When measurement professionals contact GCI about registering for gas measurement training, they often ask about our course agenda.
In this blog, we will walk you through a typical curriculum schedule to provide you with a clear understanding of a “day in the life” of GCI training, which we offer in Houston, Texas.
Let’s take a closer look at our 4-day Gas Measurement Fundamentals & EFM Best Practices course, which satisfies the first task “Fundamentals and Standards of Gas Measurement” from the AGA white paper Natural Gas Measurement Technician Training and Development Guidelines.
The first two days cover gas measurement fundamentals based on industry standards and best practices. The third and fourth days cover electronic gas measurement and meter tubes focusing on differential measurement and the impact on measurement or measurement uncertainty.
Day 1: Setting the Foundation for Gas Measurement
The goal of Day 1 is for students to comprehend the core principles that are the basis of gas measurement.
The students work with the instructor to obtain a clear understanding of the fundamentals of natural gas based on chemistry, gas laws, definitions, units of measurement, heating values, and other essential elements.
Then, students will begin to understand that measurement is not equipment focused, but based on best practices and processes. The first day lays the foundation of gas measurement, temperature, differential and, static pressure, and an introduction to calculations to determine accurate measurement.
Day 2: Continue the Gas Measurement Fundamentals
The training continues with the instructor emphasizing best practices according to American Gas Association (AGA), American Petroleum Institute (API), and Gas Processors Association (GPA). The instructor guides the students through differential calculations based on AGA Report 3 to provide a better understanding of issues that can affect measurement uncertainty. The focus continues on differential meters and the difference from linear meters.
Included in each session is information on ratios, formulas, and calculations, plus sample problems addressing actual field experiences in gas measurement. Discussion focuses on the importance of contracts, in particular on AGA Report 4A, and the importance of standard operating procedures. Also covered is witnessing as a crucial function of measurement activities, and addressing the role of third-party measurement services and companies.
At the end of Day 2, students are tested on their comprehension of what was covered during the first two days.
Day 3 and 4: EFM Best Practices
On Days 3 and 4, instructors, many of whom currently serve on standards committees or have previously served, relate their knowledge on their subject matter.
As students complete a section with the instructor, a test is taken to ensure students comprehend the material before starting the next section.
The instructors will spend the two days focusing on the core substance of EFM best practices, including:
- Gas Sampling (GPA 2166 and API 14.1)
- Meter Tube Inspection (AGA Report 3, Part 2)
- Chromatographs (GPA 2145, GPA 2172, GPA 2177, GPA 2186, GPA 2198)
- Orifice Meters (AGA Report 3 and API 21.1)
How to Register for the Next Training Course
GCI is offering two Gas Measurement Fundamentals & EFM Best Practices training courses in the second half of 2018:
● October 16-19
● December 3-6
To register for our natural gas measurement training, visit our website. If you have questions, please contact us at contact@gascertification.com or 281-598-7200.