Manual of petroleum measurement standards.

Chapter 14–Natural Gas Fluids Measurement

Section 8–Liquefied Petroleum Gas Measurement

1.- Scope and Purpose.

This publication describes dynamic and static measurement systems used to measure gas.
liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in the relative density range of 3.50 to 0.637 (see chapter 11.2.2). The
physical properties of the components to be measured and the composition of the gas mixture
liquefied petroleum should be reviewed to determine the measurement systems to be used.
Various systems and methods can be used in measuring the amount of product, and mutual
Agreements on systems and methods between the contracting parties are required.

This publication does not endorse or advocate for the preference for the use of any specific type of
measurement or the measurement system. Furthermore, this publication is not intended to restrict future development
of measurements or measuring devices, nor to affect in any way the equipment of
measurement already installed and in operation.

This publication serves as a guide in the selection, installation, operation, and maintenance of
measurement systems applicable to liquefied petroleum gases and includes functional descriptions
for individual systems.

2.- Reference publications.

For more extensive specifications in the text, the latest editions or revisions of the following
standards or norms and publications are part of this publication.

Manual de petroleum measurement standards (MPMS)

Capítulo 2 Calibración de tanques; capítulo 3 medición en tanques; Capítulo 4, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 6.6,
7.2, 8, 9, 9.2, 11.2.2, 12.2, 14.3, 14.4, 14.6, 14.7

ASM International Metals Handbook

ASME performance test code 19.5

ASTM D 1250-80; D2713-91

GPA 2140, 2142, 2145, 2165, 2166, 2174, 2177, 2186, 2261, 2286, 8173, 8182-95.

GPSA Engineering Data Book

3.- Applications

This publication does not establish tolerances or limits of certainty. The application of the information
This should be suitable for achieving acceptable results in the development of measurements.
using good measurement practices, while also considering the use of requirements and
applicable codes and regulations.

The systems for measuring liquefied petroleum gases also use determination methods
volumetric or mass, and both methods apply for static and dynamic conditions as well.
The most commonly used methods for mass determination measurement are where
Additional conditions for temperature and pressure will affect the measurement. Such conditions
they include compositional changes, intermolecular adhesion, and volumetric changes caused by
mezcla de soluciones. La medición másica es aplicable a mezclas de gas de petróleo licuado
where the physical accuracy of the correction factors has not been determined, and for some
manufacturing processes for determination of mass balance.

The volumetric method for measurement is generally used where the changes of the
Physical properties at temperature and pressure are known and the correction factors can
to be applied to correct the measurement to standard conditions. The volumetric measurement is
applicable to most pure components and many grades of commercial products.

Many of the measurement processes related to the measurement of other products are
applicable to the measurement of liquefied petroleum gases. However, certain characteristics of the gas
Liquefied petroleum requires extra precautions to improve the accuracy of the measurement.

Liquefied petroleum gas will remain in the liquid state only if under a much higher pressure than the
vapor equilibrium pressure is maintained (see chapter 5.3 and 6.6). In measurement systems
liquid, an adequate pressure must be maintained to prevent vaporization caused by drops of
pressure attributable to pipes, valves, and measuring tubes. When liquefied petroleum gas is
stored in tanks or containers, a portion of the liquid will vaporize and fill the space
above the liquid. The amount vaporized will be related to the temperature and the constant of
equilibrium for the mixture of components.

Liquefied petroleum gas is more compressible and has a higher thermal expansion coefficient.
that the heaviest hydrocarbon. The application of appropriate compressibility and factors of
Temperature corrections are required for accurate measurement under standard conditions.
except when the measurement by mass determination is of density and volume at temperature and
measured pressure.

The measurements should be tested on each of the products or close to the temperature.
normal operation, pressure, and flow rate. If the product or operating condition changes that
it will cause a significant change in the occurring measurement factors, the measurement should be
tested again according to chapters 4 and 5.

