Prediction of two and three phase flow in the horizontal configuration

Two phase air/water and three phase air/oil/water experimental runs were performed on 0.0259m internal diameter pipe to investigate wave patterns and characteristics of pressure loss and hold-up for each system. In combination with a database of results a flow regime map was formulated independent of pipe diameter and taking into account fluid properties detailing the spectrum of two arid three phase wave patterns and classifications. The latter being tested for gas/oil flows and diameters ranging from 1 in. to 3.5 in. The subject areas of pressure loss and hold-up, in two and three phase flows are also investigated with semi empirical relationships being made for two phase air/water flows using the momentum balance between the respective phases to predict interfacial shear stress. The range of separated type flows was attained with reasonable success however difficulties are encountered with intermittent flows. Suggested modifications to the momentum balance for the prediction of three phase pressure gradient and phase slippage are also outlined. The prospect of predicting multiphase flow characteristics may enable direct onshore conveying with minimum separation facilities or to a central processing platform. As a consequence, this will serve to stimulate enhanced oil recovery in high water cut reserves and promotemore » the operation of marginal fields at optimum processing conditions.« less