Non-linear Slug Mitigation Assembly for Multiphase Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Slugging occurs in oil fields due to the separation of gases and liquids in multiphase hydrocarbons, leading to pressure and production fluctuations, which can damage equipment and pose operational hazards, especially in mature fields and terrain-induced scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A system with non-linear segments in slug mitigation assemblies is deployed between subterranean pipes and field equipment to reduce gas or liquid pocket accumulation, using materials like aluminum, stainless steel, and fiberglass, and configured to maintain durability and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If multiphase hydrocarbons are conveyed through straight pipelines, then the flow path is simple and easy to install, but gas and liquid separation causes slug formation leading to pressure fluctuations and equipment damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies non-linear segments with curved paths instead of straight pipe sections. The curved geometry creates centrifugal forces that prevent gas-liquid separation and slug formation, while the modular segmented design maintains installation ease. Each non-linear segment is a self-contained unit that can be installed independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The pipeline is divided into multiple non-linear segments that can be assembled in series. This segmentation allows the complex curved path to be constructed from standardized modular units, maintaining ease of installation while achieving the slug-mitigating curved flow path throughout the entire pipeline length.
2Reliability
If non-linear segments are introduced to prevent slug formation, then pressure stability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The non-linear segments use curved geometries to generate centrifugal forces that keep gas and liquid mixed, preventing slug formation. This curvature-based approach achieves pressure stability through fluid dynamics rather than complex mechanical components, maintaining relative simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The pipeline geometry parameters (curvature radius, segment length, angle) are optimized to achieve effective slug mitigation. By carefully selecting these parameters, the system achieves pressure stability without requiring overly complex structures, balancing performance with simplicity.
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 system effectively mitigates slug accumulation, reducing downtime, operating costs, and compliance with industry standards by allowing subterranean resources to flow through while minimizing slug formation, thus enhancing operational safety and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the non-linear segments can be configured to reduce accumulation of gas or liquid pockets in the subterranean resource as the subterranean resource flows therethrough
Data Source
AI summary
A system for mitigating slugging in the conveyance of a subterranean resource can include at least one first pipe disposed proximate to a subterranean formation, where the at least one first pipe has a first cavity through which the subterranean resource traverses from the subterranean formation. The system can also include at least one second pipe disposed proximate to field equipment at an operating platform, where the at least one second pipe has a second cavity through which the subterranean resource traverses, where the field equipment is used to extract the subterranean resource. The system can also include a first slug mitigation assembly disposed between the at least one first pipe and the at least one second pipe, where the first slug mitigation assembly includes a first plurality of non-linear segments for reducing accumulation of gas or liquid pockets in the subterranean resource as the subterranean resource flows therethrough.