Integrated Flow Conditioning for Multiphase Slug Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-phase fluid compression systems face challenges with liquid content variations, particularly 'slugs' of liquid, which cause load imbalances and operational issues in compressors, and require bulky flow conditioning devices with separate reservoirs and small pipe diameters, leading to inefficient liquid-gas separation.
Innovation Solution
A compact flow conditioning apparatus using an elongate reservoir integrated into the supply pipe, allowing for stratified flow and simultaneous gas-liquid separation, with a gas-liquid mixer for recombination, and optional supplementary reservoirs to manage liquid surges, reducing the need for separate bulky components and optimizing fluid flow velocities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate bulky flow conditioner reservoir is used to accommodate liquid surges, then liquid content stability is improved, but device complexity and space occupation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the flow conditioner reservoir with the separator body into a single integrated structure. The reservoir forms part of the separator assembly, eliminating the need for separate bulky reservoir components while maintaining the ability to accommodate liquid surges and stabilize liquid content for the compressor.
Solution Approach 2:
The separator structure performs multiple functions: it separates gas from liquid, accommodates liquid surges in its reservoir, and conditions the liquid flow before it reaches the compressor. This multi-functional design replaces what would traditionally require separate dedicated components for each function.
2Reliability
If small pipe diameters are used in the flow conditioner, then liquid-gas separation is improved, but fluid flow velocity becomes excessively high causing liquid surge disintegration
Solution Approach 1:
The separator is divided into distinct functional zones: an upper gas separation region and a lower reservoir region. This segmentation allows different flow conditions in different regions - slower velocities in the reservoir for effective separation, and controlled velocities in the discharge region to prevent surge disintegration while maintaining separation efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from horizontal flow through small diameter pipes to vertical flow through a taller separator structure. This dimensional change allows larger cross-sectional area for flow accommodation while maintaining effective separation through the vertical arrangement of separation and reservoir zones.
3Reliability
If the compressor is placed above a large reservoir, then liquid surge accommodation is improved, but the structure becomes very tall and bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The compressor is integrated with the separator structure, with the compressor inlet directly connected to the top of the separator body. The separator's liquid discharge region is positioned to feed directly into the compressor suction, eliminating the need for a separate tall structure with the compressor mounted above a distant reservoir.
Solution Approach 2:
The separator performs preliminary liquid surge accommodation and flow conditioning before the fluid reaches the compressor. By preparing the flow in advance within the integrated separator structure, the compressor can be positioned closer without compromising its ability to handle liquid surges.
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 solution simplifies the design, improves liquid-gas separation efficiency, and maintains a stable flow rate, enabling effective compression of multi-phase fluids with reduced compressor shaft torque variations and enhanced operational stability.
Implementation Method 1
allowing for stratified flow and simultaneous gas-liquid separation
Implementation Method 2
a gas-liquid mixer to which the gas and liquid outlets are connected such that the separated gas and liquid may be recombined
Implementation Method 3
the recombined gas and liquid are supplied to a compressor
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided an apparatus 30 and method for conditioning the flow of a mixed phase flow from a supply pipe 101 from a hydrocarbon well. The apparatus 30 comprises an elongate reservoir 11 having a first end for receiving a multi-phase fluid flow from the supply pipe and a second closed end, there being provided a gas outlet 02 from the upper part of the first end, a liquid separation region downstream of the first end, and a liquid outlet 12 from the lower part of the liquid separation region; and a gas-liquid mixer to which the gas and liquid outlets are connected such that the separated gas and liquid may be recombined. The reservoir 11 may accommodate surges of liquid such that the flow rate from the liquid outlet is relatively invariant over time compared to that of the flow received by the apparatus.