Aspect ratio modeling and design procedure for GLCC compact separators

The petroleum industry has recently shown interest in the development of in novative alternatives to the conventional vessel-type separator. One such a lternative is the gas-liquid cylindrical cyclone (GLCC) separator,,which is simple, compact, and low weight, and has low capital and operational costs . A new mechanistic model is proposed, for the first time, to predict the a spect ratio of the GLCC, based on its complex hydrodynamic multiphase flow behavior This model incorporates an analytical solution for the gas-liquid vortex interface shape, and a unified particle trajectory model for bubbles and droplets. A simplified GLCC design methodology, based on the foregoing mechanistic model, is developed and specific design criteria are proposed as user guidelines for GLCC design. A summary of four actual field applicat ion designs is provided to demonstrate the capability of the aspect ratio m odeling and the impact that the GLCC technology may have on the petroleum i ndustry.