Apparatus including cyclonic separation device, related lid, container, and system of fluid processing

Abstract

Separator apparatuses of various examples include a container and a lid for the container. The lid includes a cyclone separation device comprising a cyclone chamber for processing fluid and separating solids from the fluid, a cover portion disposed over an end of the cyclone chamber, a first, inlet channel through the cover portion for communicating fluid into the cyclone chamber, a second, outlet channel through the cover portion for communicating fluid out of the cyclone chamber. Separated solids can be received in a receiving region from a distal end or opening of the cyclone separation device, and fluid connection provided between the receiving region and the outlet channel or an outside of the container for removing fluid from the receiving region to the outlet channel or the outside of the container. The separation device can include wear detector means. A method of fluid processing includes using the separator apparatus.

Description

[0001] APPARATUS INCLUDING CYCLONIC SEPARATION DEVICE, RELATED LID, CONTAINER, AND SYSTEM OF FLUID PROCESSING

[0002] The present invention relates to the field of fluid processing and, in particular, it relates to apparatus including cyclone separation devices for removing particles from supplied fluid, such as from production fluid from a well.

[0003] Separator apparatus of various kinds are used for processing fluids. These include cyclone separation devices in which fluid is supplied and caused to rotate in a separation chamber such that components differing in specific gravity are urged to separate from other components of the fluid.

[0004] In the oil and gas industry, fluid produced from wells is processed before being transported onward. The fluid can contain significant amounts of solids, e.g. particles or grains of sand, which become entrained in the fluid and carried to surface from the reservoir formation in the well. A desander in the form of a cyclonic separator device can be employed to knock out solids from the fluid.

[0005] The fluid from the well containing particles of sand or solids especially as it is accelerated through a cyclonic separator device can be relatively abrasive on parts of the device into which it comes into contact. Furthermore, the desander components are configured to withstand high pressure in the fluid conveyed through the desander. Over time, the desander parts may deteriorate and require replacement or maintenance. Solutions in the art include providing parallel desanders, so that when one desander is undergoing maintenance, the other can be operated.

[0006] One aim of the invention is to obviate or at least mitigate one or more drawbacks associated with prior art.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a lid for a container including a container body, the lid comprising: a part for retaining the lid on the container body; a cyclone separation device comprising a cyclone chamber for processing fluid and separating solids from the fluid; a cover portion over an end of the cyclone chamber; a first, inlet channel through the cover portion for communicating fluid into the cyclone chamber; a second, outlet channel through the cover portion for communicating fluid out of the cyclone chamber; and a distal end or opening for directing separated solids out of the cyclone device.

[0008] In this way, conveniently, the lid can be removed or released from the container together with the cyclone device and associated inlet and outlet channels. The cyclone device and inlet and outlet channels can be exposed to fluid flow and after a period of use can experience wear due to abrasion of particles in the fluid flow. The lid and / or parts exposed to the fluid entering and leaving the cyclone chamber can upon removal of the lid be accessed and replaced or maintained, when required, independently of the container body.

[0009] Typically, the cover portion is arranged at or adjacent the end of the cyclone chamber.

[0010] Typically, the lid further comprises: a transverse structure adapted to be retained on an upper end portion of the container body; an axis through the transverse structure and cyclone separation device; the cyclone separation device extending along the axis away from the transverse body or structure toward the distal end; the first, inlet channel disposed to extend along the axis through the transverse body or cover portion; the second, outlet channel disposed to extend along the axis through the transverse body or cover portion.

[0011] Typically, the cover portion is arranged adjacent to or at an upper end of the cyclone chamber. The cover portion may have a thickness extent from topside of the transverse structure and / or lid to the upper end of the cyclone chamber, the inlet channel and the outlet channel extending through said thickness extent.

[0012] Typically, the transverse structure is arranged on an upper end of the cyclone separation device. The transverse structure may be a transverse body. The transverse body may be a plate.

[0013] Typically, the first inlet channel comprises an inlet bore at least from topside of the transverse structure to an upper end or top of the cyclone chamber.

[0014] Typically, the second outlet channel comprises an outlet bore at least from an upper or top end of the cyclone chamber to topside of the transverse structure or lid.

[0015] In use, the lid is arranged with the axis vertical and the sidewall structure of the cyclone device may then extend vertically along the vertical axis. Typically, rotational flow is established around the vertical axis.

[0016] Thus, typically, the lid has a top inlet or inlet section to the cyclone chamber extending vertically from topside of the lid or transverse structure to the top of the cyclone chamber. Typically, the lid has a top outlet or outlet section from the cyclone chamber extending vertically from the top of the cyclone chamber to topside of the lid or transverse structure. Thus, typically further the inlet and / or inlet channel extends vertically at least through the transverse structure and / or cover portion within the lateral extent of the cyclone sidewall structure. Conversely, typically further the outlet extends vertically at least through the transverse structure and / or cover portion within the lateral extent or width of the cyclone sidewall structure. The cyclone chamber thus may in general be arranged below the transverse structure and / or cover portion.

[0017] Typically, the lid is T-shaped when viewed from the side or when viewed in section from the side. The cyclone separation device may extend from the transverse structure to form the T shape when viewed from the side or in section from the side. The cyclone separation device and / or cyclone chamber may further be arranged in the stem of the T. The transverse body may extend transverse to and outwardly from the stem toward a lid periphery or perimeter. The cyclone separation may thus be arranged protruding axially from the transverse body.

[0018] Typically, the transverse lid extends transverse to and outwardly from the cyclone separation device to further cover a region within the container body around an outside of the cyclone separation device sidewall structure when the lid is retained on the container body.

[0019] Typically, the cyclone separation device comprises a wall structure extending away from the transverse body or structure in the longitudinal direction, the cyclone chamber defined within the wall structure, the lid being configured such that when connected to the container body, the wall structure of the cyclone separation device is inserted into the container body and arranged within an outer, second wall structure.

[0020] The lid may further comprise wear detector means for detecting wear of a wall section subjected to a flow of fluid in, or being supplied to, or entering the cyclone chamber. The wall section may be a wall section of the cyclone separation device or the inlet channel. The wear detector means may be arranged within material of a wall structure of the cyclone device. The wear detector means may comprise at least one sensor arranged on the cyclone device or on a structure through which the inlet channel is provided. The sensor may be any suitable sensor, for example one of more of: a pressure sensor; an acoustic sensor; and a strain sensor. The wear detector may obtain data associated with the extent of wear and based on the data, an analyser or determiner may be used to determine whether the lid, cyclone, or parts thereof, require replacement or maintenance, e.g. if the wear exceeds a predetermined threshold. If so, the lid may then be removed or released from the container body. The wear detector means may be configured to communicate data to an analyser or determiner unit. The wear detector means may advantageously be removed or released together with the lid from the container body. Through the wear detector means wear detection can advantageously be targeted and tailored to the inserted structures of the lid that are exposed such as the wall structure of the cyclone separation device.

[0021] The cyclone chamber may be arranged between a first end and a second end, wherein the cover portion may be disposed over the first end and the second end may be the distal end.

[0022] The cyclone separation device may further comprise a wall structure, and the cyclone chamber may be arranged within the wall structure. The wall structure may extend between the cover portion and the distal end. The wall structure may comprise a section tapering toward the distal end. The cyclone separation device may have a distal end opening for letting separated particles from the cyclone chamber out of the cyclone device.

[0023] The lid may further comprise at least one fluid connection between the second, outlet channel and a region outside the wall structure of the cyclone device for urging received fluid from the distal end or opening back along the outside of the wall structure and into the outlet channel.

