Análise do processo de separação gás-óleo-água em separadores horizontais : aspectos fluidodinâmicos e geométricos.

Abstract

Horizontal separator vessels present better separation efficiencies when the fluids flow at a lower speed, favoring the sedimentation process. Optimized determination of internal baffles type devices can contribute to reducing the fluid velocity from the inlet to the separation region. The aim of this thesis was to analyze the influence of geometric aspects of baffles and input operating parameters on flow dynamics and separation efficiency in a three-phase horizontal separator. A base geometry was adapted from the insertion of five inlet baffles (solid water washing plate, perforated water washing plate and semi-porous baffles). The conservation of mass and momentum equations were used to model the multiphase flow adopting the VOF model in conjunction with the standard turbulence model. The results indicated that, in general, the insertion of both the washing plates and the deflectors contributed to the attenuation of the velocity of the inlet fluids, but resulted in different flow dynamics and efficiencies of threephase separation. Among the analyzed geometric arrangements, it is possible to conclude that the three-phase horizontal separator equipped with a semi-perforated baffle in the P1 position presented a more uniform three-phase flow, in addition to better liquid/gas and oil/water separation efficiencies, under specific operational conditions.