Natural gas slug flow trapping and defoaming separation integrated device

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of natural gas treatment, in particular to a natural gas slug flow trapping and defoaming separation integrated device which comprises a container shell, a first-stage separation area, a second-stage separation area, a third-stage separation area and a fourth-stage separation area. The first-stage separation area, the second-stage separation area, the third-stage separation area and the fourth-stage separation area are arranged in the container shell, the concept of stage-by-stage separation from coarse separation to fine separation is adopted, and an axial-flow type separation element is designed. The problems of large-liquid-amount slug flow trapping, foam elimination and efficient separation are effectively solved by utilizing the pressure of the raw material gas and through various separation means such as gravity settling, cyclone defoaming, inertia and filtering.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of natural gas processing technology, specifically to an integrated device for natural gas slug flow capture and defoaming separation. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, natural gas wells, from the initial to the later stages of development, consistently discharge significant amounts of well fluid and formation water into surface production facilities. When the well fluid contains a high concentration of foaming agents, the well site's separation equipment struggles to achieve adequate gas-liquid separation, leading to the accumulation of large amounts of liquid and foam in the gas gathering pipeline. This can easily result in slug flow, affecting pipeline transportation safety; furthermore, the large amount of liquid carrying foam into downstream natural gas processing stations and plants is difficult to separate, causing solution contamination.

[0003] Typically, natural gas processing plants and factories are equipped with large-capacity slug traps and filter separators to handle the separation of large-volume slug flows and small droplets. However, these devices have relatively complex processes, require frequent filter replacements during operation, and are ineffective in handling situations where the liquid phase carries large amounts of foam. Because the transport of natural gas with liquid during production is non-uniform, with frequent fluctuations in liquid load and flow pattern, existing single separation methods are insufficient to handle various operating conditions. To date, there is no equipment capable of simultaneously and efficiently separating large amounts of foamy liquid and slug flow liquid from natural gas. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The technical problem to be solved by this invention is that it is difficult to effectively defoam and separate the foamed raw gas with liquid in natural gas stations. The purpose is to provide an integrated device for natural gas slug flow capture and defoaming separation, which solves the problems of large-volume slug flow capture, foam elimination and efficient separation in production.

[0005] This invention is achieved through the following technical solution:

[0006] An integrated device for capturing and defoaming natural gas slug flow includes: a container shell, a primary separation zone, a secondary separation zone, a tertiary separation zone, and a quaternary separation zone;

[0007] The container shell has a liquid collection area at the bottom, the inlet of the primary separation zone is located inside the container shell, the gas phase outlet of the primary separation zone is connected to the inlet of the secondary separation zone, and the liquid phase outlet of the primary separation zone is located inside the liquid collection area.

[0008] The liquid phase outlet of the secondary separation zone is located within the liquid collection zone. The gas phase outlet of the secondary separation zone is connected to the inlet of the tertiary separation zone. The liquid phase outlet of the tertiary separation zone is located within the liquid collection zone. The gas phase outlet of the tertiary separation zone is connected to the inlet of the quaternary separation zone. The liquid phase outlet of the quaternary separation zone is located within the liquid collection zone. The gas phase outlet of the quaternary separation zone is connected to the device outlet.

[0009] Specifically, the integrated device also includes:

[0010] A sealing partition is disposed inside the container shell and divides the container shell into a lower cavity and an upper cavity, wherein the liquid collection area is disposed at the bottom of the lower cavity;

[0011] A separation cylinder is disposed in the upper cavity, dividing the upper cavity into a secondary separation cavity and a tertiary separation cavity. The secondary separation cavity is the cavity between the outer side of the separation cylinder and the inner side of the container shell, and the tertiary separation cavity is the cavity inside the separation cylinder.

[0012] The primary separation zone is located at the sealing partition, the secondary separation zone is located within the secondary separation cavity, the tertiary separation zone is located at the upper inlet of the tertiary separation cavity, and the quaternary separation zone is located at the lower outlet of the tertiary separation cavity.

[0013] Specifically, the primary separation region includes:

[0014] A primary cyclone defoaming and separation element is fixedly mounted on the sealing partition, with the inlet of the primary cyclone defoaming and separation element located in the lower cavity and the gas phase outlet of the primary cyclone defoaming and separation element located in the upper cavity.

