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[AH1979]

I am currently evaluating some existing spherical (spheroid) separators for three phase separation (oil/gas/water) efficiency. I have done many similar calculations before for horizontal and vertical vessels but never for a spherical vessel. Does anyone have a calculator/spreadsheet that can be used for separators of spherical or spheroid shape or else know what equation can be used for spherical separators for both 2 phase and 3 phase separation (ie gas from liquid and water from oil).

Basically these are existing separators that take the crude from the GOSPs and the crude contains both gas and produced water that are separated in the spheroids. I need to calculate whether the spheroids are large enough to meet the required water cut specification in the crude.

[ankur2061]

AH1979,

API SPEC 12J gives sizing methodology for all types of separators (vertical cylindrical, horizontal cylindrical and spherical). Appendix C gives design equations and calculations for all 3 types. The basic design equation based on modified Stoke's equation is the same for all 3 types. The difference lies in the K-factors depending on the geometry (vertical, horizontal and spherical) which are provided in Table C.1 of Appendix C in API SPEC 12J.

You may also refer GPSA Engineering Databook 11th Edition, Section 7 - Filters and Separators. Here also Fig 7-9 provides the C-factor and K-factor for spherical separators with the basic design equations for separators remaining the same.

Hope this helps.

Regards,
Ankur.

Edited by ankur2061, 12 February 2011 - 05:47 AM.