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FlowCheck User Manual Rev 1
FlowCheck User Manual Rev 1
FlowCheck User Manual Rev 1
0 User Manual
Copyright
Emerson Electric Canada Limited
7175 12th Street SE • Calgary, Alberta, Canada • T2H 2S6
Telephone +1(403) 258-6234 • Fax +1(403) 258-6201
Acknowledgements
AGA holds the copyright for some of the code in this product.
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FlowCheck 3.0 User Manual
Table of Contents
Using This Manual ............................................................................................ 1
About the Icons ................................................................................................................ 1
Program Operation ....................................................................................................... 1
Special Attention ........................................................................................................... 1
Reference Information ................................................................................................. 1
Installation.......................................................................................................... 2
Installing FlowCheck ........................................................................................................ 2
Uninstalling FlowCheck ................................................................................................... 3
Registration ........................................................................................................ 4
Evaluation Run Mode ...................................................................................................... 5
Register FlowCheck .......................................................................................................... 5
How to Contact Us ........................................................................................................... 7
Compatibility ...................................................................................................... 8
Program Overview .............................................................................................. 9
Program Capabilities .........................................................................................10
Supported Fluids ............................................................................................................. 10
Orifice Meters .................................................................................................................. 11
Turbine, Ultrasonic and PD Meters ............................................................................. 12
Flow Nozzles ................................................................................................................... 12
Other Meters.................................................................................................................... 12
Pipe Provers ..................................................................................................................... 12
Basic Procedures ...............................................................................................13
Program Startup .............................................................................................................. 13
General Navigation ......................................................................................................... 13
Detail View....................................................................................................................... 14
FlowCheck Property Settings Window ........................................................................ 14
Precision ........................................................................................................................... 15
Display Units ................................................................................................................... 15
Sound ................................................................................................................................ 16
Selecting Meters and Fluids ........................................................................................... 16
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List of Figures
Figure 1 - FlowCheck Registration Dialog ......................................................................... 4
Figure 2 - Site Key Request Form ........................................................................................ 5
Figure 3 - FlowCheck Dialog................................................................................................ 6
Figure 4 - Registration Completed Dialog .......................................................................... 7
Figure 5 - Table of Fluid Calculations ............................................................................... 11
Figure 6 - Summary View .................................................................................................... 13
Figure 7 - Detail View .......................................................................................................... 14
Figure 8 - FlowCheck Property Settings Window ........................................................... 15
Figure 9 - Units of Measure Window ................................................................................ 16
Figure 10 - Detail View Showing Results ......................................................................... 18
Figure 11 - Table of Print Options .................................................................................... 19
Figure 12 - Table of Flowing Conditions ......................................................................... 20
Figure 13 - Orifice Meter Selections .................................................................................. 22
Figure 14 - Turbine Meter Settings .................................................................................... 25
Figure 15 - Pipe Prover Settings......................................................................................... 27
Figure 16 - Elbow Meter Settings ...................................................................................... 29
Figure 17 - V-Cone Meter Settings .................................................................................... 30
Figure 18 - Natural Gas Settings ........................................................................................ 35
Figure 19 - Table of GPA 2172 and AGA 5 Constants ................................................. 37
Figure 20 - Engineering and Thermodynamic Values .................................................... 41
Figure 21 - Corrections for Temperature and Pressure .................................................. 42
Figure 22 - Hydrocarbon Liquid (NGL) Settings ............................................................ 43
Figure 23 - Table 23E and 24E Coverage......................................................................... 44
Figure 24 - Table 53 Coverage............................................................................................ 45
Figure 25 - Table 54 Coverage............................................................................................ 45
Figure 26 - Water Settings ................................................................................................... 46
Figure 27 - Inspection Form ............................................................................................... 47
Figure 28 - Gravity and Atmosphere ................................................................................. 48
Figure 29 - Engine Fuel Gas Estimates ............................................................................ 50
Figure 30 - Line Heater Fuel Gas Estimates .................................................................... 51
Figure 31 - Treater Fuel Gas Estimates ............................................................................ 52
Figure 32 - Unit Converter.................................................................................................. 53
Figure 33 - Table of Unit Conversions ............................................................................. 55
Figure 34 - Table of Typical Values for Absolute Viscosity .......................................... 56
Figure 35 - Table of Temperature Coeffiecients for Pipe .............................................. 59
Figure 36 - Table of Modulus of Elasticity ....................................................................... 70
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Program Operation
Information for running the program.
Special Attention
Critical information necessary for accurate results.
Reference Information
Background information on the topic.
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FlowCheck 3.0 User Manual
Installation
The FlowCheck installation package is distributed over the World Wide
Web or via CD. Review the installation instructions for either installation
option.
Installing FlowCheck
Read the Release Notes for information not present in the manual
before installing FlowCheck.
To install FlowCheck from CD:
1. On the Start menu, click Run. The Run window appears.
2. Click the Browse button to navigate to the setup.exe on your
CD drive.
3. On the Run window, click OK. The install procedure will begin.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions.
