two meters may be occurred within a small level for ideal cases. Analyzing the flow
measurement data it can be treated as significant difference which implies the performance of
respective meters at operating conditions. Repeatibility, uncertainty, level of accuracy of
secondary devices for measured variables involving with gas flow calculation and closeness
to standard condition of upstream flow conditioning parameters are the probable causes for
flow differences which is shown in Figure 6.3.
66
Table 6.7: Flow difference between two Orifice meters at Titas Gas Metering Station
Gas flow
Gas flow
measured at
measured at Gas flow
down site
No. of days upstream Gas difference
Titas counter
field meter (%)
meter
(MSCFD)
(MSCFD)
1 130067 131060 -0.757668244
2 130021 130635 -0.470011865
3 113343 114308 -0.844210379
4 110699 110103 0.541311318
5 112463 113199 -0.650182422
6 117500 118025 -0.444821012
7 108016 107464 0.513660389
8 105388 104582 0.770687116
9 105555 104751 0.767534439
10 102011 100432 1.572208061
11 102189 101653 0.527283996
12 93162 90015 3.496083986
13 117082 115958 0.969316477
14 118713 118191 0.441657994
15 114187 112491 1.50767617
16 115409 115450 -0.035513209
17 110545 108228 2.140850796
18 119112 117824 1.093155894
19 121815 121258 0.459351136
20 123607 124065 -0.369161327
21 125464 126260 -0.630445113
22 127215 127067 0.116473986
23 128113 125901 1.756936005
24 109439 109668 -0.208812051
25 117974 115473 2.165874274
26 119963 121272 -1.07939178
27 121595 120064 1.275153252
28 125304 125611 -0.244405347
29 101270 98335 2.984695175
30 122357 121997 0.295089224
Total gas flow 3469578 3451340 0.528432435
67
Flow diffeence between two Orifice meter
140000
130000
120000
Flow(MSCFD)
110000
100000 Orifice at
downstre
90000 am
80000
Orifice at
70000 Upstream
60000
50000
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35
Day
Figure 6.4: Flow difference between two Orifice meters when installed in series.
The flow difference between upstream and downstream Orifice meters at Titas Gas Location
-3 is less than that of Orifice meters at Narshingdi Metering Station. Here, upstream and
downstream flow difference keeps similar trend over 30 days data which is shown in figure
6.4. It is apparent that the downstream flow is higher than upstream flow for some days but
the overall upstream flow is 0.53% higher than downstream flow.
6.3 Comparison between Orifice and turbine flow rate when installed in series
Two metering runs in which one Orifice and other Turbine meter for each one are installed in
series, the metering Runs are located at Ashuganj Power Station(APS) Regulating and
Metering Station and Ghorasal Power Station(GPS), RMS in Titas Gas system. It is stated
that the Orifice meter is located at upstream position and Turbine meter is located at
downstream site for two cases. Through these meters gas is passed which delivered to the
Power Station. Large volume of gas passed through these meters and measured by both
metering system. Turbine meter readings are taken once per day and metering pressure and
temperature readings are measured on daily average from hourly readings. In Orifice
metering system differential pressure, flowing pressure and flowing temperature are taken for
gas flow calculation daily average basis that comes from hourly chart reading. Here to
mention that gas flow rate through turbine meter are used as billing purpose. Flow difference
68
between Orifice and turbine meter for APS, RMS has been made calculating 15 month gas
flow through these two meters and similar calculation has been accomplished for GPS, RMS
by taking one month gas flow data that are shown as follows respectively.
At first general information about Orifice meter and Turbine are given below
Orifice meter Turbine meter
Manufacturer : Daniel Manufacturer: Instromet
Pipe diameter : 12″ Range : G - 4000
Orifice bore Size : 8.5727″ Type : SM – RI – X - K
Mechanical recorder with Orifice meter Q max : 6500 m3/h, Q min : 320m3/h
ITT Barton P max : 48.8 bar
Type : 202 E – 2605 Class : 300
Class 300 Size : 12″
Differential pressure Range : 0 ---- 100″ w.c
Pressure Range : 0 ------ 1500 psig
Temperature Range : 0 ---- 150 degF
Table 6.8: Gas flow Comparison between Orifice and turbine meter for series installation.
Flow
Average Average Average Average Gas flow
Gas flow difference
flowing flowing flowing flowing through
through between
Month pressure temp. for pressure for temp. for Turbine
Orifice meter Orifice &
for Orifice Orifice turbine turbine meter
(MMSCFM) Turbine
(psig) (OF) (psig) (OF) (MMSCFM)
meter (%)
May - 08 499.25 89.12 2624.859 485.50 78.75 2697.691 2.775

June -08 498.50 88.75 2664.095 486.90 78.43 2769.972 3.974
July - 08 496.24 92.68 2034.684 480.17 82.97 2015.231 -0.956
Aug - 08 499.45 89.50 2752.618 486.65 75.94 2820.915 2.481
Sep - 08 495.80 90.26 2017.194 480.32 80.77 1,988.38 -1.429
Oct - 08 498.75 89.00 2506.203 483.23 79.23 2,542.38 1.444
Nov - 08 496.83 92.39 1905.62 483.17 80.00 1,892.32 -0.698
Dec - 08 499.01 89.16 2350.686 487.42 77.52 2,437.19 3.680
Jan - 09 498.31 89.74 1427.589 491.74 79.42 1,462.42 2.440
Feb - 09 497.79 90.44 2217.033 485.00 80.29 2,268.53 2.323
March -09 495.53 92.60 2419.547 483.19 77.45 2,482.81 2.615
April - 09 497.03 92.45 2127.005 487.47 78.83 2,186.37 2.791
May - 09 496.118 89.21 2324.587 483.06 78.42 2,420.49 4.126
June -09 497.76 89.29 2517.959 483.77 80.17 2,542.14 0.960
July - 09 498.00 88.67 2807.436 481.61 79.55 2,861.28 1.918
Total flow 34697.115 35388.119 1.99153
69
Flow difference between Orifice & Turbine meter
3000
2800
2600
Flow(MMSCM)
2400
2200
Orifice
2000
flow
1800 T urbine
flow
1600
1400
1200
1000
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16
Month
Figure 6.5: Gas flow difference Orifice and Turbine meter for series installation
Table 6.9: Comparative flow statement between Orifice & Turbine meter for GPS, RMS
Orifice meter Turbine meter Flow

