Radial basis function network to predict gas flow rate in multiphase flow

Estimation of individual phase flow rates in multiphase flow is of great significance to production optimization and reservoir management in oil and gas industry. This paper proposes radial basis function network to develop a virtual flow meter (VFM) that can estimate gas flow rate in multiphase flow production lines. The model is validated with actual well test measurements, and testing results reveal excellent performance and generalization capability of the developed VFM. The paper also discusses the significance of bottom-hole and choke valve measurements to attain accurate predictions. Proposed VFM model potentially of fers an attractive and cost-effective solution to meet real-time production monitoring demands, and reduces operational and maintenance costs. © 2017 ACM.