Modeling of Heat and Mass Transfer Processes to Verify the Throughput Capacity of a Drilling Mud Gas Separator
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: The article investigates the modeling of heat and mass transfer processes in drilling fluid gas separators used in oil and gas well drilling and workover operations. Drilling fluid gas separators play a critical role in ensuring the safe separation of gas-liquid mixtures, which is essential to prevent gas blowouts and accidents such as gas-air mixture explosions. It is demonstrated that the selection of the optimal separator type depends on specific operational conditions, including pressure, temperature, and the composition of the gas-liquid mixture.The proposed methodology for assessing separator performance involves several key steps. First, the calculation of gas and liquid throughput capacity, which allows for evaluating the device's efficiency in various geological conditions. Second, the calculation of pressure in the gas outlet line and the required height of the liquid seal necessary to prevent gas breakthrough. Third, special attention is given to preventing liquid droplet carryover in the gas flow and ensuring the retention of the required liquid volume within the separator’s body.Verifying the compliance of the drilling fluid gas separator’s characteristics with actual well construction conditions allows for the assessment of its operating range and the selection of a safe well control mode. This helps prevent situations where the drilling fluid or formation fluid could enter the gas outlet line, or gas could break through the liquid seal and be released inside the working areas.The use of software tools for modeling hydrocarbon phase transitions allows for accurate predictions of gas-liquid system behavior under high temperature and pressure conditions, significantly enhancing the precision of calculations and operational safety. As a result, the proposed methodology can be applied for the proper selection and design of gas separators, as well as optimizing their performance according to well conditions. This article provides significant practical value for engineering personnel in the oil and gas industry and contributes to improving the safety and efficiency of drilling and workover operations.
Source: Oil and Gas Business
Language: English
Subfield: Ocean Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4405731465