Researchers develop new multiphase flow metering device
Three Turbomachinery Lab researchers have developed a new way to measure multiphase flow that is less expensive than and equally accurate to current multiphase flow devices on the market. Inventors Dr. Abhay Patil, Dr. Gerald Morrison, and Joshua Vandervort in the Turbo Lab, have received a temporary patent for the invention.
Lead inventor Dr. Abhay Patil credits an oil and gas technical session on multiphase flow meters for the new flow meter device inspiration. It was during this session two years ago that he realized the existing gaps and necessity for economical multiphase flow meters.
Co-inventor Joshua Vandervort, a graduate student in the Turbo Lab, is no stranger to partnering with Patil. He worked three semesters as a mechanical engineering undergrad with Patil on flow meter investigation before becoming his research assistant. “I love working in the lab and working with my hands,” Vandervort said. “I touch every part of mechanical engineering. That’s what I love.”
The proposed technology utilizes the simple, yet robust design of a flow meter to withstand multiphase flow conditions with sound algorithms to predict the Gas Volume Fractions or liquid hold up. “Simplicity in the design, yet equivalent accuracy makes this flow meter quite attractive,” Patil said. “We are in the process of evaluating different options to realize its full potential.”
Patil completed his Ph.D. in mechanical engineering at Texas A&M University in 2013 under the direction of Dr. Gerald Morrison, Professor Emeritus of Mechanical Engineering who retired from the Turbo Lab in 2017. This is Patil’s second patent in his time at the Turbo Lab.
Patil is working with The TEES Commercialization and Entrepreneurship Office, who has initiated the process to secure a temporary patent. The team is developing a final prototype for complete characterization to improve the confidence in proposed multiphase flow metering technology.
The Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station (TEES) Turbomachinery Laboratory makes a vital impact on turbomachinery and related industries through research, education and professional workforce development.
Simplicity in the design, yet equivalent accuracy makes this flow meter quite attractive.
Dr. Abhay Patil