Field Measurement Handbook

QA/QC Measurement Program

IMG Project

Rev 5
March 03rd, 2012

Field Measurement Handbook Rev. 5

Contents

1. PURPOSE ................................................................................ 5
2. SCOPE ..................................................................................... 5
3. OBJECTIVE ............................................................................. 5
4. RESPONSIBILITY ................................................................... 5
5. INTRODUCTION ..................................................................... 6
6. MEASUREMENT INTEGRITY PRACTICES......................... 6
W ELL TESTING – OIL/BITUMEN ...................................................... 8
General ..................................................................................... 8
Cold Heavy Oil/Bitumen Well Testing .................................... 9
Thermal Heavy Oil/Bitumen Well Testing ............................ 10
Test Validation ....................................................................... 11
Test Oil/Emulsion Sampling .................................................. 12
GOR Testing .......................................................................... 13
W ELL TESTING – GAS .................................................................. 15
General ................................................................................... 15
METER MAINTENANCE ................................................................. 15
Meter Calibrations.................................................................. 15
Internal Inspections................................................................ 19
Meter Proving ......................................................................... 20
Witnessing .............................................................................. 22
SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS............................................................. 26
Sampling Frequency .............................................................. 27
Sample Points ........................................................................ 29
Sample Scheduling and Sample Point Tags ....................... 31
Analyses Troubleshooting ..................................................... 32
Water Cut (S&W) Procedures ............................................... 33
7. MEASUREMENT INSTALLATION & OPERATION........... 39
GAS MEASUREMENT .................................................................... 39
Installation .............................................................................. 39
Operation ................................................................................ 40
LIQUID MEASUREMENT................................................................. 48

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 Installation ............................................................................... 48
Operation ................................................................................ 51
TRUCKING .................................................................................... 53
Oil Terminals .......................................................................... 53
Trucking S&W Determination ................................................ 54
8. FUEL, FLARE AND VENT .................................................... 58
FUEL GAS .................................................................................... 58
VENTED GAS ................................................................................ 58
ESTIMATES AND MEASUREMENT .................................................. 58
REPORTING .................................................................................. 59
FLARE/VENT LOGS ....................................................................... 59
9. PRODUCTION REPORTING PRACTICES......................... 60
MULTI-PHASE METERING ............................................................. 60
TEST GIS CORRECTIONS ............................................................. 60
STOCK TANK VAPOR GIS CALCULATIONS .................................... 61
FACILITY BALANCES ..................................................................... 61
MONTHLY REPORTS...................................................................... 61
10. UNITS OF CONVERSION................................................. 62
VOLUME CONVERSIONS ............................................................... 62
ENERGY CONVERSIONS ............................................................... 62
VOLUMETRIC FLOW RATE CONVERSIONS ..................................... 62
DENSITY CONVERSIONS ............................................................... 62
TEMPERATURE CONVERSIONS ..................................................... 63
PRESSURE CONVERSIONS ............................................................ 63
11. BASE CONDITIONS.......................................................... 63

Tables
TABLE 6.1MEASUREMENT UNCERTAINTY REQUIREMENTS - OIL
SYSTEMS .................................................................................... 6
TABLE 6.2 MEASUREMENT UNCERTAINTY REQUIREMENTS - GAS
SYSTEMS .................................................................................... 7
TABLE 6.3 MEASUREMENT UNCERTAINTY REQUIREMENTS -
INJECTION SYSTEMS ................................................................... 7

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TABLE 6.4 MINIMUM CONVENTIONAL OIL W ELL TESTING
REQUIREMENTS ......................................................................... 8
TABLE 6.5 ACCURACY COEFFICIENTS FOR VARIOUS MEASUREMENT
TYPES WHEN UTILIZING TEST TANKS ....................................... 10
TABLE 6.6 GOR OR HOURLY RATE TEST FREQUENCY REQUIREMENTS
................................................................................................ 14
TABLE 6.7 PROVING REQUIREMENTS FOR CONDENSATE, W ATER AND
OIL ........................................................................................... 20
TABLE 6.8 ERCB PROVING FREQUENCY REQUIREMENTS ............... 21
TABLE 6.9 GAS SAMPLING FREQUENCY........................................... 28
TABLE 7.1 METER INSTALLATION GUIDELINES ................................. 49
TABLE 7.2 RECOMMENDED FLOW RATES FOR PD METERS ............. 51
TABLE 7.3 RECOMMENDED FLOW RATES FOR TURBINE METERS .... 52
TABLE 7.4 NET OIL COMPUTER COMPARISON ................................. 57

Tables
FIGURE 1 INAPPROPRIATE SAMPLING LOCATIONS ............................ 30
FIGURE 2 CENTRIFUGE TUBES......................................................... 34
FIGURE 3 GRADUATED CYLINDER MEASUREMENTS ......................... 37
FIGURE 4 NARROW NECK FLASK MEASUREMENTS .......................... 39
FIGURE 5 CHART RECORDER AND VALVE MANIFOLD ....................... 44
FIGURE 6 DANIEL SENIOR ORIFICE FITTING DIAGRAM .................. 46
FIGURE 7 LIQUID METER INSTALLATION WITH PROVING TAPS
DOWNSTREAM OF LCV ............................................................ 50
FIGURE 8 LIQUID METER INSTALLATION WITH PROVING TAPS
UPSTREAM OF LCV .................................................................. 50

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1. Purpose
The purpose of this handbook is to provide oil and gas operators with a
single source reference of proven measurement practices. This
handbook is designed as a quick reference guide for field personnel.

2. Scope
The scope of this handbook:
• includes conventional oil and gas operations as well as heavy
oil operations
• covers common flow measurement related topics
• covers all areas of measurement, from the wellhead to the gas
or liquid product custody transfer point
• covers production reporting practices

3. Objective
The objectives of this handbook are to:
• be flexible so site specific issues can be easily incorporated
• stay current
• have a broad industry application
• be usable by operators, engineers, and production accountants
• remain consistent with the Alberta, British Columbia,
Saskatchewan, and Canadian government regulations, and to
provide a guide to improved self regulation

This handbook is only a reference guide. Refer to the IMG’s QA/QC

Measurement Manual for detailed design, operations and reporting
procedures or the respective jurisdiction’s regulator for current
requirements.

4. Responsibility
Accurate measurement is important because it ensures your company
gets paid for what it produces and inaccurate measurement costs the
company money for retroactive corrections. For most companies, the
decision to upgrade measurement equipment or procedures should not
be made on the expectation of profit, but to lessen the risk of lost

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revenue or environmental damage, a very real possibility if
improvements are not made.

5. Introduction
The following sections contain the minimum Alberta’s Energy
Resources Conservation Board (ERCB) metering requirements for a
typical oil and gas operation. Within these sections it has been noted
where the governing regulations of either the British Columbia’sOil and
Gas Commission (BC OGC) or Saskatchewan’s Ministry of Energy and
Resources deviate from the ERCB.

6. Measurement Integrity Practices

The accuracy requirements for measurement have been outlined in
Table 6.1 through Table 6.3.

It should be noted that these tables are not applicable for B.C. Cross
Border measurement.
Table 6.1Measurement Uncertainty Requirements - Oil Systems
Maximum
Single point
uncertainty of
Well / Facility Type measurement
monthly
uncertainty
volume
Total battery oil (delivery point measurement)
3
Delivery point measures >100m /d N/A 0.5%
3
Delivery point measures ≤100m /d N/A 1.0%
Total battery gas (includes produced gas that is
vented, flared, or used as fuel)
3 3
>16.9e m /d 5.0% 3.0%
3 3 3 3
>0.50e m /d but ≤16.9e m /d 10.0% 3.0%
3 3
≤0.50e m /d 20.0% 10.0%
Total battery water
3
>50m /month 5.0% N/A
3
≤50m /month 20.0% N/A
Well oil (proration battery)
3
Class 1 (high), >30m /d 5.0% 2.0%
3 3
Class 2 (medium), >6m /d but ≤30m /d 10.0% 2.0%
3 3
Class 3 (low), >2m /d but ≤6m /d 20.0% 2.0%
3
Class 4 (stripper), ≤2m /d 40.0% 2.0%
Well gas (proration battery)
3 3
>16.9e m /d 5.0% 3.0%
3 3 3 3
>0.50e m /d but ≤16.9e m /d 10.0% 3.0%
3 3
≤0.50e m /d 20.0% 10.0%
Well water N/A 10.0%

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Table 6.2 Measurement Uncertainty Requirements - Gas Systems
Maximum
Single point
uncertainty of
Well / Facility Type measurement
monthly
uncertainty
volume
Gas deliveries (sales gas) N/A 2.0%
Hydrocarbon liquid deliveries
3
Delivery point measures >100m /d N/A 0.5%
3
Delivery point measures ≤100m /d N/A 1.0%
Plant inlet or total battery/group gas 5.0% 3.0%
Plant inlet or total battery/group condensate N/A 2.0%
(recombined)
Fuel gas
3 3
>0.50e m /d 5.0% 3.0%
3 3
≤0.50e m /d 20.0% 10.0%
Flare gas 20.0% 5.0%
Acid gas before compression N/A 10.0%
Acid gas after compression 3.0%
Dilution gas 5.0% 3.0%
Well gas (well site separation)
3 3
>16.9e m /d 5.0% 3.0%
3 3
≤16.9e m /d 10.0% 3.0%
Well gas (proration battery) 15.0% 3.0%
Well condensate (recombined) N/A 2.0%
Total battery water 5.0% N/A
Well water N/A 10.0%

Table 6.3 Measurement Uncertainty Requirements - Injection

Systems
Maximum
Single point
uncertainty of
Well / Facility Type measurement
monthly
uncertainty
volume
Total gas 5.0% N/A
Well gas N/A 3.0%
Total water 5.0% N/A
Well water/steam N/A 5.0%
Produced water/steam at thermal in situ oil N/A 2.0%
sands facilities

There are no explicit accuracy requirements outlined in the existing

Saskatchewan Ministry of Energy and Resources regulations.

The uncertainties shown in the above table are results of statistical

analyses of the various contributing factors associated with metering.
They are not the accuracies of the various meters nor are they
acceptable ranges for proration factors. They are the expectations of
the metering systems and are targets for operations. Because meter
accuracy and proration factors are major contributors to the overall
accuracy, they should be well inside these limits.

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Well Testing – Oil/Bitumen
General
Table 6.4 summarizes the minimum requirements as stated in the
ERCB’s Directive 017 for oil well testing.

