GB2521172A

GB2521172A - Commingling device

Info

Publication number: GB2521172A
Application number: GB1321916.7A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Mirza Najam Ali Beg; Mir Mahmood Sarshar
Original assignee: Caltec Ltd
Current assignee: Caltec Ltd
Priority date: 2013-12-11
Filing date: 2013-12-11
Publication date: 2015-06-17
Also published as: GB201321916D0; US20150157991A1; NO20141443A1

Abstract

A commingling device for combining fluid flows comprises an outer fluid line 203 for a first fluid having an inlet end 203a and an outlet end 204, and an inner fluid line 201 for a second fluid having an inlet end 201a and an outlet nozzle 205 wherein the nozzle is mounted substantially axially within the outer fluid line and configured to direct said second fluid towards the outlet end of the outer fluid line. The outer fluid line and inner fluid line may comprise baffles 209, 207 to create swirl or rotation in the fluid flow. A commingling device (fig 5) comprising first and second lines wherein the second line intersects the first fluid line at an acute angle. A commingling device (fig 7) comprising first and second lines wherein the second line surrounds portion of the first fluid line so that fluid may enter the first fluid line from the second via series of apertures or holes in that portion of the first fluid line.

Description

COMMINGLING DEVICE

The present invention relates to a commingling device for combining the flow of two or more fluids.

There are many situations where a flow of fluids from two different sources or pipelines needs to be combined so that the fluids can flow along a single pipeline. The type of fluid in each pipeline can vary and may consist of pure gas. pure liquid, or a mixture of gas and liquid multiphase fluids). The flow rates and operating pressures of the two fluids may also be significantly different. Also the flow regimes of the fluids (represented by fluctuations in the flow rates of the fluid phases) may be different, a typical flow regime being slug flow or intermittent (low. In some applications good mixing of the Iluids is a'so desired.

A conventional method used in the oil and gas industry and other industries combines the flow of fluids from two streams using a Tee junction 1 (as shown in Fig. 1) that comprises a first inlet line 2, a second inlet line 3 at right angles to the first inlet line 2, and an outlet line 4 that is aligned with the first inlet line 2. A first flow of fluid enters through the first inlet Une 2 and a second flow of fluid enters from the second inlet line 3 at 90 degrees to the first inlet line 2. The first and second fluids are combined and exit the Tee junction through the outlet line 4. However, the mixing of fluids is turbulent, leading to a loss of energy and pressure. The Tee junction I shown in Fig. I can therefore he used as a commingler, hut it is not an efficient commingler as described below.

Using a Tee junction as a commingler is very inefficient, especially when the flow rates or the mass flow rates of the fluids are significantly different from one another. In addition, die pressure of the two streams of fluid in the ifflet lines 2, 3 could also he different.

A possible result of combining the flow of fluids from two pipelines with different characteristics using a Tee junction as shown in Fig. I is that the fluid stream with the higher mass flow rate or velocity, or the higher momentum of flow, will impose a back pressure on lhe weaker micE line, as the momentum of the stronger fluid stream will impose a resistance to flow from thc weaker stream, which flows at an angle of 90 degrees into the stronger stream. lii oil or gas wells or pipelines carrying flows from different sources, this may restrict production from the weaker source.

An efficient commingler eliminates the shortcomings of the Tee junction arrangement and offcrs a number of benefits which make the commingler a supcrior and more cfficicnt unit for combining fluid flow from two separate pipelines or sources.

A key feature of an efficient commingler is that it enables the two fluids to commingle whilst flowing along parallel flow paths, instead of being combined at 90 degrees to one another as in a conventional Tee junction anangement.

A more efficient commingler is disclosed in EP 0717818 B I. This document describes an apparatus for mixing two fluid streams, which includes a nozzle mounted within an outlet conduit, which is arranged to introduce a stream of gas in a streamline manner into another fluid stream by directing the gas axially along the outlet conduit.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a commingling device that mitigates one or more of the prohlems set out above or that provides a useful alternative thereto.

According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a commingling device for combining fluid flows, comprising an outer fluid line for a first fluid having an inlet end and an outlet end, an inner fluid line for a second fluid having an inlet end and an outlet end, said inner fluid line having an outlet nozzle at said outlet end, said nozzle being mounted substantially axially within the outer fluid line and configured to direct said second fluid towards the outlet end of the outer fluid line, whereby said first and second fluids flowing through the inner and outer fluid lines are combined and flow together towards the outlet end of the outer fluid line.

