Wellbore flow monitoring using orifice plates in downhole completions

Abstract

Some embodiments of the inventive subject matter improve techniques for measuring downhole attributes. A method for determining a flow rate of a fluid includes positioning a tubular within a wellbore formed in a subsurface formation, wherein a flow of fluid is to move through the tubular. An orifice plate is positioned in the tubular. The orifice plate is movable between a first position and a second position to alter a flow area of the flow of fluid moving through the tubular. The method includes detecting a change in a downhole attribute that changes in response to the alteration of the flow area of the flow of fluid. Sensors positioned within or in communication with an interior of the tubular can detect the change in the downhole attribute. The method further includes determining a flow rate of the flow of fluid based on the detected change in the downhole attribute.