4.- Requirements for all measurement methods

The following general requirements apply to dynamic measuring systems using

also mass or volumetric determination methods for measuring petroleum gases
smoothie.

4.1 Provisions to ensure that the fluids are in the liquid phase.

Provisions will be adopted to ensure that the conditions for measuring temperature and
The pressure of liquefied petroleum gas will be adequate to keep the fluid completely in the phase.
liquid. For measurement in the liquid phase, the pressure at the inlet measurement must be at least
1.25 times the equilibrium vapor pressure at temperature measurement, plus twice the drop
through pressure at the maximum flow rate meter, or at a pressure of 125
lb/pg2 higher than the vapor pressure at the maximum operating temperature, whichever is higher.
low. (see chapter 5.3 and 6.6)
4.2 Removal of whirlpool

When we use turbines or orifice meters, the installation must comply with the
requirements specified in chapters 5.3 or 14.3 respectively.

4.3 Temperature measurement

The use of a fixed temperature may be acceptable, in some cases, when it only varies by
a small amount, however, continuous temperature monitoring is recommended
for maximum accuracy.

Temperature measurements, where required, should be made at a point that indicates.

flow conditions in the measuring device. The accuracy of the instruments and the type of
The measurements used are specified in chapters 4, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 7.2, and 14.6.

4.4 Pressure measurement

The use of a fixed pressure may be acceptable in some cases, where it does not vary except in
small amounts, however, continuous pressure measurement is recommended for a
maximum precision.

Pressure measurements, where required, should be made at a point that is sensitive to

variations in pressure conditions in the measuring device. The accuracy of the
instruments and the type of measurement used should be as described in chapters 4, 5.2,
5.3, 5.4, and 14.6.

4.5 Density or measurement of relative density

The example point for density or relative density (specific gravity) measurements of the
Liquids should reflect the variation conditions that exist in the meter. Densities to be
used to determine mass measurements must be obtained under the same conditions of
flow that exists in the meter. The certainty of the instrument and the type of measurement used must
be like those described in chapters 9.2 and 14.6.

4.6 Location of measurement and sampling equipment

The measuring and sampling equipment should be located as requested in chapter 8 and
they must be located to minimize or eliminate the influence of pulsations or mechanisms of
vibration caused by pumping or valve control generating noise. Special caution should be taken
to take to minimize or eliminate the effects of electrical interference that may be induced in
the coil of the collector circuit of the flow meter. The use of a pre-amplifier is recommended.

Representative examples should be obtained as requested in GPA 2166 and GPA 2174.
When automated sampling systems are used, care must be taken to ensure that
the sample should be taken from the center to one third (1/3) of the cross-sectional area of the current,
the current is well mixed at that point, the sampling point is not in a dead zone,
and the sample system does not allow passage through the meter.

5 Volumetric Determination in Dynamic Systems

Dynamic measurement of liquefied petroleum gas (liquid phase) for custody transfer may
to be carried out using many different measuring devices. The choice of the specific type
que se vaya a usar es dependiente de un mutuo acuerdo entre las partes que intervienen
(contractors).

5.1 Measurement by orifice plate meter

5.1.1 General equations of orifice meters

Measurement of liquid petroleum gases by orifice meter should be in accordance with chapter 14.3,
part one using the orifice and relationships of internal line diameters and appropriate coefficients for
flow as agreed between the parties. The developed equations and factors given in the
standards (norms) are limited in scope. For a complete explanation and development go to
chapter 14.3, part 1. A complete list of all conversion factor units (N1)
They can be found in chapter 14.3, part 1, section 1.11.4.