By combining the fluid flows so that they flow axially and in a streamlined fashion towards the outlet the efficiency of the commingler can he significantly improved, so that it is able to operate with a minimal loss of pressure and a low energy requirement.

In one preferred embodiment, the outer fluid line is non-straight and the inner fluid line is substantially straight and has an outlet end that is located substantially axially within a downstream portion of the outer fluid line. Advantageously, the outer fluid line is curved.

This arrangement is particularly suitable for situations where the first fluid supplied to the outer fluid line is at a relatively low pressure or has a low momentum and the second Iluid supplied to the inner fluid line is at a relatively high pressure or has a high momentum, being capable of operating with high efficiency in these conditions.

In another preferred embodiment, the inner fluid line is non-straight and the outer fluid line includes a substantially straight pipe section. and the inner fluid line has an outlet end that is located substantially axially within a downstream portion of the substantially straight pipe section. This uTangement is mechanically simpler and may be prefelTed in certain situations.

Advantageously, the commingling device includes a Tee-piece pipe section comprising a substantially straight pipe section and a branch pipe section that intersects the substantially straight pipe section. The inner fluid line preferably includes an inlet end mounted within the branch pipe section and an outlet end located within the substantially straight pipe section. Advantageously, the inner fluid line is curved. This configuration is simple to implement and can he assembled using mostly conventional and readily available components.

Advantagcously, thc inncr fluid line includes an upstream portion that extends substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the substantially straight pipe section. and a downstream portion that extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the substantially straight pipe section. This configuration may he preferred where a curved inner fluid line cannot he accommodated.

hi another preferred embodiment the commingling device includes a Tee-piece pipe section comprising a substantially straight pipe section and a branch pipe section that intersects the substantially straight pipe section, and a removable inlet transfer pipe mounted within the Tee-piece pipe section and connected to the inlet end of either the substantially straight pipe section or the branch pipe section for guiding the flow of either the first fluid or the second fluid. In this configuration a highly efficient commingler can he assembled using largely conventional components, often without making extensive changes to existing pipework.

In one embodiment, the inlet transfer pipe is connected to the inlet end of the branch pipe section and comprises an upstream portion that extends substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the substantially straight pipe section, and a downstream portion that extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the substantially straight pipe section. Again, this configuration may be useful where a curved inner fluid line cannot be accommodated.

Optionally, the inlet transfer pipe may be configured to be withdrawn from the substantially straight pipe section in a direction substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the substantiafly straight pipe section. This allows the straight pipe section to be cleaned or inspected using a pipeline inspection gauge (or "pig").

In another embodiment, the inlet transfer pipe mounted within the Tee-piece pipe section is connected to the inlet end of the substantially straight pipe section and extends towards the outlet end of the substantially straight pipe section. This provides a useful alternative configuration, which is suitable for different fluid flow conditions.

Advantageously, the comminghng device includes an outlet transfer pipe mounted within the Tee-piece pipe section, wherein said outlet transfer pipe is connected to the outlet end of the substantially straight pipe section and extends upstream towards the downstream end of the inlet transfer pipe.

Advantageously, the commingling device includes a spinner device mounted within the inner fluid line and configured to cause rotation of said second fluid flowing within the inner fluid line. Alternatively or additionally the commingling device may include a spinner device mounted within the outer fluid line and configured to cause rotation of said first fluid flowing within the outer fluid line. The use of spinner devices ensures that the first and second fluids are mixed thoroughly and efficiently. even when the flow characteristics of the fluids are very different.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a commingling device for combining fluid Ilows, comprising a first fluid line for a first fluid having an inlet end and an outlet end, and a second fluid Bile for a second fluid having an inlet end and an outlet end, wherein said second fluid line intersects said first fluid line between the inlet and outlet ends thereof, and wherein said second fluid line has a longitudinal axis that extends at an acute angle to a longitudina' axis of the first fluid line, whereby said first and second fluids flowing through the first and second fluid lines are combined and flow together towards the outlet end of the first fluid line. This configuration allows the straight pipe section to be cleaned or inspected using a pipeline inspection gauge (or "pig").

Advantageously, the longitudinal axis of said second fluid line extends at least partially tangentially with respect to the first fluid line, whereby said second fluids flowing into said first fluid lines are caused to rotate about a longitudina' axis of the first fluid line.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a commingling device for combining fluid flows, comprising a first fluid line for a first fluid having an inlet end and an outlet end, and a second fluid line for a second fluid having an inlet end and an outlet end, wherein said outlet. end of said second fluid line is connected to said first fluid line through an intermediate pipe section having a plurality of apertures through which the second fluid can flow into the first fluid line. This configuration also allows the straight pipe section to be cleaned or inspected using a pipeline inspection gauge (or "pig").

