Two-Phase Co2 Measurement and Control in the Yates Oil Field

Abstract

The principle of injecting gases such as N2 and CO2 into oilfields to manage reservoir resources is well understood. The Yates Field — a mature site in West Texas — presented Kinder Morgan with particular difficulties, with the requirement to inject low pressure CO2 with flow control and measurement at the well-head. The low pressure and high ambient temperatures lead to almost continuous flashing, with gas void fractions (GVFs) estimated to range between 0% and 80%. A solar and wind powered station was designed around a two-phase capable Coriolis mass flow meter. As well as metering the flow, the station controls it using a modulating valve, based on the two-phase flow measurement. A wireless communication system maintains contact with the central control. Some 20 stations have been operating successfully for four years, enabling effective reservoir management techniques.