[0015] The upper end of the first-stage downcomer is connected to the liquid phase outlet of the first-stage cyclone defoaming separation element, and the lower end of the first-stage downcomer is located in the liquid collection area and is sealed by the liquid in the liquid collection area.

[0016] Specifically, the secondary separation region includes:

[0017] A two-stage small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube assembly is disposed within the two-stage separation chamber, and the two-stage small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube assembly divides the two-stage separation chamber into an upper independent cavity and a lower independent cavity. The lower independent cavity is connected to the gas phase outlet of the first-stage separation zone. The inlet of the two-stage small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube assembly is located in the lower independent cavity, and the gas phase outlet of the two-stage small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube assembly is located in the upper independent cavity.

[0018] The upper end of the secondary downcomer is connected to the liquid phase outlet of the secondary small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube group, and the lower end of the secondary downcomer passes through the sealing partition and is disposed in the liquid collection area, and is sealed by the liquid in the liquid collection area.

[0019] Specifically, the three-level separation zone includes:

[0020] A three-stage small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube assembly is disposed in the three-stage separation chamber. The three-stage small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube assembly is connected to the inner side of the separation cylinder. The inlet of the three-stage small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube assembly is connected to the two-stage separation chamber. The gas phase outlet of the three-stage small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube assembly is connected to the inside of the separation cylinder.

[0021] The upper end of the three-stage downcomer is connected to the liquid phase outlet of the three-stage small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube group, and the lower end of the three-stage downcomer passes through the sealing partition and is disposed in the liquid collection area, and is sealed by the liquid in the liquid collection area.

[0022] A filter element is disposed between the tertiary separation chamber and the secondary separation chamber. The filter element is located at the upper inlet of the separation cylinder. A quick-opening blind flange for removing and replacing the filter element is provided on the top of the container shell.

[0023] Specifically, the four-level separation zone includes:

[0024] A blade separation element is disposed within the three-stage separation chamber, the inlet of the blade separation assembly is disposed within the three-stage separation chamber, and the gas phase outlet of the blade separation element is connected to the device outlet.

[0025] The upper end of the fourth-stage downcomer is connected to the liquid phase outlet of the blade separation element, and the lower end of the fourth-stage downcomer passes through the sealing partition and is disposed in the liquid collection area, and is sealed by the liquid in the liquid collection area.

[0026] Optionally, the liquid collection area is divided into a liquid collection zone one and a liquid collection zone two by a partition. The liquid phase outlet of the primary separation zone and the liquid phase outlet of the secondary separation zone are located in the liquid collection zone one, and the liquid phase outlet of the tertiary separation zone and the liquid phase outlet of the quaternary separation zone are located in the liquid collection zone two.

[0027] Specifically, the first liquid collection zone and the second liquid collection zone are equipped with independent drain valve groups.

[0028] The liquid collection area is labeled from bottom to top as follows: L1 liquid level, L2 liquid level, L3 liquid level;

[0029] Mark the L4 liquid level in the second liquid collection zone;

[0030] Within the liquid collection zone, drain valve one is installed below liquid level L1, drain valve two is installed between liquid levels L1 and L2, and drain valve three is installed between liquid levels L2 and L3.

[0031] A secondary drain valve is installed below the L4 liquid level in the second liquid collection zone;

[0032] If the liquid level in the first collection zone exceeds the L1 liquid level, open the first drain valve.

[0033] If the liquid level in the first collection zone exceeds the L2 liquid level, open drain valve one and drain valve two.

[0034] If the liquid level in the first collection zone exceeds the L3 level, open drain valve one, drain valve two and drain valve three;

[0035] If the liquid level in the second collection zone exceeds the L4 level, open the discharge valve.

[0036] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following advantages and beneficial effects:

[0037] This invention designs an axial flow separation element by setting up primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary separation zones within the container shell, adopting the concept of "separation from coarse to fine, stage by stage." Utilizing the pressure of the raw gas itself, and employing multiple separation methods such as gravity settling, cyclone defoaming, inertia, and filtration, it effectively solves the problems of large-volume slug flow capture, foam elimination, and efficient separation. Attached Figure Description

[0038] The accompanying drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present invention and, together with the description thereof, serve to explain the principles of the invention. These drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, but do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an integrated device for capturing and defoaming natural gas slug flow according to the present invention.

