Process Engineers have a wide choice of technologies and products at their disposal for custody transfer flow measurement, a transaction involving transporting physical substance from one operator. Newer flowmeter technologies such as coriolis and ultrasonic offer increased reliability, reduced pressure drop, and high accuracy. At the same time, flowmeter suppliers are making improvements in the performance of meters using more established technologies. Turbine flowmeters, for example, are being made with stronger bearings, offering longer life.

Paul Everett at IMS Research comments, “differential pressure (DP) flowmeters appear to be holding their own. DP flowmeters still have the largest installed base of any type of flowmeter, and customers appreciate the meters versatility to measure liquid, gas, and steam flows. Manufacturers have been very diligent in researching and developing technological improvements in their products”.

There are several flowmeter technologies available today; some are well established, whereas others are emerging. In its latest flowmeter report, IMS Research confirms coriolis flowmeters steady hold on the custody transfer market. Everett continues, “Coriolis meters are gaining industry approval for custody transfer of natural gas. In addition, several European standards organizations include coriolis meters on their list of meters approved for custody transfer. There is also a significant trend occuring in the production and use of ultrasonic flowmeters making the custody transfer market one to watch”.

Ultrasonic flowmeters used in custody transfer are growing at a faster rate than any other flowmeter type available today. Despite the rapid growth, differential pressure flowmeters still account for the largest share of a custody transfer, estimated to be worth some $500 million in 2010.