Horizontal separators
 

CHALLENGES

Lack of control of the emulsion layer in the separator means fluctuations in lift costs per BOE:
 

  • Not accomplishing primary goal: removing water from oil

  • Reduced separator efficiency and equipment uptime

  • Increased cost of demulsifiers to break down rag layer

  • Transmitter may not be specified for interface versus total level

  • Potential buildup on existing contacting devices

  • Direct impact to the overall dehydration process, liquid storage, and water treatment systems

SOLUTION

Magnetrol® level devices optimize separator performance by keeping tighter control of the emulsion layer

  • Recommend device close to the weir to maximize retention time which assists oil-water separation

  • Thinner rag layer optimizes level device performance

  • Single transmitter design for total level and interface

  • Enhanced diagnostics for buildup detection (paraffinsor asphaltenes)

  • Low power to cycle up and down quickly (O&G E&P)

  • Breadth of transmitters by SG/API gravity

RESULTS

Better level measurement and tighter control of the emulsion layer


  • Separator optimization due to accurate representation of water in oil (top of emulsion)

  • Reduced cost for demulsifiers (cost is an estimated $1.5–$2K USD per ton)

  • Increased downstream equipment uptime due to improved oil-water separation

  • Reduced maintenance due to reliable signal and enhanced diagnostics

  • Simplified commissioning and training with communication through desired protocols

Related products

Other applications

Do you want personal advice for your specific control process? 

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