Advantageously, at least one of said apertures extends at an acute angle lo a longitudinal axis of the first fluid line, whereby said first and second fluids flowing through the first and sccond fluid lines arc combined and flow togcthcr towards the outlct cnd of the first fluid line.

Advantageously, at least one of said apertures extends at least partially tangentially with respect to the first fluid line, whereby said second fluids flowing into said first fluid lines are caused to rotate about a longitudinal axis of the first fluid line.

Advantageously, said first fluid line is piggable and has no substantial obstructions between the inlet and outlct ends thereof Various embodiments of the present invention will now bc described by way of cxample with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein: Figure 1 is a side view ol a prior art commingling device; Figure 2 is a partially sectional side view of a comminghng device according to a first embodiment of the invention; Figure 3 is a partially sectional side view of a commingling device according to a second embodiment of the invention; Figure 4A is a partially sectional side view of a commingling device according to a third embodiment of the invention; Figure 4B is a partially sectional side view of a eomminghng device according to a fourth embodiment of the invention; Figure 4C is a partially sectional side view of a commingling device according to a fifth embodiment of the invention; Figure 5 is a partially sectional side view of a commingling device according to a sixth embodiment of the invention; Figure 5A is a partially sectional side view showing part of a commingling device according to a seventh embodiment of the invention, being a first variant of the sixth embodiment; Figure SB is a partially sectional side view showing part of a commingling device according to m eighth embodiment of the invention, being a second varhmt of the sixth embodiment; Figure SC is a cross sectional end view of the commingling device shown in Figure SB; Figure 6 is a partially sectional side view of a commingling device according to a ninth embodiment of the invention; Figure 6A is a cross section on line A-A of figure 6, and Figure 7 is a partially sectional side view of a commingling device according to a tenth embodiment of the invention.

The first commingling device 100 shown in figure 2 is connected to first and second inlet lines 101 a. 101 b and outlet line 104 via radial flanges 108. 110, 111. The commingling device 100 includes a relatively large diameter elbow pipe section 102 that bends through an angle of approximatdy 90° and a relatively small diameter straight pipe section 103 that passes through and is welded to the wall of the elbow pipe section 102. The straight pipe section 103 extends axially in the direction of the downstream end of the elbow pipe section 102. which is connected to the outlet line 104 via flange 108. A nozzle 105 is provided on the outlet end of the straight pipe section 103.

The small diameter straight pipe section 103 is located axially within the elbow pipe section 102 providing an annular region 106 between the wall of the straight pipe section 103 and wall of the elbow pipe section 102. A first static spinner device 107, for example comprising fan blades or helical fins, is provided within the straight pipe section 103 towards the downstream end thereof. This first static spinner device 107 may be located upstream of and/or within the nozzle 105. A second static spinner device 109, comprising for cxamplc fan bladcs or hclical fins, may be providcd within the annular region 106 between the ethow pipe section 102 and the straight pipe section 103. This second static spinner device 109 may he mounted on the interior surlace of the elbow pipe section 102 and/or on the exterior surface of the straight pipe section 103.

In use, first and second fluid streams flow into the conrniingling device 100 through the first and second inlet lines lOla, bib. The fluid stream flowing through the second inlet line lOlb passes through the straight pipe section 103 and the nozzle 105 and is introduced in a streamlined manner into the first fluid stream that flows from the first inlet line lOla into the elbow pipe section 102. The first and second spinners 107, 109 cause the first and second fluids flows to rotate in the same direction about the longitudinal axis of the straight pipe section 103. which aids mixing of the first. and second fluids. The mixed fluids then exit the commingling device through the outlet line 104. Because the fluids are commingled in a streamlined manner there is very little loss of pressure or momentum and the commingling device is therefore very efficient in operation.

The second commingling device 200 shown in figure 3 is connected to first and second inlet lines 201a, 201b and to outlet line 204 via radial flanges 208, 210, 211. The commingling device 200 includes a relatively small diameter dbow pipe section 202 that is connected to the first inlet line 2Ola and bends through an angle of approximately 90°.

