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Oil-Gas-Water Three-Phase Separation Fundamentals

26 – 30 May 2025Abu Dhabi24 – 28 Nov. 2025Dubai22 – 26 Dec. 2025Abu Dhabi


Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Introduction to Three-Phase Separation

  • Understand the role of three-phase separators in oil & gas processing.
  • Identify the physical properties of oil, gas, and water that impact separation.
  • Differentiate between two-phase and three-phase separators.

2. Principles of Three-Phase Separation

  • Explain separation mechanisms: gravity settling, coalescence, and momentum separation.
  • Analyze how droplet size, density difference, and fluid viscosity affect separation efficiency.
  • Understand gas-liquid and liquid-liquid interface dynamics.

3. Types of Three-Phase Separators and Their Applications

  • Identify horizontal, vertical, and spherical separators and their advantages.
  • Understand free-water knockouts (FWKO) and their role in separation.
  • Learn about high-pressure and low-pressure separators for different field conditions.

4. Key Components of a Three-Phase Separator

  • Explain the function of:
    • Inlet diverters (cyclonic, vane-type, baffle plates).
    • Mist extractors (mesh pads, vane packs, demisters).
    • Weir plates and interface level controllers.
    • Pressure and level control systems.

5. Separation Efficiency and Optimization Techniques

  • Optimize residence time and separator dimensions for improved efficiency.
  • Implement chemical treatment (demulsifiers, defoamers) for water-in-oil and oil-in-water separation.
  • Control foaming, emulsions, and sand production issues.

6. Instrumentation and Control Systems in Separators

  • Understand level controllers, pressure regulators, and flow measurement devices.
  • Implement automated control strategies for enhanced separation performance.
  • Integrate SCADA and DCS systems for real-time monitoring.

7. Troubleshooting Common Separation Problems

  • Identify causes and solutions for:
    • Foaming and emulsions affecting separation performance.
    • Poor oil-water separation leading to off-spec crude.
    • Gas carryover and liquid carry-under issues.
    • Sand and solids accumulation in separators.

8. Safety, Environmental Considerations, and Regulatory Compliance

  • Implement pressure relief systems, flame arrestors, and gas venting protocols.
  • Ensure compliance with API, ASME, OSHA, and environmental regulations (MARPOL, EPA).
  • Develop hazard mitigation strategies for separator overpressure, leaks, and fire risks.

9. Case Studies and Practical Applications

  • Analyze real-world three-phase separation challenges and operational improvements.
  • Participate in hands-on separator operation and troubleshooting exercises.
  • Develop a customized separation optimization plan for a given field condition.

 

Target Audience

  • Production and process engineers
  • Oil & gas facility and operations personnel
  • Mechanical and chemical engineers in upstream processing
  • Field technicians and maintenance personnel
  • HSE and compliance officers