Custody Transfer Metering Skid

Custody Transfer Metering Skid: Accurate Measurement for Financial Transactions

A custody transfer metering skid is a pre-engineered and pre-assembled unit specifically designed for the accurate measurement of fluids or gases during financial transactions. These skids are crucial for applications where the flow rate determines the buying or selling price of the product being transferred.

Key Features:

· High Accuracy: Custody transfer skids prioritize high accuracy, typically achieving ±0.5% to ±1% of reading or better. This ensures fair and precise measurement for both parties involved in the transaction.

· Compliance with Standards: Skids are designed and built to comply with industry standards and regulations set by organizations like API (American Petroleum Institute) or AGA (American Gas Association) for custody transfer applications.

· Complete Measurement System: Integrates all necessary components for accurate measurement, including flow meter, temperature sensor, pressure transmitter, flow computer, and control valves.

· Data Acquisition and Recording: Skids often have data acquisition systems that record flow data, temperature, pressure, and other parameters for verification and potential disputes.

· Security Features (Optional): Some skids incorporate tamper-evident seals or other security measures to ensure data integrity and prevent unauthorized modifications.

Typical Components:

· Flow Meter: The heart of the skid, chosen for high accuracy and compliance with relevant custody transfer standards. Common types include:

o Positive Displacement (PD) Meters: Accurate for various fluids, good repeatability (common for liquids).

o Coriolis Mass Flow Meters: High accuracy for various fluids and gases, measures mass flow rate directly.

o Ultrasonic Flow Meters: Non-invasive option for clean liquids and gases (less common for custody transfer due to potential accuracy limitations).

· Temperature Sensor: Measures fluid or gas temperature for accurate volume or mass flow rate calculations.

· Pressure Transmitter: Measures pressure for flow rate calculations and potential leak detection.

· Flow Computer: Processes data from the flow meter, temperature sensor, and pressure transmitter to calculate the volume or mass of fluid/gas transferred according to relevant standards.

· Control Valves (Optional): Used for flow regulation or diverting streams during the transfer process.

· Piping and Instrumentation: High-quality piping with proper valves, gauges, and safety features.

· Skid Structure: A sturdy, weatherproof steel frame that houses and protects all the components.

Applications:

· Oil and Gas Production: Measuring crude oil, refined products, and natural gas for custody transfer between producers, transporters, and refiners.

· Chemical Transportation: Accurate measurement of chemicals during loading and unloading for bulk sales.

· Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Transfer: Ensuring precise measurement of LPG during transfers between terminals and distributors.

Benefits:

· Accurate and Reliable Measurement: Minimizes financial discrepancies in custody transfer transactions.

· Compliance with Standards: Provides peace of mind for all parties involved, meeting industry regulations.

· Complete System Integration: Offers a one-stop solution for accurate flow measurement.

· Data Recording and Security: Enables verification and protects against data manipulation.