A novel capacitance sensor principle applicable for spatially resolving downhole measurements

The paper presents a new approach for the design of capacitive sensors capable of determining the permittivity distribution within a pipe. Due to the robust design and the simple geometry of the sensor, the proposed principle is applicable for downhole measurement systems even when operated at extreme environmental conditions. Results of fill level and water fraction measurements at ambient conditions are presented. For these measurements a prototype sensor was realized and applied to examine a glycerol-water mixture of varying fill level and water fraction within a tube.