 Testing should be performed under normal operating

conditions. There should be no more than 200kPa difference
in pressure between test and group conditions.

 The system must be allowed to stabilize.

 The hours of duration upon which the test is based should not
include the time required to purge test lines, vessels, common
flow lines, etc.

 The hours of duration upon which the test is based should

include the time when the well is not pumping due to the use of
an interrupter or timer.
Table 6.4 Minimum Conventional Oil Well Testing Requirements
Minimum
Classa Minimum
Minimum time
Oil rate test
test between
(m 3/d) b durationc
No. Name frequency tests
(hours)
(days)
3 per
1 High >30 5 12
monthd
2 per
2 Medium >6 but ≤30 10 22
monthe

3 Low >2 but ≤6 1 per month 15 22

1 every
4 Stripper ≤2 45 22
quarter
a
Classification for each well must be determined at least
semi-annually based on the average daily oil rate since
the last assessment. If a well experiences operational
changes that cause a change in the oil rate that could
affect the classification, the operator must immediately
change the classification. The average daily oil rate
must be based on producing days (not calendar days).
b
Minimum separation time between tests if minimum
number of tests are conducted —the time between tests

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 may be reduced if more than the minimum number of
tests are conducted.
c
Licensees should conduct longer duration tests for wells
exhibiting erratic rates to obtain more representative
test data.
d
For Class 1 wells, the minimum test frequency is based
on the assumption that the well is on production for the
entire calendar month. The test frequency may be
reduced to two per month if the well is shut in for at
least 10 days within the month and to one per month if
the well is shut in for at least 20 days within the month.
e
For Class 2 wells, the minimum test frequency is based
on the assumption that the well is on production for the
entire calendar month. The test frequency may be
reduced to one per month if the well is shut in for at
least 15 days within the month.

The BC OGC requires all oil wells to be tested twice per month. The
Saskatchewan Ministry of Energy and Resources requires an oil well is
to be tested at least once a month.
Criteria for rejecting a test as invalid or unrepresentative will vary from
well to well but should be documented.

Cold Heavy Oil/Bitumen Well Testing

Heavy oil is defined as a crude oil product with a density of 920 kg/m 3 or
greater at 15°C. Cold production of heavy oil must be tested at the
frequency stated in Table 6.4 above. The tests must be conducted in a
consistent manner throughout the month and a test must be conducted
when there is a change in well parameters (pump speed, work-over,
reactivation, flush-by, etc.) as soon as possible.

A water cut must be determined for each test. It is acceptable to utilize a

wellhead sample to conduct the associated S&W determination.

Tank testing is the most common method of conducting well tests in

cold production heavy oil fields. It should be noted that it is not
necessary to apply temperature corrections for well tests using test
tanks. Tests must however ensure that the tank is isolated while the test
is being preformed. It is imperative that test durations are long enough
such that there is enough test time to accurately represent the
production capability of a well. Table 6.5 below may be used by an
operator to determine the height-to-diameter ratio requirements to
ensure compliance with Directive 017 Section 14.7.2. Table 6.5
identifies the suggested minimum volume required for a valid test.

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Table 6.5 Accuracy Coefficients for Various Measurement Types
when Utilizing Test Tanks
Maximum Level
Accuracy
Level Measurement Technique Reporting
Coefficient “a”
Resolution (mm)
Gauge board 1.6 25
Manual dip of the tank 0.4 10
Electronic (e.g., radar) 0.4 10

The accuracy coefficient “a” can be used in the following equation:

V ≥ a x d2 or d ≤ (V/a)0.5
where:

V = test fluid volume in m3 a = accuracy coefficient d = tank

diameter in meters

On the tank being used for testing, the gauge board float, linkage, and
scale must be in good condition. The gauge board markings must be no
further than 60 mm apart. For gauge measurement on test tanks, one
reading of the gauge board is acceptable for the start and end of the
test. Where safe work conditions permit, gauge boards should be read
at eye level.

Criteria for rejecting a test as invalid or unrepresentative will vary from

well to well but should be documented.

Neither the BC OGC or the Saskatchewan Ministry of Energy and

Resources have specific testing requirements around Heavy Oil Cold
Production.

Thermal Heavy Oil/Bitumen Well Testing

Well testing in thermal operations can only be performed under certain
conditions and is typically done using a test separator. Due to the
ERCB’s requirements for testing of thermal bitumen/oil wells, an
operator is not to configure pads such that there are more than 12
production wells tied into a single test separator. Operators using test
separation to determine well production must ensure that the follow is
addressed when conducting well tests:

 At minimum, each production well must have one valid testing

hour for every 20 hours the well is in operation.

 One well must be in the test cycle at all times.

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  The test duration must be optimized to obtain as many
representative production well tests as possible for each
month.

 Sufficient time must be provided between tests to purge the

test separator of the emulsion from the previous test.

 S&W must be determined for each test.

 Test durations and methods must be reassessed annually to

verify that current practices are sufficient to obtain
representative data, and this information must be made
available to the ERCB upon request.

Notwithstanding the above, at certain points in a high-pressure cyclic

steam well’s production cycle, the process fluids cannot be tested due
to high temperatures. In such instances, engineering estimates may be
used until tests can be conducted.

Criteria for rejecting a test as invalid or unrepresentative will vary from

well to well but should be documented.

Neither the BC OGC or the Saskatchewan Ministry of Energy and

Resources have specific testing requirements around Thermal Heavy
Oil Production.

Test Validation
The accuracy of well test information is critical in order to accurately
prorate oil to the various wells in a battery. All valid well tests must be
used in the production accounting for a well and battery.
The reason that any well test would be considered invalid normally
results from the differences between the flowing conditions (e.g.
pressure, temperature) of the well that is on test vs. the time that the
well goes to the group line. If the flow meters malfunction or cannot be
read accurately, the well test must be considered invalid.

Below is a list of typical reasons a well test should be considered

invalid:

1. The test conditions are not representative of normal group

conditions (e.g. compressor went down).
2. Current test results do not match previous test results. The well
should then be re-tested to determine what flow rates are correct.
Typically, a test is expected to be within +/-10% of previous test’s
volume and respective S&W.

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3. Equipment malfunctions or the wrong equipment is used during the
test (e.g. wrong orifice plate size or a chart pen out of ink).
4. Unstable well flow rate occurs which may be caused by:
 improper flow line pigging
 well slugging

The test sequence should be documented to ensure that all wells

achieve their required minimum number of tests in a given month. Note
that tests must be representative, and spaced throughout the month.
Back to back tests are considered to be one continuous test. Operators
should prepare a monthly well test schedule or perform sequential
testing.

Note that these are the minimum testing requirements. More frequent
or longer duration tests are recommended.

Test Oil/Emulsion Sampling

There are two types of sampling for determining water cut of oil wells.

Wellhead Sampling

Wellhead sampling is routinely used on conventional single well

batteries or heavy oil applications to determine the S&W, and is typically
obtained from a valve on the wellhead or flow line close to the well. True
sample probes are not typically used. This method is instantaneous
and, in most cases, causes these samples to be inaccurate. The
samples do, however, indicate the presence of oil or water and is
therefore only acceptable in isolated cases (i.e. cold bitumen/heavy oil
production).

Proportional Sampling
Proportional sampling involves the extraction of a set volume of fluid for
a given period of time or volume of production. This method of sampling
offers the most representative results, provided that the sample point is
properly located (i.e. downstream of the meter or static mixer) and that a
proper sample probe is used. Specific methods and styles of
proportional samplers are covered in the IMG’s QA/QC Measurement
Manual.

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GOR Testing

Conventional Oil and Gas Well GOR Testing

If a gas stream volume associated with conventional oil well or gas well
production does not exceed 0.5e3m 3 per day at any given
measurement/disposition point, the volume may be determined by
estimation instead of measurement. Examples of the gas streams that
may be estimated if the daily volume limitation is not exceeded include
well test gas, battery group gas, single-well battery gas, and
oil/condensate tank vented gas. Qualifying gas volumes may be
estimated by using a GOR factor. These factors must be updated
annually to confirm continuing eligibility for estimation and to update the
factors used to estimate gas volumes. The factors must also be updated
immediately following any operational changes that could cause the
factors to change. Licensees should also consider determining seasonal
GOR factors if ambient temperature differences may significantly affect
the factors.

Heavy Oil Cold Production GOR Testing

For initial well startup, in the absence of suitable reservoir information,

monthly tests must be conducted to determine the GOR factor or the
hourly rate if gas volumes are not dependent upon oil production for 6
months or until gas production stabilizes and measurement is required if
3 3
over 2.0e m /day. If total gas production per well does not exceed
3 3
2.0e m /day, the producer may use GOR or hourly rate testing to
determine gas volumes. In addition to the measurement of volume, the
source of the produced gas must be assessed by analysis to determine
whether the gas is solution gas or cap gas. This is especially important
if gas lease ownership differs from bitumen lease ownership.

A test of the well (approximately 24 hours) may be conducted such that

all the applicable gas and oil volumes produced during the test are
measured (including fuel, flared, and vented gas). The gas volume is to
be divided by the oil volume to result in the GOR factor or divided by the
test hours to obtain an hourly rate. The oil volume used in the
determination of the GOR factor can be based upon the monthly total oil
production (monthly total volume / hours produced in month x test
duration).

GOR or hourly rate test frequencies are detailed in the table below.

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Table 6.6 GOR or hourly rate test frequency requirements
3 3
Gas rate (e m /d) Test frequency

≤0.1 Once every 3 years

>0.1 but ≤1.0 Annually
>1.0 but <2.0 Semi-annually

Thermal Heavy Oil GOR Testing

For multi-well proration facilities, the group gas measurement can be

used to prorate back to well gas test rates using one of the following
methods:

 If a test separator exists, the total battery gas is prorated back

based on the individual test gas rates after subtracting the
steam produced with the gas and any lift gas volumes.

 The individual well GOR may be used as outlined in the

“Heavy Oil Cold Production GOR Testing” section above.

If test gas rates are not consistent and not used or well gas is not
measured but total well fluid production and water cut can be
determined at the battery, well gas production may be determined using
a battery-level GOR. The battery-level GOR and the application to each
well can be calculated as follows and will result in a gas proration of
1.00000:

 Battery GOR = Total monthly measured produced gas at

battery / Total monthly measured produced oil at battery

 Well gas volume = Battery GOR x Well prorated (reported) oil

volume

The battery-level GOR can only be used if the criteria below are met:

- there is common ownership of all the wells and the battery (no
equity issues), and

- there are no gas sales of the produced gas that would trigger a
gas royalty payment.