[0024] More specifically, the fluid connection may comprise either or both: a fluid passage or aperture between a proximal end of the wall structure of the cyclone device and the cover portion; and a fluid passage or aperture through any one or more of: the wall structure of the cyclone device; a wall structure of an outlet pipe section; a part of a structure of the lid; the cover portion.

[0025] The fluid may comprise gas or liquid. The fluid may thus comprise gas, without liquid, e.g. gas produced from a well without liquid. The fluid may comprise gas and / or liquid. The liquid may be or comprise oil from a subsurface reservoir. The gas may be or comprise natural gas from a subsurface reservoir. The solids, e.g. particles, may be carried along in the flow of fluid and / or may be entrained in the fluid, e.g. the liquid and / or gas.

[0026] According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a lid for a container including a container body, the lid comprising: a transverse structure to be retained on the container body; a cyclone separation device comprising a cyclone chamber for processing fluid and separating solids from the fluid; an axis through the transverse structure and the cyclone separation device; the cyclone separation device extending along the axis in a direction away from the transverse structure toward a distal end, the distal end comprising an opening for directing solids out of the separation device; a first, inlet channel extending along the axis through the transverse structure from a topside of the transverse structure to an upper end of the cyclone chamber for communicating fluid into the cyclone chamber; and a second, outlet channel extending along the axis through the transverse structure from an upper end of the cyclone chamber to a topside of the transverse structure for communicating fluid out of the cyclone chamber.

[0027] The lid can thus provide for the feedthrough of fluid in use into the top end of the cyclone chamber and out of the cyclone chamber outlet from the top end of the cyclone chamber. The feedthrough of fluid can be obtained through the transverse structure above the cyclone chamber. The inlet and outlet channels can extend in use typically therefore vertically through the transverse structure to and from the upper / top end of the cyclone chamber.

[0028] Typically, the cyclone separation device comprises a sidewall structure extending longitudinally away from the transverse structure toward the distal end, the cyclone chamber defined within the sidewall structure. The sidewall structure of the cyclone device may comprise a straight cylindrical first, proximal portion and a frusto- conical second, distal portion.

[0029] Typically, the transverse structure is arranged to extend across the axis transverse to an end of the cyclone separation device. Typically, the transverse structure is a transverse body. The transverse structure or transverse body may be arranged on the end of the cyclone separation. The transverse body may be or comprise a plate.

[0030] Typically, the transverse structure may have a portion over the upper end of the cyclone chamber and may further extend outwardly over a region outside the cyclone separation device, e.g. extending sidewardly beyond the cyclone separation device. The transverse structure may cover a region within the container body around an outside of the cyclone separation device. An outer portion of the transverse structure may be configured for retainment on the container body, e.g. may be configured to interlock with or engage part of an end portion of the container body. The transverse structure or outer portion may be or may comprise a flange. In examples where the outer portion is or comprises a flange or a flange portion, the inlet and outlet channels may be further disposed through the flange or the flange portion. The outer portion may be or comprise a plate portion. Typically, the transverse structure comprises a cover portion and / or the joined upper end of the cyclone separation device and the transverse structure together comprises a cover portion over an upper end region of the cyclone chamber. In such examples, the inlet and outlet channels are disposed through the cover portion. Typically, the cover portion is arranged at, adjacent or on an upper end portion of the cyclone chamber. Thus, the cover portion may extend transversely directly across the upper end portion of the cyclone chamber. Typically, the cover portion has a thickness from the upper end region of the cyclone chamber to topside of the transverse body and / or lid to the upper end of the cyclone chamber, the inlet channel and the outlet channel extending through said thickness extent.

[0031] Typically, the sidewall structure of the cyclone separation device may be a first sidewall structure arranged to be disposed within a second sidewall structure, e.g. the sidewall portion of the container body of the container. Thus, as can be appreciated in various examples the lid can be applied to the container body to insert the cyclone separation device, sidewall structure and cyclone chamber, into the container body. The sidewall structure of the cyclone separation device provided on the lid can then be used to support the rotational cyclone flow therewithin without that rotational flow affecting the outer pressure wall structure, e.g. sidewall portion, of the container body. The sidewall structure of the cyclone device provided on the lid may then conveniently be of a different rating and thickness. Furthermore, it may be conveniently replaced upon by removal of the lid when required.

[0032] Typically, the cyclone separation chamber is configured to support rotational flow along the inside of the sidewall structure for the separation of solids, and the lid is configured so that when connected to the container body, the sidewall structure is arranged within an outer, second sidewall structure.

[0033] The lid may be further configured so that when connected to the container body, the sidewall structure of the cyclone device is inserted into the container body with the first sidewall structure arranged within an outer, second sidewall structure, the second sidewall structure being a sidewall structure of the container body. The lid may be further configured so that when connected to the container body and the first sidewall structure is inserted into the container body with the first sidewall structure arranged within the outer, second sidewall structure, such that at least each section of the first sidewall structure subjected to rotational flow within the chamber is arranged within the outer, second sidewall structure and / or such that the full length of wall structure exposed to rotational flow within the chamber is arranged within the outer, second sidewall structure.

[0034] Substantially the entire axial extent of the first sidewall structure of the cyclone device from the connection to the inner transverse plate portion at the upper end of the cyclone device to the lower, distal end is arranged within an outer second sidewall structure.

[0035] The lid may be further configured so that the when connected to the container body, the first sidewall structure together with the cyclone chamber is substantially fully inserted into the container body, such that substantially the entire axial extent of the first sidewall structure of the cyclone device from its upper end at the transverse plate to its lower, distal end is inserted and arranged within an outer second sidewall structure of the container body.

[0036] Typically, the lid is further configured so that when connected to the container body, a region within the container may be defined around the first wall structure between an inner surface of the first wall structure and an outer surface of the second wall structure. Typically, the region allows fluid communication along a full length of the first wall structure of the cyclone device on an outside of the cyclone device. Typically, the region is or comprises an annular region.

[0037] The inner, sidewall structure of the cyclone device over substantially the entire length of the sidewall structure and / or the cyclone separation device is spaced apart from the outer, second sidewall structure.

[0038] The lid may be configured so that when connected to the container body, the container body and the transverse body of the lid together form a pressure vessel outer wall structure encapsulating the sidewall structure of the cyclone chamber on an inside thereof. The first, sidewall structure of the cyclone separation device typically has a thickness or pressure rating less than the second sidewall structure. The sidewall structure of the cyclone separation device may be configured to facilitate wear detection using wear detector means.

[0039] The lid may further comprise wear detector means for detecting wear of a wall section subjected to a flow of fluid in, or being supplied to, or entering the cyclone chamber. The wall section may be a wall section of the cyclone separation device or the inlet channel. The wear detector means may be arranged within material of a wall structure of the cyclone device. The wear detector means may comprise at least one sensor arranged on the cyclone device or on a structure through which the inlet channel is provided. The sensor may be any suitable sensor, for example one of more of: a pressure sensor; an acoustic sensor; and a strain sensor. The wear detector may obtain data associated with the extent of wear and based on the data, an analyser or determiner may be used to determine whether the lid, cyclone, or parts thereof, require replacement or maintenance, e.g. if the wear exceeds a predetermined threshold. If so, the lid may then be removed or released from the container body. The wear detector means may be configured to communicate data to an analyser or determiner unit. The wear detector means may advantageously be removed or released together with the lid from the container body. Through the wear detector means wear detection can advantageously be targeted and tailored to the inserted structures of the lid that are exposed such as the wall structure of the cyclone separation device.

