RAPID COMMUNICATION: Non-intrusive three-component ratio measurement using an impedance sensor

A method for the non-intrusive measurement of the component ratio of an oil/water/gas mixture is proposed. The fraction of oil, water and gas flowing between two insulated electrodes is determined by measuring both the resistance and capacitance across the sensor. A mathematical model is used to relate these measured values to the void fraction and water fraction of the flow. The validity of this model has been investigated using process oil, tap water, air mixtures for void fractions of up to 50% and water fractions over the range 0-100%. The results of these experiments are presented.