[0040] Reference numerals in the attached diagram: 1-Container shell; 2-First-stage cyclone defoaming and separation element; 3-First-stage downcomer; 4-Sealing baffle; 5-Second-stage separation chamber; 6-Second-stage small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube assembly; 7-Second-stage downcomer; 8-Filter element; 9-Third-stage small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube assembly; 10-Third-stage separation chamber; 11-Third-stage downcomer; 12-Blade separation element; 13-Fourth-stage downcomer; 14-Liquid collection zone one; 15-Liquid collection zone two. Detailed Implementation

[0041] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0042] It should also be noted that, for ease of description, only the parts relevant to the present invention are shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0043] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0044] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature being directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature being directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0045] Where there is no conflict, the embodiments and features described in the present invention can be combined with each other. The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0046] Example 1

[0047] like Figure 1 As shown,

[0048] An integrated device for capturing and defoaming natural gas slug flow includes: a container shell 1, a primary separation zone, a secondary separation zone, a tertiary separation zone, and a quaternary separation zone.

[0049] The container shell 1 is the main structure of the entire device, used to house and support each separation zone and its internal components. A liquid collection area is located at the bottom of the container shell 1 to collect the liquid phase substances separated from each separation zone.

[0050] The container shell 1 is the main structure of the entire device, used to house and support each separation zone and its internal components. A liquid collection area is provided at the bottom of the container shell 1 to collect the liquid phase substances separated from each separation zone.

[0051] The inlet of the primary separation zone is located inside the container shell 1. The gas phase outlet of the primary separation zone is connected to the inlet of the secondary separation zone. The liquid phase outlet of the primary separation zone is located in the liquid collection zone. The liquid phase outlet of the secondary separation zone is located in the liquid collection zone. The gas phase outlet of the secondary separation zone is connected to the inlet of the tertiary separation zone. The liquid phase outlet of the tertiary separation zone is located in the liquid collection zone. The gas phase outlet of the tertiary separation zone is connected to the inlet of the quaternary separation zone. The liquid phase outlet of the quaternary separation zone is located in the liquid collection zone. The gas phase outlet of the quaternary separation zone is connected to the device outlet.

[0052] Through the optimized combination of multi-stage separation elements, the process of slug flow capture, foam elimination, droplet coalescence, secondary foam elimination, and mist separation is carried out step by step from coarse to fine, thereby achieving efficient separation of liquids entrained in natural gas.

[0053] Each separation element is installed inside the container shell 1. Natural gas, entrained with slug fluid, foam and droplets, enters the equipment from the middle and then enters the lower liquid collection area of ​​the equipment under the action of baffles for buffering of slug fluid and preliminary sedimentation and separation of large-sized foam and droplets.

[0054] This device separates the raw gas into gas and liquid phases through four separation zones located within the container shell 1. Each separation zone has independent gas and liquid phase outlets, ensuring the high efficiency and continuity of the gas-liquid separation process. The raw gas enters from the inlet of the first-stage separation zone and, through gravity settling and cyclone separation, the gas phase flows upwards to the next-stage separation zone, while the liquid phase enters the collection zone through the liquid phase outlet of each separation zone. Finally, after processing through the four-stage separation zones, the purified gas phase is output from the device outlet, while the separated liquid phase is concentrated in the collection zone, ensuring the effectiveness and stability of the separation process.

[0055] To ensure that each separation zone is fixedly installed, the integrated device also includes: a sealing partition 4 and a separation cylinder.

[0056] A sealing partition 4 is installed inside the container shell 1, dividing the container shell 1 into a lower cavity and an upper cavity, with the liquid collection area located at the bottom of the lower cavity;

[0057] The separation cylinder is set in the upper cavity, dividing the upper cavity into a secondary separation cavity 5 and a tertiary separation cavity 10. The secondary separation cavity 5 is the cavity between the outer side of the separation cylinder and the inner side of the container shell 1, and the tertiary separation cavity 10 is the cavity inside the separation cylinder.

[0058] The primary separation zone is located at the sealing partition 4, the secondary separation zone is located inside the secondary separation chamber 5, the tertiary separation zone is located at the upper inlet of the tertiary separation chamber 10, and the quaternary separation zone is located at the lower outlet of the tertiary separation chamber 10.

[0059] Example 2

[0060] The structure and working principle of the primary separation zone are explained. The primary separation zone includes: a primary cyclone defoaming separation element 2 and a primary downcomer 3. A sealing partition 4 separates the lower and upper chambers of the equipment to ensure that the airflow in different separation zones does not interfere with each other.