When installation is complete, the FlowCheck icon is placed in the user’s
Windows Start menu.
To install FlowCheck from the Web:
1. Run the compressed file named fch30c.exe or similar, which is a
self-extracting program file with FlowCheck’s setup files bundled
inside.
2. A pop-up screen prompts the user to specify where the files can
be unzipped (for example, C:\windows\temp).
3. When the files are unzipped, on the Start menu, click Run. The
Run window appears.
4. Click the Browse button to navigate to the setup.exe (from the
unzip folder specified in step 2).
5. When the install procedure begins, follow the on-screen
instructions.
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Uninstalling FlowCheck
In the majority of cases, the user can re-install or upgrade FlowCheck
without requesting a new site key. It is possible to re-install FlowCheck
at any time, to any directory on the hard disk that was used during
program registration.
For example, install the program to C:\program files\flowcheck or
C:\measure\flowcheck and use the same registration data.
If the user moves the program to a different hard disk or logical
partition, FlowCheck reverts to the evaluation mode.
If the user chooses to re-install FlowCheck to the original disk, it is best
to re-use the original registration data. Unless the user has re-formatted
the hard disk, the registration data will continue to work.
To remove FlowCheck:
1. From the Start menu, click the Settings button.
2. Click Control Panel, then double-click Add/Remove
Programs.
3. Follow the onscreen instructions for finding and removing the
software.
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Registration
Registration is a simple, one-time event for unlocking the full range of
program functions, including file saving and printing.
Before registering, the user can run FlowCheck in evaluation mode,
whereby a registration dialog box appears each time the program
launches. The user can either enter the registration data, or continue
using evaluation mode.
Note: Certain FlowCheck functions are enabled only through purchase and
registration.
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Register FlowCheck
To register a copy of FlowCheck 3.0, request a site key and customer
service number from Emerson Process Management’s Hydrocarbon and
Energy Industry Center (Emerson).
1. On the Help menu, click Registration, and then click Register
Now... The FlowCheck Registration dialog box appears, as
shown in Figure 1.
2. Click the Request Site Key button. The Site Key Request Form
appears, as shown in Figure 2.
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How to Contact Us
To get support for registering or using a copy of FlowCheck 3.0, contact
Emerson via phone or e-mail:
FlowCheck Support
Emerson Process Management
Hydrocarbon and Energy Industry Center
Phone: (403) 258-6234
Fax: (403) 258-6201
E-mail: HEIC-CGY.flowcheck@emersonprocess.com
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FlowCheck 3.0 User Manual
Compatibility
FlowCheck runs under Windows 95 and Windows NT 4.0 (or later).
Other operating systems such as MS-DOS, OS/2, or Windows 3.x are
not supported.
FlowCheck is designed to operate from a local hard disk. Although the
user can install or run the program while connected to a local area
network, do not install FlowCheck to a network volume.
FlowCheck is safe in a corporate computing environment for the
following reasons:
uses only standard C, C++, and Microsoft library functions
makes no direct calls to hardware or the computer’s bios
makes no contact with third-party libraries, drivers, or network access
requires modest disk space
requires a small in-memory footprint and Windows resource load
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FlowCheck 3.0 User Manual
Program Overview
FlowCheck is a tool for users who specialize in gas and liquid petroleum
measurement, electronic flow measurement (EFM) and work with
electronic flow computers. FlowCheck combines a thoroughly-tested
flow calculator with utilities for verifying instruments in the field or
office.
FlowCheck is produced and supported by Emerson in Calgary, Alberta,
Canada, an engineering company with a long history of measurement
expertise.
A number of valuable utilities are contained in the program, including a
measurement unit converter. FlowCheck can also perform reliable
estimates of wet gas properties, combustion products, and fuel gas
quantities for engines, line heaters, and treaters.
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Program Capabilities
FlowCheck solves many industry-standard equations used by the energy
industry to compute the flow of hydrocarbon gases or liquids through
orifice meters, turbine meters, flow nozzles, ultrasonic meters, V-cone
meters, elbow meters, and pipe provers.
The user interface is optimized for field notebook computers. The menu
system, dialogs, and output windows are clear and simple. Both
keyboard and mouse operations are fully supported.
FlowCheck supports SI units, metric units, and a wide variety of
traditional US units of measure. Unit preferences may be saved for
future re-use. A unit conversion utility is included with the program.
FlowCheck provides freedom to experiment with different meter
configurations and operating conditions but disallows situations
which could produce incorrect answers or system faults.
FlowCheck can store and recall information using files or print
calculation reports. The copy and paste function allows users to
transfer results to programs such as Excel.
FlowCheck employs an unobtrusive form of security to protect
against unauthorized copying.
Supported Fluids
One of FlowCheck’s strengths is its emphasis on hydrocarbons.
