Design, Optimization and Dynamic Modelling of Multistage Separator

Pressure and Well Production in Offshore Oil and Gas Facilities

Project Summary

This research project is related to separator pressures and how they can affect oil-to-gas ratio as
well as the income from crude-oil sales. Oil and gas production is a very complex process where
many factors and components are dependent on each other, that is, it is sometimes difficult to
adapt to changing conditions since many factors need to be considered to ensure a profitable
gain. One of the main factors which will be examined in the project is separator pressures over-
time since typical separator pressures are fixed. The main objective will be to develop a steady
state simulation model using one of Massy Wood’s projects for the multistage crude oil and
optimizing the separator pressure. This can be achieved by the following goals:

1. Determine the optimal operating pressure and temperature values for an offshore Oil and
Gas separation train, in order to maximize the recovery of C3+ hydrocarbons in a stable
Crude Oil stream at storage conditions, and the recovery of C1 and C2 hydrocarbons in
Gas phase whilst achieving a True Vapour Pressure (TVP) specification of less than or
equal to 13.5 psia (usually the relevant associated temperature is the maximum storage
temperature which can be as high as 120oF- For this project, a storage temperature of
between 100oF to 120 oF) and Base Sediment and Water (BS&W) of less than 5%.
2. Present an accurate methodology for optimizing and designing a separator (Three-Phase)
in the crude oil production unit to meet the TVP and BS&W requirements at optimal
conditions for step 1.
3. From method, determine if study is feasible, that is, increase profits for the facility by
putting more gas into the sales pipeline and to reduce flaring/venting of methane with
minimal costs to the facility.
4. Convert the steady state model to a dynamic model and include a model Well based on
supplied production curves and implement controls on all process equipment to
accommodate flow/ pressure drop-off from early life to late life of the well. Dynamic
model should ensure that final product specifications (TVP and BS&W) are always met
and controllers are properly tuned.