2-Phase Horizontal Separator Sizing
2-Phase Horizontal Separator Sizing
1. Process Conditions
• Flow Rates: Gas (Qg) and Liquid (Ql) flow rates are required (e.g., m3/h or
bbl/day).
• Operating Pressure (P) and Temperature (T): These affect fluid properties.
• Fluid Properties: Gas density (ρg), gas viscosity (μg), liquid density (ρl), liquid
viscosity (μl), and surface tension (σ).
• Cross-Sectional Area (Ag): Calculate the required cross-sectional area for gas
flow:
Ag = Qg / Vg
• Retention Time (tr): Determine the required retention time for the liquid phase
(typically 2-5 minutes). Longer retention times are needed for foaming systems or
to facilitate oil/water separation.
• Liquid Volume (Vl): Calculate the liquid volume:
Vl = Ql * tr
4. Separator Dimensions
• Separator Diameter (D): The diameter is related to both gas and liquid capacity.
An iterative approach is often used. First, estimate a diameter.
5. Surge Volume
• Account for fluctuations in liquid flow (typically 10-20% of the calculated liquid
volume). This is added to the liquid volume calculation.
• Inlet Diverter: An inlet diverter dissipates the momentum of the incoming fluid.
• Mist Eliminator: Include a mist eliminator (e.g., mesh pad or vane pack) to
capture fine droplets.
• Nozzle Sizing: Ensure inlet and outlet nozzles are sized appropriately.
7. Validation
• Refer to industry standards (API 12J, ASME Section VIII) for design guidelines
and safety factors.
To provide a more specific calculation, I would need the actual flow rates, fluid
properties, operating conditions, and any specific design constraints.