FlowCheck supports the following fluid types for all meter types:
1. natural gas
2. natural gas liquids (NGL)
3. crude oil and condensate
4. gasoline and napthene
5. jet fuel and kerosene
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Orifice Meters
FlowCheck supports the following equations for flange-tapped orifice
meters:
1. AGA 3 (1992), also known as ANSI/API 2530
2. AGA 3 (1985)
3. ISO-5167 (2003)
4. ISO-5167 (1991)
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5. ISO-5167 (1998)
Flow Nozzles
FlowCheck applies the following equations to flow nozzles:
1. ISA 1932 nozzles for gas
2. ISA venturi tubes for gas
3. ASME/ANSI MFC-7M for critical flow nozzles for gas
4. Long radius nozzles
5. Thick orifice plates
Other Meters
FlowCheck supports the following additional meters:
1. V-Cone meter for gas or liquids
2. Elbow meters for gas or liquids
Pipe Provers
FlowCheck can also validate calculations for conventional, ball-type pipe
provers with an API-compliant set of calculations. The pipe prover
software can also be used to estimate the volume of gas or liquid within
a pipe or other cylindrical vessel. For more information, see Pipe
Provers, page 26.
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FlowCheck 3.0 User Manual
Basic Procedures
Procedures for FlowCheck are similar to those of other Windows
programs. User data is entered via menu selections and dialog boxes.
Program Startup
On startup, FlowCheck displays the results of its default
configuration. There is no risk of accidental change to this startup data.
Refer to the Working With Files section for more ideas on controlling
FlowCheck’s startup.
General Navigation
The first view that appears when FlowCheck is opened is an untitled
form. The default screen is a Summary View. It shows basic information
about the meter and calculations, including the program execution
status. The list of items changes according to the configuration.
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Detail View
To view more details than what are shown on the Summary View, select
Detail View from the Display menu. The Detail View shows a
scrollable list of all possible FlowCheck inputs and outputs, their current
value, and the current unit of measure. Data is grouped by type.
Information not applicable to the current meter setup is replaced by
three dots, and irrelevant data is not shown.
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The FlowCheck Property Settings window has two tabs; one for meter
settings and one for fluids. The calculation results are based on the
information combined from both of these tabs.
Precision
The user can choose to display six- or nine-digit numbers on monitors
and printouts. The display precision does not affect the internal accuracy
of the equations.
Display Units
FlowCheck generally uses the SI system internally but supports a wide
range of measurement units for display purposes.
On the Display menu, click Units of Measure. The Units of Measure
dialog box appears. The user can use this dialog to change display units
for all quantities simultaneously. When the user clicks one of the radio
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Sound
The Sound On and Sound Off options help the user to control
FlowCheck’s annunciation sounds.
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Choose Save from the File menu when the user has a file loaded,
to overwrite the file with current data.
Performing Calculations
Make basic metering and fluid selections from the main toolbar.
Dialog boxes control detailed settings. Less familiar configuration items,
such as isentropic exponent, default to values recommended in industry
standards.
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Viewing Results
Calculation results appear in two locations; on the Detail View and on
the FlowCheck Property Settings window.
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Printing
Copying Results
FlowCheck results can also be copied onto the clipboard.
1. On the Edit menu, click Copy.
2. Open another program.
3. On the Edit menu, click Paste.
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Meter Settings
FlowCheck allows the user to calculate most combinations of meter type
and fluid type. (The primary exception to this is critical flow of liquids
through flow nozzle).
When the user selects a meter type only the meter data settings for that
type are displayed. For example, if an orifice meter calculation is
selected, only orifice meter data settings are available. Conversely, if
either Turbine or Pipe Prover is selected, specialized information relating
to these devices appears in the Property Settings window, meter settings
tab.
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FlowCheck 3.0 User Manual
Calculation Results
Update results for each meter type by pressing Calculate. Because the
terminology for gas and liquid measurement differs slightly, FlowCheck
adjusts the labels to suit the fluid.
For natural gas, Corrected Gas Volume is the volume at the specified
base conditions which accumulates over the flow duration. Uncorrected
Gas Volume is the volume at the flowing conditions which accumulates
over the flow duration. To avoid confusion, the term ‘standard
conditions’ is not used.
For liquids, Net Standard Volume is the same as that defined in API
Chapter 12.2. In effect:
The use of the term ‘Gross Standard Volume’ in FlowCheck also agrees
with the API 12.2 definition.
Note: Gross Standard Volume is not interchangeable with Gross Volume at
Standard Temperature.
Orifice Meter
To open the FlowCheck Property Settings window with the Orifice
Meter tab:
1. On the toolbar, select Orifice Meter from the Meter drop-down.
2. Click the Edit Properties button. The FlowCheck Property
Settings window appears.
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Pressure Settings
If the user is using AGA 3 (1985), the same formula is true for the
downstream pressure tap. FlowCheck calculates the Y1 or Y2 expansion
factor to suit the circumstance.
However, for AGA 3 (1990), the logic is slightly different. FlowCheck
follows the recommended guidelines for calculating the Y1 expansion
factor for flange taps. As such, absolute pressure is always referenced to
the upstream pressure tap.
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When absolute pressure transmitters are being used, enter zero for
atmospheric pressure.
