Multiphase Flow Facility
The Multiphase Flow Facility (MFF) at Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) features a gas-liquid separation test skid featuring a vertical gas-scrubber vessel (14-inch inner diameter) and a vertical filter-coalescer vessel (17.7-inch inner diameter). Each setup is designed to thoroughly evaluate and characterize separation devices and vessels, with customization available to meet the specific needs of each client and test campaign.
Key Capabilities
The Multiphase Flow Facility Separation Test Skid features two vertical vessels used in evaluating separation equipment.
- Separation Performance Evaluation: Characterize separation devices by measuring total liquid carryover in the primary gas outlet stream across a range of inlet flow conditions.
- Flexible Installation Options: Use the scrubber vessel to house internal components or adapt the separation skid for client-supplied or custom separation devices. Both the scrubber vessel and filter-coalescer can be employed together to evaluate client devices comprehensively.
- Tailored Measurement Focus: Configure flow lines to assess separation efficiencies for entire vessels or individual stages. Custom measurement techniques have successfully tracked both liquid carryover as well as gas carry under depending on the type of separation equipment.
- Custom Support: The MFF team can assist with test matrix development, data handling, analysis, summarization, and delivery. Each test is tailored to accommodate various client devices, measurement techniques, visualization needs, and piping layouts.
Examples of Separation Projects
- Gas/Liquid Separator Performance Evaluation
- High-Pressure Gas Scrubber Performance Testing
- Compact Gas/Liquid Separation Technology Qualification
- Downhole Gas/Liquid Separator Characterization
- Evaluation of Separator Internals
- Effect of Fluid Properties or Chemicals (e.g. MEG) on Separator Performance
Separation Technology Research (STAR) Program
In addition to conducting independent separation projects, SwRI currently manages a Joint Industry Project (JIP) on separation, the Separation Technology Research (STAR) Program. The STAR Program was initiated for conducting research, conducting systematic testing, and enabling qualification of separation equipment. To find out more about the STAR Program please visit the website at starprogram.swri.org.