Effect of Inlet Configuration on Flow Behavior in a Cylindrical Cyclone Separator

The use of Gas-Liquid Cylindrical Cyclone (GLCC^©) separators for gas-liquid separation is a new technology for oil and gas industry. Consequently, it is important to understand the flow behavior in the GLCC^© and effect of different geometrical configurations to enhance separation. The main objective of this study is to address the effect of different inlet configurations on flow behavior in the GLCC^© by measuring velocity components and turbulent kinetic energy inside the GLCC^© using a Laser Doppler Velocimeter (LDV). Three different inlet configurations are constructed, namely: one inclined inlet, two inclined inlets and a gradually reduced inlet nozzle. Axial and tangential velocities and turbulent intensities across the GLCC^© diameter were measured at 24 different axial locations (12.5” to 35.4” below the inlet) for each inlet configuration. Flow rates of 72 and 10 gpm are selected to investigate the effect of flowrate (Reynolds number) on the flow behavior. Measurements are used to create color contour plots of axial and tangential velocity and turbulent kinetic energy. Color contour maps revealed details of the flow behavior.