Turbine Meters
FlowCheck supports turbine calculations for both gases and liquids. The
correct equations are automatically applied based on the current fluid
type.
AGA 7 (1996)
This 1996 edition of AGA-7 specifies how to use turbine meters to
measure the flow of gas phase hydrocarbon fluids. The document is
published and supported by the American Gas Association. These
equations are also used for ultrasonic and PD and ultrasonic meters.
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Pipe Provers
Prover Settings
There are not many configurable settings for pipe provers, so the default
properties are common to carbon steel. Confirm the specifications for
the prover before making assumptions about its material properties.
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Elbow Meters
Elbow meters consisting of a 90 elbow with taps on the inner and outer
radius at the 45 point are implemented in FlowCheck 3.0. Required data
is the radius of the elbow at the pipe center line, and pipe diameter.
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V-Cone Meters
V-Cone meters are proprietary meters which measure flow from a
differential pressure across a cone in the center of the pipe. The
calculations are similar to orifice meters, except that the flow coefficient
(analogous to the orifice meter coefficient of discharge) must be
manually entered.
FlowCheck 3.0 implements the equations provided by McCrometer, the
meter manufacturer. In most respects the data is the same as with orifice
meters, with some exceptions.
These are entering the cone diameter (in place of the orifice diameter)
and entering the flow coefficient, provided by the manufacturer or from
a flow calibration.
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The beta ratio is calculated differently from orifice meters, but the result
is similar. A high beta ratio results from a small cone in relation to the
pipe diameter.
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Nozzles
Several types of nozzles are supported:
ASME toroidal and cylindrical throat nozzles described in
ASME/ANSI MFC 7M
Venturi nozzles described in ASME MFC-3M and ISO 5167
long radius nozzles described in ISO 5167
ISA 1932 nozzles, described in ISO 5167
thick orifice plates (1-6d thick, beta <0.50), reference: Flow
Measurement Engineering Handbook, Third Edition, R.W. Miller
For all the nozzle types, pipe diameter and throat diameter are entered.
FlowCheck 3.0 calculates a coefficient of discharge based on the nozzle
type and geometry.
Some of the nozzles will either operate in critical or sub-critical mode. In
sub-critical mode, the nozzle is a differential pressure device which
operates much like an orifice meter. The flow rate is dependent on both
the upstream and downstream pressure. In critical mode, (gasses only)
the velocity in the nozzle throat reaches sonic velocity, and the flow rate
is only dependant on upstream conditions.
The toroidal and cylindrical throat nozzles (described in ASME MFC-
7M) are intended to work only in the critical flow regime. If the
differential pressure is less than 10 percent of the absolute pressure, an
error message appears, alerting the user that the differential is too low.
The critical and sub-critical calculations use different equations.
FlowCheck 3.0 calculates where this transition is, based on the
conditions entered. In order to force a nozzle into the critical flow
regime, reduce the downstream gauge pressure to less than or equal to
50 percent of the upstream gauge pressure. Continue to reduce the
downstream pressure until the flow rate no longer changes.
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Fluid Settings
Setting FlowCheck’s fluid configuration is the most technical part of the
verification process. Several important properties are critical to volume,
mass, or energy measurement. The user must also know which industry-
standard equations are required by the application. Fortunately, the user
will probably use the same configurations repeatedly, which aids
efficiency.
Fluid Selection
The following fluids are available for calculation:
natural gas
liquid petroleum gas (LPG)
natural gas liquids (NGLs)
crude oil
condensate
gasoline
napthene
jet fuel
kerosene
diesel fuel
fuel oil
lube oil
water
air
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The fastest way to prepare the dialog box for a new set of data is by
pressing Clear All, which forces all entries in the gas composition to
zero.
If the user needs to abandon the changes and restart with the previous
composition, click Reload. FlowCheck reloads the composition that was
active when the dialog box was opened, not necessarily that which was
stored in the meter file. Reopen the file to start from scratch.
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FlowCheck 3.0 User Manual
If the user needs to report the flow of gas ‘net of water’, multiply
gas quantities by Fwv, the water vapor shrinkage factor. This factor is
listed on the Detail view screen, under the Wet Gas heading.
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NX19 GCN
This calculation, although superseded since 1985 by AGA 8, remains in
use in some parts of the gas industry.
The Gravity, CO2, N2 method of this equation requires valid inputs for
real gas relative density and CO2 and N2 concentrations. All other
composition data is ignored.
Note: Results are valid over a relatively narrow range of gas compositions.
Redlich-Kwong
This traditional equation remains popular in some fields of engineering.
This version of the equations requires a full, detailed composition.
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Tables 23E and 24E for light hydrocarbons are also supported by the
equations. These equations use the US customary units (F and SG at
60F) because there are no equivalent metric tables
Tables 53 and 54 (lighter hydrocarbon liquids) are supported by both
equations and tables.
The API-recommended rules for rounding and truncation have been
observed.
