Introduction

Flow

Large quantities of liquids and gases such as oil, natural gas, water, hydrogen and emissions are produced, transported and distributed across the world every day. Gas and liquid meters (or flow meters) are needed for billing purposes. We often measure both quantity and quality (calorific value, or the amount of pollutants). A measurement error of just 0.1% can cost large oil and gas pipelines millions of euros every year. As such, reliable measurements that are traceable to international standards are crucial for owners and operators. Other industries that attach great importance to calibrations of liquid and gas measurements are the process and chemical industries as well as power stations.

Geocore and Flow

Based on our extensive knowledge and experience, Geocore has an excellent international reputation in the oil and gas sectors. We provide various flow and liquid volume measurement services for a wide range of parties around the world, including measurement equipment suppliers, utility companies, oil and gas producers, and gas transport and distribution companies. At European level, we are working on several research projects, including with regard to Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG). Our experts also participate in international working groups, including the BIPM Working Group on Fluid Flow and EURAMET TC-Flow for harmonisation across Europe. Geocore realises the Dutch measurement standards for flow based on the quantities mass, length, density and time. In our liquid and gas laboratory, we regularly compare the standards with those of other national metrology institutes. This ensures international recognition. We determine liquid mass and density for liquid volume measures, which are traceable to national mass and density standards.

Consultancy

We support and advise manufacturers and end users with regard to questions, enabling them to improve measurement and inspection methods to optimise the quality of their processes and products.

Customisation

Custom Flow Metrology

Geocore’s expertise is regularly deployed in both national and international projects, ranging from realising traceability to advice on and the design of challenging flow measurement systems. Our knowledge of measurement and the interpretation of measurement data enables us to provide the following services:

• Advice on and design of measurement systems, considering all components to optimise accuracy and measurement uncertainty.
• (Periodic) on-site validation and certification of complete gas and liquid measurement systems.
• Calibration of measuring instruments to ensure traceability, either at Geocore or on-site.
• Independent opinions in claims and disputes, ensuring reliable and unbiased measurement verification.
• Remote monitoring and telecalibration (gas flow only).
• Uncertainty analyses and various types of inspections.
• Implementation of quality systems.

Calibration

Flow Calibration Services

Accurate, traceable flow measurements are of critical importance for flow transactions because of the financial value they represent. In addition to the measurement itself, calorific value (also called heating value), temperature, viscosity and pressure are also important factors in minimising measurement uncertainty. Geocore has extensive facilities to calibrate volume instruments, pipe provers, flow meters, and more. Analysis of a complete measurement system allows us to map out its accuracy and measurement uncertainty. Geocore establishes the lowest possible uncertainty in terms of volume, mass and flow.