Types of separator

Types of separator

      Vertical Separator

The well stream enters the separator through the tangential inlet, which imparts a circular motion to the fluids. A Centrifugal and gravity force provides efficient primary separation. A conical baffle separates the liquid accumulation system from primary section to ensure a quiet liquid

                  Surface releasing solution gas. The separated gas travels up ward through the secondary separation section where the heavier entrained liquid particles settle out. The gas flows through the mist extractor and particles accumulate until sufficient weight to fall into the liquid accumulation section. Sediments 

 enter the separator and accumulate in the bottom and flushed out through the drain connection

Horizontal separator

-Single tube

 the well stream enters through the inlet and strikes an angle baffle or dished deflector and strikes the side of the separator, producing maximum primary separation. Horizontal divider plates separate the liquid accumulation and gas separation section to ensure quick removal of solution gas. The separated gas passes through the mist extractor where liquid particles 10 micron and larger size are removed.

Advantage

       Lower initial cost

   They are easier to insulate for cold-weather operation 

   The liquid remains warmer, minimize freezing and paraffin deposition              

-Double tube

 consist of an upper separator section and lower liquid chamber. The mixed stream of oil and gas enters the upper tube. Liquid fall through the first connecting pipe into the liquid reservoir and wet gas flows through the upper tube where the entrained liquid separate owing to difference in density and to scrubbing action of mist extractor.

Advantage

     The larger capacity under surging conditions.

     The better separation of solution gas in the quiescent lower chamber.

    Better separation of gases and liquids of similar densities.

More stable liquid level control              

            

 Spherical separator

The incoming well stream is split by the inlet flow diverter and directed tangentially against the wall of the separator. The liquid streams come together after flowing 180^o around the vessel wall and then fall into the accumulation section to remain there until released. The gas stream is travelling through the large diameter and loses particles due to its reduced velocity. Then, the gas passes through mist extractor

Factors affecting separation

Operating pressure

A change in pressure effects changes in the gas and liquid densities, velocity and flowing volume. The net effect on an increase in pressure is an increased gas capacity of the separator

Temperature

It affects the actual flowing volume and densities of the gas and liquid. The net effect of an increase of temperature is a decrease in capacity