The commingling device 200 also includes a relatively large diameter Tee joint 203, which comprises a straight pipe section 203a and a branch pipe section 203b that intersects the straight pipe section 203a at an angle of approximately 90°. The elbow pipe section 202 extends from the inlet end of the branch pipe section 203b into the straight pipe section 203a and is configured so that the outlet end of the elbow pipe section 202 extends axially in the direction of the downstream end of the straight pipe section 203a. A flange 211 is provided at the upstream end of the elbow pipe section 202, which sits within a recess at the upstream end of the branch pipe section 203h to support the elbow pipe section 202.

The flange 211 prevents fluids flowing from the first inlet line 201a directly into the branch pipe section 203b. Any fluids flowing through the first inlet line 201a are therefore forced to flow through the elbow pipe section 202. A nozzle 205 is provided at the outlet end ol the elbow pipe section 202 to direct the first fluids axially into the straight pipe section 203a.

The downstream end of the small diameter elbow pipe section 202 is located approximately axially within the straight pipe section 203a, providing an annular region 206 between the wall of the straight pipe section 203a and wall ol the elbow pipe section 202. A first static spinner device 207. for example comprising fan blades or helical fins, is provided within the downstream end of the elbow pipe section 202. This first static spinner device 207 may be located upstream of or within the nozzle 205. A second static spinner device 209, comprising for example fan blades or helical fins, is provided within the annular region 206 between the elbow pipe section 202 and the straight pipe section 203a. This second static spinner device 209 may be mounted on the interior surface of the straight pipe section 203a and/or on the exterior surface of the elbow pipe section 202.

Figures 2 and 3 show a number of important features of the eommingler. Both commingling devices 100, 200 serve the same function hut for some operating companies the Tee shaped commingler 200 shown in figure 3 will be preferred because of the simpler or superior welding details offered by the design. lii the case of the elbow type commingler shown in figure 2 extra welding is needed where line 103 passes through the elbow 102, which some operators may not preler.

In the first commingling device 100 shown in ligure 2, a short or long radius pipe bend or elbow 102 is preferably used as the flow path for the fluids with less momentum, whilst the straight pipe section 103 is used as the flow path for the fluids with a higher momentum.

Often one of die fluid streams will have a higher pressure than the other fluid stream. The difference in pressures could vary and may range from a few millibar, for example 2 millibar (200 Pa), to several bar (several times 100 kPa). In this ease the fluids with the lower pressure may be called LP fluids, and the fluids with the higher pressure may be called HP fluids.

The LP fluids flow through the elbow 102 and are guided to pass through the annulus 106 between the dhow 102 and the straight pipe section 103 before the two fluids are combined along the same axis in front of the nozzle 105.

The nozzle 105 attached to the downstream end of straight pipe section 103 is designed such that if the pressure of the fluids passing through the pipe section 103 is higher than the pressure of the fluids from line lOla, the nozzle 105 enables the pressure of the fluids from line 103 to drop to the pressure of the inlet line lOla and the outlet line 104 when the two fluids are combined uniaxially. so that they can flow unimpeded through downstream outlet line 104.

In the case of the Tee type commingler 200 shown in figure 3. the elbow type pipe section 202 is removably fixed into the Tee section via the flange 211, which is fixed or bolted onto the niain flange 210 of the Tee section.

In both cases shown in figures 2 and 3 the commingling device 100, 200 is designed and sized so that the mixture velocities of the two fluids are close to one another when the two fluids are combined downstream of the nozzle 105. 205. The size of each pipe section or elbow is generally selected from the standard pipe sections available in the industry and is selected so that the velocity of fluid within each stream does not exceed the limit generally recommended for that pipe section, so as to avoid excessive erosion of the pipe section.

The typical pipe sections vary from 1⁄4 inch to 48 inch (0.6cm to 122cm) diameter, but the invention is not limited to these sizes, which depend on the flow rate of each fluid stream.

-1 0-The use of a small diameter pipe section for one fluid stream is applicable mainly to cases when chemicals such as wax inhibitors or glycol are introduced in small doses into the main stream and good mixing of the flow from the two streams is desired.

One prefelTed feature of the commingler is the use of a screw type fluid spinning static spinner device 107, 207 as part of the nozzle assembly 105, 205. This spinner device generates spinning and rotation of the fluids passing through the nozzle assembly.

Spinning the fluids helps the flow from the two streams to mix thoroughly when they are commingled beyond the nozzle 105, 205. This spinner device is particularly effective when the flow passing through the nozzle is a liquid phase and the fluid passing through the annulus 106, 206 is a gas. If the commingling device does not include a static spinner there may be a tendency for the liquid phase to jet through the gas phase without mixing with the gas.

