DOWNHOLE FLOW METER

摘要

This invention comprises the use of a variable orifice valve (16) as a flow controller and flow meter. Pressure measurements are taken upstream and downstream of the variable orifice valve (16) by way of a differential pressure measurement mechanism (18). The differential pressure measurement mechanism (18) may comprise two separate absolute pressure measurement devices (23) or a single differential pressure measurement device. Flow rate through the valve (16) is determined from the pressure drop across the valve (16). In wellbores having multiple zones (90), a variable orifice valve (16) together with a differential pressure measurement mechanism (23) may be deployed for each zone (90). The flow rate through each of the zones (90) and at the surface can then be monitored and controlled.