difference
Averag between
Days Average Average Average Gas flow
e Gas flow Orifice &
flowing flowing flowing Rate
pressure flowing Rate Turbine
pressure temp. (MMSCF
temp. (MMSCFD) meter (%)
(psig) (psig) (OF) D)
(OF)
1 500 88.54 32.082 493.00 78.00 34.411 7.262
2 498.04 87.92 30.083 492.00 79.00 33.167 10.252
3 498.21 87.88 43.973 490.00 78.00 48.188 9.586
4 495.42 92.5 63.923 486.00 79.00 63.994 0.111
5 495.54 90.75 68.896 482.00 77.00 68.710 -0.271
6 495.21 90.38 67.987 481.00 82.00 66.364 -2.387
7 495 89.63 71.345 481.00 80.00 70.334 -1.418
8 495.42 90.96 68.917 481.00 80.00 69.065 0.215
9 495.17 91.04 67.759 481.00 81.00 66.106 -2.439
10 495.83 89.71 64.447 482.00 82.00 66.806 3.659
11 495 89.17 67.774 481.00 81.00 66.908 -1.278
12 495 89.92 69.645 480.00 80.00 66.557 -4.433
13 495 89.79 71.349 480.00 81.00 66.511 -6.781
14 495 88.92 69.548 484.00 81.00 67.240 -3.318
15 495 90.38 66.898 484.00 80.00 67.459 0.837
16 500 89.17 77.697 487.00 80.00 76.774 -1.189
17 495.54 88.21 77.381 489.00 76.00 79.166 2.306
70
18 496.17 89.21 78.699 486.00 75.00 80.915 2.816
19 495.21 90.25 90.261 485.00 77.00 93.714 3.825
20 495.13 91.33 89.267 483.00 79.00 90.58 1.471
21 497 91.17 85.965 484.00 80.00 87.05 1.262
22 495 91.83 92.342 483.00 79.00 95.16 3.052
23 494.83 91.92 86.424 480.00 80.00 86.555 0.151
24 495 91.71 69.844 481.00 79.00 68.733 -1.591
25 496.96 89.5 63.784 487.00 79.00 62.213 -2.464
26 496.5 89.12 61.673 487.00 77.00 61.091 -0.945
27 495.54 91.5 63.455 488.00 76.00 67.383 6.189
28 496.17 90.33 61.217 485.00 76.00 63.278 3.369
29 496.5 89.83 73.369 487.00 77.00 78.61 7.143
30 498.29 89.96 80.706 491.00 76.00 84.119 4.229
Total
flow 2076.713 2097.158 0.985
Flow difference between Orifice & Turbine meter