Rho Min Rho Max Lower Temp Limit Upper Temp Limit
480 490 15 C 60 C
490 500 10 C 60 C
500 510 5C 60 C
510 515 -5 C 60 C
515 525 -10 C 60 C
525 530 -15 C 60 C
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Rho Min Rho Max Lower Temp Limit Upper Temp Limit
530 540 -20 C 60 C
540 600 -25 C 60 C
600 649 -25 C 50 C
Rho Min Rho Max Lower Temp Limit Upper Temp Limit
500 515 -46 C 55 C
515 600 -46 C 60 C
600 650 -25 C 75 C
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Water Settings
FlowCheck implements the Wagenbreth and Kell equations to predict
the density of water at different pressures and temperatures. These
equations are typically used for densitometer calibrations but provide a
precise basis for measuring water through meters as well.
The dialog box for water density is minimal, devoted mainly to output
values.
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Tools
FlowCheck utilities assist in recording results and provide quick answers
to common unit conversion questions. The utilities are located under the
Tools menu.
Inspection Form
The Inspection Form utility documents verification activity. Open this
dialog by selecting Inspection Report… from the Tools menu.
The Inspection Form utility also contains information for the EFM
being tested. Manually enter EFM data in the applicable fields, and click
the Calculate % Difference button to show differences in percent.
Because of the large variety of communication protocols and data
formats available, FlowCheck does not support direct connection with
flow computers.
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To open the Gravity and Atmosphere window, from the Tools menu,
click Local Gravity and Pressure…
The equation for atmospheric pressure uses elevation to predict the
average atmospheric pressure for the user’s location. When the
calculation is done, FlowCheck solves the equation and immediately uses
it for the meter calculations.
The primary purpose of the gravity calculation is to support adjustment
factors for deadweight-type pressure calibrators. The equation for gravity
uses both latitude and elevation. FlowCheck does not compensate
calculations for gravity. The equation is provided only as a support tool.
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The equation for gravity derives from AGA 3, which was taken, in turn,
from the Smithsonian Meteorological Tables. The equation for pressure
is derived from the Electricity and Gas Inspection Act, a statute of
Canadian law.
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To open the Engine Fuel Gas Estimates window, from the Tools menu,
click Fuel Gas Estimates and then click Engine Fuel Gas.
Actual Power is the true power the user expects to generate at the output
shaft of the engine, compensated for elevation, temperature, and friction
losses.
Thermal efficiency compares the power entering a system with the
power exiting. For engines, fuel combustion supplies the in-bound
power, while out-bound power is typically measured at the output shaft.
Heat rate and thermal efficiency are really the same, stated in different
terms. For example, a heat rate of 3600 kJ/kW-hr (or 2544 BTU(it)/hp-
hr) represents 100 percent efficiency.
FlowCheck’s default thermal efficiency for engines is 35 percent, a
reasonable starting point for jet engines running on natural gas. For
piston engines, 25 percent is a better choice. The user can consult
vendor specifications for accurate ratings for that application.
FlowCheck allows thermal efficiency inputs from 10 to 100 percent.
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To open the Line Heater Fuel Gas Estimates window, from the Tools
menu, click Fuel Gas Estimates and then click Line Heater…
Method 1 uses the Inlet Rating of the vessel and run time. The
calculation is focused on energy entering the system, based on
manufacturer ratings. If the main burner is in service less than 100
percent of the time, adjust the run time accordingly.
Method 2 is more sophisticated, applying data related to heater efficiency
(Inlet Temp) and fluid temperature and density.
Note: The user must supply efficiency ratings. This method uses information
about energy exiting the system to predict fuel consumption.
The ideal thermal efficiency of most indirect line heaters ranges from 75
to 80 percent, hence the default value of 80 percent. This implies that 80
percent of heat released by fuel gas combustion in the fire tube reaches
the fluid being heated. A heater’s ideal efficiency may decrease due to
tube fouling, corrosion, or heat losses to the ambient air.
Method 2 calculates ideal gas heat capacity from current gas
compositions and median temperatures to predict the amount of energy
transferred to the gas.
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To open the Treater Fuel Gas Estimates window, from the Tools menu,
click Fuel Gas Estimates and then click Treater…
Oil and water absorb heat at different rates. The user must supply the
separate volumes of each to facilitate accurate calculations.
FlowCheck calculates oil heat capacity using a simple equation listed in
the Chemical Engineers Handbook (Perry & Chilton). Enter the oil
density (standard density) to ensure correct results. Oil density and
volume are used to determine the total mass of heated oil
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Water heat capacity is fixed at 4.1858 kJ/kg, but the density is calculated
‘live’ at the median temperature. If the user’s produced water has a high
chloride content, these equations may be inadequate for the user’s
application.
The user should not be discouraged by the wide array of units for power,
heat capacity, volume, and energy. Engine and vessel manufacturers
usually provide their equipment ratings in very clear terms.
Unit Converters
FlowCheck features several unit converters for convenience and as a
second form of program traceability. FlowCheck performs all
conversions using the same group of equations and constants.
The unit converters support Energy, Length, Pressure, Temperature, and
Volume.
