Multiphase flow metering with nuclear magnetic resonance

The measurement of fluids in the oil and gas industry requires a robust measurement of multiphase flows. Magnetic resonance as a measurement principle has multiple advantages over existing technologies (one single measurement principle, measurement performed from outside the pipe with no intruding sensors, full bore design, suited for producing wells and high sensitivity at high water liquid ratios). A magnetic resonance based multiphase flow meter which is capable of producing an image of the spatial distribution of a multiphase flow has been developed. This article describes the principles of magnetic resonance. Afterwards details of the technical implementation and the method by which the system determines multiphase flow composition are explained.