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Well Testing – Gas
General
The ERCB states that the effluent meter correction factor used for gas
wells using the effluent proration method should be determined on
annual frequency.

The BC OGC requires wells to be flow line tested within 60 days of

being online and Saskatchewan does not recognize effluent prorated
gas production.

Meter Maintenance
Meter Calibrations
The ERCB’s expectation is that gas meters in accounting service should
be calibrated as follows:
 Semi-annually for meters used for accounting purposes in gas
plants.
 Annually for all other gas meters in accounting service.
 Once every seven years for rotary meters utilized in fuel gas
applications (i.e. PD and turbine meters).
The OGC specifies that gas plant meters only need to be calibrated on
an annual frequency within gas plants unless they are utilized for
delivery point or custody transfer measurement, in which case they are
to be calibrated semi-annually. Saskatchewan Ministry of Energy and
Resources do not have similar requirements.
None of the calibration requirements above speak directly to Cross
Border applications.

The calibration requirements for chart recorders consist of:

 inspection of the pen arc, linkage, pressure stops and pen
spacing
 a zero, full span and 9-point ascending/descending calibration
of the differential pressure element against a manometer or a
suitable dead-weight tester
 a zero, 50% of full span and full span calibration of the static
pressure element against a suitable dead-weight tester or
other approved device

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  a 3-point calibration of the temperature element
 visual inspection of the condition and installation of the orifice
plate and orifice fitting.
For analog electronic transmitters, the requirements are:
 a zero, 50% and 100% ascending and 80% (or 75%), 20% (or
25%) and a zero calibration of the differential pressure element
against a manometer or a suitable dead-weight tester
 a zero, 50% and 100% ascending and 80% (or 75%), 20% (or
25%) and a zero calibration of the static pressure element
against a suitable dead-weight tester or other approved device
 a 3-point calibration of the temperature element
 visual inspection of the condition and installation of the orifice
plate and orifice fitting.
For digital electronic transmitters, the requirements are:
 a zero, 50% and 100% ascending of the differential pressure
element against a manometer or a suitable dead-weight tester
 a zero, 50% and 100% ascending of the differential pressure
element of the static pressure element against a suitable dead-
weight tester or other approved device
 a 3-point calibration of the temperature element
 visual inspection of the condition and installation of the orifice
plate and orifice fitting.
Although similar requirements do not exist for calibration frequency in
Saskatchewan, these same standards should apply at all of your
company-operated facilities.

Calibration Equipment Accuracy

The importance of using traceable calibration equipment cannot be

overemphasized. The calibration equipment accuracy must be greater
than the required accuracy of the meter equipment. Having a traceable
accuracy means that the calibration equipment is itself calibrated with
equipment whose accuracy can be traced back to a Measurement
Canada approved standard of calibration.

Calibration equipment should have its calibration verified against a

national standard according to the following frequencies:

 all sites requiring Measurement Canada approval must be

calibrated with equipment whose accuracy is verified annually.

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  for all other sites, the calibration equipment should be verified
every two years.

Calibration equipment should have a minimum uncertainty at least twice

as accurate as the equipment it calibrates (to a practical limit of 0.05%).

Meter Calibration Checklist

A comprehensive meter calibration checklist is available in the IMG’s
QA/QC Measurement Manual. The following lists the major key points
to check:

Chart Recorders

 Has the calibration equipment been verified to a national

standard within the last 2 years (check certificate)?
 Is the meter identified properly (line size, location, make,
model, etc.)?
 Does the chart have excess painting, any off scale (+/-)
readings, ink missing, good pen arc and accurate timing?
 Are the temperatures, pressure, DP ranges, and orifice plate
size all recorded properly on both the chart and the calibration
report?
 Are there any leaks in the sensing lines?
 Did the orifice plate inspection show:
 plate in backwards?
 a flat, smooth plate?
 any deposits?
 sharp upstream edge?
 no nicks in the upstream edge?
 a beta ratio between 0.15 - 0.70?

 Were the pressure, temperature and differential pens

calibrated to industry standards?

 differential pen calibrated to 0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%,

100% increasing and 90%, 70%, 50%, 30%, 10%, 0%
decreasing (both the “as found” and “as left” values are to
be reordered on the calibration report)

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  temperature pen calibrated to at least three points (both
the “as found” and “as left” values are to be reordered on
the calibration report)

 pressure pen calibrated to at least three points (both the

“as found” and “as left” values are to be reordered on the
calibration report)

Electronic Flow Measurement Devices

Calibration equipment

 Does the milliamp meter have at least 2 decimal place resolution?

 Has it been verified within the last 2 years (check certificate)?

 Is the meter identified properly (line size, location, make, model,

etc.)?

 Are the temperature, pressure, p ranges and orifice plate size all
recorded properly?

 Are there any leaks in the sensing lines?

 Did the orifice plate inspection show:

 plate in backwards?

 a flat, smooth plate?

 any deposits?

 sharp upstream edge?

 no nicks in the upstream edge?

 a beta ratio between 0.15 - 0.70?

 Were the “as found” temperature, pressure and p all recorded?

 Was the differential zero checked?

 Was the differential transmitter calibrated to 0%, 50%, and 100%

increasing and 80%, 20%, and 0% decreasing if an analog
transmitter is installed? (both the “as found” and “as left” values are
to be reordered on the calibration report)

 Was the differential transmitter calibrated to 0%, 50%, and 100% if

a digital transmitter is installed? (both the “as found” and “as left”

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 values are to be reordered on the calibration report)Was the
pressure transmitter calibrated to 0%, 50%, and 100% increasing?
(both the “as found” and “as left” values are to be reordered on the
calibration report)Was the temperature transmitter calibrated to at
least one point? (both the “as found” and “as left” values are to be
reordered on the calibration report)

 Was the volume calculation verified in the EFM/RTU device to

within 0.5%?

 When was the analysis last updated?

Internal Inspections
As part of ensuring that errors will not be present as a result of
damaged internal components, it is a regulatory requirement by both the
ERCB and OGC that a tag or label must be attached to the meter or end
device that identifies when an internal inspection is conducted. This tag
must identify the meter’s serial number, the date of the internal
inspection, and any other relevant details pertaining to the internal
inspection. A detailed record of the inspection, documenting the
condition of the internal components as found and any repairs or
changes made to the internal components must be kept for at least one
year and provided to the regulator upon request.

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Meter Proving
The following table lists the minimum ERCB requirements for meter
proving frequency:
Table 6.7 Proving Requirements for Condensate, Water and Oil

Subsequent Prove:
number of required
Initial Prove: consecutive runs
number of Maximum MF
Hydrocarbon Meter
required deviation
Type “As found” “As found”
consecutive allowed from
runs MF ≤ ± 0.5% MF >± 0.5%
mean of all
of previous of previous
applicable
runs (%)
Live oil – field proving 4 1 4 1.5
Live oil – shop proving 4 4 4 0.5
Dead oil, condensate at
equilibrium, high vapour 3 1 3 0.25
pressure liquids
Live condensate – field
4 1 4 2
proving
Live condensate – shop
4 4 4 0.5
proving
Water – field proving 4 1 4 1.5
Water – shop proving 4 4 4 1.5

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Table 6.8 ERCB Proving Frequency Requirements

Test Oil

Well Test - Meter Annual

Well Test – Tank Gauging Annual

Dead Oil

Custody Transfer – Pipeline with meter Monthly

Delivery Point – Pipeline with meter Monthly

Delivery Point – Truck with meter Monthly

Flow Line or Dead HCL Conditions
- Delivery Point
- Custody Transfer
HCL Volumes Monthly

Flow Line Conditions

- Gas Plant Applications

HCL Volumes Semi-Annual

Flow-Line Conditions
- Non Delivery Point
- Non Custody Transfer
- ie: Wellhead
HCL Volumes Annual

In addition to Table 6.8 above, oil and condensate liquid meters must
be:

 Re-proved after repair, internal inspection, or if a significant

change is noted in the metering conditions.

 Proved within the first month of being in service.

The B.C. regulations are similar to the ERCB’s with one

exception. This exception states that the group oil meters require
one run within 0.50% of the current factor after the initial meter
prove. Saskatchewan has no regulations governing meter
proving. Where practical, your company should adhere to ERCB
requirements in B.C. and Saskatchewan and will also expect
contractors to meet these requirements, to ensure consistent
practices across the company.

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None of the proving requirements above speak directly to Cross Border
applications.

Witnessing
Witnessing the calibration and proving of both production and custody
transfer meters is a major necessity today. The frequency of witnessing
will depend on each individual meter site and the availability of
manpower. Checklists have been prepared to assist personnel in
witnessing gas and liquid meter calibrations and proving. These
checklists are identified as follows:
1. Liquid Meter Proving Checklist - Conventional Pipe Provers
2. Liquid Meter proving Checklist - Volumetric Tank
3. Gas Meter Calibration Checklist - Chart Recorders
4. Gas Meter Calibration Checklist - Electronic Flow
Measurement Devices

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Liquid Meter Proving Checklist—Conventional Pipe Provers
METER PROVING WITNESSING CHECKLIST
Liquid Meter—Conventional Pipe Provers (Ball Prover’s)

1. Has the prover been calibrated (water drawn) within the last 4 years?
(check certificate)
2. Is the meter identified properly? (size, make, model, S/N)
3. Is the prover totally liquid filled? (check high point vents)
4. Is the main pipeline valve passing liquid? (check double block and bleed
valve)
5. Is the 4-way diverter valve leaking? (check body valve) (CPP Only)
6. Are the piston and bypass seals bubble tight? (SVP Only)
7. Is the difference in temperature between the ends of the prover less than
0.25C?
8. Have preliminary proving runs been done to check proper prover/meter
operation and flow stabilization? (IF METER PROBLEMS ARE
IDENTIFIED, PROCEED WITH PROVING TO DETERMINE ‘AS FOUND’
FACTOR PRIOR TO REPAIR.)
9. Is the flow rate going through the meter within the normal operating range
of the meter? Has the rate changed >10% since last proving?
10. Are the total number of pulses per round trip:
 greater than 10,000? (CPP Only)
 have the required 0.05% repeatability? (usually 5 consecutive runs
are required)
11. Are the temperatures:
 recorded for the meter and prover separately?
 accurately recorded to within 0.25C?
 taken once for each round trip?
12. Are the pressures:
 Recorded for the meter and prover separately?
 Recorded as accurately as can be read on the pressure gauge?
 Taken once for each round trip?
13. Is the observed liquid density:
 Accurately recorded to within 0.5 kg/m ?
3

