Sand Separator Dump Sequencing for Accurate Well Test Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for automating the purging of sand separators in oil and gas production are inadequate for managing multiple sand separators simultaneously, as they fill at different rates, leading to incorrect well test measurement results and are cost-prohibitive when providing separate systems for each.
Innovation Solution
A control system that selectively manages the dump cycles of multiple sand separators, preventing simultaneous dumping by using a common discharge line with valves and pressure transducers, allowing individual purging and ensuring only one separator is dumped at a time, controlled by a microprocessor-based system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a single automated dump system is used for multiple sand separators, then cost is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to simultaneous dumping causing incorrect well test measurement results
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically controls the dumping process by sequentially activating individual sand separators based on their fill rates and operational needs. The controller monitors each separator's status and initiates dumping one at a time, preventing simultaneous dumping while efficiently managing multiple separators through dynamic, adaptive control sequences.
2Measurement precision
If separate automated dump systems are provided for each sand separator, then measurement precision is maintained, but cost increases to a prohibitive level
Solution Approach 1:
A single controller is designed to perform multiple functions by managing several sand separators through sequential control. The controller can individually address each separator, initiate dumping operations one at a time, and monitor their respective statuses, thereby providing precise measurement capabilities without requiring separate dedicated systems for each separator.
3Productivity
If multiple sand separators are dumped simultaneously, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to incorrect well test measurement results
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic action by cycling through multiple sand separators in sequence rather than simultaneously. The controller monitors fill rates and operational parameters of each separator, then initiates dumping operations in a controlled sequence, ensuring that one separator is dumped at a time while maintaining overall purging efficiency and preventing measurement interference.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for controlling sand discharge from a plurality of sand separators each of which has a dump line and an actuated valve apparatus in the dump line. There is a first controller which is operatively connected to the actuated valve assemblies and is configured to open one of the actuated valve assemblies in response to a parameter such as internal pressure in the sand separator. There is a second controller which is connected to the first controller and which is also connected to an actuated discharge valve in a common discharge line to which all of the dump lines are connected. On a command from the first controller to the second controller that a selected one of the actuated valve assemblies is opening, the second controller opens the discharge valve.