Verification of Test Separator Performance

The client, a regional engineering company, was asked by the ultimate client, a EPC main contractor, to verify the feasibility to recover the existing test train at each DGS by-passing the first test separator, used in parallel with first production separator.
the client request also to define the maximum capacity of separator and relevant nozzles.
The test train to be analyzed consists of an intermediate test separator, a gas boot and a test tank.
the following analyses have been carried out by IPS:

• a quick analysis of separator capacity based on API  12J code that provides separator capacity values for 2-phase and 3-phase operating.
• a detailed analysis of separator capacity. This analysis, starting from fluid characteristics, separator geometry, water cut values (max and min value) and minimum removed water/oil drops diameter, provides: total inlet volumetric flow capacity and outlet capacity for gas, oil and water.
• at last has been analyzed the single nozzle capacity (inlet and outlet for gas, oil and water) in order to compare the total separator capacity with nozzle capacity and identify limiting factors, if any.

The results and recommendations from the tasks listed above were summarized in a written letter report to the client.