 Properly corrected to 15C using the liquid’s temperature to 0.1

3
kg/m ?
14. Has the meter factor changed by > 0.25% since last proving?
15. Is there anything that requires comment? (excessive meter factor change,
changes in metering conditions from previous prove, etc.)
CPP – Conventional Pipe Prover - Ball Prover
SVP –Small Volume Prover - Compact or Ballistic Prover

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Liquid Meter Proving Checklist – Volumetric Tank
METER PROVING WITNESSING CHECKLIST
Liquid Meters–—Volumetric Provers

ANY “NO” ANSWERS REQUIRE IMMEDIATE ATTENTION

1. Has the prover vessel had a water draw within the last 2 years?
2. Is the meter identified properly? (size, make, model, S/N)
3. Is the meter installed as per regulator or API regulations?
4. Are process conditions stabilized?
5. Is the level controller “snap acting”? (This is a must for turbine and P.D.
meters)
6. Does the level controller maintain a proper level?
7. Does the liquid level control valve hold?
8. Do the proving tap valves hold?
9. Is the proper vessel level?
10. Is the ‘as found’ flow rate within the manufacturers specifications?
11. Is the flow rate through the meter and into the prover within 10% of the ‘as
found’ flow rate?
12. Is proper back pressure being held on the prover to prevent flashing and
carryover?
13. Were ‘as found’ runs taken and recorded?
14. Was the meter inspected? Were any contaminants found?
15. Did the meter require repair, and if so, were the replaced parts recorded on
the meter report?
16. Does the well or wells being used represent the characteristics of all the
wells associated with this facility?
17. Were the runs stopped during a dump cycle to maintain line pack?
18. Was degassing performed accurately and without carryover? This step is
usually not required for condensate.
19. Was an accurate fluid density and temperature obtained and recorded for
each run?
20. Is the factor for each run within 1.5% of the average meter factor?
21. Is all documentation and meter tagging accurate and complete?

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Gas Meter Calibration Checklist—Chart Recorders
METER CALIBRATION WITNESSING CHECKLIST
Gas Meter—Chart Recorders

1. Has the calibration equipment been verified to a national standard within

the last 2 years? (check certificate)
2. Is the meter identified properly? (line size, location, make, model, etc.)
3. Does the chart have:
 excess painting?
 any off scale (+ or -) readings?
 ink missing?
 good pen arc?
 accurate timing?
4. Are the temperature, pressure, p ranges, and orifice plate size all
recorded properly on both the chart and the calibration report?
5. Are there any leaks in the sensing lines?
6. Did the orifice plate inspection show:
 plate in backwards?
 a flat, smooth plate?
 any deposits?
 sharp upstream edge?
 no nicks in the upstream edge?
 a beta ratio between 0.15 - 0.70?
7. Was the as found temperature, pressure, and p all recorded?
8. Did the operator put on a new chart prior to starting the calibration?
9. Was the differential pen zero checked?
10. Was the differential pen calibrated to 0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, 100%
increasing and 90%, 70%, 50%, 30%, 10%, 0% decreasing. (BOTH AS
FOUND AND AS LEFT VALUES MUST BE RECORDED)
11. Was the pressure pen calibrated to at least 3 points including line pressure
and zero? (BOTH AS FOUND AND AS LEFT VALUES MUST BE
RECORDED)
12. Was the temperature pen calibrated to at least three points? (BOTH AS
FOUND AND AS LEFT VALUES MUST BE RECORDED)
13. Was there anything that requires comment? (large (>2%) differences
between the as found and as left values or orifice plate in poor condition)

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Gas Meter Calibration Checklist — Electronic Flow Measurement
Devices
METER CALIBRATION WITNESSING CHECKLIST
Gas Meter—Electronic Flow Measurement Devices

1. The calibration equipment

 Does the milliamp meter have at least 2 decimal place resolution?
 Has it been verified within the last 2 years? (check certificate)
2. Is the meter identified properly? (line size, location, make, model, etc.)

3. Are the temperatures, pressure, p ranges and orifice plate size all
recorded properly?
4. Are there any leaks in the sensing lines?
5. Did the orifice plate inspection show:
 plate in backwards?
 a flat, smooth plate?
 any deposits?
 sharp upstream edge?
 no nicks in the upstream edge?
 a beta ratio between 0.15 - 0.70?

6. Was the as found temperature, pressure and p all recorded?

7. Was the differential zero checked?
8. Was the differential transmitter calibrated to 0%, 50%, and 100%
increasing and 80%, 20%, and 0% decreasing? (BOTH AS FOUND AND
AS LEFT VALUES MUST BE RECORDED)
9. Was the pressure transmitter calibrated to 0%, 50%, and 100% increasing
and 80%, 20%, and 0% decreasing? (BOTH AS FOUND AND AS LEFT
VALUES MUST BE RECORDED)
10. Was the temperature transmitter calibrated to at least one point? (BOTH
AS FOUND AND AS LEFT VALUES MUST BE RECORDED)
11. Was the volume calculation verified in the EFM/RTU device to within 0.5%.

12. Was there anything that requires comment? (large (>2%) differences
between the as found and as left values or orifice plate in poor condition)

Sampling and Analysis

Sampling and analysis of a particular stream are completed for a
number of reasons. These reasons can include product quality issues,
production accounting and revenue allocation adjustments, compliance
with regulatory requirements, or to provide updated input to online and
offline calculations.

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Page 26
There are two different methods of taking a sample:

• Manual or spot sampling is a method in which a sample is

taken in a container and transported back to a lab for further
analysis. There are two critical sources of error to note with
manual samples: failure to follow proper procedures and failure
to take the sample from the same correctly designed sample
point each time.
• Automatic, proportional or composite sampling is a
method where a sample is taken in small “bites”. These bites
can be sent to an online instrument (gas chromatograph) for
continuous analysis or to a container which is removed and
analyzed offsite. The frequency and volume of the bite taken is
dependent on the equipment used. The frequency can be
proportional to time (e.g. 2ml/sec) or volume measured (e.g.
2ml/m3 metered). For the majority of installations, proportional
to volume sampling is the best choice.

Sampling Frequency
The ERCB requirements for gas density measurement frequency for oil
and gas operations are as per the following table:

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Table 6.9 Gas Sampling Frequency

The B.C. regulations requires that any well be sampled for gas,
hydrocarbon liquid or water within the 60 days of being online and gas is
to be sampled for annually to meet Green House Gas Emission
requirements. Saskatchewan has no requirements in this area.
Reliable plant allocation methods require adequately updated gas and
liquid analyses.

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Sample Points
Sample points are chosen to provide a representative sample of the
fluid to be analyzed. This requires that the sample be removed from the
system at, or as near as possible to, actual operating conditions.1

The following are points to keep in mind when selecting a gas sample
point:

1. A gas sample probe should always be utilized if possible but is

only required for sampling applications where the gas is at or
near its hydrocarbon dew point, a sample probe must be used
(e.g., any separator application where hydrocarbon liquids are
present).

2. The tubing from the sample point to the container should be no

smaller than ¼" in diameter and as short as possible. For sour
sample and high-pressure samples (over 1000 psig), stainless
steel tubing is recommended.
3. The valve at the sample point should be a ball valve.

4. The preferred location for gas sample points is the top of

horizontal lines. With an optional location for gas sample
probes is the side of vertical lines with the probe tip sloping 45°
downward.

5. Sample probes should be located at least 5 pipe diameters

downstream of any piping disturbances, such as bends,
elbows, headers, and tees.

6. The location of the sample point must be such that phase

changes due to changes in pressure and/or temperature are
minimized. Specifically, for gases at or near their hydrocarbon
dew point, sample points must not be located downstream of
pressure-reducing components, such as control valves, flow
conditioners, and regulators, or long lengths of un-insulated
piping or within 5 pipe diameter downstream of an orifice plate.
7. Insulation and heat tracing must be used to eliminate any cold
“spots” between the sample point and the entry point into the
sample container or gas chromatograph where the sample
transfer tubing temperature falls below the hydrocarbon dew
point, such as at all separator applications.

1 If possible, sampling for gas should be done in the time frame April to
October.

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 8. Sample points used to sample blends of two gas streams
should have provision for mixing (e.g., upstream static mixer),
with due consideration to potential phase changes brought
about by a pressure drop associated with the mixing device.

9. Meter impulse lines or transmitter manifolds lines must not be

used for taking samples.

10. Level gauge connections must not be used for taking samples.

11. All sample points should be tagged with permanent markings

to ensure consistency of samples and should be identified on a
metering schematic.
Figure 1 Inappropriate Sampling Locations

The following are points to keep in mind when selecting a hydrocarbon

liquid sample point:

1. A sample probe is always recommended, but is required with

two-phase separators.

2. A sample probe must be installed for samples to be used to

determine water cut when there is emulsion or a mix of water
and hydrocarbon, such as two-phase separators. For such
applications, the sampling system design must meet use a
static mixer or have the sample probe located in such a
location that the sample is taken at a location where no
stratification has taken place.
3. The preferred location is the side of horizontal lines. With an
optional location for liquid sample points is the side of vertical
lines with the probe tip sloping 45° downward.

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 4. The location of the sample point must be such that phase
changes due to changes in pressure and/or temperature are
minimized. Specifically, sample points must not be located
where vapour breakout is likely (e.g., downstream of pressure-
reducing components, such as orifice plates, flow conditioners,
turbine, PD or coriolis mass meters, control valves, and
regulators or where the stream temperature has increased).
5. For separator applications, the sample point should be
between the separator outlet and the flow/level control valve
upstream of the meter, unless a pressure booster pump is
used, in which case the sample point is between the pump
discharge and the meter.

6. Meter impulse lines or transmitter manifolds lines must not be

used for taking samples.

7. Level gauge connections must not be used for taking samples.

Sample Scheduling and Sample Point Tags

Sample points should be listed in detail in your company’s laboratory
analysis sampling schedule. The following information is recommended
for samples and all entries into:

1. Location – either
• 16 digit Unique Well Identifier for wells e.g.
100042507308W600, or
• LSD for plants/batteries/satellites e.g. 2-8-24-12W4

2. Well/Facility name e.g. ABC Oil Co. Cessford 2-8-24-12 Gas

Plant

3. Measuring Point/Meter ID associated with nearest meter used

by Production Accounting

4. Sample point location description e.g. Test Separator Gas

5. Sample frequency – Biennial (every two years) / Annual /

Semi-annual (six months) / Quarterly, etc.

