WIRELINE Issue 34 Winter 2015-2016

Knowledge and data from testing operations at GE Oil & Gas’ Newcastle Innovation Centre is used to develop and validate new and existing models, predicting the performance of flexible pipes in service

“ The centre not

importance in the current economic climate and with increasing subsea processing and deeper field extraction at higher pressures and temperatures”. He says: “There is a need now and in the future for flow meter calibration at elevated pressures and temperatures. These are the parameters with the greatest impact on meter performance. A potential impact running into many millions of pounds per annum for a single well is common.” NEL’s new high pressure/high operating temperature liquid flow test loop increases the company’s pressure testing capability from below 10 bar(g) to 100 bar(g), with an ability to deal with temperatures doubling from 40 degrees Celsius maximum capability to 80 degrees Celsius. The new facility will also carry out R&D into flow and fluid measurement. Muir adds: “Developments and investment will be industry-led for maximum impact. As part of the Flow Measurement Institute, we will help lead the creation of a tangible centre of excellence that includes

skills development, research and testing facilities,

a community of expertise, and

He explains: “Flow meters are the industry’s cash registers and they need to be accurate. Without them, it is impossible to ensure standardised volumes or mass quantities for trade or sale. This would impact the financial operations of a company through inconsistent cash flows for produced fluids. Additionally, without flow measurement it would be impossible to optimise operations. Muir points out that enhancing UK capability in this area is of “particular only represents ongoing investment in the subsea sector but our commitment to ensuring that we are at the forefront of technological advancement. ”

a focus on leadership.

Going forward,

NEL wants to facilitate greater collaboration within the flow measurement community.”

In late 2014, NEL, along with Coventry University, founded the Flow

Measurement Institute. With now over 20 members among operators, manufacturers, academia, the regulator and service companies, it responds to Sir Ian Wood’s report by driving a collaborative approach to meet the

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T H E M A G A Z I N E F O R T H E U K O F F S H O R E O I L A N D G A S I N D U S T R Y