Crude oilWellstream separation

The first step in processing the well stream is to separate the crude oil, natural gas and water phases into separate streams. Oil and gas fields utilize two-phase gas/oil and gas/condensate separators as well as three-phase gas/oil/water separators. Units are classified according to horizontal or vertical configuration, operating pressure, turbulent or laminar flow, and test or production separation.

Challenge

Interface level measurement will actuate a valve to adjust vessel level. An emulsion layer along the oil/water interface can contaminate the oil with water or the water with oil. Foaming along the gas/liquid interface, if entrained, can cause liquid carryover or gas blow-by.