[0040] The lid of the second aspect of the invention may have any one or more further features as described or configured as described above in relation to the lid of the first aspect of the invention.

[0041] According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a lid for a container including a container body, the lid comprising: a transverse body or structure to be retained on the container body; a cyclone separation device comprising a cyclone chamber for processing fluid and separating solids from the fluid; an axis through the transverse body and the cyclone separation device; the cyclone separation device extending along the axis in a direction away from the transverse body toward a distal end, the distal end comprising an opening for directing solids out of the separation device; a first, inlet channel extending along the axis through the transverse body or structure to communicate fluid into the cyclone chamber; and a second, outlet channel extending along the axis through the transverse body or structure to communicate fluid out of the cyclone chamber.

[0042] The first, inlet channel may extend along the axis through the transverse structure from a topside of the transverse structure to an upper end of the cyclone chamber for communicating fluid into the cyclone chamber. The second, outlet channel may extend along the axis through the transverse structure from an upper end of the cyclone chamber to a topside of the transverse structure for communicating fluid out of the cyclone chamber.

[0043] The lid may further comprise wear detector means for detecting wear of a wall section subjected to a flow of fluid in, or being supplied to, or entering the cyclone chamber. The wall section may be a wall section of the cyclone separation device or the inlet channel. The wear detector means may be arranged within material of a wall structure of the cyclone device. The wear detector means may comprise at least one sensor arranged on the cyclone device or on a structure through which the inlet channel is provided. The sensor may be any suitable sensor, for example one of more of: a pressure sensor; an acoustic sensor; and a strain sensor. The wear detector may obtain data associated with the extent of wear and based on the data, an analyser or determiner may be used to determine whether the lid, cyclone, or parts thereof, require replacement or maintenance, e.g. if the wear exceeds a predetermined threshold. If so, the lid may then be removed or released from the container body. The wear detector means may be configured to communicate data to an analyser or determiner unit. The wear detector means may advantageously be removed or released together with the lid from the container body. Through the wear detector means wear detection can advantageously be targeted and tailored to the inserted structures of the lid that are exposed such as the wall structure of the cyclone separation device. The lid may include a cover portion. The cyclone separation device may comprise a wall structure extending away from the transverse structure.

[0044] The lid of the third aspect of the invention may have any one or more further features as described above in relation to the lid of the first or second aspects of the invention.

[0045] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a lid for a container including a container body, the lid comprising: a part for retaining the lid on the container body; a cyclone separation device comprising a first sidewall structure and a cyclone chamber within the first sidewall structure for processing fluid and separating solids from the fluid; a cover portion over an end of the cyclone chamber; a first, inlet channel through the cover portion for communicating fluid into the cyclone chamber; a second, outlet channel through the cover portion for communicating fluid out of the cyclone chamber; and a distal end or opening for directing separated solids out of the cyclone device; wherein the cyclone chamber is configured to support rotational flow along the first sidewall structure for the separation of solids, and the lid is configured so that when connected to the container body, the first sidewall structure is arranged within an outer, second sidewall structure of the container body, such that the full length of wall structure exposed to rotational flow within the chamber is arranged within the outer, second sidewall structure.

[0046] The lid of the fourth aspect of the invention may have any one or more further features as described or configured as described above in relation to the lid of any of the first to third aspects of the invention.

[0047] According to a fifth aspect of the invention, there is provided a lid for a container including a container body, the lid comprising: a part for retaining the lid on the container body; a cover portion for a cyclone chamber of a cyclone separation device in the container, the cover portion configured to mate with or connect to a structure of the cyclone separation device upon retainment of the lid on the container body in use; a first, inlet channel through the cover portion for communicating fluid into the cyclone chamber; and a second, outlet channel through the cover portion for communicating fluid out of the cyclone chamber. The cyclone separation device may be supported on the container body in location and in suitable position ready for connection or mating with the lid when the lid is applied onto the container body. Thus, the lid may connect to cyclone chamber by applying the lid and securing the lid for retainment on the container body.

[0048] According to a sixth aspect of the invention, there is provided separator apparatus comprising: a container having a container body; and a lid for the container, in accordance with any of the first to fifth aspects of the invention.

[0049] The lid may be retained on the container body and the cyclone device on an underside of the lid may be arranged inside the container.

[0050] The container body may have a base portion comprising an outlet for directing particles out of the container.

[0051] The container may comprise a receiving region into which removed particles and fluid together with removed particles may be received from the cyclone chamber from a distal end of the cyclone device.

[0052] In certain examples, the separator apparatus may further comprise at least one fluid connection through a wall structure of the container body between a receiving region and a region outside the container for urging particles or fluid and particles out of the distal end of the cyclone device and / or removing fluid from the receiving region to the outside region of the container. The fluid connection comprises a fluid passage or aperture through the wall structure of the container body. The fluid connection may be connectable to a low-pressure flow line. The fluid pressure of the low-pressure flow line may be lower than the pressure in the receiving region and may be controllable, e.g using a pump and / or a controllable valve, for controlling a pressure difference between the low-pressure flow line and the receiving region.

[0053] In certain examples, the separator may further comprise at least one fluid connection between the outlet channel and a region outside the wall structure of the cyclone device for urging received fluid from the distal end back along the outside of the wall structure and into the outlet channel. Said region outside the wall structure may comprise a region between an outer surface of the wall structure of the cyclone device and an inner surface of a side wall structure of the container.

[0054] According to a seventh aspect of the invention, there is provided separator apparatus comprising: a container; a cyclone device inside the container, the cyclone device comprising a wall structure and a cyclone chamber within the wall structure; an inlet channel for supplying fluid to be processed into to the cyclone chamber; an outlet channel for supplying processed fluid out of the cyclone chamber; a receiving region into which separated particles and / or fluid together with separated particles are received from the cyclone chamber from a distal end or opening of the cyclone device; wherein the container comprises at least one fluid connection through a wall structure of the container body between a receiving region and a region outside the container for urging particles or fluid and particles out of the distal end or opening of the cyclone device and / or removing fluid from the receiving region to the outside region of the container; wherein the container has a base portion comprising an outlet for directing particles received from the distal end or opening of the cyclone device out of the container.

[0055] The fluid connection may comprise a fluid passage or aperture through the wall structure of the container body. The fluid connection may be connectable to a low- pressure flow line. The fluid pressure of the low-pressure flow line may be lower than the pressure in the receiving region and may be controllable, e.g using a pump and / or a controllable valve, for controlling a pressure difference between the low- pressure flow line and the receiving region.

[0056] Through the fluid connection, advantageously, an additional “downdraught” effect may be produced through the distal opening, whereby solids and / or fluid and solids may be encouraged out of the cyclone device from the distal opening. Furthermore, such fluid from the distal opening may be encouraged to separate from solids in the receiving region and the fluids so affected directed toward and through the fluid connection for output into the low-pressure region, low-pressure flow line, or outlet channel. Thus, separation performance and / or output of processed fluid may be improved and / or increased. The cyclone device may be for processing fluid and separating solids from the fluid. The solids may be particles, e.g. sand particles or the like. The distal end or opening may be for directing separated solids out of the cyclone device.