[0061] The primary cyclone defoaming separation element 2 is fixedly installed on the sealing partition 4, and the inlet of the primary cyclone defoaming separation element 2 is located in the lower cavity, while the gas phase outlet of the primary cyclone defoaming separation element 2 is located in the upper cavity.

[0062] The upper end of the first-stage downcomer 3 is connected to the liquid phase outlet of the first-stage cyclone defoaming separation element 2, and the lower end of the first-stage downcomer 3 is located in the liquid collection zone to ensure that the separated liquid phase can flow smoothly into the liquid collection zone and be sealed by the liquid in the liquid collection zone. The liquid seal is achieved by maintaining the liquid level in the downcomer, which is determined by the pressure difference value of the separation element. The function of the liquid seal is to prevent gas from flowing back from the downcomer, ensuring the stability and effectiveness of the separation process.

[0063] When natural gas, carrying slug fluid, foam, and droplets, enters the equipment from the middle, it first undergoes preliminary sedimentation separation, and then enters the primary cyclone defoaming separator element 2 at a position 180° circumferentially relative to the equipment inlet. After entering the cyclone separator, the airflow rotates at high speed within the cyclone tubes, generating centrifugal and shear forces that break down large-sized foams and separate droplets larger than 200 μm. These droplets are thrown against the separator wall by centrifugal force and flow down the wall.

[0064] After natural gas, carrying slug fluid, foam, and droplets, enters the equipment, it first undergoes buffering and initial sedimentation separation in the lower cavity below the sealing baffle 4. Larger foams and droplets settle into the collection area due to gravity. After initial separation, the gas phase, carrying smaller foams and droplets, enters the primary cyclone defoaming separation element 2. Inside the cyclone separator, the centrifugal force and shear force generated by the high-speed rotation of the airflow break up the larger foams and separate droplets larger than 200 μm.

[0065] The separated liquid phase flows into the collection area through the first-stage downcomer 3, and the liquid seal height of the downcomer ensures the effectiveness of gas-liquid separation. The separated gas phase, carrying small-sized foam and droplets smaller than 200μm, enters the upper cavity through the gas phase outlet of the first-stage cyclone defoaming separation element 2, continues to flow upward, and enters the second-stage separation zone for further separation.

[0066] Example 3

[0067] The structure and working principle of the secondary separation zone are explained. The secondary separation zone includes: a secondary small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube group 6 and a secondary downcomer 7.

[0068] The secondary small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube group 6 is installed inside the secondary separation chamber 5, and the secondary small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube group 6 divides the secondary separation chamber 5 into an upper independent cavity and a lower independent cavity. The lower independent cavity is connected to the gas phase outlet of the primary separation zone. The inlet of the secondary small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube group 6 is located in the lower independent cavity, and the gas phase outlet of the secondary small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube group 6 is located in the upper independent cavity.

[0069] The lower independent cavity is connected to the gas phase outlet of the primary separation zone, ensuring that the gas phase can smoothly enter the secondary separation zone for further separation. The inlet of the secondary small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube group 6 is located in the lower independent cavity, where the airflow enters the cyclone tube group. Inside the cyclone tube group, the airflow continues to rotate at high speed, generating centrifugal force and shear force, further breaking down foam and separating droplets larger than 10μm. The separated gas phase enters the upper independent cavity through the gas phase outlet of the secondary small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube group 6, ready to enter the next stage of separation.

[0070] The upper end of the secondary downcomer 7 is connected to the liquid phase outlet of the secondary small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube group 6, and the lower end of the secondary downcomer 7 passes through the sealing partition 4 and is set in the liquid collection area to ensure that the separated liquid phase can flow smoothly into the liquid collection area and be sealed by the liquid in the liquid collection area.

[0071] After initial separation in the primary separation zone, the gas phase carrying small-sized foam and droplets flows out from the gas phase outlet of the primary cyclone defoaming separation element 2 and enters the lower independent cavity of the secondary separation zone. The airflow enters the cyclone tube group 6 through the inlet of the secondary small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube group 6, and rotates at high speed inside the cyclone tube. The centrifugal force and shear force generated can break down all the foam and separate droplets larger than 10μm.

