Multiphase Flow Field Trials on BP’s Magnus Platform

Abstract

The trend toward offshore oilfield development schemes which utilize relatively long, large diameter, multiphase flowlines has resulted in a need for better design techniques for such systems. In order to validate these new and improved design methods it is necessary to compare them with good quality field data obtained from a variety of different multiphase lines. Therefore trials to determine the characteristics of the multiphase flow through 150 mm NB (6 in. NB) lines from four of the satellite wells in BP’s Magnus field were carried out during October, 1985. Using two gamma ray density gages, the flow regimes, and where possible the characteristics of slug flow, were identified over a range of flowrates in the different lines. Comparison of the data is made with the predictive techniques widely used in the industry.