[0057] According to a eighth aspect of the invention, there is provided separator apparatus comprising: a container; a cyclone device inside the container, the cyclone device comprising a wall structure and a cyclone chamber within the wall structure; an inlet channel for supplying fluid to be processed into to the cyclone chamber; an outlet channel for suppling processed fluid out of the cyclone chamber; a receiving region into which separated particles and / or fluid together with separated particles are received from the cyclone chamber from a distal end or opening of the cyclone device; and at least one fluid connection between the outlet channel and a region outside the wall structure of the cyclone device for urging received fluid from the distal end or opening back along the outside of the wall structure and into the outlet channel; wherein the container has a base portion comprising an outlet for directing particles received from the distal end or opening of the cyclone device out of the container.

[0058] Said region outside the wall structure of the cyclone device may comprise a region between an outer surface of the wall structure of the cyclone device and an inner surface of a side wall structure of the container.

[0059] According to a ninth aspect of the invention, there is provided separator apparatus comprising: a cyclone flow chamber; an inlet channel for entering fluid into the cyclone flow chamber for processing, and an outlet channel for processed fluid; a wall section of the inlet or the chamber being in use subjected to fluid flow; and wear detector means for detecting wear of the wall section subjected to the fluid flow.

[0060] The wear detector means may be arranged on or within material of a wall structure of the inlet or a wall structure of the cyclone flow chamber. The wear detector means may comprise at least one sensor, which may be any suitable sensor, for example one or more of: a pressure sensor; an acoustic sensor; and a strain sensor. According to a tenth aspect of the invention, there is provided a system for processing fluid from a well, the system comprising: separator apparatus in accordance with any of the sixth to ninth aspects of the invention; a first fluid line connected to the inlet channel for supplying fluid to be processed to the cyclone separation device through the cover portion of the lid; and a second fluid line connected to the outlet channel for conveying processed fluid from the cyclone separation device through the cover portion of the lid.

[0061] The system may include wear monitoring means. The wear monitoring means may include a wear detector means, e.g. a sensor, and an analyser or determiner unit configured for data communication with the wear detector means. The analyser or determiner unit may be configured to received data from the wear detector means associated with the extent of wear of a wall section of the apparatus. Based on the data, the analyser or determiner unit may determine whether servicing or replacement of one or more parts are to take place. In some examples, the determiner unit may produce a signal to sound an alarm if wear is detected such that servicing or replacement of one or more parts is to take place, e.g. if wear is detected above a threshold amount. In response to a determination that replacement or servicing is to take place, a signal may be sent from the analyser or determiner unit to one or more flow line valves to: stop flow of fluid to the separator apparatus to be serviced or to have one or more parts replaced; and direct flow of fluid to another separator apparatus in accordance with any of the sixth to ninth aspects of the invention for continuing operation.

[0062] According to an eleventh aspect of the invention, there is provided a cyclone separation device comprising: a cyclone flow chamber; a cover for the cyclone flow chamber; an inlet channel through the cover for supplying fluid into the cyclone flow chamber; an outlet channel through the cover for extracting fluid out of the cyclone flow chamber.

[0063] The cyclone device may further comprise a wall structure extending between a first end and a second end, the cyclone flow chamber defined within the wall structure, the cover for the cyclone flow chamber connected to the first end of the wall structure and the second end being a distal end configured for letting separated particles out of the flow chamber. Any of the abovementioned aspects of the invention may comprise one or more further features as described in relation to any other aspect of the invention wherever described herein.

[0064] Embodiments of the invention may be advantageous in various ways as will be apparent from throughout herein.

[0065] There will now be described, by way of example only, embodiments of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0066] Figure 1 is a top view of a lid according to an embodiment;

[0067] Figure 2 is a side sectional view of the lid of Figure 1 ;

[0068] Figure 3 is side sectional view of a separator apparatus according to an embodiment including the lid of Figure 1 ;

[0069] Figure 4 is a side sectional view of a separator apparatus according to another embodiment;

[0070] Figure 5 is a side sectional view of a separator apparatus according to another embodiment;

[0071] Figure 6 is a side sectional view of a separator apparatus according to another embodiment;

[0072] Figure 7 is a side sectional view of a separator apparatus according to yet another embodiment; and

[0073] Figure 8 is a representation of a system for processing hydrocarbon production fluid from a well, according to an embodiment.

[0074] In Figures 1 and 2, a lid 10 for a container is depicted. The lid 10 has a transverse structure 11 to extend across an opening to the container. The container is described further below and not shown in Figures 1 and 2. The transverse structure 11 comprises an cover portion 11a for a cyclone separation device 20, the cover portion 11a comprising a ceiling to a cyclone chamber 21 of the cyclone device. The lid 10 includes an upper cover inlet 12 and an inlet channel 14 which extends vertically through the cover portion 11a of the transverse structure 11 for supplying fluid to be processed into the cyclone chamber 21. The lid 10 further includes an upper cover outlet 13 and an outlet channel 15 which extends vertically through the cover portion 11a of the structure 11 for extracting processed fluid out of the cyclone chamber 21.

[0075] The lid 10 includes the cyclone device 20 on an underside of the lid 10. The cyclone device 20 comprises a wall structure 42 which is configured to establish a rotational flow of the fluid received in the cyclone chamber 21 from the inlet channel 14. The wall structure 42 extends along longitudinal axis 2 from the transverse structure 11 on the underside of the lid toward a distal end. When the lid is in use the longitudinal axis 2 extends in the vertical direction as shown from topside end 10a to underside end 10b of the lid through the transverse structure 11 and the cyclone separation device 21. The wall structure 42 of the cyclone device 20 has a proximal, first wall portion 22 which is cylindrical and a distal, second wall portion 23 which is frustoconical and tapers toward the distal end .

[0076] The cyclone chamber 21 is defined within the wall structure 42. The inlet 12 and inlet channel 14 extends along a vertical axis 12x through the transverse structure 11 and cover portion 11a to the top end of the cyclone chamber 21. Fluid from the inlet channel 14 is then further directed with a tangential component tangentially to the wall and around the axis 2, generating a centripetal force component for separating particles from the fluid. A cyclone flow is generated in the cyclone chamber 21 such that particles are “knocked out” of the fluid due to the centripetal force I rotational flow acting to fling or urge particles in the fluid against the wall. A first process component resulting from the cyclonic separation comprises “knocked out” particles, and / or “knocked out” particles and fluid, which advance downward along the wall structure, assisted by gravity, and exit out of the cyclone device 20 through the opening 28 at the distal end. A second process component resulting from the cyclonic separation comprises fluid, dissociated from the knocked-out particles, which does not pass through the opening 28, which is lifted from the cyclone chamber 21 and extracted through the outlet channel 15 and the upper cover outlet 13 for onward transport downstream. The outlet channel 13 and outlet 15 extends along a vertical axis 13x through the cover portion 11a or transverse structure 11 from the top end of the cyclone chamber 21. The cover portion is arranged at or adjacent the top end 21a of the cyclone chamber 21 and has a thickness extent denoted K in axial direction from the topside of the transverse structure 11 or lid 10 to the top end or upper end 21a of the cyclone chamber 21. The axes 12x, 13x are offset in transverse direction from the central longitudinal axis 2 which does not extend through either of the bores 12 or 13.

[0077] The lid 10 in this example includes inlet connection means on an upper side of the lid in the form of a first pipe stub 18 and first pipe stub end flange 18f for facilitating connection of a fluid supply pipe (not shown) to the inlet 12. The channel 14 includes a bore through the pipe stub 18 and further through the cover portion 11a for fluidly connecting the inlet 12 with the cyclone chamber 21. The lid 10 further includes outlet connection means on an upper side of the lid in the form of a second pipe stub 19 and second pipe stub end flange 19f for facilitating connection of a fluid extraction pipe (not shown) to the outlet. The channel 15 includes a bore through the cover portion 11a and further through the pipe stub 19 for fluidly connecting the cyclone chamber 21 with the outlet 13. In other examples, the inlet and / or outlet connection means take other forms, or the lid omits specific inlet and / or outlet connecting means and instead the supply pipe and / or the extraction pipe may have suitable means for connecting them to the lid for establishing a fluid communicable connection with the inlet 12 and outlet 13.

