CFD-Based Sensitivity Study of Flow and Design Parameters in Multiphase Flow Meters
In subsea oil- and gas applications, multiphase flow meters (MPFM) are used to measure volumetric flow rates of oil, gas and water produced from a well, without first separating the phases. When well productions decline the flow may become unstable, requiring additional controls. In these cases MPFMs are useful
instruments to detect well instability, blockages and disturbances so that the well can be controlled and stabilized in real time. Variations in flow regime and homogeneity in the Venturi-based MPFM may affect the accuracy of measured volume flow rates, making it important to understand these factors. Additionally, understanding slip velocity between phases is crucial for formulating an accurate slip model to compute phase volume flow rates. Reducing measurement uncertainties is essential to avoid losing valuable information about well development.
In this project, the sensitivity of the MPFM to flow- and geometrical parameters is studied by modelling and simulating the MPFM using CFD. In contrast to experimental tests, CFD simulations allow information to be extracted from the entire test domain, not just from individual sensors. This gives insight into how
MPFM design and operating conditions influence measurement certainty on a macroscopic scale, while also allowing for the investigation of smaller scale phenomena. Mean values and periodic behaviours of the flow parameters are evaluated to give insight into the flow behaviour and possible improvements for MPFM design in regards to flow homogeneity, reducing measurement uncertainty. Additionally, a suitable modelling technique is found to aid in the design and development of future MPFMs.
Maria Vassilev
Maria Vassilev has recently completed her Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering at Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg, with a background in Mechanical Engineering. Her academic focus lies in Fluid Mechanics, where she has engaged in several advanced projects involving both design and simulation, as well as the planning, execution, and post-processing of wind tunnel experiments.
In the summer of 2024, she began her career at OneSubsea as a Junior Systems Engineer, contributing to a project in Subsea Compression. In January of 2025, she started the Master’s Thesis project in collaboration with Elias Nilsson, working with Multiphase Flowmeters and further deepening her expertise in complex fluid mechanics.
Elias Nilsson
Elias Nilsson recently completed his studies in Chemical Engineering at Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg, earning a Master’s degree in Sustainable Energy Systems. With a strong interest in energy production systems and fluid mechanics, he has focused much of his academic work on these areas. In the summer of 2024, Elias began an internship at Onesubsea AB as a Junior Process/CFD Engineer, where he has primarily worked on single- and multiphase CFD modeling and flow-induced vibration studies. In January 2025, he started his Master’s thesis project, collaborating with Maria Vassilev on research related to multiphase flow meters.