The orifice meter is inherently a mass measurement device with the following
fundamentals of flow equation:

= () 22 ∆.
√
4

The flow equation for the practical orifice meter used in this standard is a
simplified form that combines numerical constants and constant conversion units in
a unit of conversion factor (N1):

= 1 √2 .∆

Where:

Cd: Coefficient of discharge for orifice plate

d: diameter of the hole in the plate calculated at flowing temperature (Tf)

ΔP: Pressure differential orifice

Ev: Approach speed factor

N1: Factor de unidad de conversión

qm: mass flow rate

Fluid density at flow conditions (Pf, Tf)

Pf: Flow pressure (psia)

g: Expansion factor

The expansion factor, γ, is included in the equation above because it is applicable to all fluids in
a phase, homogeneous, Newtonian. For incompressible fluids, such as water at 60°F and pressure
atmospheric, the empirical expansion factor is defined as 1.0000.

The flow equation can be used to determine flow rates:

a) Flow rate in cubic feet per hour under flow conditions:

 2
∆
= 359.072 √
.

2
∆
= 359.072 √
.

2
∆
= 45.4683 √

b) Mass flow rate in pounds per hour:

= 359.072 2∆
√ .

= 2835.6681 2∆
√

Measurement of liquefied petroleum gas having high vapor pressure is sometimes

simplified, where deliveries are obtained in mass units by multiplying the volume by
flow conditions (time 'moment') the density (measured within the pre-established limits)
at the same temperature and flow pressure that exists in the meter) sometimes the meter and the
density adjustment factors as shown in 6.2. The calculation of the volume under conditions
standard can then be made using 6.5 or GPA 8173.

c) Flow rate in cubic feet per hour under base conditions:

359.072
= √2∆ .

45.4683
= √2∆

d) Flow rate in cubic feet per hour under base conditions using volume and tables of
compressibility correction. (This method should only be used when the measurement is to a
pure product or mixture with well-defined fluid properties

2
∆
= 359.072 √ ( )
.

2
∆
45.4683 °C √ ( )

Where:

d: Diameter of the hole in the hole plate in inches

ΔP: Differential pressure of the orifice in inches of H2O at 60°F

Ev: Approach speed factor

N1:359.072 (US unit conversion factor 9.97424 E-02 x 3600)

qm: Mass flow rate in pound moles per hour (lb-mol/hr)

Fluid density at flow conditions (Pf, Tf) in lb-mol/ft3

Pb: Density of the fluid under base conditions (Pb, Tb) in lb-mol/ft3

Pwb: 62.3663 lb-mol/ft3 - Density of air - pure free water at 60°F and an atmospheric pressure of
14.696 lb/pg2

Relative density under flow conditions. Relationship of the liquid density under conditions
from flow to the density of water at 60°F

Relative density at base conditions

Correction factor for temperature to correct the volume to flow temperature at

standard temperature. See ASTM D 1250-80, volume XII, Table 34, GPA 2142-57 or another table
awakened.

Correction factor by pressure to correct the volume to flow pressure under conditions
standard. See chapter 11.2.2 or another agreed table.

g: 1.0000 for 4.1 forecasts are made to ensure that the liquefied petroleum gas liquid
it is always measured in liquid state. Normally 1.0000 should be used unless the gas
liquefied petroleum is being measured at temperature and pressure that can alter the properties
of the fluid.

5.1.2 Approach speed factor (Ev)

The approach speed factor, Ev, is calculated as follows:

1
=
√1− 4

Where:

Calculation of the hole diameter in the flow temperature plate (Tf)

D: Calculate the internal diameter of the flow meter tube at flow temperature (Tf)

5.1.3 Diameter of the hole in the hole plate (d)

The diameter of the hole in the plate, d, is defined as the diameter under conditions of
flow and can be calculated using the following equation:

= [1+∝1( − )]

Where:
α1: Linear thermal expansion coefficient for the material of the hole plate (see table 1)

d: Calculation of the hole diameter of the plate at flow temperature (Tf)

dr: Diameter of the reference hole of the hole plate to Tr

Tf: Fluid temperature under flow conditions

Reference temperature of the hole diameter of the orifice plate

Note: α, Tf, and Tr must be in consistent units. For the purpose of this standard T, we
assume it will be 68°F (20°C).

