Zak Latif

DR ZAK LATIF

TECHNICAL LEAD FOR TÜV SÜD NATIONAL ENGINEERING LABORATORY’S ADVANCED MULTIPHASE FACILITY

What is your role?

Over the last five years, I have been heavily involved in all aspects of multiphase flow, erosion effects and produced water. Recently I have taken on the role of Technical Lead of our new Advanced Multiphase Facility, which launched in October 2019.

What is your academic/industrial background?

I have recently completed an Engineering Doctorate with Coventry University on ‘Continuous Online Oil-in-Water Measurement for Regulatory Purposes’. I also have a Masters degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Strathclyde and I am currently working towards chartership with the Institute of Chemical Engineers.

What was the route of your interest in engineering?

I always found maths, chemistry and physics the most interesting subjects at school. Chemical engineering seemed to fit my interests perfectly, with a great balance between my favourite subjects.

What are your main areas of expertise?

I have expertise in a range of topics, including flow system design, multiphase flow, sand management/erosion, uncertainty and produced water measurement and management.

What are your current key projects and who are your key clients?

I am involved in much of the research and testing work carried out at high pressure multiphase conditions in our Advanced Multiphase Facility. The main clients I work with are multiphase/wet gas meter manufacturers and end-users. We also work with universities, meter manufacturers, operators and BEIS on research and Joint Industry Projects (JIPs).

What most excites/interests you about your role?

Diversity. Due to the nature of different projects that I work on, I can experience different aspects of engineering, from desk-based uncertainty budgets to hands-on slurry testing. I particularly enjoy the hands-on nature of the role, most recently the commissioning of the new multiphase facility.

What future trends do you see developing in your area of work?

There are several key trends I see developing:

• A move away from laboratory to field calibrations
• Live uncertainty
• Higher pressures/temperatures
• Stricter regulations/environmental
• Focus on traceability

In our unique position as the UK’s designated Institute for Flow and Density Measurement, our expertise can feed into all of these aspects.