Objective
To confirm the improved performance of new separation devices at high pressure using oil and natural gas. These conditions shall closely simulate actual operating conditions and, in this way, justify the consideration of this equipment in actual service.
New computer spreadsheeets (to design 3 phase separators) have been produced utilising the data received from the project, making more accurate predictions of the performance of separators. The conclusions have led to further investigation into the use of cyclonic inlet devices with perforated baffle plates and this is the subject of an ongoing R&D project outside the scope of this contract.
a) To develop an existing KPL inlet device and investigate the possibility of a new cyclonic type inlet device by establishing a model that will predict the particle size distribution of the dispersed phases after passing through a KPL inlet device.
b) To perform tests on three types of liquid/liquid separation devices. These being structured packing, tilted plates and vertical plates.
To formulate a theoretical model to determine the degree of separation achieved when two immiscible liquid phases flow through the selected separation device, also to predict the degree of coalescence occurring through the device. The aim of this investigation is to minimise the flow area of the liquid/liquid separation compartment in a three phases separator with a goal to reducing the vessel diameter and tan-tan length with the follow on effects of reduced weight and reduced cost.
c) To observe the carry through of the liquid phase within the gas stream by formulating a theoretical model to determine the amount of liquid carry through in the gas stream prior to entry into the outlet demisting device. This shall provide a check against objective 'a'. Objectives 2 and 3 above will be solely investigated by use of a new test loop being developed by KPL within its own Research and Development establishment.
Programme(s)
Topic(s)
Call for proposal
Data not availableFunding Scheme
DEM - Demonstration contractsCoordinator
NN6 7AU Northampton
United Kingdom