6. Date last sampled

7. Field Name

8. For wells, the following additional information should be

included on an analysis report:
a) Well status mode

Field Measurement Handbook Rev. 5

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 b) Well type indicator
c) Sample point code
d) Solution gas indicator
e) Well fluid status
f) Well status type
g) Product code
h) KB and ground elevations
i) Gross perforated interval in mKB
j) Formation name

Your company’s contract lab should prepare standard sample point tags
once they have received the appropriate information. Because
submitting incorrect or incomplete information to the regulator may
result associated noncompliance’s as well as considerable re-work, it is
important to get this information correct the first time.

Analyses Troubleshooting
There are many reasons why an analysis may be incorrect; incorrect
sampling procedure, wrong sample point, or a leaking sample container
are just a few examples. It is therefore important that all analysis
reports be scrutinized to ensure that the analysis is appropriate and
reasonable. Trending results is a valuable diagnostic tool.

Guidelines to follow for trending and reviewing an analysis report are:

1. Ensuring consistency with previous analyses. Normally

components in gases and liquids do not vary in their concentration
a great deal from sample to sample.

2. Watching for high nitrogen levels in the stream which may indicate
that the sample was contaminated with air.

3. Watching for high concentration of heavy ends which may indicate

that the sample container leaked and that light ends have escaped.

4. Reviewing gas streams with H2S onsite to avoid degradation.

5. Ensuring that sampling conditions (e.g. separator temperature and

pressure vs. sample bomb temperature and pressure when
analyzed) stated on the report are reasonable and that the analysis
is similar to previous results.

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6. Ensuring that sample is identified correctly; a sour sample still has
H2S and a sweet sample does not.

Water Cut (S&W) Procedures

Standardized procedure for Sediment and Water (S&W) determination
is used to ensure reliable and repeatable measurements. The
procedure ensures that measuring equipment is operated correctly and
that values provided for accounting purposes are correct. When working
in field locations, all safety rules and regulations shall be followed. This
includes, but is not limited to, wearing fire-retardant clothing, steel-toed
boots, hard hats and protective eyewear. Prior to working with any
chemicals listed in this procedure it is necessary for each person
involved to familiarize themselves with the Material Safety Data Sheet
(MSDS) provided by the product manufacturer. It is responsibility of the
operator of each area to ensure a MSDS is available for each product.
When decanting chemicals it is necessary to label them as per
Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS).
Sampling of production fluids from process or storage equipment
presents a number of hazards including the release of flammable or
toxic fluids. Proper training is required before taking samples.

 Location of sampling points must meet the guidelines outlined

in this manual and tagged as such to ensure a representative
sample is being produced.

 Collect as close to a 1000mL sample as possible into a re-

sealable container. All manual samples shall be obtained using
a proportional sampler.

 Seal the container to prevent contamination to the sample

during transport.

 Label the sample container with the location of the sampler

and deliver the sample to the testing facility.

Low Range S&W Determination Procedure

(Approximated S&W content of less than 10%)

Determination of the S&W content in liquid samples, where the S&W

content does not exceed 10%, shall be by the Centrifuge Method and
the following procedure.
Obtain 2 clean and dry centrifuge tubes. Both 50mL and 100mL tubes
are acceptable for this purpose. NOTE: It must be taken into
consideration that values will have to be adjusted when using 50mL
tubes. A diagram of a typical centrifuge tube is show in Figure 2 below.

Field Measurement Handbook Rev. 5

Page 33
Figure 2 Centrifuge Tubes

 Vigorously shake the sample to thoroughly mix the contents of

the container.

 Immediately fill each tube with the sample up to the 50mL mark
(or 25mL mark for the 50mL tube).

 If previous experiments have shown the need for de-emulsifier

a small amount can be added to the sample, this amount is not
to exceed 5 drops. If de-emulsifier was added thoroughly mix
contents of the tube.

 Choose the desired solvent and fill the tubes to their maximum
measurable volume. If wax contributes to the volume of water
and sediment observed the solvent used can be preheated to
60°C prior to use.

Field Measurement Handbook Rev. 5

Page 34
 Stopper the tubes tightly and vigorously shake each tube
ensuring that tubes are fully inverted at least 5 times and the
contents are thoroughly mixed.

 Immerse the tubes to the liquid level in a preheated water bath

for minimum time of 10 minutes. The bath temperature should
be the same as the treater temperature, but it should not
exceed the vapor temperature of water and/or oil.

 Shake and invert each tube again and place the tubes into the
centrifuge trunnion cups on opposite sides of the centrifuge to
establish balanced condition.

 Spin the sample for at least 5 minutes at 1700 rpm. (Tests at

each field will be required to determine if 5 minutes is sufficient
to drop out all S&W.)

 Read and record the combined volume of water and sediment

at the bottom of each tube. If using a 50mL tube multiply the
value by 2.

 For a reading above 1.0mL read and record the volume to the
nearest 0.1mL.

 For a reading between 0.2mL and 1.0mL read and record the
volume to the nearest 0.05mL.

 For a reading below 0.2mL read and record the volume to the
nearest 0.0025mL.

 Return the tubes without agitation to the centrifuge and spin

again for 10 minutes. Repeat this step until the combined
volume of water and sediment is constant for two consecutive
readings.

 Average the readings from each tube and convert them into
percentages of sediment and water.

 Ensure the value obtained is recorded in the production

accounting system and the field data capture system and on
tickets (if applicable). All water cuts shall be reported to the
nearest 0.1%.

 If you have any reason to doubt the results, take another test.
If the results of the second test are different look for reasons
for the change and contact the Senior Foreman in your area. It
is very important that accurate results are achieved. If you had
a representative sample and have followed these procedures,

Field Measurement Handbook Rev. 5

Page 35
 there is no reason not to believe your results. Do not change
the results for any reason.

Medium Range S&W Determination Procedure

(Approximated S&W content >20% and <than 80%)

Determination of the S&W content in liquid samples, where the S&W
content is between 20% and 80%, shall be performed in accordance
with ERCB Directive 017, Measurement Requirements for Upstream Oil
and Gas Operations and the following procedure.

 Obtain a clean and dry 1000mL graduated cylinder; label the

cylinder with the unique well identifier (UWI) matching the
location from which the sample was obtained.

 Add a small amount (3-5 drops) of the de-emulsifier used at

the battery to the sample. Mix well.

 Immediately transfer the sample into the graduated cylinder

(mason jars are not acceptable).

 Immerse the cylinder in the preheated water bath ensuring that

the entire sample is below the water level of the bath. The bath
temperature should be the same as the treater temperature,
but it should not exceed the vapor temperature of water and/or
oil.

 Leave the sample in the water bath for minimum of 10 minutes

or until it reaches the temperature of the water bath. The
temperature of the sample should be measured using a
certified thermometer.

 Read and record the total volume of the sample (Vt) and the
volume of sediment and water (VSW1).

 To ensure all the water has separated out of the oil, a water cut
of the emulsion layer should be determined if there is enough
oil sample, and/or if the water cut of the emulsion layer is
suspected of being greater than 1%.

 Using a pipette or burette draw from the middle of the oil and
measure the S&W content of the emulsion by following the
procedure for Low Range S&W procedure. It is preferable to
obtain enough oil for two samples, however if insufficient oil is
left in the sample cylinder, operators may use the Low
Sediment and Water Cut method using only one sample tube.
NOTE: Remember to balance the centrifuge with another
sample tube filled with other fluid.

Field Measurement Handbook Rev. 5

Page 36
 Calculate the percentage of S&W in the sample as per the
information provided in Figure 2 below.

VE = Vt – VSW1
VSW2 = %SWE/100 * VE
%SWT = (VSW1 + VSW2)/Vt * 100%

Where:
VE = Volume of emulsion in the sample
Vt = Total volume of the sample
VSW1 = Volume of sediment and water observed in graduated
cylinder
VSW2 = Volume of sediment and water in the emulsion
%SWE = % of sediment and water in emulsion (obtained from
centrifuge test)
%SWT = % of sediment and water in total sample

Figure 3 Graduated Cylinder Measurements

Total Volume
Volume
S&W

 EnsureFigure
the 2: Calculating
value volume
obtained percentage
is recorded in ofthe
S&W
production
accounting system and the field data capture system and on
tickets (if applicable). All water cuts shall be reported to the
nearest 0.1%.

Field Measurement Handbook Rev. 5

Page 37
High Range S&W Determination Procedure
(Approximated S&W content of more than 80%)

Determination of the S&W content in liquid samples, where the S&W

content is between greater than 80% shall be performed in accordance
with the following procedure.

 Obtain a clean and dry 1000mL graduated cylinder; label the

cylinder with the unique well identifier (UWI) matching the
location from which the sample was obtained NOTE: Where
high volume well pumps are utilized it is recommended to use
a narrow necked flask to obtain accurate readings for water
cuts above 95%.

 Add a small amount (3-5 drops) of the de-emulsifier used at

the battery to the sample. Mix well.

 Immediately transfer the sample into the graduated cylinder or

narrow necked flask (mason jars are not acceptable).Fill the
flask or cylinder to about 70mL mark.

 Decant the remaining sample from the transfer container.

 Measure a small amount of solvent (approximately 30-50mL)

and pour it into the transfer container and wash out the inside
to remove remaining oil.

 Top off the cylinder or flask with the wash solution and record
the volume of solvent transferred (Vs).

 Immerse the cylinder in the preheated water bath ensuring that

the entire sample is below the water level of the bath. The bath
temperature should be the same as the treater temperature,
but it should not exceed the vapor temperature of water and/or
oil.

 Leave the sample in the water bath for minimum of 10 minutes

or until it reaches the temperature of the water bath. The
temperature of the sample should be measured using a
certified thermometer.

 Read and record the total volume of liquid (Vt) and the volume
of sediment and water (VSW).

 Calculate the percentage of S&W in the sample as per the

information provided in Figure 4 below.

