three phase separator problems

[160970]

Dear All,

Well fluid pressure is drop from 100 to 50 psig
What items to be adjusted with the existing three phase separator to maintain good performance, since heavy component is lost to gas stream?
Is set poit operating pressure/level control need be adjusted or any other method?
Thanks

 

[tickle]

You need to resize the separator for the new volumetric flows and K factors. Use Crane or similar

 

[160970]

Thanks tickle, I already have GPSA as per your sugestion and other reference, I found calculation sizing of the 3ph separator and I'm still checking all formula in relation with operating P and about retention time that may effect the liquid level. Any sugestion regarding this?
Resizing is the last option, flow from well is constant, the problem is well fluid presure drop.
Thanks again for your reply.

 

[Homayun]

Well, if you are letting down the pressure from 100 to 50 PSIG, then obviously your separator needs to be operated at 50 PSIG. If your inlet flow is relatively high, you may consider installing 2 inlets each at opposite side of the drum with the vapor outlet in the middle. This reduces the velocity by whcih the material enters the drum. You want further set your MAx Liquid Level such that the vapor velocity on top of the liquid is low, not sure how low, but lower than 1 ft/s. The allowable gas velocity is depending on the difference between the gas and liquid densities. It should be mentioned in your GPSA book. You may also consider installing Crinkle Wire Mesh Screen on your vapor outlet nozzle to reduce the amount og entrainment.
Hope this helps

 

[160970]

Thanks Homayun for the advice, I understand your point and I try to reduce turbulence as I see in API 12J with additional internal baffle and reset max liquid level and install crinkle wire mess screen when required as you seggested, I think this is more simple to be carried out isn't it?