Centrifugal Fluid Separator for Density-Based Phase Segregation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In subterranean formations, existing flow regulators face challenges in efficiently managing fluid flow rates due to variable permeability and the production of undesired fluids alongside desired ones, particularly during water flooding operations, where differences in fluid density and viscosity complicate the separation and regulation of fluid streams.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a fluid chamber with outlets and passageways that directs fluid flow based on density or viscosity, allowing fluids to rotateally flow and converge at specific points, enabling independent and automatic separation of fluids into different outlets without external intervention, using materials like metals, plastics, and ceramics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If existing flow regulators are used to manage fluid flow rates, then fluid production is maintained, but separation of desired from undesired fluids is inefficient due to variable permeability and mixed fluid streams
Solution Approach 1:
The flow regulator is divided into multiple independent outlets (first outlet, second outlet, third outlet) that can selectively direct different fluid streams to different destinations. This segmentation allows desired fluids and undesired fluids to be separated into different outlets based on their flow characteristics, improving separation effectiveness while maintaining overall productivity
Solution Approach 2:
Each outlet is equipped with specific flow control mechanisms tailored to handle particular fluid types or flow conditions. The first outlet may be optimized for high-viscosity fluids, the second for low-viscosity fluids, and the third for gas phases, allowing each part of the system to perform its specialized function effectively
2Reliability
If flow regulators attempt to separate fluids based on density and viscosity, then separation of desired from undesired fluids is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple outlets and passageways
Solution Approach 1:
The flow regulator utilizes the natural physical properties of the fluids (density, viscosity, phase) to automatically direct them to appropriate outlets without requiring external control systems. The fluid characteristics themselves serve as the control mechanism, eliminating the need for complex sensors, actuators, or control logic while achieving reliable separation
Solution Approach 2:
A single flow regulator device performs multiple functions: it separates fluids by density, by viscosity, and by phase simultaneously. The same chamber and outlet structure handle all three separation mechanisms, avoiding the need for multiple separate separation devices and reducing overall system complexity
3Reliability
If multiple fluid phases are directed through separate passageways, then separation of desired from undesired fluids is enhanced, but loss of time occurs due to convergence requirements downstream
Solution Approach 1:
Fluids are directed to different outlets and passageways in advance, before they would naturally mix downstream. This preliminary separation allows each fluid phase to travel through dedicated passageways simultaneously, eliminating the need for time-consuming convergence and mixing processes that would occur if all fluids traveled through a single passageway
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device effectively regulates fluid flow by directing higher density or viscosity fluids towards the outer chamber and lower density or viscosity fluids towards the center, enhancing the separation of desired from undesired fluids, thereby improving the efficiency of fluid production and reducing the production of unwanted fluids in subterranean formations.
Implementation Method 1
the fluid rotationally flows about the inside of the chamber... depending on at least one of the properties of the fluid, the fluid rotationally flows closer to the outside of the chamber, closer to the center of the chamber
Data Source
AI summary
According to an embodiment, a device for directing the flow of a fluid comprises: a fluid chamber; a first outlet; a second outlet; a first outlet fluid passageway, wherein the first outlet fluid passageway is operatively connected to the first outlet; and a second outlet fluid passageway, wherein the second outlet fluid passageway is operatively connected to the second outlet; wherein the fluid rotationally flows about the inside of the chamber, and wherein the fluid flowing through the first outlet fluid passageway conjoins with the fluid flowing through the second outlet fluid passageway at a point downstream of the first and second outlet. According to another embodiment, a device for directing the flow of a fluid comprises: a sensor; a first outlet connected to the sensor; a second outlet connected to the sensor; a first outlet fluid passageway; and a second outlet fluid passageway; wherein as the total number of phases of the fluid increases, the sensor directs at least a first phase of the fluid into the first outlet fluid passageway and directs at least a second phase of the fluid into the second outlet fluid passageway, and wherein the fluid flowing through the first outlet fluid passageway conjoins with the fluid flowing through the second outlet fluid passageway at a point downstream of the first and second outlet.