The diameter of the hole in the plate, d, calculated at T is the determined diameter of
agreement with the requirements of chapter 14.3, part 2.

5.1.4 The inner diameter of the measuring tube (D)

The internal diameter of the measuring tube, D, is defined as the diameter under flow conditions and
it can be calculated using the flow equation:

= [1+ 2( − )]

Where:

α2: Linear thermal expansion coefficient for the material of the measuring tube (see table 1).

D: Internal diameter of the measuring tube calculated at flow temperature (Tf)

5.1.5 Coeficiente Empírico de la ecuación de descarga para medidores de orificio de brida-

ring

The concentric, discharge coefficient equation for beveled edge flange orifice meters
ring, Cd (FT), developed by Reader-Harris/Gallagher (RG), is structured in terms of a
distinct link and is considered the best representation of the current database
regression. The equation is applicable to nominal pipe sizes of 2 inches (50 mm) and
length; diameter relationships (β) from 0.1 to 0.75, the diameter of the hole in the orifice plate
provided, dr, is greater than 0.45 inches (11.4 mm); and the Reynolds number of the pipe (ReD)
is greater than or equal to 4000. For diameter and Reynolds number relationships of pipes below
the established limits, go to chapter [Link].4.1. The RG equation for the discharge coefficient
for a flange-thread equipped orifice meter is defined as follows:
0.7
106 4
= ( ) + 0.000511 ] + (0.0210 + 0.0049A )

( ) = ( ) +

( ) = 0.5961+ 0.029b 2 -0.2290x + 80.0031− ( 1 )

= +

[= 0.0433 + 0.0712 -8.5L1- 0.1145 -6.0 L1 ]( 1- 0.23A B)

 1.3
= -0.0116 [M2-0.52 2]
1.11- (
0.14A )

Also
4
=
1− 4

1= (2.8 − 0.0)
4

2 2
2=
1−
0.8
19000B
=( )

0.35
106
=( )

Where:

β: diameter ratio (d/D)

Cd(FT): discharge coefficient with a specific Reynolds number for a pipe with
flange-thread hole gauge

Ci(FT): Discharge coefficient with infinite Reynolds number for a pipe with a meter
flange-thread hole

Ci(CT): Discharge coefficient with infinite Reynolds number for a pipe with a flow meter
angle-thread hole

d: diameter of the hole of the plate hole calculated at Tf

D: internal diameter of the measuring tube calculated at Tf

Napierian constant (2.71828)

Dimensionless corrections for the location of the thread. It is equal L2. (N4/D for flange-thread)

N4: 1.0 when D is in inches. (25.4 when D is in millimeters)

ReD: Reynolds number

5.1.6 Número de Reynolds (ReD)

The RG equation uses the Reynolds number in pipes as a correlation parameter for
represent the changes in the discharge coefficient of the orifice plate, Cd, with reference to
the mass flow rate of the fluids (is the velocity through the orifice), the density of the fluid, and
the viscosity of the fluid.

The Reynolds number in pipes can be calculated using the following equation:
 4q
=

The equation for the Reynolds number in pipes used in this standard is a simplified form.
that combines numerical constants and unit conversion constants:

2
=

For the Reynolds number equation presented above, the symbols are described as
they continue:

D: internal diameter of the measuring tube calculated at flow temperature (Tf)

μ: absolute viscosity of the fluid

N2: Conversion factor units

Pi: universal constant (3.14159)

qm: mass flow rate

ReD: Reynolds number pipe

5.2 Measurement by positive displacement meter

Manufacturing recommendations should be carefully considered in the

sizing in positive displacement meters (see chapter 5.2)

Air eliminators should be used with caution, particularly in the section of the line.
in which they are installed and may be opened occasionally, and where a complete
evaporation can occur.

