Pipeline transport Case Studies
PROMPT: Product Development of a Device for Detecting and Controlling Slugs in Subsea Pipelines

The Problem
Predicting the size and frequency of slugs in multiphase and wet gas pipelines remains a major uncertainty in many offshore operation. This can result in over design of slug handling equipment or if underestimated result in reduced production and increased process problems.

Approach
The project concieved the PROMPT system (PRocess Optimisation during MultiPhase Transportation), which can reduce capital expenditure on process equipment while maintaining optimum production during slugging operations in multi-phase pipelines.

The project, which was supported by the OGID of the DTI, demonstrated that strap-on, non-intrusive acoustic sensors, in combination with advanced signal processing, are a simple cost effective solution to finding out the size of liquid slugs.

The idea was that slugs create turbulence which can be heard by acoustic sensors that pick-up the noise from slugs as they pass by. The project also proved that problematic slugs could also be controlled (potentially reducing the need for large slug handling facilities).

The Results
In the study the control system calculated the size and characteristics of each slug, decided which ones may cause problems at the processing facilities and took suitable action to control them.

The work and the system is now ready for the next stage of development.

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