Field Measurement Handbook Rev. 5

Page 38
Figure 4 Narrow Neck Flask Measurements

%SWT = VSW/(Vt-VS)*100%

Where:
VSW = Volume of S&W in the cylinder
Vt = Total volume of liquid in the cylinder
Vs = Volume of solvent added

Total Volume
Volume S&W
 Ensure the value obtained is recorded in the production
accounting system and the field data capture system and on
tickets (if applicable). All water cuts shall be reported to the
nearest 0.1%.

7. Measurement Installation & Operation

Gas Measurement
Installation

Orifice Meters
Orifice meter runs for wellhead and test separators should be installed
in the vertical position to minimize the impact of fluid carryover on meter
accuracy. Effluent or wet meter runs should be installed on the
horizontal axis. All other meter runs, particularly in gas plants, may be
installed in the horizontal position.
All meter runs used for Production Accounting must meet AGA
specifications as outlined in the IMG’s QA/QC Measurement Manual.

Field Measurement Handbook Rev. 5

Page 39
Chart Recorder or EFM Transmitters
To ensure accurate recording of the differential and static pressure on
an orifice meter, the recorder or transmitters must be properly installed.
The following installation criteria must be met:
 for new installations, the static pressure element for the
recorder should be tubed to the upstream side of the orifice
meter. Existing installations can be tubed to either side but the
location must be identified to the chart reading company
 manifold will be 5 valve (where 3 valve manifolds exist, the
mainline isolation valves must be ½” fully ported valves)
 main line isolation valves will be full port ball valves
 sensing lines will be ½” tubing
 sensing lines will not exceed 1 meter in length
 drip pots are not permitted as the recorder or transmitter is to
be installed above the orifice fitting
 sensing lines will be self draining back to the orifice fitting with
1” slope for every 1’ of length
 recorders should be mounted on a stand-alone structural
support to minimize the risk of vibration.

Operation

Orifice Meters
Operate the orifice meter so the beta ratio is between 0.15 and 0.70 for
pre-1992 equipment. New equipment installed after 1992 uses a beta
ratio between 0.10 and 0.70.

Operate the meter so the differential pressure is in the upper 2/3 of a

chart’s range.

Orifice Charts

Any gas meter, when installed properly, requires proper operating

procedures in order to meter at its minimum uncertainty. The following
sections contain operating procedures for the most common gas
meters:
 provide a complete set of data each time the chart is changed
with the following information:

Field Measurement Handbook Rev. 5

Page 40
• company name
• location
• identification of measured stream
• date and time on and off
• orifice and line size
• differential and static pressure ranges (not required if
properly scaled charts are in use)
• temperature range (with the units)
• required for a three-pen recorder; (not required if
properly scaled charts used)
• written temperature (with the units) required for a two-
pen recorder
 Rule of Thumb: If the flow through a meter is greater
than 10e3m 3/day and the change in temperature is
greater than 5.5°C, then a 3-pen recorder should be
installed
• measuring point identification number
• record other important chart information:
• date, time, and new size of any orifice plate change
• estimates and explanations - e.g. pens out of ink,
meter froze, plate in backwards
• no whiting out of when the meter was zeroed - should
occur once per chart cycle
• any estimated flows on the chart giving a brief explanation
of why the estimate was made:
• the ERCB recognizes the chart as a legal document
and whiting out of charts is deemed as tampering
• all comments should be written on face of chart, not
on back
• no painting on chart:
• if painting occurs refer to Dampening Valve
Adjustment
• all charts are to be kept for audit purposes

Field Measurement Handbook Rev. 5

Page 41
Chart Recorder Zeroing
To verify if the recording on a chart is accurate, the differential pressure
pen must be zeroed. Care should be taken when zeroing because the
differential pressure unit and/or the chart recorder could be damaged if
the proper procedures are not followed.

The ERCB requires that the differential pen be zeroed once per chart
cycle. There are two methods to zero a recorder:
1. Under pressure - used for zeroing differential pressure pen.
2. Atmospheric pressure - used for zeroing differential and static
pressure.

Your company requires that if only the differential pen is being zeroed,
use the under pressure method. If both pens are to be zeroed, use the
atmospheric pressure method.

Note: Some meters have a 5-valve manifold, while others have a 3-

valve bar manifold.

Under Pressure Method

Refer to Figure 5 for valve numbering:

1. Close vent valve 5 (if in sour service, this valve may be closed
already).
2. Open equalizing valves 3 and 4.
3. Close either valve 1 or 2.
4. Differential pen should drop to zero. Rotate chart to establish a
base line, check the pen arc, and note the time and date on the
chart.
5. Slowly open valve 1 or 2.
6. Close valves 3 and 4.
7. Open the vent valve 5 (if in sour service, leave closed).

Atmospheric Pressure Method

Refer to Figure 5 for valve numbering:

1. Close vent valve 5 (if in sour service, this valve should be closed
already).
2. Open equalizing valves 3 and 4.

Field Measurement Handbook Rev. 5

Page 42
3. Close block valves 1 and 2.
4. Open valve 5 to bleed off pressure.
5. Rotate dampening valve counterclockwise until fully out (count
number of rotations).
6. Differential and static pen should drop to zero. Rotate the chart to
establish a base line, check the pen arc, and note the time and date
on the chart.
7. Close valve 5.
8. Crack open valves 1 and 2 at the same time. Do not allow the
differential pen to go below zero or above 100%.
9. Slowly open valve 1 fully and then valve 2.
10. Close valves 3 and 4.
11. Open the vent valve 5 (if in sour service, leave closed).
12. Reset the dampening valve to an “as-found” condition.

Field Measurement Handbook Rev. 5

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Figure 5 Chart Recorder and Valve Manifold

Chart Recorder

(3) (4)

(1)
(5)
(2)

Vent

Separator
Control Valve

Capillary Line

Signal Line

Dampening Valve Adjustment

The dampening valve on a differential pressure unit can be used to help

reduce the effects of vibration or pulsation. Overuse will reduce the
response time of the recorder causing a greater problem than the
vibration/pulsation. The following is recommended for the settings:

 the dampening valve should be initially set to 1 to 1-1/2 turns

open
 if chart painting occurs, close the valve to a maximum of ¾ of a
turn open. If less than ¾, the response time of the recorder will
be unacceptable

Field Measurement Handbook Rev. 5

Page 44
  if chart painting cannot be resolved through the correct use of
the dampening valve, the cause of the painting should be
investigated and eliminated
 full scale travel (either up or down) should not exceed 15
seconds. If the travel exceeds 15 seconds, this indicates that
the DPU has too much dampening
 if the DPU requires a zero adjustment more than twice per
month, it should be checked for leaks or a broken range spring.

Changing Orifice Plates — Daniel Senior Orifice Fitting

Refer to Figure 6 for instructions on removing and installing orifice

fittings using the Daniel Senior Orifice Fitting.

Daniel Senior Orifice Fittings are operated under pressurized line

conditions. Safety precautions must be exercised to protect personnel.
Always follow the operating instructions. Please ensure that you review
your operations manual specific to your orifice fitting prior to attempting
to remove or insert an orifice plate. Do not expose any part of the
body to the top opening while the clamping bar is being removed.

Field Measurement Handbook Rev. 5

Page 45
Figure 6 Daniel Senior Orifice Fitting Diagram

Removal of Orifice

1. Determine the kind of recording device to avoid the appearance of

flow interruption on the recording device:
 if a chart recorder is used, equalize the recorder
 if an EFM device is used, determine the correct procedure for
that device to set the device for an orifice plate change; the
result usually maintains the last measured value until normal
operation is re-established.
2. Open equalizer valve (No. 1) a maximum of two turns only.
3. Open slide valve (No. 5).
4. Rotate lower plate carrier gear shaft (No. 6).
5. Rotate upper plate carrier gear shaft (No. 7).

Field Measurement Handbook Rev. 5

Page 46
6. Close slide valve (No. 5).
7. Close equalizer valve (No. 1) a maximum of two turns only.
8. Open bleeder valve (No. 10B).
9. Turn the grease gun fitting 1/2 turn (No. 23).
10. Loosen clamping bar screws (No. 11). DO NOT remove the
clamping bar (No. 12).
11. Rotate the upper plate carrier gear shaft (No. 7) to free the sealing
bar (No. 9) and the sealing bar gasket (No. 9A).
12. Remove the clamping bar (No. 12), sealing bar (No. 9), and the
sealing bar gasket (No. 9A).

Insertion of Orifice

1. Insert the orifice plate and plate carrier into the fitting and ensure
the sharp edge of the plate faces upstream.
2. Close the bleeder valve (No. 10B).
3. Rotate the upper plate carrier gear shaft (No. 7) slowly until the
plate carrier is clear of the sealing bar and gasket level. Do not
lower the plate carrier onto the slide valve.
4. Replace the sealing bar gasket (No. 9A), sealing bar (No. 9), and
the clamping bar (No. 12).
5. Tighten the clamping bar screws (No. 11).
6. Open the equalizer valve (No. 1).
7. Open the slide valve (No. 5).
8. Rotate the upper plate carrier gear shaft (No. 7).
9. Rotate the lower plate carrier gear shaft (No. 6).
10. Close the slide valve (No. 5).
11. Close the equalizer valve (No. 1).
12. Open the bleeder valve (No. 10B). When venting the upper
chamber through the bleeder valve, direct fluid to a safe area using
the threaded connection at the valve discharge port.
13. Close the bleeder valve (No. 10B).

Field Measurement Handbook Rev. 5

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Orifice Plate Handling and Storage
Orifice plates must be kept clean and free of nicks or burrs caused by
mishandling. Plates should be kept in a clean, dry place and should be
separated from each other. A wooden box with built in dividers works
well. Spare gaskets should be included. Any used, damaged plates
should be discarded to prevent accidental re-use.

Liquid Measurement
Installation

Proving Taps

The installation of a liquid meter relative to its proving taps is an

important consideration for any liquid meter, but especially so for test oil
and gas condensate meters. Error! Reference source not
found. 7.1 lists the requirements for the installation of proving taps
for these two metering applications, and the respective requirements for
proving.

Field Measurement Handbook Rev. 5

Page 48
Table 7.1 Meter Installation Guidelines
Proving Acceptable
Service Configuration
Considerations Proving Methods
1. This requires
proving the
meter to stock
Tank-type
tank
volumetric or
conditions.
Test Oil Figure 7 gravimetric
2. Allows
provers
proving of
entire
metering
system.
1. Meter
requires
proving to
flowing line
conditions. Tank-type
2. Flashing of volumetric or
Gas Condensate Figure 7
gas from the gravimetric
liquid must be provers
minimized by
controlling p
from taps to
prover.
1. Meter
requires
proving to
flowing line
conditions.
2. Ensure flow
rate through
the meter is
Ball provers, pipe
Figure 8 controlled to
provers, or master
equal normal
meters
operating
conditions.
3. Allows the
use of master
meter to
prove the
meter.

