Acoustic Velocity Measurements and Interpretation for Challenging Fluid Systems

Acoustic velocity can be measured with a high degree of accuracy making it an attractive method for extracting related thermodynamic properties. Technical improvements were made to measure acoustic wave velocities in fluid samples over a range of temperatures, pressures, and fluid properties. The simplicity of this technique relative to conventional PVT measurements makes it a fast and reliable means for obtaining some of the data needed in petroleum engineering calculations. The primary objective in this study is to determine whether the designed apparatus is suitable for measuring compressional wave velocities in fluids commonly encountered in oil and gas operations. Additionally, the potential of the device to be used as a QC tool to accompany conventionally determined PVT properties was also studied. A robust experimental design allows for the determination of acoustic wave velocities at elevated pressures and temperatures and includes the ability to homogenize and recondition samples. For experiments involving heavy, viscous oils – especially those containing dissolved gas – this capability is particularly important.