[0078] The lid 10 has a part for retaining the lid on a container body of the container. The container and container body is described further below (not shown in Figures 1 and 2). When retained on the container body, the wall structure of the cyclone separation device 21 of the lid 10 is located within an outer wall structure of the container. The part in this example is an outer portion 11b of the transverse structure 11 disposed around and extending outwardly sideward from the inner, cover portion 11a. The outer portion part 11 b in this example comprises lid fastener means 11 h for facilitating connection to and retainment of the lid on the container body. Any suitable connection and / or retainment means may be used, and in certain examples such means comprise pins or bolts or other fasteners and / or receiving formations for pins or bolts or other fasteners to form the connection for securely retaining the lid on the container body. Many other variants are possible, for example the lid may be clamped to the container body or bolted or screwed to the container body or latched in place. The outer portion 11b in this example is a flange of the lid, extending outward from the inner, cover portion 11a and / or the cyclone device 20. As can be appreciated, the inner and outer portions 11a, 11 b extend transverse to the axis 2 in in the same plane. In this example, the cyclone device 20 is removably connected to the transverse structure 11 of the lid 10. More specifically, the cyclone device 20 is a module attached to the underside of the transverse structure 11 through an attachment means 25, e.g. comprising suitable fasteners, e.g. bolts, clamps, clips, etc. In this way, when the lid is removed from the container 10, the cyclone device can be accessed and removed from the lid and easily replaced using mechanical tools.

[0079] In other examples, it can be appreciated that the cyclone device 20 is integrated as part of the lid, e.g., welded to the transverse structure 11 and not a module, such that replacement of the cyclone device may necessitate replacement of the lid as a whole or may not be readily achieved with mechanical tools.

[0080] Turning now to Figure 3, separator apparatus 100 is depicted comprising a container 101 including a container body 30 and the lid 10 connected to the container body 30.

[0081] The container body 30 is a cylindrical elongated body extending longitudinally between a lower end 3 and an upper end 4 of the container 101. The cylindrical body 30 has a central longitudinal axis 2’. The lid 10 is arranged to be disposed on an upper end of the container body with the axis 2 of the lid coincident with the axis 2’ of the container body 101. The outer portion 11b of the transverse body of the lid, e.g. the rim or flange portion 11 b, is located against a surface of the end of the container body 30. The lid 10 is sealably connected to and retained on the container body 101 in this example by way of fastener device 17, container body fastener means 31 h, and lid fastener means 11 h of the flange or rim portion 11b. The container 30 includes a seal 31s between the lid 10 and the container body 30 for hindering fluid communication and / or leakage between the inside and the external surroundings of the container 101 through the connection formed between the lid 10 and the container body 30.

[0082] The lid 10 in this example can conveniently be removed from the container body 30 for maintenance or replacement of parts by undoing the bolts and lifting the lid off the end. In other examples, the lid 10 can be coupled to the container body 30 by a hinge to allow the lid to be lifted away and / or released from the end of the container body 30 to access the underside of the lid including the cyclone device. It can be noted that Figure 3 shows the operational configuration of the container with the lid arranged in place for use.

[0083] The container 101 has an interior 101 i in which the cyclone device 20 is housed. The cyclone device 20 extends from the transverse section 11 on the inside of the container 101 toward the lower end 3. The opening 28 at the distal end of the cyclone device is arranged in the container at an intermediate location, in this example approximately midway, between the first and second ends 3, 4 of the container 101.

[0084] The container body 30 is in the form of a receptacle comprising a base portion 32 and a cylindrical side wall portion 33 which extends longitudinally upward from the base portion 32. The cyclone device 20 extends into a region 30i inside the container body 30.

[0085] The base portion 32 has an outlet 34 therethrough for communication of particles or fluid entrained with particles out of the container to a storage tank (not shown). The outlet 34 is fluidly connected to the interior 101 i of the container by a channel 35 through the base portion 32.

[0086] In use, particles and / or fluid entrained with particles removed from the fluid processed pass from the cyclone chamber through end opening 28 into a region 42 between the cyclone device 20 and the base portion 32. The region 42 is configured for collecting and directing the separated particles, e.g. particles entrained with or “wet” with fluid, through outlet 34 to the storage tank. Particles fall under gravity toward the base portion 32 and may accumulate somewhat on the base portion as they are directed to the outlet. A lower pressure outside the container 101 , e.g. in the solids storage tank (not shown), can act to facilitate extraction of the solids from the base portion 32 of the container through the outlet 34. In certain other examples, the floor 32f on the base portion may be sloped to facilitate directing particles toward the outlet.

[0087] The container 101 is exemplified in the form of a pressure vessel container, that is it is constructed, so as to contain and withstand the pressure of fluid inside the container acting against the inner wall surfaces of the container body 30 and lid 10 of the container. The performance of the container in this respect is facilitated by the cylindrical geometry of the container body 30 and arrangement of base portion opposite the lid at respective ends 3, 4. The apparatus is configured to be disposed in ambient surroundings for example subsea or on a rig facility offshore or onshore. The cyclone device 20 within the interior 101 i of the container is configured to receive fluid through the inlet 12 for example from a well supplying fluid having a pressure significantly higher or lower than the ambient pressure of the surroundings acting upon the container. In this light, a fluid tight, pressure resistant outer wall structure is formed comprising the wall structures of side wall portion 33 and base portion 32 of the container body 30 and the transverse section 11 of the lid 10, the structure acting to withstand the difference in pressure between the surroundings of the container and the container interior 101 i. The top inlet 12, top outlet 13, and base outlet 34 are the passages into / out of the container. The wall structure of the transverse structure 11 , side wall portion 33, and base portion 32 is typically constructed of high strength metal such as steel, although in variants other materials may be used. It can thus be appreciated that the transverse structure 11 of the lid comprises a transverse pressure wall portion being an end wall of the pressure container. Thus, in certain examples, the apparatus is usable subsea, disposed in water surroundings, and in certain examples the apparatus is usable on the rig facility offshore or onshore, disposed in air surroundings.

[0088] The cyclone device 20 has a separate wall structure 42 within the container formed of side wall portion 22 and tapered wall portion 23. The wall structure 42 of the cyclone device 20 is inserted and arranged within the wall structure 33 of the container body 30. The cyclone flow 20 is established against inner wall surfaces of this wall structure of the cyclone device 21. Hence, the arrangement of providing the cyclone device and separate wall structure saves the outer wall structure of the container body, e.g. the side wall portion 33, from exposure to the accelerated rotational cyclone flow from the inlet. Furthermore, the wall structure of the cyclone device 20, being located on an underside of the lid within the container, is not required to withstand the force that the outer wall structure does from the difference in pressure between the interior 101 i and the container surroundings. This may advantageously provide for greater freedom in the design of the cyclone device. For example, the wall structure of the cyclone device 20 has a thickness t less than the thickness T of the outer wall structure of the container. The material of the wall structure of the cyclone device 20 may be the same or different to that of the outer wall of the container 101.

[0089] In Figure 4, the container 201 of separator apparatus 200 has an alternative lid 210 to that described in relation to Figures 1 to 3 above. The container 201 is otherwise configured similarly to that of the above-described container 101. Features of the lid 210 have the same reference numerals as the corresponding features of the lid 10 incremented by two hundred.

