Espen S Johansen

Title: Innovations of Espen S Johansen

Introduction

Espen S Johansen is a notable inventor based in Humble, TX (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of multiphase flow measurement, holding a total of 17 patents. His work focuses on developing advanced methods and apparatuses that enhance the accuracy of flow measurements in complex fluid mixtures.

Latest Patents

One of his latest patents is the Optical multiphase flowmeter. This invention enables direct measurement of at least one flow velocity for one or more phases within a multiphase fluid mixture flowing in a conduit. Some embodiments of this invention provide the determination of actual individual phase flow rates for three distinct phases, such as oil, water, and gas, within the fluid mixture. The multiphase flowmeter includes at least two optical sensors that are spatially distributed along the length of the conduit. These sensors are designed to detect light interactions with the fluid mixture unique to the phases. The detected time-varying signals can be processed using cross-correlation or an array processing algorithm to provide the desired individual phase flow velocity for oil, water, and/or gas phases. This flow velocity can be applied to phase fraction measurements, which can be obtained using the same flowmeter or another separate device to calculate the flow rates for the phases.

Another significant patent is the Water detection and 3-phase fraction measurement systems. This invention enables monitoring a hydrocarbon well for water within a flow stream. The water detector includes a light source that emits infrared light into the flow stream, which includes a water absorbent wavelength band. A detector then detects the attenuation of this wavelength band as the infrared radiation passes through the flow stream. The water detector outputs the presence of water and/or a phase fraction or quantification of water based on the attenuation. Additionally, detecting the attenuation of a substantially transmissive wavelength band with respect to water simultaneously with the detection of the water absorbent wavelength band allows for correction of non-wavelength dependent attenuation.

Career Highlights

Espen S Johansen is currently employed at Weatherford/Lamb, Inc., where he continues to innovate in the field of fluid measurement technologies. His work has significantly impacted the efficiency and accuracy of hydrocarbon extraction processes.

Collaborations

He has collaborated with notable colleagues, including John Lievois and Leslie Wayne Perry, contributing to advancements in their respective fields.