Field Measurement Handbook Rev. 5

Page 49
Figure 7 Liquid Meter Installation with Proving Taps Downstream
of LCV

Gas

Snap Acting
Well Fluids Liquid Level Valve

Calibration
Meter Connections

Water

By-pass

Figure 8 Liquid Meter Installation with Proving Taps Upstream of

LCV

Gas

Snap Acting
W ell Fluids Liquid Level Valve

Calibration
Meter Connections

W ater

By-pass

Pipe Run

The meter run piping upstream of liquid meters should be simple in

order to minimize turbulence and gas breakout. In addition, the meter
must be installed below the lowest liquid level in the separator to ensure

Field Measurement Handbook Rev. 5

Page 50
a minimum liquid head on the meter and to prevent gas break out in the
meter.

API specification recommends is that there must be a minimum straight

pipe length of 10-pipe diameters of straight pipe upstream of a turbine
or vortex meter with the use of a flow conditioner. API also recommends
that 20-pipe diameters of straight pipe be utilized without the use of a
flow conditioner. API specifications also indicate that 5-pipe diameters
of straight pipe be installed downstream of turbine and vortex meters.
All installations should adhere to either the manufactures specifications
or those set out by API.

Operation
Any liquid meter, when installed properly, requires appropriate operating
procedures to meter at a minimum uncertainty. Operating procedures
for the most common liquid meters should ensure:

• a separator liquid level that remains above the meter elevation

at all times
• a snap acting level control loop
• a properly sized dump valve port to ensure the flow rates are
within manufacturers’ specifications
• meter is installed upstream of the dump valve.

Positive Displacement and Turbine Meters

The primary role of operations is to ensure the meter’s flow rate is within
the manufacturer’s recommended range. This is done by timing the
meter during a dump cycle and comparing the results to that in Table
7.2 and Table 7.3:
Table 7.2 Recommended Flow Rates for PD Meters

3
Meter Type Size m /day Liters/10
Meter Type
sec

AO SMITH 1½” - 2” 133 - 686 15 – 79.5

2½” - 3” 305 - 1525 35.5 - 176.5
CLIFF MOCK & FLOCO
500 1” - 2” 32 - 326 3.7 – 38
500 & 2500 3” 49 - 490 5.6 - 56
5000 1” 49 - 326 5.6 - 38
2500 2” 32 - 326 3.7 - 38
FLO TRAC 1” – 306 23 - 476 2.6 - 55
1” – 380 8 - 81 1-9
BROOKS
504 ½” 12 - 115 1.5 - 13.5
793 1” 26 - 296 3 - 33

Field Measurement Handbook Rev. 5

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 3
Meter Type Size m /day Liters/10
Meter Type
sec

792 1” 7.9 108 1 - 13

666 ½” 12 - 115 1.5 - 13.5
666 ¾” 15 - 115 1.7 - 18
666 1” 26 - 275 3 – 32
666 1½” 53 - 550 6 – 64
666 2” 85 - 830 10 – 96
EUREKA B 2” 170 - 830 20 – 96
NEPTUNE 0.625” 11 - 109 1 – 12
¾” 16 - 164 2 – 18
1” 27 - 271 3 – 31
1.5” 55 - 545 6 – 63
2” 87 - 872 10 – 100

Table 7.3 Recommended Flow Rates for Turbine Meters

3
Meter Size Pulses / m3 m /day liters/10 sec pulses/ 10 sec
Type
CAMCO ¾” 555,066 15.9 - 159.0 1.8 - 18.4 999 - 10,213
1” 185,022 47.7 - 476.7 5.5 - 55 1,017 -10,176
1½” 92,511 95.0 - 953.0 10.9 - 110.0 1,008 - 10,176
2” 58,149 158.9 – 1589 18.4 - 184.0 1,069 - 10,699
3
CE /8” 1,201,512 7.2- 71.5 0.08 - 8.3 691 -9,972
NATCO ¾” 495,388 7.5 - 125.6 2.0 - 14.5 990 - 7,183
750LF 1” 247,826 35.0 - 348.1 4.0 - 40.3 991 -9,987
75030HF 1½” 91,088 95.4 - 954.0 11.0 - 110.4 1,001 - 10,056
1000 2” 47,557 179.8 - 1580.0 20.8 - 182.9 989 - 8,698
1500
CLIF 1” 227,212 27.4 - 273 3.2 - 37.6 727 - 8543
MOCK 11/2” 85,865 82 – 983 9.5 - 113.8 816 - 9771
2” 14,003 218 – 2184 25.3 - 253.0 354 - 3540
3” 14,795 327 – 3276 37.9 - 379.2 561 - 5610
4” 7,662 546 – 6541 63.2 - 758.4 484 - 5811
DANIEL ¾” 248,458 21.0- 157.0 2.5 - 18.0 621 - 4,472
1” 150,660 32.7 – 327.0 3.7 - 37.8 557 - 5,694
1½” 37,000 81.0- 708.0 9.0 - 82.0 330 - 3,034
2” 30,396 136.0 – 15.7 -142.0 477 - 4,316
1225.0
3
Haliburton /8” 5,284,137 1.6 - 15.9 0.2 - 2.0 1,056 - 10,568
½” 3,434,689 3.9 - 39.7 0.45 - 4.6 1,545 - 15,799
¾” 792,621 10. - 82.0 1.1 - 9.5 871 - 7,529
7
/8” 621,000 16.0 – 160 1.89 - 18.92 1174 - 11,749
1” 243,070 27.0 – 270 3.0 - 31.0 729 - 7,535
1½” 87,188 82.0 – 953 9.5 - 110.0 828 - 9,590
2” 14,531 206.0 – 2065 23.0 - 239.0 334 - 3,472
3” 15,060 333.0 – 3336 38.0 - 386.0 572 - 5,813
4” 7,662 540.0 – 6515 62.0 -754.0 475 - 5,777

Field Measurement Handbook Rev. 5

Page 52
 3
HYDRIL /8” 3,170,482 1.6 - 15.8 .18 - 1.8 1,426 - 14,267
½” 845,462 3.9 - 39.7 .45 - 4.5 1,014 - 8,031
¾” 253,639 10.8 - 81.8 1.2 - 9.5 760 - 7,862
1” 84,546 27.0 – 270.0 3.0 - 31.0 845 - 9,300
1½” 56,276 81.8 – 953.0 10.0 - 110.0 1339 - 13,449
2” 206.0 – 23.8 - 239.0
2065.0
BARTON ¾” 762,266 13.7 – 163.7 1.58 - 19.0 1,204 - 14,444
SERIES 1” 276,948 32.6 – 409.4 3.78 - 47.4 1,046 - 13,212
8000 1½” 110,779 81.9 – 982.8 9.47 - 113.8 1,049 - 12,601
2” 36,399 136.5 –1637.7 15. - 189.5 575 - 6,899
3” 10,814 300.2 – 34. - 417 375 - 4,509
3603.2

Trucking
Oil Terminals
Pipeline quality oil is often moved to pipeline terminals for distribution
via truck. The required maximum uncertainty for this measurement is
stated to be 0.5%. Oil/Water emulsion or bitumen is to be measured at
the point of truck off-loading by one of three methods.

1. Inlet tankage - level measurement of the tank before and after load
volume is delivered. This requires that the tank have a maximum
diameter of 1.04 times the square root of the delivery volume (m 3).
As an example, a tank which can accept a minimum 30m 3 load can
have a maximum diameter of 5.7 meters. A tank designed to
accept a 15m 3 load can be only 4.0 meters in diameter. If tank
gauging is utilized for delivery point measurement, the temperature
and density of the tank contents must be taken in order to correct
the indicated volume to standard conditions before determining the
volume difference. It should be noted that external gauge boards
cannot be used. Where hydrostatic head automatic tank gauges
are used:

• they must be calibrated annually; and

• consideration must be given to the effect load density has on

the measurement of the level. If the loads' densities vary
significantly, then individual load densities should be used.
/
1. Metering - volumes are to be off-loaded through a meter/strainer air
eliminator combination. This meter is treated as a custody transfer
meter, calibrated monthly, and employing a method of temperature
compensation.

2. Weigh scales - volumes off-loaded are determined by weighing the

truck before and after the load is delivered. The scales must be

Field Measurement Handbook Rev. 5

Page 53
 calibrated monthly in accordance with Measurement Canada. The
determination of product density is critical.

In all cases, an accurate S&W determination is required. Truck tickets

estimates are not permitted to be utilized for the purpose of well or
battery level measurement without one of the methods above being
utilized for volume determination. The receiving facility is responsible
for accurately determining both actual volume and water cut. The values
obtained from the initial load and the truck ticket may be used as a
double check for the off-load number, but are they not considered valid
for accounting purposes.In very few circumstances the ERCB will allow
the use of truck tickets. The ERCB may accept low-accuracy
measurement with an overall uncertainty of ±1% or less for trucked
liquid production at a proration battery if:
1. trucked production is temporary, pending battery consolidation
within one year or less;

2. individual well oil volumes being trucked are less than

2.0m3/day;

3. the crude oil volume receipt (net of water) is 5% or less of the

total receiving battery oil production; and

4. truck-mounted meters used for low-accuracy measurement

with an overall uncertainty of ±1% or less are proved annually.

Trucking S&W Determination

Free water, when present during unloading, should be accounted for
separately with corrections made to the S&W of the load. An accurate
means of measuring the amount of free water should be implemented to
provide a reliable determination of the load S&W.
It is just as acceptable to utilize a grab sample or a proportional sample
to determine a water cut manually. The number and frequency of
manual grab samples collected from a truck while unloading must be
sufficient to provide a sample that is representative of the entire load.
The extent of stratification within the truck determines the sample
frequency for a representative sample, but as a minimum, 3 well spaced
grab samples must be obtained if an automatic analyzer to determine
S&W is not utilized. The disadvantages of manually determining a water
cut is:

 the method increases data handling which presents an

increased opportunity for error

 the method requires operations to be effectively trained in the

required process to ensure consistent results

Field Measurement Handbook Rev. 5

Page 54
  the results take a considerable length of time to be
determined.