[0090] The lid 210 in this example includes wear monitoring means 250 used for detecting wear or extent of wear of a section 258 of the first wall portion 222 of the cyclone device. This section 258 is a section that is subjected to the cyclonic flow of fluid at high velocity. When exposed to the fluid which contains particles, an abrasive effect is produced on the wall of the cyclone chamber and wall material can wear away material from the walls of the cyclone chamber. After use over time, there may be a need to replace the cyclone device 220. The wear monitoring means 250 allows the wear to be detected and monitored.

[0091] In this example, the wear monitoring means 250 includes a monitoring bore comprising a first bore section 251 extending through the transverse structure 211 of the lid, and a second bore section 251 extending into the material of the wall structure of the first wall section of the cyclone device. To facilitate the provision of the second bore section, the thickness of the material of the wall structure of the first wall section 222 is greater than in the example of Figures 1 to 3. The second bore section 252 extends into the wall section 222 of the cyclone device at a location in proximity to the section 258 to be monitored. A sensor 253 is disposed in the second bore section 253. The sensor 253 is for example an acoustic sensor, configured so that as material is worn away from the section 258, the material separating the sensor 253 from the chamber 221 reduces in thickness and acoustic noise associated with the abrasion of the fluid against the wall increases so as to be detected. This can be used to determine the amount of wear that has taken place during use, e.g. through comparison with a reference signal when little or no wear has occurred. The wear monitoring means 250 includes communication line 254 fed through the first and second bores 251 , 252 and connecting to the sensor 253. Data from the sensor 253 is sent through the communication line to an analysis and / or control system 255. In other variants, data is transmitted from the sensor 253 to the analysis and / or control system 255 wirelessly therebetween. The sensor 253 can be powered by battery or through a power line extending to the sensor via bore sections 251 , 252. The sensor can in alternative variants be of other kinds, for example the sensor in some examples is a pressure transducer configured so that once a certain amount of material has worn away, the fluid exerts a pressure against the wall which is detectable by the sensor. Alternatively, the sensor is a strain sensor to detect flexure of the wall material between the chamber and the sensor.

[0092] In Figure 5, separator apparatus 1200 includes a container 1201 comprising a container body 1230 and a lid 1210. The container body 1230 has a base portion 1232 and cylindrical side wall portion 1233 extending longitudinally upward from the base portion.

[0093] In this example, the container 1201 has a side inlet 1212 and a side inlet channel 1214 through the wall structure of the side wall portion 1233 for directing fluid to be processed into a cyclone chamber 1221. The side inlet channel 1214 is arranged to enter the fluid tangentially, as indicated by arrow T, to generate rotational cyclone flow in the cyclone chamber around axis L for separating particles out of the flow.

[0094] The container 1201 further has an outlet 1213 and outlet channel 1215 through the structure of the lid 1210 for directing processed fluid from the cyclone chamber 1221 out of the container 1201 through the lid. A pipe section 1216 is arranged centrally and protrudes into the interior of the container extending downward from the transverse structure 1211 on an underside of the lid. The rotational flow is established around the central pipe section 1216 following and guided by the cylindrical walls of the chamber around the central axis L.

[0095] Particles knocked out from the fluid by action of the cyclone flow established in an upper part of the container drop toward the lower part of the container toward the container base portion 1232 and pass out of the container through the base outlet 1234 and channel 1235 through the base portion. The separator apparatus 1200 has wear monitoring means 1250 comprising a sensor 1253 arranged on the side wall portion 1233 of the container near a wall section 1258 which is subjected to fluid entering the cyclone chamber 1221 at high velocity via the inlet channel 1213. The wear monitoring means 1250 operates as described in relation to that of Figure 4, just it is applied in this example to separator apparatus 1200 that differs in that the fluid is supplied through side inlet and the lid does not include a cyclone device inserted into the container upon connecting the lid. The section 1258 which is monitored is at a location which is expected to be subject to the greatest or high abrasion and wear rate, so that the monitoring of this section 1258 using the sensor can reliably used as an indicator of wear extent in the apparatus. The sensor 1253 is for example an acoustic sensor. The sensor 1253 is arranged to communicate with analysis and / or control system 1255 through communication medium 1254, e.g. a communications line connected to the sensor or wireless transmission medium.

[0096] In Figure 6, separator apparatus 300 comprises a container 301 including a container body 301 and a lid 310 connected thereto. The container 301 has features corresponding to those described above in relation to the container 101 denoted by the same reference numerals incremented by two hundred.

[0097] The separator apparatus 300 differs from that of the apparatus 100 in that the lid 310 in this example additionally includes an inlet pipe section 372 and an outlet pipe section 373 extending into the cyclone chamber 321 of the cyclone device 320. The inlet channel 314 is defined through the inlet 312, the transverse structure 311 of the lid, and the inlet pipe section 372 for communicating fluid into the chamber 321 through the top cover of the cyclone device. The end of the inlet pipe section 372 is arranged to direct fluid tangentially around the cylindrical walls of the cyclone chamber around the axis L. The outlet channel 315 is defined through the outlet pipe section 373, the transverse structure 311 of the lid, and the outlet 314 for communicating fluid out of the chamber 321 through the top cover of the cyclone device. The end of the outlet pipe section 373 in the chamber is arranged centrally to receive processed fluid (with particles removed) upward into the outlet channel from the rotational cyclone flow. Particles from the cyclone chamber 321 pass through the distal end opening 328 as indicated by arrow A into the region 342, tending to drop under gravity toward the lower end of the container and toward the base portion 332 for outputting the particles through base outlet 334 to a storage device (not shown).

[0098] A certain amount of fluid typically advances together with the removed particles out of the cyclone device 320 into the receiving region 342. The receiving region 342 is defined between the cyclone and the base portion 332 and between the cyclone and side wall portion 333 of the container. Whilst heavier particles tend to advance downward toward the base portion 332, lighter components of fluid or particles entrained with fluid may reside for longer in the receiving region, typically in upper parts of the region 342, and may be urged upward as heavier particles sink faster. Fluid in the receiving region 342 has a pressure P1.

[0099] In this example also, a fluid connection passageway 361 extends through the side wall portion 333 fluidly connecting the region 342 inside the container to a lower pressure region outside the container. The pressure P2 in the lower pressure region is lower than the pressure P1 .

[0100] The region outside the chamber is for example ambient surroundings of air and the pressure P2 is the ambient pressure of the air. Fluid from the region 342 is extracted through the passageway 361 to the surroundings.

[0101] In certain examples, external apparatus is connected to the passageway to receive the fluid exiting the container 301 through the passageway 361. The external apparatus comprises for example a pump and a flow line for connecting the passageway to the pump. Through operating the pump, the pressure of fluid in the flow line on the suction side of the pump may be lowered or controlled to a desired pressure P2 to extract fluid from the region 342.

[0102] In certain examples, the apparatus 310 is included in a fluid processing system wherein a supply pipe is connected to the inlet 312 and downstream extraction line is connected to the outlet 314 for communicating processed fluid downstream for further processing. In such an example, the fluid communication passageway 361 is connected through an external flowline to the downstream extraction line which operates at low pressure, P2, lower than P1. Fluid exits the region 342 through the passageway 361 onward to the extraction line of the processing system downstream of the outlet 214.