100
90
80
Gas flow(MMSCFD)
70
60
T urbine
50 flow
Orifice
40 flow
30
20
10
0
0 5 10 15 20 25 30
No of days
Figure 6.6: Comparative flow through Orifice & Turbine meter for same quantity.
Analyzing the gas flow measurement in Orifice and Turbine meter at the same flow
conditions, it has been found the gas flow measured through turbine meter is higher than that
of Orifice meter. For APS, RMS, taking 15 months readings it is apparent that the over all
flow in turbine meter shows 1.992% greater than the gas flow measurement through Orifice
meter which is given in the above table (Table 6.8) as per monthly flowing of gas. Similarly,
at Ghorasal Power Station, RMS, taking gas flow measurement data against both metering
system for 30 days and exhibited that gas flow through Turbine meter is 0.98%(Table 6.9)
71
higher than what measures by Orifice meter. For two cases when meters are operating at
lower range from average load in that case flow rate of Orifice is higher than that of Turbine
meter and for upper range Turbine meter flow rate is higher than Orifice flow (Figure 6.6).
For two cases at similar operating conditions both type of meter perform almost identical
measurement.
Orifice flow constant(C′) is determined by taking average differential pressure per hour once
per month and gas density is also taken in same manner which is not appropriate for gas flow
measurement maintaining accuracy through Orifice meter. It requires calculation of
instantaneous flow constant for accurate measurement that is not provided here. As a result
the flow difference between Orifice and Turbine meter becomes variety in magnitude for
various load applications.
In additions, there are some contributing factors which related to measurement accuracy for
high pressure transmission system in which orifice and turbine meters are installed for Bulk
Customer, RMS, TBS, CGS, & DRS purposes. Especially pressure measurement,
temperature measurement, pulsation effect, internal pipe roughness etc may cause significant
measurement error in Orifice measurement than turbine meter that have been described with
details in Chapter 4.
Since the Standard or Reference meter is not installed in series with Orifice and Turbine
meters, it is hard to justify which flow meter’s measurement is accurate. However, from the
calibration results of both metering system, it has obtained that the measurement error of
Orifice meter is greater than that of turbine meter. Considering the error analysis of both
metering system, it can be recognized that the flow measurement through turbine meter is
more accurate rather than Orifice meter.
72
CHAPTER- 7
RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS
From the flow measurement error analysis of Orifice meter it is exhibited that the significant
measurement error on Orifice meter occurs due to deviation of differential pressure
measurement which comes from secondary device of Orifice meter. Due to deviation of
measured variable (differential pressure and gas flowing pressure) the error on gas flow rate
is calculated which is given in the following respectively
• From the figure (Figure 6.1) it is found the maximum flow measurement error due to
differential pressure deviation is 4.7% at minimum flow rate allowed by the Orifice
meter.
• When Orifice meter runs at working flow rate (50% - 70% of maximum range) in
such cases measurement error remains within 1.5% - 2.0% (Figure 6.1).
• Due to deviation of gas flowing pressure the flow measurement error of Orifice meter
lies within 0.75% - 0.50%(Figure 6.2) when Orifice meter operates at working
pressure range (i.e 120 to190 psig).
Analyzing the test results of some Turbine meters with various capacities, it shows that
measurement error remains less than 0.5% for higher capacities (G – 650, ---- G – 2500 and
above range) turbine meter shown in Table 3.7 .
From uncertainty analysis of an Orifice meter with beta ratio 0.7143, it is determined that the
measurement uncertainty value varies from 0.83 to 1.06 %( Table 5.4) and it increases when
Reynolds number and flow rate become high.
The estimation of uncertainty for volume flow measurement with turbine meter made from
uncertainty analysis of individual component which contribute to the overall uncertainty.
From hypothetical set of measurement, where uncertainty on variables such as U pf = 2.73psi
= 0.26%, U tf = 0.73degF = 0.14%, U zf = 0.20%, U zb = 0.06% and U vf = 0.58%, combining
these values the standard uncertainty obtained U vb = 0.68% for turbine meter.
From the Figure 5.3, it is apparent that the variable, flow co-efficient (α ) contribute
maximum uncertainty value on Orifice flow measurement i.e flow co-efficient is more
sensitive for Orifice meter. Orifice flow co-efficient is a composite variable because it
depends on other measured variables. There after, pipe diameter (D) contribute uncertainty on
73
flow measurement which is about equal to that of Orifice flow coefficient (Figure 5.3).
Differential pressure and gas density also contribute too enough on the Uncertainty of Orifice
meter. Among the uncertainty components the turbine meter register volume at operating
conditions (U vf ) that found from meter reading has more potentiality to contribute
uncertainty on gas flow measurement for turbine meter.
When two Orifice meters are installed in series taking flow measurement data it is found
that the Orifice meter at upstream site shows overall 1.32%(Table 6.6) higher flows than that
of Orifice meter at down stream site for one month gas flow calculation.
Analyzing gas flow measurement through Orifice and Turbine meter while installed in series
makes a comparison on flow measurement between the both meters. For 15 months data, it
shows that flow through Turbine meter is 1.992% (Table 6.8) higher than that of Orifice
meter.
74
CHAPTER- 8
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
8.1 Conclusion
When Orifice meter is running at lower flow rate i.e near to minimum flow rate of that meter,
the maximum measurement error is 4.7%. At the maximum flow rate the measurement error
of Orifice meter becomes smaller. For most cases Turbine meters with higher capacities hold
less than 0.5% error and for few cases the error remain more than 0.5% but less than 1%.
When gas flows through a metering Run in which Orifice and Turbine meters are installed in
series, in such configuration Turbine meter provides higher flow rate compare to Orifice
meter’s flow rate, although it can not be detected that Turbine meter is more accurate than
Orifice meter due to absence of reference meter. However, considering the calibration result
and of both metering system and Orifice meter having more number of dependent variables
along with dependence of accurate flow measurement on Orifice geometry, continuous gas
chromatography and near perfect flow condition the flow rate of Turbine meter can be
recognized as more accurate rather than Orifice meter.
Uncertainty is one of the distinct performance characteristics of both measuring system and it
plays a vital role on accurate measurement. In Orifice measuring system there have more
chance of inaccurate measurement because Orifice meter has higher value of uncertainty than
that of Turbine meter and it increases with high flow rate for Orifice meter. This is how it can
be termed that Turbine meter performs well to some extent.
For variety of load applications and different operating conditions of bulk Customers, it may
be concluded that Turbine meters are more applicable than Orifice meter. But maintaining
near perfect flow conditions, at Gas well’s overhead and there may have shock loading due to
sudden shutdown of Power Station that receiving gas at high pressure, Orifice meters are
more reliable than Turbine meters.
8.2 Future Recommendations

a) It is recommended that where one Orifice and Turbine meters are installed in series to
determine which one is more accurate one reference/standard meter may be installed
and find out the accuracy of two meter with respect to standard meter once per year.
75
After determining the accuracy the better one must be used for billing purpose of that
bulk customer and then reference meter should be open from the meter run.
b) For more accurate measurement the internal pipe roughness of upstream &
downstream site of Orifice meter to be determined by specific period as well as
periodic calibration.
c) If where continuous gas analysis is not provided in such conditions Orifice meters
should not be installed there.
d) As the Uncertainty of Orifice meter changes with time in significant level, the
Uncertainty value should be determined and reported to the Customer periodically as
well as Calibration tasks.
76
REFERENCES
[1] Anthill Farnhouse Redenhall, Introduction to gas metering published by BMW Projects,
Norfolk 1P209HP, Copy right 1988, Training Module GM1
[2] Rockwell International Report No. 1, A look at Meter accuracy; Turbo-meter VS.
Orifice meter comparison.
[3] AGA Report no. 03, Orifice metering of natural gas and other related hydrocarbon fluids,
Part 3 Natural gas application third edition, August 1992.
[4] AGA Report no. 07, Measurement of fuel gas by Turbine meters.
[5] Fifty ninth Annual Short course by Appalachian, U.S.A, ‘Gas Measurement’.
[6] De Jong S., V.d. Kam P.M.A., High Pressure recalibration of turbine meters; in Flow
Measurement, Proceedings of Flomeko 93 Seoul, Korea, edited by S.D. Park and F.C.
Kinghorn. ISBN 898-454-0180-6
[7] ISO 9951 “Measurement of Gas flow in closed Conduits” Turbine Meters, 1993
[8] Hoch, K.A., “Adverse Effects on Orifice Measurement,” Appalachian Gas Short
Course.
[9] ‘Uncertainty Analysis of Turbine and Ultrasonic Meter Volume Measurements’,
THOMASKEGEL, Director of Engineering, Colorado Engineering Experiment Station,
Inc., Nunn, Co.
[10] GASCOR Consulting International, Australia, Gas flow measurement, Quality and
control.
77
APPENDIX – A
78
Basic definitions/terms
Pressure
Pressure is an every day occurrence; especially atmospheric pressure is continuously subject
to us. Basically, pressure is force divided by the area over which it is applied. Gas pressure
means continuous force exerted on pipe wall due to kinetic energy changes of gas molecules.
To be able to understand and apply flow measurement principles, the various pressure terms
and some necessary definitions associated with orifice and turbine measurement system must
be understood. Listed below are definitions of more common terms:
Absolute Zero Pressure
Removing all the molecules from the confined space it makes a perfect vacuum. This
idealized state defines the condition of zero pressure and is referred to as absolute zero.
Absolute pressure
Absolute pressure is sum of the local atmospheric and gauge pressure. It is measured from
zero i.e pressure at the datum point.
Atmospheric pressure
The pressure exerted by atmosphere at sea level above absolute zero is defined as
atmospheric pressure (Figure 2.1). The assigned value of standard atmosphere of pressure at
sea level is 101.325 kpa or for imperial 14.696 psia. Again variations will be observed,
however for the majority of the countries the legal standard is the metric standard condition
(MSC)
Table A.1: Standard Conditions
Pressure Temperature Terminology

