Sand Separation Control Using Multiphase Meter Feedback
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing separator systems for removing solids from well fluids, such as sand, are labor-intensive and not well-suited for managing multi-separator and multi-well operations, leading to worker-related delays and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A sand separation system incorporating separators, chokes, multiphase meters, and a central controller that automatically measures fluid properties and adjusts flow rates to optimize the separation and disposal of solids, enabling automated blowdown operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual blowdown operations are used to measure solids accumulation, then measurement capability is provided, but labor intensity and time consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service measurement by using the multiphase meter to automatically quantify solids accumulation in the separator tank. The multiphase meter measures fluid properties and generates signals that trigger automated blowdown operations, eliminating the need for manual intervention to measure solids accumulation while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback control by continuously monitoring fluid properties through the multiphase meter and using this information to automatically control the blowdown process. The multiphase meter provides real-time feedback on solids accumulation, allowing the control system to determine when blowdown operations are necessary and how long they should last, optimizing both measurement accuracy and time efficiency.
2Measurement precision
If manual blowdown operations are performed for each separator, then solids measurement is achieved, but operational complexity and labor requirements increase in multi-separator systems
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies universality by using a single multiphase meter to serve multiple separators in a multi-well completion system. The multiphase meter can measure solids accumulation for any connected separator, and the control system can manage blowdown operations for multiple separators automatically, reducing the complexity of managing multi-separator systems while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges the functions of multiple separators into a unified management structure where a single multiphase meter and control system can monitor and control blowdown operations for all separators. This combining approach reduces the operational complexity of managing multiple separators individually while maintaining the ability to measure solids accumulation for each separator.
3Productivity
If chokes are used to control flow rate, then fluid flow management is improved, but additional equipment and control mechanisms are required
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service flow control by using the multiphase meter to automatically monitor fluid properties and trigger choke adjustments as needed. The multiphase meter measures fluid flow characteristics and generates signals that automatically adjust the choke position, eliminating the need for manual flow control operations while maintaining precise fluid flow management.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback control for flow management by continuously monitoring fluid properties through the multiphase meter and automatically adjusting choke positions based on real-time measurements. The multiphase meter provides feedback on fluid flow rate and properties, allowing the control system to dynamically adjust chokes to optimize fluid flow while reducing the need for manual intervention and complex control mechanisms.
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 enhances efficiency by reducing manual labor, minimizing delays, and improving the management of solids accumulation across multiple separators and wells, facilitating seamless integration into production facilities or pipelines.
Implementation Method 1
separators configured to receive a mixed fluid from one or more wells or wellheads and to separate solids from the mixed fluid
Implementation Method 2
multiphase meters configured to measure one or more first properties of the separated fluid
Data Source
AI summary
A sand separation system includes one or more separators configured to receive a mixed fluid from one or more wells or wellheads and to separate solids from the mixed fluid to produce the solids and a separated fluid. The system also includes one or more chokes downstream from and in fluid communication with the one or more separators. Each of the one or more chokes is configured to receive the separated fluid from a corresponding one of the one or more separators and to control a flow rate of the separated fluid therethrough. The system also includes one or more multiphase meters downstream from and in fluid communication with the one or more chokes. Each of the multiphase meters is configured to measure one or more first properties of the separated fluid and to adjust the one or more chokes in response to the one or more first properties.