(32c) “Steady-State Multiphase Flow Modeling – Past, Present and Future with a Flow Assurance Perspective”

A monumental amount of research and development work has been invested in multiphase flow modeling over the past fifty years.  Yet, many challenges remain as we incorporate additional phases, account for exotic fluids and push our simulation tools to the brink in the desire to optimize ever more complex production systems fraught with difficult flow assurance issues.

A visual history of the evolution of steady-state multiphase flow models will be presented leading to the current “state-of-the-art”.  Looking towards the future, it is important that the models be advanced to address areas of greatest uncertainty and align with trends in field development strategies.  The authors’ views of the top 5 areas of R&D necessary for these purposes will be presented.