[0103] By connecting to lower pressure P2 through the passageway 361, fluid that passes with the particles through opening 328 out of the cyclone is encouraged out of the downward advance of particles toward the base. The pressure difference encourages fluid from the region 342 toward the passageway. Where fluid and particles are entrained, e.g. some particles not fully knocked out from the fluid in cyclone phase and pass together out of opening 328, the pressure gradient toward the passageway 361 may subject the fluid components to a separating force to help further separate fluid from particles in the region 342. The particles may more easily drop toward the base, and the extent of the separation achievable by the apparatus 300 may be improved and greater than what might otherwise be obtainable from solely the cyclone device 320. Improved separation of the smallest and finest particles may be facilitated. Returning the fluid to the downstream extraction line in certain examples can conveniently recover a larger percentage of separated fluid into the downstream processing system.

[0104] In Figure 7, separation apparatus 400 is a variant on the apparatus 300 of Figure 6 and has a container 401 including a container body 430 and a lid 410 connected thereto. The container 401 has features corresponding to those described above in relation to the container 101 denoted by the same reference numerals incremented by three hundred.

[0105] In this example, the fluid connection passageway 461 is instead provided internally within the container, on an underside of the lid, fluidly connecting the inlet channel 415 with the region 342 through the cylindrical wall portion 422 of the cyclone device 420. More specifically, the passageway 461 establishes fluid connection between the upper part 442u of region 442 and the inside of the outlet pipe section 473. The passageway 461 extends transversely through the wall of the cyclone portion 422 and the wall of the pipe section. The upper part 442u of the receiving region 442 is defined between an outer surface of the cyclone wall portion 422 and an inner surface of the side wall portion 432 of the container. Since the pressure P3 in the outlet channel 415 is lower than P1 , fluid that passes out of the outlet 28 is encouraged by the pressure gradient back upward along the outside of the cyclone device toward the upper part of the region 442u, and through the passageway 461 into the downstream flow out of the cyclone device via the outlet 413. The solution can be beneficial in that the passageway 461 is incorporated into the structure of the lid 410 and does not require connection externally to the outside side of the container beyond the connections of the inlet and outlet 413, 415. The provision of the fluid connection passageway can assist with encouraging particles and / or particles entrained with fluid out of the opening 428 particularly when these particles are fine particles and may not drop efficiently with gravity through the opening down through the receiving region. This may encourage to pull fluid downward through the opening 428 and further encourage further separation of fluid from particles in the receiving region before the fluid is returned upward and into the outlet flow.

[0106] Turning then to Figure 8, a system 1000 is depicted for processing fluid, the fluid for example comprising gas, from a hydrocarbon production well 80. The system includes the separator apparatus 100, a fluid supply line 92, a fluid extraction line 93, and further processing apparatus 95. The inlet 12 of the separator apparatus 100 is connected to the fluid supply line 92 and the outlet 13 of the separator apparatus 100 is connected to the fluid extraction line 93. The extraction line 93 further connects the outlet 13 to the further processing equipment. The supply line 92 further connects the well to the inlet 12.

[0107] In use, production fluid being produced from the well 80 is conveyed through the supply line 92 to the separator apparatus 100. The production fluid comprises for example oil and / or gas from the subsurface reservoir, typically with particles such as reservoir sand grains or the like, entrained in and / or carried with the fluid along the supply line 92. The content of particles in the production fluid can be significant particularly in later phases of production from a hydrocarbon reservoir. The separator apparatus 100 is used to remove particles from the fluid by generating the cyclone flow in the cyclone chamber 21. Processed production fluid from which particles have been removed exits the separator apparatus 100 through the outlet 13 and is transmitted onward downstream through the extraction line 93 toward the further processing apparatus 95. The base outlet 34 is connected to a storage device 50 for storing removed particles, for example a tank or other receptacle. The base outlet 34 is connected to the storage device 50 through a passage 94 for letting through the particles under gravity into the storage device optionally assisted with a low-pressure condition in the storage device. The storage device 50 is for example emptied from time to time for disposal of the solids. In alternative examples, the base outlet 34 is connected through a conduit directly to a disposal location without any intermediate storage or storage device 50.

[0108] In this example, the separator apparatus 100 is an upstream apparatus arranged upstream of further processing apparatus 95. The further processing apparatus 95 is used for processing the output production fluid from the separator apparatus 100 for example to produce fluid of certain characteristics for onward flow line transport and / or use, for example in terms of temperature, pressure, composition of the fluid etc. The separator apparatus 100 removes particles from the production fluid before the fluid from the well enters the apparatus 95, for example to improve the condition of the fluid to be received in the further processing apparatus 95.

[0109] The system 1000 and / or separator apparatus 100 is configured typically to be situated on a rig facility, for example onshore or offshore topsides. Alternatively, the system 1000 and / or separator apparatus 100 is situated subsea, e.g. on the seafloor connected to a subsea well.

[0110] Various modifications and improvements may be made without departing from the scope of the invention herein described. Whilst various examples described above include a lid which is located on end surface of the side wall portion 33, in other examples, the lid in other examples is retained on a structure inside the side walls, for example such that the transverse section 11 is flush with the end surface of the side wall portion 33. The container can take a variety of other forms where the lid may be applied to an opening of the container. The container can have a greater lateral extent than vertical extent in some examples. The container is not necessarily cylindrical, and for example the outer wall structure of the container in other examples has a square or rectangular cross section. The container in some variants instead of a lid has a plug configured to be located in the opening to the container. The plug can otherwise include the cyclone device in corresponding manner to the lids described above. In certain examples, the lid does not include the cyclone device, upon application of the lid to the body. For example, the container body can be configured to support the cyclone device in position near an upper end of the body, and the lid can separately be applied to the end of the container body, thereby closing both the end of the container body and the upper end of the cyclone device, the lid upon being applied thus providing the top cover for the cyclone device with the inlet and outlet communicating with the cyclone chamber through the top cover portion. In such an example, the lid or the upper end of the cyclone device may have means for sealing between a surface of the underside of the lid and a surface of the upper end of the wall structure of the cyclone device.

[0111] In some examples, the outer container body 30 is omitted and a cyclone device 20 is provided comprising a top cover with the inlet and outlet to the cyclone chamber communicating to the chamber through the top cover. The inlet and outlet 12, 13 are connected as described above to the supply and extraction flow lines. The lower end opening 28 is connected, for example via an intermediate pipe, to a particle storage device. Since the container body is omitted the structure comprising the top cover does not require to be connected e.g. through rim or flange 11 b, to a container body.

[0112] In the various examples above, the cyclone device is a static cyclone device. This can be advantageous, e.g. for reducing complexity and easier maintenance and replacement of parts. In other examples however the cyclone device is a dynamic cyclone device, e.g. including a motor-driven rotating impeller arranged in the cyclone chamber to facilitate rotational flow. Any of the separator apparatuses described herein may be a desander. In further examples the transverse structure in any of the above is alternatively a transverse body, e.g. a transverse plate.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A lid for a container including a container body, the lid comprising: a part for retaining the lid on the container body; a cyclone separation device comprising a cyclone chamber for processing fluid and separating solids from the fluid; a cover portion disposed over an end of the cyclone chamber; a first, inlet channel through the cover portion for communicating fluid into the cyclone chamber; a second, outlet channel through the cover portion for communicating fluid out of the cyclone chamber; and a distal end or opening for directing separated solids out of the cyclone separation device.

2. A lid as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the lid has a top inlet to the cyclone chamber extending vertically from topside of the lid to the top of the cyclone chamber, and the lid has a top outlet or outlet section from the cyclone chamber extending vertically from the top of the cyclone chamber to topside of the lid.