101.325 kpa 15.00 °C MSC
101.325 kpa 15.56°C STP
14.696 psia 60.00°C STP
101.325 kpa 0.00°C NTP
760 mm Hg 0.00°C NTP
79
Gauge pressure
The amount of pressure that is excess of atmospheric pressure is the gauge pressure. It is
measured relative to atmospheric pressure.
Absolute pressure = Gauge pressure + Atmospheric pressure.
Pressure
Absolute Gauge
Pressure Pressure
Atmospheric Pressure
Absolute Zero Pressure
Figure A.1: Absolute, atmospheric and gauge pressure
Vacuum
Vacuum is a condition in which the pressure is always less than the local atmospheric
pressure.
Head
Head is a distance representing the height above a datum which would give a unit mass of a
fluid in a conduit the potential energy equal to the sum of its actual potential energy, its
kinetic energy and its pressure energy, i.e ‘X’ inches; ‘Y’ centimeters.
Differential Pressure (DP)
The differential pressure is the static pressure difference measured between the upstream and
downstream flange taps. It is the most important variable for orifice plate meters, since most
errors in flow measurement with differential meters come from this measurement. These
errors are so critical because differential pressure is the major factor in calculating flow. It is
not uncommon for the differential pressure being measured to be a small fraction of the static
pressure, for example the static pressure could be 8000 kpa with the differential pressure
being 50kpa. This requires the differential device to be rugged enough to withstand the high
pressure requirement, yet sensitive enough to measure a very small pressure difference.
Static pressure (P f )
The static pressure (P f ) is the absolute flowing fluid pressure measured at one of the flange
tap holes. The absolute pressure may be measured directly or can be obtained by adding local
barometric pressure to measured gauge pressure:
Absolute static pressure = Gauge static pressure + local barometric pressure.
80
Figure A.2: Orifice tapping location
Dynamic pressure
If a tube is bent perpendicular to a flow, the static pressure is increased by the directed kinetic
energy of the stream. At zero velocity, the zero velocity the pressure reading is the same as
the static pressure, but as the velocity increases the difference is observed to increase by the
square of the velocity. The difference in pressure levels is due to dynamic pressure.
Total pressure
Total pressure is the sum of the static and dynamic pressures.
Pressure loss
The differential pressure in a flowing fluid stream (which will vary with flow rate) between
the inlet and outlet of a meter, flow straightener, valve length of pipe etc.
Primary element of Orifice meter
The primary elements are consists of orifice plate, the orifice plate holder with its associated
differential pressure sensing taps and the meter tube.
81
Orifice plate
The Orifice plate is defined as a thin plate in which a circular concentric aperture (bore) has
been machined. The orifice plate is described as a thin plate with sharp, square edge because
the thickness of the plate material is small, compared with the internal diameter of the
measuring aperture (bore), and because the upstream edge of the measuring aperture is sharp
and square.
Orifice plate bore diameter (d, dm, dr )
The calculated orifice plate bore diameter (d) is the internal diameter of the orifice plate
measuring aperture (bore) computed at flowing temperature (T f ) and can be calculated using
the following equation:
d = dr [ 1+ α1 ( T f – Tr )]
Where α 1 = Linear co-efficient of thermal expansion for orifice plate material
d = Orifice plate bore diameter calculated at flowing temperature (T f )
dr = reference orifice plate bore diameter at Tr.
T f = temperature of the fluid at flowing conditions.
Tr = reference temperature of the orifice plate bore diameter.
The measured orifice plate bore diameter (dm) is the measured internal diameter of the orifice
plate measuring aperture at the temperature of orifice plate (Tm) at the time of bore diameter
measurements.
The reference orifice plate bore diameter (dr) is the internal diameter of orifice plate
measuring aperture at reference temperature (Tr), and can be determined using the following
equation
dr = dm [ 1+ α1 ( Tr – Tm )]
Orifice plate Holder
The orifice plate holder is defined as a pressure containing piping element, such as a set of
orifice flanges or an orifice fittings used to contain and position the orifice plate in the piping
system.
Meter tube
The meter tube is defined as the straight sections of pipe, including all segments that are
integral to the orifice plate holder, upstream and downstream of the orifice plate.
82
Meter tube internal diameter (D, Dm, and Dr)
The calculated meter tube internal diameter (D) is the inside diameter of the upstream section
of the meter tube computed at flowing temperature (T f ), and can be calculated using the
following equation
D = Dr [1+ α 2 ( T f – T r )
Where: α2 = linear co-efficient of thermal expansion for the meter tube material
D = meter tube internal diameter calculated at flowing temperature (T f ).
Dr= reference meter tube internal diameter at Tr.
T f = temperature of fluid at flowing condition.
Tr = reference temperature of the meter tube internal diameter.
The measured meter tube internal diameter (Dm) is the inside diameter of upstream section of
the meter tube at the temperature of meter tube (Tm) at the time of internal diameter
measurements. A minimum of four equally spaced individual internal diameter measurements
shall be made in a plane 1 inch upstream from the upstream face of the orifice plate. The
mean (arithmetic average) of these four or more individual measurements is defined as the
measured
Meter tube internal diameter (Dm)
The reference meter tube internal diameter (Dr) is the inside diameter of the upstream section
of the meter tube at reference temperature (Tr) and can be determined using the following
equation:
Dr = Dm [ 1+ α 2 ( Tr- Tm )]
Diameter ratio ( β )
The diameter ratio (β) is defined as the calculated orifice plate bore diameter (d) divided by
the calculated meter tube internal diameter (D)
β = d/D
Tap hole
A tap hole is a hole drilled radially in the wall of the meter tube or Orifice plate holder, inside
edge of which is flush and without any burrs.
The hole is usually circular but in certain cases may be an annular slot.
Flange Taps
Flange taps are a pair of tap holes positioned as follows (Figure A.2):
83
a) The upstream tap centre is located 1 inch ( 25.4mm) upstream of the nearest plate face
b) The downstream tap centre is located 1 inch (25.4mm) downstream of the nearest
plate face.
Orifice flow rate (qm, qvs, Qv)
The Orifice flow rate is the mass or volume flow through an Orifice meter per unit of time.
Orifice plate co-efficient of discharge (Cd)
The orifice plate co-efficient of discharge (Cd) is the ratio of the true flow to the theoretical
flow and is applied to the theoretical flow equation to obtain the actual (true) flow.
Velocity of Approach Factor (Ev)
The velocity of approach factor (Ev) is a mathematical expression that relates the velocity of
flowing fluid in the orifice meter approach section (upstream meter tube) to the fluid velocity
in the orifice plate bore.
The velocity of approach factor, Ev is calculated as follows:
Ev = 1/√(1- β4) and β = d/D
Where: d = orifice plate bore diameter calculated at flowing temperature (T f )

