Multiphase Flow Facility
The Multiphase Flow Facility (MFF) at Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) is a comprehensive, high-pressure flow loop capable of providing field-realistic multiphase process conditions. For more than 15 years, the MFF has been a pivotal resource for a global clientele, delivering critical insights into the complex realm of multiphase flow. Featuring over 3,500 square feet of installation area, the facility offers extensive space for custom installations and piping arrangements, with a dedicated team to assist in planning and executing your next test campaign. The carbon steel flow loop includes a twin-screw multiphase pump, a three-phase separator, a gas filtration vessel, various flow meters, control valves, process instrumentation, and a customizable test section.
Key Capabilities
- Variable Test Fluids: The MFF can utilize a range of gas phases including natural gas blends, methane, nitrogen, or a mixture of non-corrosive gases. Liquid phases may consist of light hydrocarbon oils (including light crude oils), fresh water, or saltwater, with the option to include additional additives depending on material compatibility.
- Custom Test Sections: The facility supports custom installations of various piping arrangements, instrumentation management, power management, and device communication connections.
- Closed-Loop Design: Ensures consistent fluid equilibrium at process conditions and allows for continuous operations throughout a test day. Stable test conditions can be achieved quickly and can be held for extended periods.
| Test Parameter | Range | Units | Range | Units |
| Gas Flow | 0 - 224 | m3/hr (actual) | 0 – 2.2 | ft3/s (actual) |
| Oil Flow* | 0 - 132 | m3/hr | 0 – 20,000 | bpd |
| Water Flow* | 0 - 132 | m3/hr | 0 – 20,000 | bpd |
| Water Salinity | 0 - 15 | wt% | ||
| Process Temperature | 15.5 – 37.8 | °C | 60 - 100 | °F |
| Process Pressure | 14 - 220 | barg | 200 - 3,200 | psig |
| System Differential Pressure** | 7 | bar | 100 | psi |
| Gas Volume Fraction (GVF) | 0 - 100 | % | ||
| Water Liquid Ratio (WLR) | 0 - 100 | % |
* Total combined liquid flow (oil and water) not to exceed 132 m3/hr (20,000 bpd).
** Total system differential pressure (including test section) not to exceed 7 bar (100 psi).
Research Areas
- Multiphase Flow
- Characterization
- Visualization
- Modeling
- Equipment Testing and Qualification
- Multiphase Flow Meters
- Sampling Systems
- Multiphase Pumps
- Gas-Liquid Separators
- Phase Fraction Instrumentation