Demulsifier Injection Control Using Simplified Logic and Process States
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional demulsifier automation algorithms in gas-oil separator plants are complex, prone to guesswork, and often require manual or semi-automatic operation, leading to sub-optimization and counterproductive re-emulsification due to unstable band-based techniques.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method for demulsifier automation that determines demulsifier injection parameters through data convolution and smoothening, calculates dosage rates based on established input parameters like temperature and liquid flowrates, and applies state-dependent dosage multiplication factors to ensure reliable and efficient demulsifier injection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If conventional band-based demulsifier automation techniques are used, then demulsifier injection can be automated, but the system becomes complex and prone to guesswork leading to sub-optimization and re-emulsification
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the control parameters from complex band-based variables to simple, well-established parameters (temperature and liquid flowrates). This simplifies the automation algorithm while maintaining effective demulsifier injection control, resolving the contradiction between automation extent and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and removes the complex band-based control logic from the automation system, retaining only the essential parameters (temperature and flowrates) that directly influence demulsifier dosage. This eliminates guesswork and sub-optimization while preserving automation capability.
2Extent of automation
If complex band-based automation algorithms are implemented, then demulsifier injection can be controlled, but operator intervention is still required and uptime is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The simplified automation system using temperature and flowrate parameters operates autonomously without requiring manual intervention or adjustment. The system self-regulates demulsifier injection based on real-time process conditions, improving controller uptime and reliability while maintaining full automation.
3Manufacturing precision
If state-dependent dosage multiplication factors are applied, then demulsifier dosage accuracy is improved, but calculation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies state-dependent dosage multiplication factors based on simple process states derived from temperature and flowrate measurements. This approach achieves precise demulsifier dosage control while keeping calculations straightforward, as the multiplication factors are applied only after the system determines the current operational state.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and techniques for demulsifier automation of the wet crude handling facilities can include a computer-implemented method. Demulsifier automation parameters for automating demulsifier injection points of a wet crude handling facility are determined. The determining includes performing a data convolution and a smoothening of inlet demulsifier automation parameters. Performing the demulsifier automation of the wet crude handling facility, includes, for each demulsifier, the following: A current state of the demulsifier is identified based on the demulsifier automation parameters. Demulsifier calculation input parameters are determined, including performing a convolution and a smoothening of the demulsifier calculation input parameters. A demulsifier dosage rate is calculated using the determined demulsifier calculation input parameters. A state dependent dosage multiplication factor is applied to the demulsifier based on the current state based on the calculated demulsifier dosage rate.