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Overview
FlowCheck calculations are implemented in SI units, but the program
displays other units of measure for the user’s convenience. Display units
can be individually defined for most physical quantities. Alternatively,
install a full slate of display units by choosing Units of Measure… from
the Display menu.
Data Sources
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Name Description
1 yard = 3 feet
1 foot = 12 inches
1 mile = 1760 yards
Volume 1 US gallon = 231 cubic inches
1 API petroleum barrel = 42 US gallons = 9702 cubic inches
1 Imperial gallon = 454,609/100,000,000 cubic meters
Temperature 5 Kelvins = 9 degrees Rankine
459.67 degrees Rankine = 0 Fahrenheit
273.15 Kelvins = 0 Celsius
Energy 1 calorie (International Table) = 4.1868 Joules
1 calorie (thermochemical) = 4.184 Joules
Specific Heat Capacity of water at 15 C = 4.1858 J/(g.C)
1 Btu/lbm = 5 calories (IT)/9 grams
1 Btu(60 - 61) = 1054.615 Joules
1 therm = 100,000 Btu (IT)
1 dekatherm = 10 therms = 1,000,000 Btu (IT)
Pressure Density of water at 60 F = 999.012 kg/m3
Density of water at 68 F = 998.202 kg/m3
1 inch of Hg at 32 F = 3386.39 Pascals
1 bar = 100 kilopascals
1 horsepower = 550 ft-lbf/s
Dynamic 1 Pascal second = 10 Poise
Viscosity
Constants Used Standard Acceleration Due To Gravity = 9.80665 metres per second
Throughout per second
One Standard Atmosphere = 101.325 kilopascals
Universal Gas Constant = 8.314510 J/kg-K (used throughout, except
by FlowCheck’s implementation of AGA 8 (1985), which uses
10.73164 psia-ft/lb-mol-R for closest agreement with published
examples)
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Glossary
Terminology is important, especially to custody transfer measurement.
This glossary explains the terms used in FlowCheck.
Absolute Viscosity
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Base Conditions
It is common practice to report hydrocarbon quantities in terms of the
volume the fluid occupies at a specified pressure and temperature, rather
than the actual conditions at the meter. For example, Volume at Pb, Tb
is the volume a quantity of fluid occupies if its pressure is at base
pressure and its temperature at base temperature. This ‘translation’ to an
unchanging, agreed-upon set of conditions simplifies quantity reporting.
In some contracts and documents, standard conditions are specifically
pegged at 14.73 psia and 60 F. In countries using the SI system of
measurement, base (or standard or contract) conditions are typically
101.325 kPa and 15 C.
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Beta Ratio
In orifice meters, the orifice diameter divided by the pipe diameter. In
FlowCheck, temperature-compensated diameter(s) are determined
before beta ratio and other quantities are calculated.
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Btu (59 - 60) was standard in the US gas industry until 1992 when the
Btu (IT) officially replaced it (see AGA Engineering Technical Note
M-92-2-1)
1 Btu (59 - 60) = 1054.80386 Joules, rounded to nine figures
Btu (60 - 61) was widely used in the Canadian gas industry and still
appears in some documents and contracts
1 Btu (60 - 61) = 1054.615 Joules exactly (by definition)
Btu (IT), or International Table Btu, is formally defined in terms of
the Joule, the energy unit in the SI system
1 Btu (IT) = 1055.05585262 Joules, exactly
Note: Energy is a very different quantity than volumetric heating value,
which depends on base pressure and base temperature. Energy is
independent of volumetric conditions.
Canadian Gas Association (CGA)
The national trade organization for Canada’s gas industry. CGA’s 320
members include Canada’s major natural gas transmission companies,
distributors, producers, and manufacturers of gas appliances and
equipment.
Visit CGA’s web site at http://www.cga.ca.
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Combustion Air
The total mass of air required for perfect stoichiometric combustion of
the metered fuel gas quantity. There is no ‘excess air’ built into
FlowCheck’s combustion calculations. If oxygen is present in the fuel
gas, FlowCheck rebalances the air requirements to compensate.
Compressibility at Pb, Tb
The deviation from ideal gas laws that a fluid exhibits at base pressure
and base temperature. Compressibility at Pb, Tb is also known as Zb.
Compressibility at Pf, Tf
The deviation from ideal gas laws that a fluid exhibits at flowing pressure
and flowing temperature. Compressibility at Pf, Tf is also known as Zf.
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Elevation
Vertical height above sea level (ASL), measured in units of length.
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FE = (dP * Rhof)^0.5
FE = (hw * Pf)^0.5
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Flowing Conditions
The properties of fluid pressure and temperature at the time and place of
measurement. For example, Volume at Pf, Tf means the volume a
quantity of fluid occupies if its pressure is at flowing pressure (Pf) and its
temperature at flowing temperature (Tf).
Flow Duration.
The time period during which flow is assumed to have persisted. In
FlowCheck’s simplified flow/time model, flowing conditions are
assumed steady for the entire flow duration, which is never the actual
case.