D = meter tube internal diameter calculated at flowing temperature.
Expansion factor(Y)
When a gas flows through an orifice, the change in fluid velocity and static pressure is
accomplished by a change in the density and a factor must be applied to the coefficient to
adjust for this change. The factor is known as the expansion factor(Y). The expansion
factor(Y) is a function of diameter ratio (β), the ratio differential pressure to static pressure at
designated tap, and the isentropic exponent (K).
The real compressible fluid isentropic exponent, Kr is a function of the fluid and the pressure
and temperature. For an ideal gas, the isentropic exponent, Ki is equal to the ratio of specific
heats (Cp/Cv) of the gas at constant pressure (Cp) and Constant volume (Cv) and is
independent of pressure. A perfect gas is an ideal gas that has constant specific heats. The
perfect gas isentropic exponent Kp is equal to Ki evaluated at base conditions.
It has been found that for many applications, the value of Kr is nearly identical to the value of
Ki which is nearly identical to Kp. From a practical stand point, the flow equation is not
84
particularly sensitive to small variations in the isentropic exponent. Therefore, the perfect gas
isentropic exponent, Kp is often used in the flow equation.
The application of the expansion factor is valid as long as the following dimensionless
criterion for pressure ratio is followed.
0 < hw/27.707pf ≤ 0.20
or 0.8 ≤ Pf2/Pf1 < 1.0
Where: hw = flange tap differential pressure across the orifice plate, in inches of water at
60°F.
P f = flowing pressure in pounds force per square inch absolute
P f1 = absolute static pressure at the upstream pressure tap,
P f2 = absolute static pressure at the downstream pressure tap, in pounds force per square inch
absolute.
The expansion factor equation for flange tap may be used for a range of diameter ratios from
0.10 to 0.75. For diameter ratios (β) outside the stated limits, increased uncertainty will
occur.
Expansion factor referenced to upstream pressure
If the absolute static pressure is taken at the upstream differential pressure tap, the value of
the expansion factor, Y can be calculated using the following equation:
Y 1 = 1- ( 0.41 + 0.35 β4) (x1/K)

When the upstream static pressure is measured,
x 1 = ( Pf1- Pf2 )/Pf1 = hw/(27.707Pf2 + hw).
The factors involved in gas flow measurement of Turbine meter
Pressure factor, F pm
Where F pm = P f /P b
p f = static gauge pressure, psig
Pa = atmospheric pressure
P f = Absolute static pressure, psia
P f = p f + Pa
F pm = P f /14.73
85
Pressure base factor, F pb
F pb = 14.73/P b
Where, P b is the contract base pressure in psia.
This factor is applied to change the base pressure from 14.73psia to another contract pressure
base.
Flowing temperature factor, F tm

F tm = 520/T f
Where T f = actual flowing temperature of the gas in degrees Rankin
Temperature base factor, F tb

F tb = T b /520
Where T b = the contract base temperature in degrees Rankin.
Compressibility Ratio factor “S”

The compressibility ratio “S” is defined as:
S = Z b /Z f
Where Z b = Compressibility factor at base conditions
Z f = Compressibility factor at flowing conditions
The compressibility ratio “S” can be evaluated from the super compressibility factor “F pv ”
which is defined as
S = (F pv )2
The numerical values of the super compressibility factor Fpv given in AGA report NX-19 or
ANSI/API 2530 are not exactly equal to F pv = √(S) = √(Z b /Z f ) as defined by equation 12&13
and equations are only valid for 0.6 specific gravity of natural gas.
If the gases has different specific gravity than 0.6 and contain nitrogen and/or carbon dioxide,
it is necessary to calculate adjusted pressure and adjusted temperature to obtain the proper
factors. The technique is outlined in AGA Report 03 and detailed in AGA Report NX-19.
Terms and Definitions on Uncertainty analysis

