Oil in Water emulsion specialists

[chowles]

I am involved in an issue regarding the formation of an emulsion on a gas production platform. Currently, an emulsion forms downstream of the production separator due to oil carry-under with the produced water which is accelarated through a Pressure Control Valve. It is believed that the emulsion is stabilised by the corrosion inhibitor, so a chemical solution is currently being formulated.

This problem has suggested that the well composition could hold the tendancy to form an emulsion if accelerated to high velocities.

We are in the process of changing the operating conditions of the platform, this will result in increased velocities in the production flowlines - there is a concern that an emulsion could be formed in the production flowlines and riser as a result of the increased velocities.

Does anyone have any experience of this probelm themselves, or can anyone suggest a specialist company or consultant who can help predict the likely hood of an emulsion forming and formulate a solution/preventative action?

Thanks

 

[ayfarm]

I would investigate using a coalescing separator for this application.