Vibrational Separator for Low-Gravity Solids Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solids-control equipment in the oil and gas industry is ineffective in removing low-gravity solids (LGS) smaller than 8 to 10 microns from drilling fluids, leading to contaminated fluids that require costly disposal or dilution, and poses challenges in maintaining drilling fluid performance and compliance with disposal regulations.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that incorporates vibrational energy to enhance solid-liquid separation in a modified separator system, utilizing a tortuous flow path and vacuum assistance to separate solids from liquids, including the application of mechanical, electrical, or sonic vibrations to disturb molecular bonds and facilitate the settling of particulate matter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional solids-control equipment is used, then the equipment structure is simple and easy to operate, but it cannot effectively remove low-gravity solids smaller than 8 to 10 microns from drilling fluids
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies vibrational energy to the separator system to enhance solid-liquid separation. The vibration disturbs molecular bonds and facilitates the settling of particulate matter, enabling effective removal of low-gravity solids smaller than 8 to 10 microns that conventional equipment cannot separate.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary substance (such as a coagulant or flocculant) to facilitate the separation process. This intermediary helps aggregate fine low-gravity solids into larger particles that can be more easily separated from the drilling fluid, thereby improving separation precision without requiring overly complex equipment.
2Productivity
If conventional separation methods are used, then the operation process is simple, but the separation efficiency for fine solids is insufficient leading to costly disposal and dilution
Solution Approach 1:
The vibrational energy applied to the separator system significantly enhances separation efficiency for fine solids. The vibration facilitates faster and more complete separation of low-gravity solids, reducing the need for costly disposal and dilution of contaminated drilling fluids.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary treatment to the drilling fluid before separation, such as adding coagulants or flocculants to aggregate fine particles. This preliminary action prepares the solids for more effective separation, improving overall productivity while managing energy consumption through optimized processing stages.
3Manufacturing precision
If no vibrational energy is applied, then the system requires less energy input, but the molecular bonds in the solid-liquid mixture remain intact reducing separation effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies vibrational energy to disturb molecular bonds in the solid-liquid mixture, enabling effective separation of low-gravity solids. The vibration energy breaks the bonds holding fine particles in suspension, allowing them to settle and be separated from the drilling fluid with high precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the separation process by introducing vibrational energy. This parameter change affects the molecular structure and bonding in the solid-liquid mixture, facilitating separation without requiring excessive energy input by optimizing the vibration frequency and intensity.
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
Effectively removes low-gravity solids and colloidal materials from drilling fluids, reducing the need for costly disposal and fluid dilution, while improving the performance and longevity of drilling fluids by enhancing solid-liquid separation efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
one or more sources of vibration applied to the separator to enhance the separation of the solids from the solid-liquid mixture passing through the separator
Implementation Method 2
A vacuum is applied to the system. The liquid to be treated is then directed through a conduit configured into a tortuous flow path
Implementation Method 3
As solids fall out of solution, they are collected
Data Source
AI summary
The system and method is directed to improved separation or clarification of solids from a solids-laden liquid, including the removal of low gravity solids. A liquid to be treated is introduced into the inlet of a solid-liquid separator modified to include one or more sources of vibrational energy. The liquid is directed through a conduit within the separator. This conduit can be configured into a tortuous flow path to assist in the separation of solids from the liquid, the tortuous path being interconnected between two separation towers. Vibrational energy and gas sparging is applied to the flow path. As solids fall out of solution, they are collected. The clarified liquid is also collected. A vacuum can be applied to the system to assist in moving the solid-liquid mixture through the system and to provide vacuum clarification. Electrocoagulation electrodes can also be employed.