Some important concepts need to be defined prior to present the uncertainty analysis method.
• A measurement process consists of the instruments, operators and procedures that
result in the determination of a numerical value for a variable.
86
• The true value is the value determined with a perfect measurement process. The
true value is always unknown because all measurement process are imperfect to
some degree.
• The error is the difference between the measured value and true value. The error
is always unknown because the true value is always unknown.
• Uncertainty is an estimate of the interval bounding the measured value within
which the true value lies.
• An accuracy specification usually means inaccuracy but can be interrupted as
uncertainty. A manufacturer states that the “accuracy is ±1.0%” really means that
the accuracy is 99%.
• Confidence level (or confidence interval) is the degree of confidence, expressed as
a percent that the true value lies within the stated uncertainty. A proper
uncertainty statement would read: “q m = 500 cfh ± 1.0% at a 95% level of
confidence”. This means that 95 out of every 100 observations are between 495
and 505 cfh.
87
APPENDIX– B
88
APPENDIX - C
89
Table B.1: Gas flow calculation through Orifice meter at APS 450 MW, RMS for the month of July-2009
TYPE: ORIFICE METER LINE BORE:12.0" ORIFICE SIZE=8.5727"

Date Sum of • hw in Ave. Fl. Press. Ave. Fl. Temp. Press. Fact. Temp. Fact. Sup.Com. Orifice Consumption
0
W.C. (Psig) F Fp Ft Fact.(Fpv) constant (c') (MSCF)
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9)
01-Jul-09 175.43284 497.62500 92.62500 22.63521 0.96916 1.02974 22748.979420 90,153.04589
02-Jul-09 175.03640 495.91667 94.45833 22.59747 0.96843 1.02974 22748.979420 89,731.70637
03-Jul-09 177.74640 497.41667 93.04167 22.63059 0.96967 1.02974 22748.979420 91,371.37290
04-Jul-09 176.39478 497.33333 92.95833 22.62875 0.96974 1.02974 22748.979420 90,675.73911
05-Jul-09 177.31843 498.58333 94.29167 22.65637 0.96857 1.02974 22748.979420 91,151.68895
06-Jul-09 177.77383 498.45833 93.58333 22.65360 0.96919 1.02974 22748.979420 91,433.10794
07-Jul-09 176.65239 497.62500 94.12500 22.63511 0.96872 1.02974 22748.979420 90,738.14448
08-Jul-09 176.48550 499.00000 93.91667 22.66558 0.96890 1.02974 22748.979420 90,791.31857
09-Jul-09 177.76422 499.00000 92.08333 22.66558 0.97051 1.02974 22748.979420 91,601.10319
10-Jul-09 175.95031 497.62500 93.12500 22.63520 0.96960 1.02974 22748.979420 90,459.97852
11-Jul-09 176.45644 499.37500 93.70833 22.67385 0.96909 1.02974 22748.979420 90,827.29816
12-Jul-09 178.36239 500.00000 92.95833 22.68766 0.96975 1.02974 22748.979420 91,926.82859
13-Jul-09 176.99794 498.08333 92.79167 22.64533 0.96989 1.02974 22748.979420 91,066.54251
14-Jul-09 176.68498 499.50000 92.25000 22.67663 0.97036 1.02974 22748.979420 91,075.28364
15-Jul-09 178.02916 498.33333 92.33333 22.65084 0.97029 1.02974 22748.979420 91,657.18427
16-Jul-09 176.48009 497.62500 92.00000 22.63520 0.97058 1.02974 22748.979420 90,824.05579
17-Jul-09 174.94426 499.37500 91.66667 22.67387 0.97088 1.02974 22748.979420 90,215.34321
18-Jul-09 177.99785 499.58333 91.95833 22.67846 0.97062 1.02974 22748.979420 91,784.01541
19-Jul-09 176.48016 498.33333 91.79167 22.65084 0.97077 1.02974 22748.979420 90,904.63950
20-Jul-09 173.54610 497.08333 91.83333 22.62323 0.97073 1.02974 22748.979420 89,280.66610
21-Jul-09 178.43054 499.29167 92.37500 22.67203 0.97025 1.02974 22748.979420 91,945.98078
22-Jul-09 175.57270 498.66667 92.54167 22.65821 0.97011 1.02974 22748.979420 90,405.12849
23-Jul-09 176.45226 498.00000 91.54167 22.64349 0.97099 1.02974 22748.979420 90,881.36641
24-Jul-09 178.54102 499.58333 91.62500 22.67846 0.97091 1.02974 22748.979420 92,091.60600
25-Jul-09 176.93156 498.12500 92.29167 22.64624 0.97033 1.02974 22748.979420 91,077.34710
26-Jul-09 172.64722 497.79167 91.87500 22.63888 0.97070 1.02974 22748.979420 88,876.93265
27-Jul-09 170.45623 497.29167 90.91667 22.62783 0.97154 1.02974 22748.979420 87,782.10139
28-Jul-09 177.44808 495.83333 91.75000 22.59561 0.97080 1.02974 22748.979420 91,183.39675
29-Jul-09 167.64655 496.95833 91.04167 22.62048 0.97143 1.02974 22748.979420 86,296.99848
30-Jul-09 180.73147 495.00000 91.54167 22.57720 0.97099 1.02974 22748.979420 92,812.85227
31-Jul-09 168.19265 495.00000 91.04167 22.57720 0.97143 1.02974 22748.979420 86,412.80560
Total gas consumption for the month of July-09 2,807,435.579
Average Press.& Temp. 497.98 92.45