[0072] The separated liquid phase enters the separation chamber through openings in the side wall of the cyclone separator and flows into the collection area through the secondary downcomer 7. The secondary downcomer 7 is connected to the collection area through a sealing partition 4, and the liquid seal height of the downcomer ensures the effectiveness of gas-liquid separation. The separated gas phase, carrying droplets smaller than 10 μm, enters the upper independent cavity from the gas phase outlet of the secondary small-diameter axial flow cyclone separator 6, continues to flow upward, and enters the tertiary separation zone for further separation.

[0073] The secondary separation zone utilizes the high-speed rotational centrifugal force and shear force of the two-stage small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube assembly 6 to further separate foam and small droplets in the gas-liquid mixture. The secondary downcomer 7 ensures that the separated liquid phase smoothly enters the collection zone and prevents gas backflow through a liquid seal mechanism, maintaining the stability and efficiency of the separation process.

[0074] Example 4

[0075] The structure and working principle of the three-stage separation zone are explained. The three-stage separation zone includes:

[0076] The three-stage small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube assembly 9 is installed inside the three-stage separation chamber 10. The three-stage small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube assembly 9 is connected to the inner side of the separation cylinder, the inlet of the three-stage small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube assembly 9 (connected to the filter element 8), and the gas phase outlet of the three-stage small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube assembly 9 are connected to the inside of the separation cylinder.

[0077] The inlet of the three-stage small-diameter axial-flow cyclone separator 9 (through filter element 8) is connected to the secondary separation chamber 5, ensuring that the gas phase can smoothly enter the tertiary separation zone for further separation. The airflow continues to rotate at high speed within the three-stage small-diameter axial-flow cyclone separator 9, generating higher centrifugal force and shear force, further separating droplets smaller than 10 μm. The separated gas phase enters the separation cylinder through the gas phase outlet of the three-stage small-diameter axial-flow cyclone separator 9.

[0078] The upper end of the three-stage downcomer 11 is connected to the liquid phase outlet of the three-stage small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube group 9, and the lower end of the three-stage downcomer 11 passes through the sealing partition 4 and is set in the liquid collection area to ensure that the separated liquid phase can flow smoothly into the liquid collection area and be sealed by the liquid in the liquid collection area.

[0079] The filter element 8 is positioned between the tertiary separation chamber 10 and the secondary separation chamber 5, at the upper inlet of the separation cylinder. A quick-opening blind flange for removing and replacing the filter element 8 is located on the top of the container shell 1. The design of the filter element 8 ensures that the airflow undergoes preliminary filtration before entering the tertiary small-diameter axial cyclone separator 9. The quick-opening blind flange on the top of the container shell 1 facilitates easy removal and replacement of the filter element 8, simplifying inspection and maintenance.

[0080] The filter element 8 is used to capture small droplets in the airflow, causing them to coalesce into larger droplets or streams, thus providing better separation conditions for subsequent three-stage separation. Because the liquid phase has foaming properties, secondary foaming easily occurs when the gas phase passes through the fully wetted filter element 8. At this time, the larger droplets or streams flow downwards along with the foam generated by the filter element, entering the three-stage small-diameter axial-flow cyclone separator 9. Under the action of centrifugal force and shear force, the foam is eliminated and the liquid is separated.

[0081] The gas phase enters the tertiary separation zone from the secondary separation zone, first passing through filter element 8. Filter element 8 captures small droplets in the gas flow, causing them to coalesce into larger droplets or streams, thus providing better conditions for subsequent separation. As the gas flow passes through the fully wetted filter element 8, secondary foaming may occur. These foams, along with the larger droplets, enter the tertiary small-diameter axial cyclone separator group 9.

[0082] Within the three-stage small-diameter axial-flow cyclone separator 9, the airflow continues to rotate at high speed, generating higher centrifugal and shear forces to further break up foam and separate droplets smaller than 10 μm. The separated liquid phase enters the separation chamber through openings in the side wall of the cyclone separator and flows into the collection area through the three-stage downcomer 11. The three-stage downcomer 11 is connected to the collection area through a sealing baffle 4, and the liquid seal height of the downcomer ensures the effectiveness of gas-liquid separation. The separated gas phase enters the separation cylinder through the gas phase outlet of the three-stage small-diameter axial-flow cyclone separator 9, ready to enter the fourth-stage separation zone for final separation treatment.

[0083] Example 5

[0084] The fourth-stage separation zone includes: blade separation element 12 and fourth-stage downcomer 13.

