The Shortcomings and Challenges of Metering–System Automation in the Petroleum Industry

Abstract

Summary Since about 1990, the automation of flowmetering systems has been gaining momentum. During this time, operations have been simplified by flow-system automation, but the petroleum industry has been exposed to significant fiscal losses arising from "teething problems." This paper reviews the problems that are yet to be addressed by the automation industry, based on field experience over an extended period of time. The fiscal significance of these shortcomings is presented, and measures are suggested to correct the problems. It is expected that this work will prompt the automation industry to address the existing limitations of metering systems when designing future flow computers.