Alternatively or additionally, a second fluid spinner device 109, 209 may be installed within the annulus 106. 206 between the elbow section and the main pipe section as shown in figures 2 and 3. With this second static fluid spinner device flow from the first fluid stream can be subjected to spinning action. The spinning device is of fixed type and does not rotate, but its screw like fin configuration causes the fluids to spin as they pass through the spinner. When both spinners are used, they are arranged to spin both fluids in the same direction.

Thc cfficicnt comminglcr described above is generally supplied with flanges at the inlet and outlet ends, allowing it to be connected securely with existing pipe work without the need for welding work on site.

Another type of conimingler is the insert type, which can be introduced into an existing Tee joint. Three different commingling devices of the insert type are shown in figures 4A, 4Band4C.

The coniniingling device 300 shown in figure 4A includes a conventional Tee joint 302, which comprises a straight pipe section 302a and a branch pipe section 302b that intersects the straight pipe section 302a at an angle of approximately 90°. -lI-

The commingling device 300 also includes a transler pipe 303. which is mounted within the straight pipe section 302a and extends axially from the inlet end of the straight pipe section 302a past the branch pipe section 302b and towards the downstream end of the straight pipe section 302a. The transfer pipe 303 includes a arge diameter section 303a at its upstream end and a smaller diameter section 303b at its downstream end, which is connected to a nozzle assembly 305. A flange 311 is provided at the upstream end of the transfer pipe section 303. which sits within a recess at the upstream end of the straight pipe section 302a to support the transfcr pipe 303. The flange 311 prevents fluids flowing from the second inlet line 30Th dircctly into the straight pipe section 302a. Instead, any fluids flowing through the second inlet line 301b are forced to flow through the transfer pipe 303.

A nozzle 305 is provided at the outlet end of the transfer pipe 303 to direct the fluids flowing through the transfer pipe 303 axially into the straight pipe section 302a with a streamlined flow.

The downstream end of the transfer pipe 303 is located axially within the straight pipe section 302a, providing an annular region 306 between the wall of the transfer pipe 303 and wall of the straight pipe section 302a. A lirst static spinner device 307, for example comprising fan blades or helical fins, is provided within the downstream end of the transler pipe 303. This first static spinner device 307 may be located upstream of and/or within the nozzle 305. A second static spinner device 309, comprising for example fan blades or helical fins, is provided within the annular region 306 between (he transfer pipe 303 and the straight pipe section 302a. This second static spinner device 309 may be mounted on the interior surface of the straight pipe section 302a and/or on the exterior surface of the transfer pipe 303.

In use, a first fluid stream flows into the commingling device 300 through the branch pipe section 302b and a second fluid stream flows into the transfer pipe 302 through the second inlet hne 301h. The fluid stream flowing through the second inlet line 301h passes through the transfer pipe 303 and the nozzle 305 and is introduced in a streamlined manner into the first fluid stream that flows from the branch pipe section 302b into the straight pipe section 302a. The first and second spinners 307, 309 cause the first and second fluid flows to rotate in the same direction about the axis of the straight pipe section 302a, which aids mixing of the first and second fluid streams. The mixed fluids then exit the commingling device through an outlet line connected to the downstream end of the straight pipe section 302a. Because the fluids are commingled in a streamlined manner there is very little loss of pressure or momentum and the commingling device is therefore very efficient in operati on.

The commingling device 400 shown in figure 4B includes a conventional Tee joint 402, which comprises a straight pipe section 402a and a branch pipe section 402b that intersects the straight pipe section 402a at an angle of approximately 900.

The commingling device 400 includes a transfer pipe 403, which is mounted within the branch pipe section 402b and extends into the straight pipe section 402a. At its downstream end the transfer pipe 403 has a transverse pipe section 404 that extends axially towards the downstream end of the straight pipe section 402a. A nozzle 405 is provided at the outlet end of the transverse pipe section 404 to direct the fluids flowing through the transfer pipe 403 axially into the straight pipe section 402a with a streamlined flow. An inclined plate 408 is provided at the downstream end of the transfer pipe 403 to direct the flow of fluids towards the transverse pipe section 404.

A flange 411 is provided at the upstream end of the transfer pipe 403, which sits within a recess at the upstream end of the branch pipe section 402b to support the transfer pipe 403.

The flange 411 prevents fluids from flowing directly into the branch pipe section 402b.

Instead, any fluids flowing through the first in'et Une are forced to flow through the transfer pipe 403.

