Design and CFD studies of multiphase separators—a review

Abstract

The multiphase separators are generally the first and largest process equipment in an oil production platform. This primary separation step is a key element in the oil and gas production facilities in that downstream equipment, such as compressors, are completely dependent on the efficient performance of these multiphase separators. The literature on this critical unit operation, multiphase separators, abounds with macro studies and design methodologies for two‐ and three‐phase vertical and horizontal separators. There are very few studies that provide the micro details of the actual separation process. In fact, the popular classic methods for separator design, mostly due to a lack of a usable mathematical model for estimation of droplet ‘separation velocities’, do result in a conservative design and would specify extremely oversized separators. In order to reflect the current situation and address recent findings, this study will review the important literature on design and CFD simulation of multiphase separators. This review will show the benefits that CFD analyses can provide in optimising the design of new separators and solving problems with existing designs. © 2011 Canadian Society for Chemical Engineering

CFD gas–liquid simulation of oriented valve tray

“…CFD simulation can provide a realistic picture of the flows and the results have been used to improve separator efficiency [6][7]. Considering both the resistance and bubbling effect, Liu et al [3] proposed a two-dimensional two-equation model and simulated the liquid flow pattern on sieve tray.…”

Fluid dynamics study of the flow and pressure drop analysis of a non‐Newtonian fluid through annular ducts with unusual cross‐sections

“…In order to predict all aspects of the flow field, including the distribution of velocities and pressure drops along the well, it is necessary to obtain the solution for the three‐dimensional and transient mass and motion conservation differential equations. For this, CFD can be used through commercial numerical packages . Applying CFD has the advantage of providing detailed information of the flow field and other desired properties without any limitations on experimental conditions, and its application can be useful for designing or analyzing an existing situation …”

“…For this, CFD can be used through commercial numerical packages. [21][22][23][24][25] Applying CFD has the advantage of providing detailed information of the flow field and other desired properties without any limitations on experimental conditions, and its application can be useful for designing or analyzing an existing situation. [26][27][28] Thus, to contribute to the understanding of well cleaning operations and cost reductions, this paper presents experimental and simulated pressure drops, flow fields simulated via CFD of non-Newtonian fluid in concentric and eccentric annular ducts, with and without partial obstruction of the annular region, for cases with and without inner tube rotation.…”

Supervisory control for underbalanced drilling operations

“…Both horizontal and vertical separators are used. The separator design, size, number of processing stages and orientation are determined by the amount of available space and the expected operational envelope (Laleh et al, 2012). In this work we will use a horizontal separator with one internal weir plate.…”