X-ray spectrum generation for a multiphase flow meter

This paper describes the design of a geometry for the generation of X-rays to measure the relative amounts of oil, water, and gas in a flow. The measurement principle is based on the attenuation of X-rays in the mixture. The X-rays are generated by fluorescence in slanted foils placed in front of an end-window X-ray tube. EGS4 Monte Carlo simulations have been used to determine an optimum geometry. We conclude that with an X-ray tube power in the order of only ∼ 2.5 W, successful multiple energy X-ray absorption analysis should be possible.