Publications

Mobile separator test as multi phase flow meter unit

Proceedings Title : Proc. Indon. Petrol. Assoc., 38th Ann. Conv., 2014

Medco E&P Indonesia South Sumatra Extension has a wide-ranging operation consisting of 18 active fields with 10 collecting facilities (station). Well testing is needed in these fields, but not every station has proper testing facilities due to limited facilities and/or remote location. These sometimes challenging conditions have led us to use a mobile separator unit as testing facility, providing well performance data from remote wells. The mobile unit consists of 1 separator unit with orifice meter to measure gas rate, a tank to measure liquid rate, tubing as connection to separator and tank test (also as flare line if for on-site test), and a portacamp as living quarters for the crew. However, size and quantity of test equipment can create issues, such as time for installation and difficulties moving from one well to another. In 2011, we rented a multi-phase flow meter (MPFM) mobile unit to minimize installation time and to reduce difficulties in mobilization. This unit provided accurate data, but could not handle high pressure wells (ANSI rating 300) nor maintain pressure if used on site (no PCV). In addition, the rental cost was high. To overcome these challenges, we modified our mobile separator unit to an MPFM unit by installing the separator on a heavy truck, adding Coriolis for liquid meter reading, mini portacamp, air compressor, diesel generator, and portable centrifuge. We also undertook spool modification to simplify installation. By concluding these modifications, we could minimize installation time, facilitate mobility of testing unit in remote areas, handle high pressure wells (ANSI rating 600 with separator’s MAWP 1321 psig), and conduct onsite testing. This new mobile test unit provides accurate test data and is cost-effective, saving approximately US$768,768.00 over two years compared to the MPFM unit contract.

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