The transverse pipe section 404 is located axially within the straight pipe section 402a, providing an annular region 406 between the wall of the transverse pipe section 404 and wall of the straight pipe section 402a. A static spinner device 407. for example comprising fan blades or helical fins, is provided within the downstream end of the transverse pipe section 404. This static spinner device 407 may be located upstream of and/or within the nozzle 405. A second static spinner device (not shown) may optionally be provided within the annular region 406 between the transverse pipe section 404 and the straight pipe section 402a. This second static spinner device, if provided, may he mounted on the intenor surface of the straight pipe section 402a and/or on the exterior surface of the transverse pipe section 404.

In use, a first fluid stream flows from a first inlet Bile 401 a into the transfer pipe 403 and a second fluid stream flows into the straight pipe section 402a from the second inlet line 401b. The first fluid stream passes through the transfer pipe 403 and the nozzle 405 and is introduced in a streamlined manner into the second fluid stream that flows through the straight pipe section 402a. The spinner 407 causes the second fluid flow to rotate about axis of the straight pipe section 402a, which aids mixing of the first and second fluid streams. The mixed fluids then exit the commingling device 400 through an outlet line connected to the downstream end of the straight pipe section 402a. Because the fluids are commingled in a streamhned manner there is very little loss of pressure or momentum and thc commingling dcvicc is thcrcforc vcry cfficicnt in operation.

The commingling device 500 shown in figure 4C includes a conventional Tee joint 502, which comprises a straight pipe section 502a and a branch pipe section 502b that intersects the straight pipe section 502a at an angle of approximately 90°.

The commingling device 500 includes an inlet transfer pipe 503, which is mounted within the straight pipe section 502a and extends axially from the inlet end of the straight branch pipe section past the branch pipe section 502b and towards the downstream end of the straight pipe section 502a. The downstream end of the inlet, transfer pipe 503 is connected to a noztle assembly 505. A flange 511 is provided at the upstream end of the inlet transfer pipe 503, which sits within a recess at the upstream end of the straight pipe section 502a to support the inlet transfer pipe 503. The flange 511 prevents fluids flowing from the second inlet line 501b directly into the straight pipe section 502a. Instead, any fluids liowing through the second inlet line 501b are forced to flow through the inlet transfer pipe 503. The nozzle 505 at the outlet end of the inlet transfer pipe 503 directs the fluids flowing through the inlet transfer pipe 503 axially into the straight pipe section 502a with a streamlined flow.

The commingling device 500 also includes an outlet transfer pipe 513. which is mounted within the straight pipe section 502a and extends axially from a point downstream of the nozzle 505 to the downstream end of the straight pipe section 502a. The downstream end of the outlet transfer pipe 503 includes a flange 514. which sits within a recess at the downstream end of the straight pipe section 502a to support the outlet transfer pipe 513.

The flange 511 prevents fluids flowing from the straight pipe section 502a directly into the outlet pipe 504. Instead, only fluids Ilowing through the outlet transfer pipe 513 are allowed to flow into the outlet pipe 504. The upstream end of the outlet transfer pipe 513 is flared to capture the fluids flowing through the inlet transfer pipe 503 and the branch pipe section 502h.

A static spinner device 507, for example comprising fan blades or helical fins, is provided within the outlet transfer pipe 513. This static spinner device 507 helps to mix the fluids passing through the outlet transfer pipe 513.

h each of the commingling devices shown in figures 4A, 4B and 4C each insert (the inlet and outlet transfer pipes) is designed and sized to match the operating conditions. The inserts are equipped with their own lianges, which can be bolted to the pipe work with conventional nuts and bolts (not shown). The inserts can be introduced from the three ports of the Tee joint 302, 402, 502 as dictated by the fluids in each stream. Additionally, an insert with reduced cross section area can be introduced from the discharge end of the Tee piece (as shown in figure 4C), which can also be equipped with a static spinner to enable good nuxing of the fluids.

Additionally each of the inserts shown in figures 4A, 4B and 4C can be equipped with static fluid spinners.

In cases where the size of the pipe section does not allow an elbow to be used, a straight pipe section can be used, as shown in figure 4W In this case the end of the pipe insert can he cut at an angle and blinded by welding a plate to guide the fluid flow into the transverse pipe section 404, which is welded to the transfer pipe 403 at 90 degrees to the axis thereof.

PIGGABLE COMM INGLER

There are cases where at least one of the pipelines has to be piggable: that is, it has to be possible to insert a pipeline inspection gauge (or "pig") for the purpose of inspecting or cleaning the line whenever needed. In this case if a commingler is used to combine flow from two streams, there should he no intrusive equipment or parts within the pipeline to block the passage of the pig.