[0085] The blade separation element 12 is disposed within the three-stage separation chamber 10, and the inlet of the blade separation assembly is also disposed within the three-stage separation chamber 10. The gas phase outlet of the blade separation element 12 is connected to the device outlet. The blade separation element 12 is disposed within the three-stage separation chamber 10, and its inlet is also disposed within the three-stage separation chamber 10. This means that after three-stage separation, the gas phase directly enters the blade separation element 12 for further separation.

[0086] The gas phase outlet of the blade separation element 12 is connected to the outlet of the device, ensuring that the gas phase after final separation can be smoothly discharged from the device. The blade separation element 12 guides and separates the airflow through the action of its internal blades, further removing residual droplets and mist in the airflow to ensure the purity of the output gas phase.

[0087] The upper end of the fourth-stage downcomer 13 is connected to the liquid phase outlet of the blade separation element 12, and the lower end of the fourth-stage downcomer 13 passes through the sealing partition 4 and is set in the liquid collection area to ensure that the separated liquid phase can flow smoothly into the liquid collection area and be sealed by the liquid in the liquid collection area.

[0088] After separation in the third-stage separation zone, the gas phase enters the fourth-stage separation zone through the gas phase outlet of the third-stage small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube assembly 9. The gas phase first enters the blade separation element 12. The blade separation element 12 uses the guiding effect of its internal blades to rotate and accelerate the airflow, thereby further removing residual droplets and mist in the airflow.

[0089] The gas phase processed by the blade separation element 12 is directly discharged from the device through its gas phase outlet and enters the subsequent process. The separated liquid phase enters the fourth-stage downcomer 13 through the liquid phase outlet of the blade separation element 12. The fourth-stage downcomer 13 ensures that the separated liquid phase enters the collection area smoothly and prevents gas backflow through a liquid seal mechanism, maintaining the stability and efficiency of the separation process.

[0090] The four-stage separation zone utilizes a combination of blade separation element 12 and four-stage downcomer 13 to achieve the final separation of residual droplets and mist in the airflow. The blade separation element 12 effectively removes residual droplets by rotating and accelerating the airflow, ensuring the purity of the output gas phase. The four-stage downcomer 13 ensures that the separated liquid phase smoothly enters the collection zone and prevents gas backflow through a liquid seal mechanism, maintaining the stability and efficiency of the separation process. The gas phase after four-stage separation can be directly discharged from the device and enter subsequent processing steps, ensuring the thoroughness and efficiency of gas-liquid separation.

[0091] Example 6

[0092] The liquid collection zone is divided into liquid collection zone 14 and liquid collection zone 2 15 by a partition, which helps to collect and process liquid phases from different separation zones separately, prevent mutual interference, and improve separation efficiency.

[0093] The liquid phase outlets of the primary separation zone and the secondary separation zone are located in liquid collection zone 14, while the liquid phase outlets of the tertiary separation zone and the quaternary separation zone are located in liquid collection zone 25.

[0094] Collection Zone 14 is primarily used to collect liquids separated from the primary and secondary separation zones. These liquids include larger droplets and foam initially separated from natural gas.

[0095] Collection Zone 2 (15) is primarily used to collect liquids separated from the tertiary and quaternary separation zones. These liquids include smaller droplets and foams separated from natural gas during the finer separation processes.

[0096] In addition, to avoid excessive liquid in the collection area, separate drain valve groups are installed in collection area 14 and collection area 2.

[0097] The liquid collection zone 14 is labeled from bottom to top as follows: L1 liquid level, L2 liquid level, L3 liquid level;

[0098] The liquid level in collection zone 2, section 15, is set to L4.

[0099] Within the liquid collection zone 14, a drain valve 1 is installed below the L1 liquid level, a drain valve 2 is installed between the L2 and L3 liquid levels, and a drain valve 3 is installed between the L3 and L4 liquid levels.

[0100] If the liquid level in collection zone 14 exceeds the liquid level of L1, open drain valve 1;

[0101] If the liquid level in collection zone 14 exceeds the L2 level, open drain valve 1 and drain valve 2.

