This project explored the sources of flow-induced pulsations in natural gas meter stations and the detrimental effects the pulsations have on the measurement capabilities of three types of gas custody transfer meters: orifice meters, turbine meters, and ultrasonic meters. To supplement the PRCI-funded research on the effect of compressor pulsations on ultrasonic flow measurement, Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) has performed a study to identify best practices for meter station piping design that avoid generating or amplifying flow-induced pulsations. This study involved a literature review...
This project explored the sources of flow-induced pulsations in natural gas meter stations and the detrimental effects the pulsations have on the measurement capabilities of three types of gas custody transfer meters: orifice meters, turbine meters, and ultrasonic meters. To supplement the PRCI-funded research on the effect of compressor pulsations on ultrasonic flow measurement, Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) has performed a study to identify best practices for meter station piping design that avoid generating or amplifying flow-induced pulsations. This study involved a literature review to identify features of meter station piping that (1) generate pulsations independently of compressors or (2) amplify pulsating flows entering station piping. Where possible, the study also worked to quantify the effect of flow-induced pulsations on meter accuracy. This information has been used to create best practices and methodologies for minimizing metering errors caused by pulsation. As a result of this research, various design techniques able to reduce or eliminate pulsations in meter station piping systems have been compiled. Mitigation practices specific to obstructions, flow restrictions, piping geometries, gaps, acoustically-induced pulsation, and flow-induced turbulence are discussed. Additionally, common methods of filtering high-frequency pulsations are discussed in detail.