Real-time steam quality measurement for SAGD production
Improve the frequency and accuracy of steam quality measurements using existing instrumentation Reduce the operating costs of Once-Through Steam Generators
Highlights
- Improve the frequency and accuracy of steam quality measurements using existing instrumentation
- Reduce the operating costs of Once-Through Steam Generators
Opportunity
Researchers from the University of Alberta have developed a new technology for the real-time measurement of steam quality from the Once-Through Steam Generator (OTSG) used in SAGD production. Based on a unique soft sensor design, this technology provides significantly more accurate measurements of steam quality than hardware sensors, which are prone to large noise and drift errors, while operating at a far higher sampling rate than manual measurements. This makes possible the direct, real-time control of steam quality, allowing oil sands producers to optimize the operating conditions of their OTSG, reducing the cost of bitumen recovery. Developed by a research team working with the UA Industrial Research Chair in the Control of Oil Sands Processes, this soft sensor is based on a distinct combination of historical operating data, process data analytics and process modeling. It can be easily implemented on a site’s DCS, and only makes use of existing instrumentation and lab samples.
Competitive advantage
- Higher accuracy measurement of steam quality than existing hardware sensors
- Real-time measurement enables more efficient, cost effective operation of the OTSG
- No additional sensors to install at site; soft sensor is based on existing instrumentation and data
Status
- Patent Pending United States – US20190271464
About University of Alberta
The University of Alberta is a large, comprehensive public research university in Edmonton with multiple campuses and a strong applied research culture. Industry engages through co-located labs and pilot-scale facilities, as well as established co-op and internship programs that place talent with partners year-round. Integration with Alberta’s province-wide hospital system supports clinical research and accelerates translation. Companies also benefit from proximity to regional industry clusters and collaboration hubs on and near campus for joint R&D and prototyping. Supported by NSERC, CIHR, SSHRC, and Canada Foundation for Innovation funding—plus provincial and industry support—the tech transfer office manages IP, licensing, and startup formation with streamlined sponsored-research agreements.
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