The formation of vapor resulting from the effects of ambient temperature or traces of heat in the
the line ahead of the meter could cause inaccuracies and damage, which in most cases are
they will find at the start. Precautions must be taken.

5.2.1 Volume at standard or base conditions

Liquid measurement by positive displacement meter shall be in accordance with the

procedures in chapter 5.2. Appropriate correction factors should be used to
adjust the volume measurement to standard conditions by correcting for temperature, pressure, and
meter factor. Factors to be applied can be found in chapters 11 and 12.

The equation for positive displacement measurement is:

= . .

Where:

Vb: Volume at base or standard conditions

Vf: Volume under flow conditions indicated by a measuring device

M.F.: Measuring factor, obtained demonstration of the meter according to chapter 4 and 12.2.

Correction factor for temperature to adjust the flow volume to temperature

standard temperature. See ASTM D 1250-80, volume XII, table 34, GPA standard 2142-57 or other
agreed table.

Cpl: Correction factor for pressure to correct the flow pressure volume to conditions
standard. See chapter 11.2.2 or another agreed table.

5.2.2 Volume at flow conditions for mass determination

The volume measured under flow conditions (Vm) sometimes the measuring factor equals the volume to
flow conditions. The displacement meter used for volumetric measurements
derivando masa total se ajustara conforme a la norma descrita en el capítulo 5.2 para el servicio
programmed. Temperature or pressure compensation devices are not used in these
meters, and the used accessories must comply with chapter 5.4.

5.3 Measurement by turbine meter.

Manufacturing recommendations should be carefully considered in the

sizing of the turbine meter (see chapter 5.3).

Air eliminators should be used with caution, particularly in the part of the line in
which are installed and can be opened occasionally, and where a complete evaporation
it may occur. In this case, thermal relief valves may be required to prevent damage
physically to the team.

Vapor formation resulting from environmental temperature effects or heat tracks on the line
in front of the meter, which could cause inaccuracies or damage, most of which are
They will find at the start. Precautions must be taken.

Measurement of liquids by turbine meter must comply with the processes described in the
Chapter 5.3. If the volumetric measurement is being developed, appropriate correction factors
they must be used to adjust the volume measurement to standard conditions by correction of
temperature, pressure and measuring factor. Factors to be applied will be found in chapter 4.11.
and 12.

The following equation is used when volumetric measurements are developed by meters.
from the turbine:

= . .

Where:

Vb: Volumen a condiciones base o estándar

Vf: Volume at flow conditions indicated by a measuring device

M.F.: Measuring factor, obtained measurement demonstration according to chapter 4 and 12.2

Ctrl: Temperature correction factor to correct the flow temperature volume to

standard temperature. See ASTM D 1250-80, volume XII, table 34, GPA standard 2142-57 or other
agreed table.
Correction factor for pressure to adjust flow pressure volume to conditions
standard. See chapter 11.2.2 or another agreed table.

The meters used for volumetric measurements under flow conditions, deriving total mass.
they will be adjusted according to the standard described in chapter 5.3 for the scheduled service.
Temperature or pressure compensation devices are not used in these gauges, and the
Used accessories must comply with chapter 5.4. the measurement of mass, converted to
equivalent volume components under standard conditions can be determined according to
AGA 8173.

5.4 Measurements by other devices

Dynamic measurements of liquefied petroleum gas can be carried out using other types of
teams, by mutual agreement between the parties. The application of this standard requires the use of
custody transfer recognition devices.

5.5 Test Meter

Primary measuring devices must be compared with a known standard.

Comparison with a standard is achieved using positive displacement and turbidity meters.
using testers with a conventional pipe or a small volume according to the
Chapter 4. Test tanks are not recommended because liquefied petroleum gas may
vaporized in the tank, making the measurement for that difficult vapor. When a meter is used
more than one product, the meter must be tested under flow, pressure, and operating relationship conditions
temperature and in the specification of the liquid that will be measured in routine operations. Many
measurement factors