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Dynamic Simulator for Three-Phase Gravity Separators in Oil Production Facilities
Shangfei Song1, Xuanzhang Liu2, Chenxuan Li1
1Beijing Key Laboratory of Urban Oil and Gas Distribution Technology / National Engineering Research Center of Oil and Gas Pipeline Transportation Safety/ MOE Key Laboratory of Petroleum Engineering, China University of Petroleum-Beijing, Changping, Beijing102249, China.
ACS Omega
|February 23, 2023
Summary
A new dynamic simulator for oil production separators improves oil-water separation efficiency. This tool aids in designing separation processes and creating digital twins by calculating hard-to-measure parameters.
Area of Science:
- Petroleum Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Process Control
Background:
- Oil production facilities rely on efficient three-phase gravity separators.
- Accurate dynamic modeling is crucial for optimizing separator performance and control.
- Existing models may not fully capture the complex dynamic behavior of these systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a dynamic simulator for three-phase gravity separators.
- To analyze the dynamic behavior during filling and setpoint changes.
- To investigate the impact of operating conditions on separation efficiency.
Main Methods:
- Developed a dynamic simulator based on mass conservation and dispersed phase mass balance equations.
- Implemented proportional-integral (PI) controllers for level and pressure regulation.
- Validated the simulator using field data with specified valve openings and PI parameters.
Main Results:
- The simulator accurately predicts separator pressure, oil level, and water level.
- Verified dynamic responses to setpoint changes (pressure, oil level, water level).
- Demonstrated the influence of inlet flow, water setpoint, and weir height on separation efficiency.
Conclusions:
- The validated simulator is suitable for designing oil, gas, and water separation processes.
- Enables calculation of difficult-to-measure parameters, supporting digital twin development.
- Provides valuable insights into separator dynamics and operational optimization.
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