Optimization of crude oil dehydration in an industrial spiral-type gravitational coalescer

ABSTRACT

This research is focused on modelling and optimization of crude oil dehydration in a spiral-type gravitational coalescer process. The process is modelled based on the population balance to calculate water cut and droplet size distribution in the treated crude oil. The effects of fresh water rate, oil temperature and mixing pressure drop on characteristics of treated crude oil are investigated using response surface methodology. The optimum condition of process is determined considering output water cut, salt content and produced gas in gravitational coalescer as objective functions. The results show that water cut in the treated crude oil is decreased about 21.2% at optimal condition.

KEYWORDS:

• Mixing valve
• Gravitational coalesce
• Population balance
• Optimization
• Response surface methodology