Adjusted Press.& Temp. 497.04 104.68
Adjusted Pressure Factor = 0.998110772

Adjusted Temperature Factor= 1.022131939
All calculation are done by

Microsoft Excel Program
91
Table 5.3: Sensitivity co-efficient and Uncertainty of variable terms for different flow rate
Serial Average Average Differential Volumetric Reynold Uncertainity of Uncertainity of Sensitivity Co-efficient for following variables
Mass Gas Flow
No Pressure Temperature Pressure Gas Flow Number ∆P Expansibility ∂qm/∂d(tο) ∂qm/∂D(tο) ∂qm/∂• ∂qm/∂ε ∂qm/∂Δ p ∂qm/∂ρ
(Kpa) (Deg.K) (Kpa) (MSCFD) kg/sec PSIG %
6 = {(Col5x42.5x1000)/ 7 = (4xCol6) / 8 = ±0.0035 x 9 =(±4xCol4)/ Orifice bore Pipe Orifice flow Expansibil Differentia Gas
1 2 3 4 5
(35.3147x24x60x60)} (π x 0.3x11x10-06) col4 (Col2 x 100) diameter diameter coefficient ity l pressure density
1 3532.60 306.83 13.32 90153.05 740.0303 2.81E+08 0.04660 0.000151 9034.07496 5229.08057 1138.508 741.5134 27.78861 14.77342
2 3531.15 307.06 13.67 91371.37 750.0311 2.85E+08 0.04784 0.000155 9114.22189 5402.01251 1153.894 751.5342 27.43673 14.97307
3 3530.53 307.02 13.46 90675.74 744.3209 2.83E+08 0.04711 0.000153 9044.84025 5302.93155 1145.109 745.8125 27.64657 14.85908
4 3530.53 307.76 13.60 91151.69 748.2278 2.84E+08 0.04760 0.000154 9092.18067 5370.56886 1151.12 749.7272 27.5056 14.93707
5 3532.60 307.67 13.50 90738.14 744.8332 2.83E+08 0.04725 0.000153 9050.94689 5311.73229 1145.897 746.3258 27.58567 14.8693
6 3532.60 307.11 13.39 90459.98 742.5498 2.82E+08 0.04688 0.000152 9023.30196 5272.37276 1142.384 744.0379 27.72082 14.82372
7 3548.94 307.02 13.76 91926.83 754.5906 2.87E+08 0.04817 0.000155 9169.63553 5481.77188 1160.909 756.1028 27.41498 15.06409
8 3533.70 306.42 12.94 88876.93 729.5552 2.77E+08 0.04530 0.000146 8865.5175 5050.88271 1122.393 731.0173 28.18484 14.56431
9 3530.25 305.88 12.63 87782.10 720.5682 2.74E+08 0.04419 0.000143 8756.40258 4900.39647 1108.566 722.0122 28.53663 14.3849
10 3527.98 305.95 12.28 86297.00 708.3776 2.69E+08 0.04297 0.000139 8608.24912 4699.72689 1089.812 709.7972 28.84672 14.14153
11 3514.46 305.23 14.13 92812.85 761.8636 2.89E+08 0.04946 0.000161 9258.34884 5610.31741 1172.098 763.3904 26.95832 15.20929
12 3514.46 305.95 12.37 86412.81 709.3282 2.70E+08 0.04328 0.000141 8619.80105 4715.22883 1091.274 710.7497 28.67987 14.16051
13 3520.19 307.08 14.26 93198.69 765.0308 2.91E+08 0.04991 0.000162 9296.4915 5666.52466 1176.97 766.5639 26.8236 15.27251
14 3548.94 306.60 11.89 84563.40 694.1472 2.64E+08 0.04163 0.000134 8435.21009 4470.56982 1067.919 695.5382 29.17986 13.85745
15 3546.04 306.46 6.12 61320.85 503.3583 1.91E+08 0.02143 0.000069 6116.77979 1932.24564 774.3975 504.3671 41.10339 10.04868
16 3548.94 306.78 6.35 62389.88 512.1336 1.95E+08 0.02221 0.000072 6223.37611 2027.20516 787.8978 513.1599 40.35038 10.22386
17 3548.94 306.60 6.28 62072.65 509.5296 1.94E+08 0.02198 0.000071 6191.75457 1998.8096 783.8916 510.5507 40.57359 10.17187
18 3539.15 306.53 6.23 61780.06 507.1278 1.93E+08 0.02181 0.000070 6162.57762 1972.78107 780.1967 508.1441 40.6869 10.12393
19 3548.94 306.60 6.18 61583.22 505.5121 1.92E+08 0.02163 0.000070 6142.93452 1955.3556 777.7109 506.5251 40.90515 10.09167
20 3539.15 306.83 6.54 63266.58 519.3301 1.97E+08 0.02290 0.000074 6310.82063 2106.65395 798.9694 520.3708 39.67935 10.36753
21 3536.05 306.56 6.30 62085.09 509.6317 1.94E+08 0.02203 0.000071 6193.00047 1999.92107 784.0487 510.653 40.47857 10.17391
22 3544.32 306.62 6.58 63516.24 521.3794 1.98E+08 0.02302 0.000074 6335.75047 2129.54387 802.1222 522.4243 39.63605 10.40844
23 3538.60 306.28 5.30 56768.14 465.9870 1.77E+08 0.01854 0.000060 5662.66567 1551.31902 716.903 466.9208 43.99377 9.302622
24 3528.81 304.47 12.09 85926.20 705.3338 2.68E+08 0.04232 0.000137 8571.51633 4650.36075 1085.129 706.7473 29.16943 14.08077
25 3537.42 307.02 11.95 85310.38 700.2788 2.66E+08 0.04183 0.000135 8509.64965 4568.58436 1077.352 701.6822 29.29722 13.97985
26 3537.77 307.94 9.68 76788.29 630.3244 2.39E+08 0.03387 0.000109 7659.43592 3510.8764 969.7299 631.5876 32.56754 12.58333
27 3534.60 306.02 9.82 77651.21 637.4078 2.42E+08 0.03438 0.000111 7745.80844 3612.00104 980.6273 638.6851 32.44402 12.72474
28 3534.60 306.67 10.11 78692.72 645.9571 2.45E+08 0.03538 0.000114 7849.59756 3735.71873 993.7801 647.2516 31.95212 12.89541
29 3531.70 307.39 8.99 73477.23 603.1452 2.29E+08 0.03148 0.000102 7329.24691 3135.97807 927.9157 604.3539 33.53355 12.04075
30 3548.94 306.53 5.63 58787.43 482.5625 1.83E+08 0.01969 0.000063 5864.06199 1715.56905 742.4039 483.5296 42.89396 9.633525
31 3548.94 305.72 5.78 59662.57 489.7462 1.86E+08 0.02023 0.000065 5951.4541 1789.10486 753.4557 490.7276 42.35777 9.776934
58
volume uncertainty
57 0.826755977
1.2
59 0.836137918
60 0.840363493
61 0.848617876 1
62 0.849953657
62 0.850961905
62 0.852467731 0.8
62 0.852532466 1.2
62 0.854111612 Series1
73 0.918412237 0.6
1
77 0.939947354
78 0.945729443 0.4
79 0.952777643 0.8
85 0.99415999
85 0.999608607 0.2
86 1.004151966 Series1
0.6
86 1.006881375
86 1.007740195 0
88 1.017944041 0.4 90.15 91.15 91.93 86.30 93.20 62.39 61.58 63.52 85.31 78.69 59.66
89 1.026192662
90 1.035991844
90 1.038260771 0.2
91 1.039919811
91 1.040395159
91 1.043582293 0
91 1.045285733 90.15 91.15 91.93 86.30 93.20 62.39 61.58 63.52 85.31 78.69 59.66
92 1.049590505
93 1.056518634
93 1.059527524
Uncertainty variation with volumetric flow rate

