Filters are used in just about every equipment package within the oil and gas industry. They are used to remove impurities from different process systems such as fuel gas, glycol dehydration units or glycol dehydrators, oil lubrication, and even the main inlet gas feed to a gas plant. It is essential to use the right filter and maintain it well to increase the overall efficiency of a process and prolong equipment life. Read on to learn more about the benefits of using filters and how they work to separate oil and gas.
Oil & Gas Filtration Segments
Wellsite separators and other equipment packages for the oil and gas industry use advanced filtration technology to ensure enhanced performance and reduce operating costs. The different stages of industry that use filters are as follows:
- Upstream
This comprises of production facilities where hydrocarbons are first recovered. Using effective separation solutions can help maximize output, increase oil recovery rates, and dispose of produced water. Produced water must meet cleanliness standards before disposal. Removal of harmful contaminants using a filter is essential to prevent erosion of capital equipment such as the dehydration unit. - Midstream
This consists of the transportation of produced liquids, LNG production, and gas processing. Failure to separate and filter produced fluids during the transportation and processing operations can lead to expensive downtime. Filters are used to separate solid contaminants, oil, and water from gas streams. - Downstream
The purity of feed streams in oil and gas refining is crucial to ensure adequate process reactions. Removal of particulates and fluid contaminants from them is essential for enhancing the overall performance.
Types of Filters Used in Oil & Gas Industries
Cartridge filters are lightweight and can be used to meet a variety of filtration requirements. They are available in various diameters and lengths, as well as construction materials, including woven, nonwoven, and membranes.
Oil and gas filtration specifications are quite diverse. Listed below are a few commonly used filters in oil batteries and gas plants.
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Gas Filter Separators
They are mostly used in glycol dehydrators, gas storage facilities, and more. Gas filters are used to separate entrained liquids and fine and medium-sized contaminants from gas streams.
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Gas Coalescing Filters
These devices are primarily used to remove liquid aerosols and water from gas streams. They are used in petrochemical plants, oil and gas facilities, and power generation plants.
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Liquid Particulate Filters
They can help with the removal of solid particulates from liquid streams while ensuring that no solid particles are present in the fluid. They can separate small and moderately sized solids as well as carryover contaminants, which is why they are used in so many applications.
Benefits of a Filter
- Prevent sand and pipeline dust from entering a gas plant facility.
- Clean fuel before it gets burned in a heater or engine.
- Reduce foaming in an amine or glycol contactor.
- Prevent reservoir plugging in water disposal well.
- Prolong pump impeller life in a hot oil system.
- Minimize the plugging of nozzles in instrument controllers.
If you are looking for an oil and gas equipment fabricator who provides a complete range of services from design to shipping, Aspire Energy Resources Inc. can help you. We understand the importance of choosing the right filter for oil and gas separation equipment, such as dehydration units and wellsite separators. We have a qualified team to understand your needs and recommend suitable solutions.
For more information about our products and services, call us at 403-314-5422 or toll-free 1-800-993-9958. We’ll be happy to guide you!
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