A new mathematical model for oil/water separation in pipes and tanks

In top-side processing, it is observed that the separation rate for water in oil systems increases with the increase in the water cut, and that some water remains in the oil even after long settling times. These features may be qualitatively understood by a combination of coalescence and settling. This work describes a mathematical-numerical model that describes these mechanisms quantitatively. Based on input about system dimensions, how rate, fluid physical properties, fluid quality and drop size distribution at the inlet, it calculates the quality of the output oil. The model was validated by laboratory experiments and field data.