1.2
1
Uncertainty (%)
1.2 0.8
1 0.6
Uncertainty (%)
Series1
0.8 0.4
0.6 0.2
Series1
0.4 0
0.2
0
58
Volume flow rate (MMSCFD)

1.2
1
Uncertainty (%)
0.8
0.6
Series1
0.4
0.2
0
58
volume uncertainty
57 0.826755977
59 0.836137918
60 0.840363493
61 0.848617876
62 0.849953657
62 0.850961905
62 0.852467731
62 0.852532466
62 0.854111612
73 0.918412237
77 0.939947354
78 0.945729443
79 0.952777643
85 0.99415999
85 0.999608607 Uncertainty variation with volume flow rate
86 1.004151966
86 1.006881375 1.1
86 1.007740195
88 1.017944041
1
89 1.026192662
90 1.035991844
Uncertainty (%)
90 1.038260771 0.9
91 1.039919811
91 1.040395159 0.8 Overall
uncertainty
91 1.043582293
91 1.045285733
0.7
92 1.049590505
93 1.056518634
93 1.059527524 0.6
0.5
58

Turbine Vs Orifice

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Turbine Vs Orifice

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Comparative Study on Orifice versus Turbine Meter for

Gas Flow Measurement

Md. Golam Faroque

Master of Engineering in Petroleum Engineering

Department of Petroleum Engineering

Signature of the Candidate

1. Mohammad Sohrab Hossain

2. Dr. Mohammad Mahabbubur Rahman Member

3. Zaved Chowdhury Member

Date: 28th June, 2009

TITLE PAGE -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- i

1.1 Background and present status-------------------------------------------------------- 1

CHAPTER –2 FUNDAMENTALS OF FLOW MEASUREMENT 7

2.1 General ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 7

CHAPTER – 4 INSTALLATION AND PERFORMANCE OF METER 24

4.1 Installation of Orifice meter----------------------------------------------------------- 24

5.1 Measurement Uncertainty-------------------------------------------------------------- 40

6.1 Measurement error analysis of Orifice meter --------------------------------------- 60

CHAPTER -7 RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS 72

CHAPTER- 8 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS 74

8.1 Conclusion ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 74

Table 1.1: Meters used in Gas intake point---------------------------------------------- 3

Table 5.3: Sensitivity coefficient and Uncertainty of variable terms for 55

Figure 2.1: Different components of fluid filled thermometer ------------------------ 9

AGA = American Gas Associations

I am immensely pleased to my adviser Mohammad Sohrab Hossain, Assistant Professor of

I especially like to thank Engr. Zaved Chowdhury, Director(Gas), Energy Regulatory

1.1 Background and present status

Serial Description Operating conditions(Pressure, Type of

Serial Description Operating Conditions Meter used

Serial Description Operating Conditions Meter used

1.2 Objectives with specific aims and possible outcome

2.2 Pressure measuring devices

2.2.2 Dead Weight Tester

2.3 Temperature measuring devices

Figure 2.1: Different components of fluid filled thermometer.

Here an electromotive force is developed if the junction is kept at a temperature that is

Where α is proportionality constant called temperature sensitivity or seebeck co-efficient

Table 2.1: Different types of Thermocouple type Thermometer

2.3.3 Liquid in Glass thermometers

2.3.4 Thermoresistance or RTD

Serial no. RTD Temperature range (°C)

2.4 Fluid physical properties

m 144 × Pf1 × Mrgas

2.4.2 Density based on real gas relative density (specific gravity)

2.69881× Pf1 × Gr × Zsgas

2.4.4 Super compressibility

Fpv = Zb Where: Fpv = super compressibility factor

2.5.1 Volumetric flow measurement

2.6 Measuring principle of Turbine meter

Differential pressure element calibration data are given below:

Table 3.1: Differential pressure element calibration data

SL No Manometer reading Chart reading during Deviation Average

2 50 150 50 150 No Nil Was not

During pressure element calibration the following parameters should be checked

Table 3.2: Pressure element data

SL No Dead weight tester reading Deviation Comments

1 375 1500 374 1499 -1