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Fpv
The square root of (Zb/Zf). Fpv is used in AGA-3 (1985), and is
commonly used instead of Zb and Zf for differential meters. FlowCheck
calculates Fpv for the base pressure and base temperature defined by the
user.
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HV Temperature Base
Parameter used to fully define the gross volumetric heating value. For
greatest consistency, align this setting with other base conditions.
Ideal Molar HV
The amount of heat energy in kJ/kmol generated through complete
combustion, per mole of combustible fuel as an ideal gas.
Index Multiplier
The ratio between the meter output and the index output. A mechanical
index may be attached to a PD or turbine meter, translating the number
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Latitude
Geographic north/south position relative to the earth’s equator,
measured in degrees, minutes, and seconds. For example, much of the
US/Canada border lies along the 49th parallel or at 49 degrees latitude.
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Longitude
Geographic east/west position relative to the prime meridian, measured
in degrees, minutes, and seconds.
Mass Density
Mass per unit volume. For example, at 60 F, the density of water is
999.012 kilograms per cubic meter or 62.36 pounds mass per cubic foot.
The density of mercury at 0 C is 13,595.1 kilograms per cubic meter.
Measurement Canada
Represents the Government of Canada in custody transfer measurement.
In the energy sector, two main statutes are supported through regulation:
the Weights and Measures Act and the Electricity and Gas Inspection
Act.
Meter Factor
A number used to correct a meter’s inaccuracy. The factor is derived by
dividing the known quantity of fluid passed through a meter by the
quantity registered by the meter.
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Molar Density
Moles per unit volume. At STP (0 C and 101.325 kPa), one mole of gas
occupies approximately 22.4 liters of volume. FlowCheck expresses
molar density in units of kg-mole/m^3 (SI) or lb-mole/ft^3 (Imperial).
Observed Pressure
The measured pressure of a fluid during density measurement.
Sometimes, it is necessary to take density readings when the liquid is
under high pressure, such as in a pipeline. FlowCheck uses the observed
pressure (usually equal to gauge pressure) and the observed temperature
in an iterative process to solve for base density.
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Observed Temperature
The measured temperature of a fluid during density measurement. The
fluid density changes with temperature, so the observed temperature
when the density is measured is used to correct density at base
temperature.
Note: If the density of a liquid hydrocarbon is already corrected to 15 C, use
15 C as the observed temperature.
Orifice Meter
An inferential metering device which operates by partially obstructing
flow through a pipe. In accordance with energy conservation principles
described by Bernoulli, reduced pressure accompanies increased fluid
velocity through the restriction. Fluid flow rate is inferred from the
differential pressure. Mathematically, flow rate is proportional to the
square root of the differential pressure.
Pipe Prover
A specially constructed and calibrated pipe whose volume is accurately
known, used for verifying or calibrating other meters. The prover’s
physical dimensions and material type determine its true volume at
operating conditions.
In operation, a tightly-fitting spherical ball is inserted into the flow. Two
detector switches are triggered as the ball passes down the pipe. From
when the first and second switches are activated, output is collected
from the meter being proved, whose meter factor is calculated based on
data from repeated ‘runs’.
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Pressure Taps
Special taps or ports on orifice meters, allowing pressure measurements
upstream and downstream of the orifice plate. Several types of pressure
taps exist, including flange taps, pipe taps, corner taps, and D&D/2 taps.
FlowCheck supports only flange-tapped orifice meters, the most
prevalent type for custody transfer applications.
Pulse Frequency
The rate of electrical pulses proportional to the rate of flow through a
meter. A wide variety of techniques have been developed for generating,
conditioning, and decoding pulse trains.
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Total Pulses
The meter pulses accumulated a meter proving pass, or ‘trip’. If a bi-
directional meter prover is used, one ‘run’ is comprised of two trips. The
total number of pulses accumulated during the run is used to calculate
the meter’s volume during the run. FlowCheck estimates volume flow
rate using pulse counts and flow duration.
Turbine K Factor
A multiplier or set of multipliers generated through meter calibration
that provide the relationship between raw meter output and true flow
rate. Turbine K factors are typically determined and documented at the
manufacturer’s calibration facilities.
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Turbine Meter
A velocity measuring device in which a rotor, positioned in the path of
fluid flow, rotates at a speed proportional to the rate of flow.
Velocity
The average velocity of a fluid within a pipe. FlowCheck estimates
velocity from volume flow rate and pipe diameter. Common units in the
pipeline industry are m/s and ft/s.
Ev = 1/sqrt (1 - beta^4)
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Wobbe Index
An indicator of gas quality, used primarily in boiler fuel applications. The
Wobbe index is derived from real gas relative density and gross
volumetric heating value. FlowCheck computes the heating value
portion in units of kilojoules per cubic decimeter.
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Error Messages
By design, FlowCheck simultaneously allows the user to enter various
settings and inputs and prevents program faults. However, since
applying industry standard equations outside their respective intended
ranges is possible, FlowCheck authors advise the user to confirm the
configuration choices before applying the program to commercial
measurement.