[0102] If the liquid level in collection zone 14 exceeds the L3 level, open drain valve 1, drain valve 2 and drain valve 3;

[0103] For collection zone 14, when the liquid level exceeds L1, drain valve 1 is opened to remove excess liquid and ensure the liquid level remains below L1. If the liquid level exceeds L2, drain valves 1 and 2 are opened simultaneously to accelerate the drainage process until the liquid level returns to below L1. If the liquid level continues to rise and exceeds L3, drain valves 1, 2, and 3 are opened simultaneously for rapid drainage until the liquid level drops below L1. In collection zone 15, a secondary drain valve is installed below L4; if the liquid level in collection zone 15 exceeds L4, the secondary drain valve is opened to remove excess liquid and ensure the liquid level returns to below L4.

[0104] The liquid collection area is divided into Collection Zone 1 (14) and Collection Zone 2 (15) by a partition, respectively collecting and processing the liquid phase from different separation zones, thus improving separation efficiency and processing effect. The design includes liquid level markers and independent drain valve groups, automatically controlled by a PLC, enabling the liquid collection area to automatically control the draining process according to different liquid levels, ensuring safe and stable equipment operation. This multi-level control and zoned processing effectively manages and removes liquid phases from the natural gas processing process, improving the overall operating efficiency of the equipment.

[0105] This invention differs from traditional processes that achieve gas-liquid separation by using three separate devices: a slug trap, gravity separator, and filtration separator. This invention focuses on large-volume slug trapping, foam elimination, and efficient separation. It innovatively forms a filtration cyclone defoaming separation component, employing gravity settling, cyclone defoaming, inertial separation, and filtration to create a new process technology. This integrates the slug trap, gravity separator, and filtration separator into one unit, effectively solving the defoaming problem that these three separate devices cannot address. Investment is significantly reduced, efficiency is greatly improved, and an automatic drainage system enables unattended operation, reducing personnel workload and equipment maintenance costs.

[0106] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment / mode," "some embodiments / modes," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment / mode or example is included in at least one embodiment / mode or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment / mode or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments / modes or examples. Furthermore, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments / modes or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments / modes or examples.

[0107] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0108] Those skilled in the art should understand that the above embodiments are merely for illustrating the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Those skilled in the art can make other changes or modifications based on the above invention, and these changes or modifications still fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An integrated device for natural gas slug flow capture and defoaming separation, characterized in that, include: The container shell (1) consists of a primary separation zone, a secondary separation zone, a tertiary separation zone, and a quaternary separation zone. The container shell (1) has a liquid collection area at the bottom, the inlet of the primary separation zone is located inside the container shell (1), the gas phase outlet of the primary separation zone is connected to the inlet of the secondary separation zone, and the liquid phase outlet of the primary separation zone is located inside the liquid collection area; The liquid phase outlet of the secondary separation zone is located within the liquid collection zone. The gas phase outlet of the secondary separation zone is connected to the inlet of the tertiary separation zone. The liquid phase outlet of the tertiary separation zone is located within the liquid collection zone. The gas phase outlet of the tertiary separation zone is connected to the inlet of the quaternary separation zone. The liquid phase outlet of the quaternary separation zone is located within the liquid collection zone. The gas phase outlet of the quaternary separation zone is connected to the device outlet.

2. The integrated device for natural gas slug flow capture and defoaming separation according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A sealing partition (4) is disposed inside the container shell (1) and divides the container shell (1) into a lower cavity and an upper cavity, wherein the liquid collection area is disposed at the bottom of the lower cavity; A separation cylinder is disposed in the upper cavity, dividing the upper cavity into a secondary separation cavity (5) and a tertiary separation cavity (10). The secondary separation cavity (5) is the cavity between the outer side of the separation cylinder and the inner side of the container shell (1), and the tertiary separation cavity (10) is the cavity inside the separation cylinder. The first-level separation zone is located at the sealing partition (4), the second-level separation zone is located inside the second-level separation cavity (5), the third-level separation zone is located at the upper entrance of the third-level separation cavity (10), and the fourth-level separation zone is located at the lower exit of the third-level separation cavity (10).

3. The integrated device for natural gas slug flow capture and defoaming separation according to claim 2, characterized in that, The primary separation zone includes: A primary cyclone defoaming separation element (2) is fixedly installed on the sealing partition (4), and the inlet of the primary cyclone defoaming separation element (2) is located in the lower cavity, and the gas phase outlet of the primary cyclone defoaming separation element (2) is located in the upper cavity. The upper end of the first-stage downcomer (3) is connected to the liquid phase outlet of the first-stage cyclone defoaming separation element (2), and the lower end of the first-stage downcomer (3) is located in the liquid collection area and is sealed by the liquid in the liquid collection area.

