Solve gravity separation challenges

摘要

Separation of oil, water, gas and solids (sand) droplets/particles is one of the most common requirements in most oil and gas facilities. While separation helps in attaining product specifications, not all separation facilities operate as desired. Although the calculation basis is simple, not all operating scenarios are foreseen during initial sizing, which is usually carried out at a single conservative operating point. Calculations are based on terminal velocities, which are dependent on relative densities. The bigger the difference, the easier the separation. Evaluating the sizing on the full operating range of temperature, pressure and properties may identify the relative difference, which varies with operating conditions, and problems originating due to "crossing of fluid densities" highlight the inefficient separation zones. Evaluating the separation efficiencies at the entire operating range to identify any potential inefficient zones is discussed here.