Intrusive sensors for two-phase flow measurements

Abstract

Electrical impedance techniques have been investigated and used for the measurement of two-phase flows, both theoretically and experimentally. A proprietary design of intrusive probes composed of four sensors has been used for conductive and non-conductive two-phase mixtures. At a theoretical level, emphasis has been placed on knowledge of bubble properties at the local level or local parameters, including bubble velocity, bubble size and its distribution, gas fraction and the specific interfacial area. An improved signal processing algorithm for sensor signals has been developed, which expands the probe's capability and improves measurement accuracy compared to existing algorithms. At an experimental level, different physical configurations of two-phase flow have been analysed: classic vertical pipe configuration, T-shaped configuration (phase separation) and modifications in fluid properties (temperature and surface tension). The objective has been the extensive validation of the sensors and the methodology, ensuring their robust applicability in industrial and scientific scenarios.