multivariate production systems optimization - Stanford University
multivariate production systems optimization - Stanford University
multivariate production systems optimization - Stanford University
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Chapter 5<br />
PHASE SEPARATION<br />
The well stream that arrives at the surface consists of multiple phases such as oil, gas,<br />
water, and possibly sand. Before the hydrocarbon well stream may be directed to storage<br />
facilities or delivered to market, it must first be separated into the discrete phases present.<br />
Gas pipelines stipulate maximum levels of water vapor content and contaminants. Oil<br />
purchase contracts specify the maximum amount of basic sediment and water that is<br />
allowable in the crude.<br />
The most common form of isolating the gas and liquid phases present in a well<br />
stream is to pass the stream through a separator (see Figure 5.1). A separator is typically<br />
maintained at a constant operating pressure by controlling the effluence from the separator<br />
with backpressure valves. A separator is designed to provide sufficient time for the<br />
various phases of the well stream to equilibrate and separate by means of gravity<br />
Inlet<br />
Inlet<br />
Diverter<br />
Figure 5.1: Schematic of Horizontal Separator.<br />
49<br />
Mist<br />
Extractor<br />
Gas Liquid Interface<br />
Pressure Control Valve<br />
Gas Out<br />
Level Control<br />
Valve<br />
Liquid Out