UK multiphase complex adds giant separator

April 4, 2019
TUV SUD NEL has invested £1.45 million ($1.9 million) in what is said to be one of the world’s largest gravity test separators, as part of the program for a new advanced multiphase facility.

Offshore staff

EAST KILBRIDE, UK – Flow measurement R&D specialist TUV SUD NEL has invested £1.45 million ($1.9 million) in what is said to be one of the world’s largest gravity test separators, as part of the program for a new advanced multiphase facility (AMF).

The separator will test both multiphase and wet gas flows (oil, water, and gas) and will ensure sufficient retention time, even at the highest flow rates.

It will weigh 270 metric tons (297 tons) and operate at pressures up to 150 bar (2,175 psi), enabling flow rates within the AMF 20 times greater than at any other test facility worldwide,TUV SUD NEL claimed.

This should satisfy the growing requests for flow meter testing that more accurately reflects real-field conditions, to reduce measurement uncertainty and minimize fiscal inaccuracy.

The AMF will focus chiefly on the subsea and wet gas sectors and should facilitate company-led industrial projects and product development, industry training and academic research.

Scottish Enterprise has supported the development of the AMF with £4.9 million ($6.43 million) of funding. Parent company TÜV SÜD AG is investing £11.1 million ($14.6 million).

04/04/2019