The following are some methods of determining S&W via different

automatic analyzers:

Net Oil Computers

Net oil computers all have the ability to measure the volume flow rate of
an oil/water emulsion while at the same time determine how much of a
stream is oil and how much is water.

There are two services that use net oil computers:

 two-phase test separators
 emulsion truck unloading

A net oil computer will consist of two parts:

 water cut device
 liquid flow meter

Net oil computers are common because they enable the automated
real-time transfer of net oil data to something like a SCADA system
where the data can be accessed by accounting.

Capacitance Probes

The capacitance method requires that the probe/antenna assembly be

in direct contact with the process fluid. This type of instrument offers 0 -
100% water cut range within 1% accuracy. With additional flow
metering, these analyzers can generate net oil, net water, total water,
and gas totals.

Coriolis Mass Meters

Coriolis mass meters use a single device to measure both the mass
flow rate and the density of the emulsion. The emulsion volume is then
calculated using:

mass flow rate

Volume =
emulsion density
The water cut of the emulsion is determined from the density of the oil
and the density of the water using the following:

Field Measurement Handbook Rev. 5

Page 55
 emulsion density - oil density
Water Cut =
water density  oil density

Microwave
The microwave device uses a principle of changing frequency
depending on the fluid with which it is in contact. The microwave device
cannot determine flow rate on its own, and requires a separate flow
meter. The emulsion flows through the measurement section and
encounters oscillating microwave energy. The emulsion has two distinct
effects on microwaves:
 the emulsion will reflect more or less of the microwave energy,
depending on whether the emulsion is oil or water continuous
 the oscillator will change its oscillation frequency depending on
the water cut of the emulsion.

By measuring the frequency and the energy reflected, the water cut can
be determined. For water continuous emulsions, the salt content of the
water has a large impact on the energy absorbed by the emulsion.

Energy Absorption

The energy absorption device is a small radio transceiver. The fluid

attenuates the signal voltage received at the detector according to the
water cut.

Field Measurement Handbook Rev. 5

Page 56
 Table 7.4 Net Oil Computer Comparison

Energy
Capacitance Mass Flow
Microwave Absorption
Type Type
Type

PROS  Lower Cost  Comb. Of  Very good  Very good

water-cut accuracy accuracy
 Ease of and flow (400 ppm (100 ppm
Calibration meter easy water in oil), water in oil
 0-100% net oil/water repeat- for 0-10%
Water-Cut calculation ability, range),
resolution repeat-
Range(1%  Very good ability,
Accuracy) uncertain-  0-100% resolution
(Readings5 ties (1%) measure-
0% are ment in  Extremely
approximate  Built in either oil- good perfor-
only) Tempera- continuous mance for
ture or water- temperature
 Easy Compensa- continuous and salinity
adaptation of tion for phases variation
inexpensive accurate
flow meters water-cut  No mainten-
for net oil calc. based ance, even
use on densities for high sand
and
 Data paraffinic
communi- exposure
cations
interface  Available
with both in-
line and
insertion or
retractable
monitors

CONS  Not as  Net oil  Must add a  Must add a

accurate as accuracy is flow meter to flow meter to
other down for get net get net
techniques 95% water- oil/water oil/water
cut
 No data  Expensive
com.  Must have  Doesn’t
Interfaces oil and water handle
relative changes in
 Must add densities salinity well
flow meter to different by at high
obtain net 0.1 water-cuts
oil/water (e.g.40%)
 Inaccura-
cies can
result from
entrained
gas

Field Measurement Handbook Rev. 5

Page 57
8. Fuel, Flare and Vent

Fuel Gas
Fuel gas is commonly measured using Positive Displacement (PD)
meters which measure gas at flowing conditions. PD meters must be
compensated for its respective meter factor as determined at the time of
the last prove. These meters also require to be temperature and
pressure corrected to standard conditions by either using a
compensated meter or by correcting in an outside application.

Measuring the differential pressure across the meter is the most

practical method of determining the meter’s fitness. PD meters are to
have upstream and downstream connections to allow this
measurement. Once measured, the differential pressure is then
compared to the tolerances of the manufacturer.

Vented Gas
Gas cannot be vented if:
 It results in odors outside the lease boundary
 It contains more than 10 moles of H2S per kilomole of gas
 It exceeds benzene emission rate for the facility (usually for
gas dehydration equipment)
 It constitutes an unacceptable fire or explosion hazard on or off
the facility lease

Gas should not be vented if the volume is enough to support

combustion.

Estimates and Measurement

Both the ERCB and the BC OGC require fuel, flare and vent gas to be
metered if:
 The annual average volume flared exceeded 500m 3/day
 It is the fuel gas is make-up to acid gas flare. This volume is
not considered as flared gas.
 The stream is an acid gas flare - either continuous or
emergency

Field Measurement Handbook Rev. 5

Page 58
If metered, the equipment used must:
 Be temperature and pressure compensated
 Have the gas composition incorporated into the volume
calculations if required by the metering technology
 Be installed according to manufacturer’s specifications or
industry standards
 Be able to determine the gas volume to an uncertainty of 5%
for volumes >500m3/day

If estimated, the volumes must be calculated with the following:

 The temperature, initial and final pressure, and gas
composition
 A procedure that utilizes sound engineering practices

Reporting
Both the ERCB and the BC OGC require that estimated fuel, flare
and vent gas volumes meet the following requirements:
 Fuel, flare and vent gas must be reported to the nearest
0.1e3m 3/month
 Operators must be able to demonstrate that a reliable and
accurate estimating and reporting system is in place and
consistently used.

Flare/Vent Logs
The ERCB and OGC both require that operations must maintain a
flare/vent log at the field that is to available upon request. This log is to
identify EVERY non-routine flare/vent activity and include details
pertaining to the following:
 The date the flaring/venting activity took place;
 The time the flaring/venting activity took place;
 The duration of flaring/venting activity;
 The gas source or type of flaring/venting. For example: inlet
raw gas, sales gas from compressor, amine acid gas, etc.;
 The flare/vent volumes. It is recommended that log indicates
how volumes were determined: via metering or engineered
estimates;

Field Measurement Handbook Rev. 5

Page 59
  The reason for the flaring or venting activity;
 Any changes applied to prevent future flaring/venting activity of
a similar nature from occurring; and
 Any details around public complaints that may have occurred
as a result of the flaring/venting activity and actions taken to
resolve these complaints.

9. Production Reporting Practices

Multi-Phase Metering
One of the methods for well gas production measurement is by a single
orifice meter. Measuring gas and liquid at the same time with a single
orifice meter will cause an error. This error is corrected by an effluent
meter correction factor. The factor is calculated from the results of a well
test where a portable test separator is used to determine the flow rates
from the well.

The correction factor is calculated using the following:

Test Gas + Test Condensate(Gas Eq)

Effluent Meter CorrectionFactor =
Effluent Meter Volume

This correction factor is applied to the measured well volumes to

calculate the estimated gas production. The group gas plus the gas
equivalent of the group condensate is then prorated back to each well
using the estimated volume.

Test GIS Corrections

Gas in Solution (GIS) corrections are required to adjust the measured
test gas for the amount of gas which is still in solution with the oil as it
leaves the test separator. This normally takes the form of a GIS of the
test oil and also takes into account the pressure of the test vessel. The
correction factor is determined in a lab by either a PVT study or a multi-
stage flash liberation test. If pressure is taken into account, only one
factor per pool is required.

Total Test Gas = Measured Test Gas + Test Oil * Factor or

Total Test Gas = Measured Test Gas + Test Oil * Factor * Separator
Pressure
3 3
In the absence of better information, a factor of 0.0000257e m (gas) /
m3 (oil) / kPa can be used.

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Stock Tank Vapor GIS Calculations
These are corrections to total produced gas to account for the oil still in
solution at the last point of measurement – typically the treater. This
also takes the form of a GIS. If a Vapor Recovery Unit is in operation
with the gas measured, then no correction is required.

Facility Balances
At all gas properties, measurement and reporting practices must be in
place to accurately determine volumetric and component balances by
Operations and Accounting staff. Daily volumetric balances are needed
to determine:
• indication of lost product, as well as the potential source, at a
glance
• accounting for all inlet streams
• verification of sales and disposal volumes. Disputes with
pipelines require expedient backup information to prevent
costly audits and back payments.
• accurate fuel, flare and venting estimates
• volumes to perform recombination’s and component balances
by Production Accounting
• any abnormal inefficiencies in the process system

Component balances should be carried out periodically by Production

Accounting for critical areas, mainly to verify correct revenues from all
produced streams.

Facility balances require adequate metering of all wells and trucked-in

streams that produce to a facility. Normal monthly accounting requires
adequate estimates for WGRs and effluent correction factors.

Monthly reports
On a monthly basis, the Production Accountant submits a number of
reports to regulatory agencies and partners. For this reason it is
imperative that field operations provide accurate volumes to Production
Accounting as soon as feasible possible at the end of each month so
that reporting can be done in timely manner to ensure that fees are not
assessed by the regulator.

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10. Units of Conversion

Volume Conversions
To Convert
To Multiply By
From
3
Barrels m 0.1589873
Cubic Meter Barrel 6.2898100
3
Cubic Feet m (same temp and pressure) 0.0283169
Cubic Meter CF 35.3146700
3
Gallon (Cdn) m 0.0045460

Energy Conversions
To Convert From To Multiply By

BTU Joules 1055.056

MMBTU GJs 1.055056
$/MMBTU $/GJ 0.947817
3 3
BTU/ft MJ/m 0.03743222

Volumetric Flow Rate Conversions

To Convert From To Multiply By

GPS (Cdn) L/s 4.546087

GPM (Cdn) L/s 0.07577
GPS (US) L/s 3.785412
GPM (US) L/s 0.0631
Cubic Feet/Sec L/s 28.3168
Cubic Feet/Min L/s 0.14198

Density Conversions
To Convert From To Multiply By
3 3
lb/ft kg/m 16.01846
3 3
g/m kg/m 1000

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Temperature Conversions
To Convert From To Multiply By
° ° °
F C ( F - 32)/1.8
° ° °
C F ( C x 1.8) + 32

Pressure Conversions
To Convert From To Multiply By

psi kPa 6.894757

kPa psi 0.145038
inches water column kPa 0.2488
inches water column psi 0.03609
bar kPa 100

11. Base Conditions

Unit

Pressure 101.325kPa or 14.696psi

° °
Temperature 15 C or 59 F or 288.15K

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