Mechanical Device Designed for Preventing Hydrocyclone Clogging and Air-Core Formation

Abstract

The clogging of hydrocyclones as part of the solids control system in the oil industry is a recurrent operational problem. This occurs mainly due to the agglomeration of fine solids in the underflow duct and also to the incidence of higher-size-range particles than those specified for the equipment. Another common issue that results in poor performance is the formation of an air-core in the low-pressure zone of the separator. In this study, an innovative device coupled to the underflow output of the hydrocyclone was developed in order to minimize these problems. The aim is to mechanically adjust the apex area in a fast and accurate manner, and thus create oscillations in the inlet pressure and flows, constituting a safety system to prevent clogging and air-core formation.