Dispersion Characterization Rig

The flow behavior and stability of oil-water dispersions was investigated by means of a novel commercialized Dispersion Characterization Rig (DCR). The breakup and coalescence of the droplet were examined through the separation process in a batch trap separator, located downstream of a series of mixers/chokes. Height vs. time profiles of the coalescing and sedimenting interfaces were obtained. Different experimental parameters were studied on the separation process: properties of oil-phase (light and heavy oil) and aqueous-phase (tap, distilled and brine); temperature; pressure, initial dispersion height, and water-cut. Normalization of experimental profile results were proposed with respect to both height and time. The Avila [3] batch separation model predictions were compared with the experimental data. The model is capable of predicting the sedimenting and coalescing profiles, average droplet size, and its deviation about the mean. Model predictions show good agreement with the experimental data.