To overcome this problem, the arrangement iii ligures 5. 6 or 7 can he used depending oii the flow conditions and the thoroughness of mixing desired.

Figure 5 shows a commingling device 600 that includes a Y-piecc 602, which comprises a straight pipe section 602a and a branch pipe section 602b that intersects the straight pipe section 602a at an acute angle (in this case of approximately 45°). A spinner device 603 is mounted within the branch pipe section 602b. The straight pipe section 602a has an upstream end connected to a first inlet line 604 and a downstream end connected to an outlet line 605. The branch pipe section 602b has an upstream end that is connected to a second inlet line 606.

A first fluid flows through the first inlet line 604 into the straight pipe section 602a. A second fluid enters through the branch pipe section 602h and is mixed with the first fluid within the straight pipe section 602a. The branch pipe section 602b can be equipped with a static spinner 603 to generate a spinning action of the fluids entering the commingling device 600 and achieve a good mixing of the two fluids. The straight pipe section 602 may also be equipped with guide strips 610 that extend across the entry port of the branch pipe 602b to prevent a pig passing through the straight pipe section 602a from becoming stuck in this area.

In a modified version of the commingling device, the static spinner 603 may be replaced with a bundle of nozzles 607 as shown in figure SA to generate high velocity of fluids entering straight pipe section 602a and achicvc good mixing of the two fluids.

In a further modified configuration shown in figure SB the branch pipe section 602h is welded to the straight pipe section 602a with the axis of the branch pipe section offset from the centre line of the straight pipe section 602a. such that the upper part of the branch pipe section 602b is tangential to the upper part of the straight pipe section 602a. This feature enables fluids from the branch pipe section 602b to enter tangentially into the straight pipe section 602a. thus automatically creating a rotating motion of the fluids and enabling good mixing of the flow from the two lines. In this configuration the commingler 600 may also indude a plate 608 that is welded at the oudet end of the branch pipe section 602h so that the outlet area of the branch pipe section 602b is further restricted to increase the velocity ol fluid how and increase the spinning action generated by die Iluids flowing from the branch pipe section 602b into the straight pipe section 602a.

Figures 6 and 6A show another type of piggabic comniingler 700 where a spooi piece 701 which has a larger diameter than the main pipeline 705 acts as a Tee section allowing a second fluid to enter via inlet line 704 into an annular space 706 between the wall of the spool piece 701 and the pipeline 705. A pipe section 707 housed within the spool piece 701 has the same internal diameter as the pipe line 705. The pipe section 707 has holes drilled along its length, which act as nozzles 703. These nozzles 703 can also be of angled or radial orientation as shown in section A-A (figure 6A) to create some rotational motion of the fluids passing through the nozzles and in this way help to improve mixing of the fluids.

Figure 7 shows another type of piggable commingler 800, which uses a Tee section similar to that shown in figure 4B, which is connected to a first inlet pipe 803, a second inlet pipe 806 and an outlet pipe 804. hi this case a transfer pipe 810 and a transverse pipe section 811 are movable in the axial direction of a branch pipe section 805, so that when a pigging operation is required, these pipe sections 810, 811 can be moved back into a housing 807 to clear the path of the pig passing through the straight pipe section 802. The commingler includes a housing 807, an adjusting handle 808, a screw mechanism 813 with one or more seals to seal the moving teni 809 pasong drough body 8(11 and a retrieving stem 809.

which may have a similar construction to that of a normal gate valve housing, which allows the transfer pipe 810 and the transverse pipe section 811 to be retracted into the housing 807 during a pigging operation. A nozzle 812 is provided at the downstream end of the transverse pipe portion 811.

The commingler 800 includes a spool piece 801 which has a larger diameter than the main pipeline 803 and acts as a Tee section allowing a second fluid to enter via inlet line 806. A pipe section 802 housed within the spool piece 801 has the same internal diameter as the inlet pipe line 803. The pipe section 802 has holes 815 drilled along its length. which act as nozzles. The second fluid in this case can enter via line 806 into the housing 807, and then enters the straight pipe section 802 via the retractable transfer pipe 810 and the transverse pipe section 811.

