PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy (PGE), a subsidiary of State energy company Pertamina in the geothermal sector, has launched Flow2Max, the world’s first technology capable of real-time measurement of dual-phase fluid flow in geothermal facilities.
Flow2Max is a flow meter that sets a new standard in geothermal energy by providing real-time, accurate measurements of dual-phase fluid flow − both liquid and vapor. This innovation allows for more regular evaluation of wells performance, more accurate predictions of wells productivity, and earlier detection of technical issues.
“We believe that Flow2Max will revolutionize the global geothermal industry. This innovation is a testament to our commitment to driving technological advancement and providing sustainable solutions to the world’s energy challenges,” PGE President Director, Julfi Hadi, said as quoted by Think Geoenergy on Sunday, August 18, 2024.
As a strategic move to accelerate the adoption of Flow2Max, PGE has signed a memorandum of understanding with Ecolab, a U.S.-based company, to further develop, manufacture, and distribute Flow2Max, aiming to extend its benefits across the global geothermal industry.
The development of Flow2Max is the result of extensive research and development efforts by PGE, and it is expected to bring significant improvements in reservoir management.
The technology was developed by PGE’s Manager of Production and Operational Excellence, Mohamad Husni Mubarok, as part of his doctoral studies at the University of Auckland, New Zealand.
In his research, Mubarok developed a method and device combined with a specialized algorithm, now known as the “Mubarok Equation”. This equation enables the accurate measurement of dual-phase fluid flow parameters, such as mass flow and enthalpy, in geothermal wells.
Flow2Max has been granted a patent by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) for “Real-Time Measurement of Two-Phase Mass Flow Rate and Enthalpy Using Differential Pressure Device,” with Patent Number 11,698,281.
Additionally, patents have been issued in Iceland, Turkey, the Philippines, and New Zealand. The technology has also been registered and certified in Indonesia by the Directorate General of Intellectual Property under the Ministry of Law and Human Rights.
Alongside Flow2Max, Husni has also developed another geothermal technology, Geoflowtest, a portable well production testing tool that enables real-time assessment of well production capacity, delivering fast and accurate data.
These innovations underscore PGE’s role as a leader in geothermal technology, driving forward Indonesia’s commitment to sustainable energy and reinforcing the country’s position in the global energy market.