General Alarms
Some alarms may occur during FlowCheck’s calculation procedures,
including:
general calculation failure
max num iterations
negative density derivative
max density exceeded
fluid near critical limit
In cases such as these, recheck the input data to ensure its compatibility
with the equations selected.
If the user’s computer becomes extremely low on free memory during a
FlowCheck session, the user might receive the message, ‘Error, not
enough memory.’ Close a few other applications to free up some
memory, then try again.
If an alarm persists despite the user’s efforts to clear it, reload the meter
file, or choose New from the File menu. If FlowCheck seems to be
creating faults of its own or exhibits symptoms of a program bug, please
contact Emerson.
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hard disk at any time using the original registration data. But, if the user
moves the program to another hard disk or partition, FlowCheck reverts
to its evaluation mode.
FlowCheck resists attempts to shortcut the copy protection. Depending
on the extent of tampering, FlowCheck may refuse to operate.
Therefore, do not attempt to shortcut the copy protection.
FlowCheck is not intended to be a shared network application. Install it
to a local hard disk instead.
For more information, on the Help menu, click Copy Protection and
Security.
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1. Definitions
1.1(a) “Software Product” means all copies of the FlowCheck 3.0
computer program and accompanying documentation.
1.2(b) “Site Key” means a logical password key used by the Software
Product to enable certain functions.
2. License
2.1 Subject to you complying with all of the terms and conditions of this
Agreement and the payment by you of the license fees, Emerson grants
you, (as an individual or single entity, and not including subsidiaries and
affiliates), a limited, non-exclusive license to use the Software Product on
a single stand alone computer.
2.2 You may make one copy of the Software Product for backup
purposes only, provided you reproduce all of the proprietary markings
including all notices of copyright.
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3. Restrictions
3.1 You may not (a) distribute, rent, lease, loan, or sublicense all or any
portion of the Software Product; (b) modify, alter, adapt, translate or
prepare derivative works based on the Software Product; (c) transmit the
Software Product over a network, by telephone, or electronically using
any means; (d) transfer the Software Product or your rights under this
Agreement; or (e) reverse engineer, decompile, duplicate, decrypt or
disassemble the Software Product.
3.2 You agree to keep confidential and use your best efforts to prevent
and protect the contents of the Software Product from disclosure to or
use by others not authorized by Emerson.
4. Ownership
4.1 This Agreement is not a sale to you of the Software Product or the
media (if any) containing the Software Product.
4.2 The Software Product and all copyright and other rights in the
Software Product is and remains the exclusive world wide property of
Emerson.
4.3 Emerson reserves all rights in the Software Product not expressly
licensed to you by this Agreement.
5. Technical Support
5.1 For a period of ninety (90) days from date Emerson issues the first
of any Site Keys to you and at no additional charge to you, Emerson
shall provide you with remote access to Emerson personnel at the
Emerson office in Calgary by telephone, fax or e-mail, during the hours
from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon and from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Calgary
time, Monday to Friday, excluding Emerson holidays, to use reasonable
efforts to: (a) correct any major problems in the Software Product that
you report; (b) advise and help in the use of the Software Product; (c)
provide you with new versions of the Software Product that incorporate
error corrections and enhancements. You will be responsible for paying
for all long distance telephone charges.
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7. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
7.1 THE MAXIMUM AGGREGATE LIABILITY OF EMERSON
FOR ALL CLAIMS WHATSOEVER AND HOWSOEVER
ARISING, REGARDLESS OF THE FORM OR CAUSE OF
ACTION, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO, CONTRACT,
BREACH OF WARRANTY, BREACH OF CONDITION, BREACH
OF FUNDAMENTAL TERM, FUNDAMENTAL BREACH, TORT
(INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO NEGLIGENCE),
PERFORMANCE, PURPORTED PERFORMANCE, NON-
PERFORMANCE, INDEMNITY, CONTRIBUTION, PAYMENT,
AND ANY OTHER LEGAL, EQUITABLE, AND STATUTORY
GROUNDS, SHALL NOT EXCEED THE AMOUNT OF THE
LICENSE FEES ACTUALLY PAID BY YOU TO EMERSON FOR
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8. Termination
8.1 The license will automatically terminate immediately if you do not
comply with all of the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
8.2 Upon termination of the license you will immediately stop all use of
the Software Product and destroy it and all copies.
8.3 You may terminate the license by destroying the Software Product
and all copies.
8.4 You are not entitled to any refund of license fees paid by you as a
result of termination of the license for any reason.
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9. Severability
9.1 If any section, paragraph or provision of this Agreement, or any
portion thereof, is determined to be illegal, void, unenforceable, or
invalid for any reason whatsoever, such illegal, void, unenforceable, or
invalid section, paragraph or provision, or portion thereof, shall be
severed from the remainder of this agreement and shall not affect the
enforceability or validity of the remainder of this Agreement.
11. Amendment
11.1 This Agreement may only be amended by written agreement.
12. Headings
12.1 The headings of this Agreement are for convenience only and do
not affect the interpretation or construction of this agreement.
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