Downhole flow meter
US6629564B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 28, 2000 |
| Grant date | Oct 7, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 17, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01F1/40
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
This invention comprises the use of a variable orifice valve as a flow controller and flow meter. Pressure measurements are taken upstream and downstream of the variable orifice valve by way of a differential pressure measurement mechanism. The differential pressure measurement mechanism may comprise two separate absolute pressure measurement devices or a single differential pressure measurement device. Flow rate through the valve is determined from the pressure drop across the valve. In wellbores having multiple zones, a variable orifice valve together with a differential pressure measurement mechanism may be deployed for each zone. The flow rate through each of the zones and at the surface can then be monitored and controlled.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.