3. A lid as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the cyclone separation device comprises a first sidewall structure and the cyclone chamber is defined within the first sidewall structure, wherein the cyclone chamber is configured to support rotational flow along the first sidewall structure for the separation of solids, and the lid is configured so that when connected to the container body, the first sidewall structure is arranged within an outer, second sidewall structure of the container body, such that the full length of wall structure exposed to rotational flow within the chamber is arranged within the outer, second sidewall structure4. A lid as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising wear detector means for detecting wear of a wall section subjected to a flow of fluid in, or being supplied to, the cyclone chamber, wherein the wall section is a wall section of the cyclone separation device or the inlet channel.

5. A lid as claimed in claim 4, wherein the wear detector means is arranged within material of a wall structure of the cyclone device.

6. A lid as claimed in any of claims 4 or 5, wherein the wear detector means comprises at least one sensor arranged on the cyclone device or on a structure through which the inlet channel is provided.

7. A lid as claimed in claim 6, wherein the wall structure comprises a tapered section which is tapered toward the distal end.

8. A lid as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising at least one fluid connection between the second, outlet channel and a region outside the wall structure for urging received fluid from the distal end or opening back along the outside of the wall structure and into the outlet channel.

9. A lid as claimed in claim 8, wherein the fluid connection comprises either or both: a fluid passage or aperture between a proximal end of the wall structure of the cyclone device and the cover portion; and a fluid passage or aperture through any one or more of: the wall structure of the cyclone device; a wall structure of an outlet pipe section; a part of a structure of the lid; the cover portion.

10. A lid for a container including a container body, the lid comprising: a transverse structure to be retained on the container body; a cyclone separation device comprising a cyclone chamber for processing fluid and separating solids from the fluid; an axis through the transverse structure and the cyclone separation device; the cyclone separation device extending along the axis in a direction away from the transverse structure toward a distal end, the distal end comprising an opening for directing solids out of the separation device; a first, inlet channel extending along the axis through the transverse structure from a topside of the transverse structure to an upper end of the cyclone chamber for communicating fluid into the cyclone chamber; and a second, outlet channel extending along the axis through the transverse structure from an upper end of the cyclone chamber to a topside of the transverse structure for communicating fluid out of the cyclone chamber.

11. Separator apparatus comprising: a container having a container body; and a lid for the container, in accordance with any preceding claim.

12. Separator apparatus as claimed in claim 11, wherein the lid is retained on the container body and the cyclone device on an underside of the lid is arranged inside the container.

13. Separator apparatus as claimed in claim 11 or 12, wherein the container body has a base portion comprising an outlet for directing particles out of the container.

14. Separator apparatus as claimed in any of claims 11 to 13, wherein the container comprises a receiving region into which removed particles and fluid together with removed particles are received from the cyclone chamber from a distal end of the cyclone device.

15. Separator apparatus as claimed in claim 14, wherein the container comprises at least one fluid connection through a wall structure of the container body between a receiving region and a region outside the container for urging particles or fluid and particles out of the distal end of the cyclone device and / or removing fluid from the receiving region to the outside region of the container.

16. Separator apparatus as claimed in claim 15, wherein the fluid connection comprises a fluid passage or aperture through the wall structure of the container body.

17. Separator apparatus as claimed in claim 15 or 16, wherein the fluid connection is connectable to a low-pressure flow line.

18. Separator apparatus as claimed in claim 17, wherein the fluid pressure of the low-pressure flow line is lower than the pressure in the receiving region and controllable, e.g using a pump and / or a controllable valve device, for controlling a pressure difference between the low-pressure flow line and the receiving region.

19. Separator apparatus as claimed in claim 14, further comprising at least one fluid connection between the outlet channel and a region outside the wall structure of the cyclone device for urging received fluid from the distal end back along the outside of the wall structure and into the outlet channel.

20. Separator apparatus as claimed in claim 19, wherein said region outside the wall structure comprises a region between an outer surface of the wall structure of the cyclone device and an inner surface of a side wall structure of the container.

21. Separator apparatus comprising: a container; a cyclone device inside the container, the cyclone device comprising a wall structure and a cyclone chamber within the wall structure; an inlet channel for supplying fluid to be processed into to the cyclone chamber; an outlet channel for supplying processed fluid out of the cyclone chamber; a receiving region into which separated particles and / or fluid together with separated particles are received from the cyclone chamber from a distal end or opening of the cyclone device; wherein the container comprises at least one fluid connection through a wall structure of the container body between a receiving region and a region outside the container for urging particles or fluid and particles out of the distal end or opening of the cyclone device and / or removing fluid from the receiving region to the outside region of the container; wherein the container has a base portion comprising an outlet for directing particles received from the distal end or opening of the cyclone device out of the container.

22. Separator apparatus as claimed in claim 21 , wherein the fluid connection comprises a fluid passage or aperture through the wall structure of the container body.

23. Separator apparatus as claimed in claim 21 or 22, wherein the fluid connection is connectable to a low-pressure flow line.

24. Separator apparatus as claimed in claim 23, wherein the fluid pressure of the low-pressure flow line is lower than the pressure in the receiving region and controllable, e.g using a pump, for controlling a pressure difference between the low-pressure flow line and the receiving region.

25. Separator apparatus comprising: a container; a cyclone device inside the container, the cyclone device comprising a wall structure and a cyclone chamber within the wall structure; an inlet channel for supplying fluid to be processed into to the cyclone chamber; an outlet channel for suppling processed fluid out of the cyclone chamber; a receiving region into which separated particles and / or fluid together with separated particles are received from the cyclone chamber from a distal end or opening of the cyclone device; and at least one fluid connection between the outlet channel and a region outside the wall structure of the cyclone device for urging received fluid from the distal end or opening back along the outside of the wall structure and into the outlet channel; wherein the container has a base portion comprising an outlet for directing particles received from the distal end or opening of the cyclone device out of the container.

26. Separator apparatus as claimed in claim 25, wherein said region outside the wall structure comprises a region between an outer surface of the wall structure of the cyclone device and an inner surface of a side wall structure of the container.

27. Separator apparatus comprising: a cyclone flow chamber; an inlet channel for entering fluid into the cyclone flow chamber for processing, and an outlet channel for processed fluid; a wall section of the inlet or the chamber being in use subjected to fluid flow; andwear detector means for detecting wear of the wall section subjected to the fluid flow.

28. Separator apparatus as claimed in claim 27, wherein the wear detector means is arranged on or within material of a wall structure of the inlet or a wall structure of the cyclone flow chamber.

29. Separator apparatus as claimed in claim 27 or 28, wherein the wear detector means comprises at least one sensor.

30. A system for processing fluid from a well, the system comprising: separator apparatus in accordance with any of claims 11 to 29; a first fluid line connected to the inlet channel for supplying fluid to be processed to the cyclone separation device through the cover portion of the lid; and a second fluid line connected to the outlet channel for conveying processed fluid from the cyclone separation device through the cover portion of the lid.

31. A lid for a container including a container body, the lid comprising: a transverse body or structure to be retained on the container body; a cyclone separation device comprising a cyclone chamber for processing fluid and separating solids from the fluid; an axis through the transverse body and the cyclone separation device; the cyclone separation device extending along the axis in a direction away from the transverse body toward a distal end, the distal end comprising an opening for directing solids out of the separation device; a first, inlet channel extending along the axis through the transverse body or structure to communicate fluid into the cyclone chamber; and a second, outlet channel extending along the axis through the transverse body or structure to communicate fluid out of the cyclone chamber.

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