4. The integrated device for natural gas slug flow capture and defoaming separation according to claim 2, characterized in that, The secondary separation zone includes: A secondary small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube assembly (6) is disposed within the secondary separation chamber (5), and the secondary small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube assembly (6) divides the secondary separation chamber (5) into an upper independent cavity and a lower independent cavity. The lower independent cavity is connected to the gas phase outlet of the primary separation zone. The inlet of the secondary small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube assembly (6) is disposed within the lower independent cavity, and the gas phase outlet of the secondary small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube assembly (6) is disposed within the upper independent cavity. The upper end of the secondary downcomer (7) is connected to the liquid phase outlet of the secondary small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube group (6), and the lower end of the secondary downcomer (7) passes through the sealing partition (4) and is set in the liquid collection area, and is sealed by the liquid in the liquid collection area.

5. The integrated device for natural gas slug flow capture and defoaming separation according to claim 2, characterized in that, The three-level separation zone includes: A three-stage small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube assembly (9) is disposed inside the three-stage separation chamber (10). The three-stage small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube assembly (9) is connected to the inner side of the separation cylinder. The inlet of the three-stage small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube assembly (9) is connected to the two-stage separation chamber (5). The gas phase outlet of the three-stage small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube assembly (9) is connected to the inside of the separation cylinder. The upper end of the three-stage downcomer (11) is connected to the liquid phase outlet of the three-stage small-diameter axial flow cyclone tube group (9), and the lower end of the three-stage downcomer (11) passes through the sealing partition (4) and is set in the liquid collection area, and is sealed by the liquid in the liquid collection area.

6. The integrated device for natural gas slug flow capture and defoaming separation according to claim 5, characterized in that, The three-stage separation zone also includes: A filter element (8) is disposed between the third-stage separation chamber (10) and the second-stage separation chamber (5). The filter element (8) is located at the upper inlet of the separation cylinder. A quick-opening blind plate for removing and replacing the filter element (8) is provided on the top of the container shell (1).

7. The integrated device for natural gas slug flow capture and defoaming separation according to claim 2, characterized in that, The four-level separation zone includes: The blade separation element (12) is disposed in the three-stage separation chamber (10), the inlet of the blade separation assembly is disposed in the three-stage separation chamber (10), and the gas phase outlet of the blade separation element (12) is connected to the device outlet. The upper end of the four-stage downcomer (13) is connected to the liquid phase outlet of the blade separation element (12), and the lower end of the four-stage downcomer (13) passes through the sealing partition (4) and is disposed in the liquid collection area, and is sealed by the liquid in the liquid collection area.

8. The integrated device for natural gas slug flow capture and defoaming separation according to claim 1, characterized in that, The liquid collection area is divided into a liquid collection zone 1 (14) and a liquid collection zone 2 (15) by a partition. The liquid phase outlet of the primary separation zone and the liquid phase outlet of the secondary separation zone are located in the liquid collection zone 1 (14), and the liquid phase outlet of the tertiary separation zone and the liquid phase outlet of the quaternary separation zone are located in the liquid collection zone 2 (15).

9. The integrated device for natural gas slug flow capture and defoaming separation according to claim 8, characterized in that, The first liquid collection zone (14) and the second liquid collection zone (15) are equipped with independent drain valve groups.

10. The integrated device for natural gas slug flow capture and defoaming separation according to claim 9, characterized in that, The liquid collection zone 1 (14) is marked from bottom to top as follows: liquid level L1, liquid level L2 and liquid level L3; the liquid collection zone 2 (15) is marked as liquid level L4; In the first liquid collection area (14), a drain valve is set below the L1 liquid level, a drain valve is set between the L1 liquid level and the L2 liquid level, and a drain valve is set between the L2 liquid level and the L3 liquid level. In the second liquid collection zone (15), a secondary drain valve is installed below the L4 liquid level; If the liquid level in the first collection zone (14) exceeds the L1 liquid level, open the first drain valve; If the liquid level in the first collection zone (14) exceeds the L2 liquid level, open the first drain valve and the second drain valve; If the liquid level in the first collection zone (14) exceeds the L3 liquid level, open the first drain valve, the second drain valve and the third drain valve; If the liquid level in the second liquid collection zone (15) exceeds the L4 liquid level, open the discharge valve.

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