Downhole fiber-optic multiphase flowmeter

Real-time, downhole, multiphase flow-rate data are of significant value for production optimization, particularly for high-cost deepwater developments and complex multilateral wells. Continuous measurements of downhole flow rates in producing wells generally have not been available because of difficulties in designing and deploying measurement devices. The design, operating principles, and flow-loop testing of an all-fiber-optic multiphase flowmeter for downhole deployment are presented.