In all cases one fluid may he denser or more viscous than the other and it is icr this reason that good fluxing of the fluids is desired.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A commingling device for combining fluid flows, comprising an outer fluid line for a first fluid having an inlet end and an outlet end, an inner fluid line Icr a second fluid having an inlet end and an ouliet end, said inner fluid line having an outlet nozzle at said outlet end, said nozzle being mounted substantially axially within the outer fluid line and configured to direct said second fluid towards the outlet end of the outer fluid line, whereby said first and second fluids flowing through the inner and outer fluid lines are combined and flow together towards the outlet end of the outer fluid line.
2. A commingling device according to claim 1, wherein the outer fluid line is non-straight and the inner fluid line is substantially straight and has an outlet end that is located substantially axially within a downstream portion of the outer fluid line.
3. A commingling device according to claim 2, wherein the outer fluid line is curved.
4. A commingling device according to claim 1, wherein the inner tluid line is non-straight and the outer fluid hne includes a substantially straight pipe section. and the inner fluid line has an outlet end that is located substantially axially within a downstream portion of the substantially straight pipe section.
5. A commingling device according to claim 4. including a Tee-piece pipe section comprising a substantially straight pipe section and a branch pipe section that intersects the substantially straight pipe section.
6. A commingling device according to daim 5, wherein the inner fluid line includes an inlet end mounted within the branch pipe section and an outlet end located within the substantially straight pipe section.
7. A commingling device according to claim 6, wherein the inner fluid line is curved.
8. A commingling device according to claim 6 or claim 7. wherein the inner fluid line includes an upstream portion that extends substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the substantially straight pipe section, and a downstream portion that extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis ol the substantially straight pipe section.
9. A commingling device according to claim 1. including a Tee-piece pipe section comprising a substantially straight pipe section and a branch pipe section that intersects the substantially straight pipe section. and a removable inlet transfer pipe mounted within the Tee-piece pipe section and connected to the inlet end of either the substantially straight pipe section or the branch pipe section for guiding the flow of either the first fluid or the second fluid.
10. A commingling device according to claim 9, wherein the inlet transfer pipe is connected to the inlet end of the branch pipe section and comprises an upstream portion that extends substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the substantially straight pipe section, and a downstream portion that extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the substantially straight pipe section.
11. A commingling device according to claim 10, wherein the inlet transfer pipe is configured to he withdrawn from the substantially straight pipe section in a direction substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the substantially straight pipe section.
12. A commingling device according to claim 9. wherein the inlet transfer pipe mounted within the Tee-piece pipe section is connected to the inlet end of the substaiflially straight pipe section and extends towards the outlet end of the substantially straight pipe section.
13. A commingling device according to claim 12. including an outlet transfer pipe mounted within the Tee-piece pipe section, wherein said outlet transfer pipe is connected to the outlet end of the suhstantialy straight pipe section and extends upstream towards the downstream end of the inlet transfer pipe.
14. A commingling device according to any one of the preceding claims, including a spinner device mounted within the inner fluid line and configured to cause rotation of said second fluid flowing within the inner fluid line.
15. A commingling device according to any one of the preceding claims, including a spinner device mounted within the outer fluid line and configured to cause rotation of said first fluid flowing within the outer fluid line.
16. A commingling device for combining fluid flows, comprising a first fluid line for a first fluid having an inlet end and an outlet end, and a second fluid line for a second fluid having an inlet end and an outlet end, wherein said second fluid line intersects said first fluid line between the inlet and outlet ends thereof, and wherein said second fluid line has a longitudinal axis that extends at an acute angle to a longitudinal axis of the first fluid line, whereby said first and second fluids flowing through the first and second fluid lines are combined and flow together towards the outlet end of the first fluid line.
17. A commingling device according to claim 16, wherein the thngitudinal axis of said second fluid line extends at least partially tangentially with respect to the first fluid line, whereby said second fluids flowing into said first fluid lines are caused to rotate about a longitudinal axis of the first fluid line.
18. A commingling device for combining fluid flows, comprising a first fluid line for a first fluid having an inlet end and an outlet end, and a second fluid line for a second fluid having an inlet end and an outlet end, wherein said outlet end of said second fluid line is connected to said first fluid line through an intermediate pipe section having a plurality of apertures through which the second fluid can flow into the first fluid line.
19. A commingling device according to claim 18, wherein at least one of said apertures extends at an acute angle to a longitudinal axis of the first fluid line, whereby said first and second fluids flowing through the first and second fluid lines are combined and (low together towards the outlet end of the first fluid line.
20. A commingling device according to claim 18 or claim 19, wherein at east one of said apertures extends at least partially tangentially with respect to the first fluid line, whereby said second fluids flowing into said first fluid lines are caused to rotate about a longitudinal axis of the first fluid line.
21. A commingling device according to any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein said first fluid line is piggable and has no substantial obstructions between the inlet and outlet ends thereof.