Patent ID: 6066193
Filing Date: 2000-05-23
Classification: E21B

Abstract:
A separation system for use with a submersible pumping system comprising:a first and second gas separator coupled in series, each separator configured to be positioned within a production casing, including the first separator being adapted to receive and process a first flow rate of production fluid from the production casing, the first separator having an intake section which is configured to receive a first flow of production fluid at a first flow rate from an annulus between the separators and the production casing; an inducer section which includes an inducer, a diffuser, and a centrifuge, the inducer and the centrifuge being rotatably coupled to a power transmission shaft, the inducer and the centrifuge also being adapted to separate a first portion of gas from the first flow of production fluid; and a production section which includes a flow divider which directs the first flow of production fluid minus the first portion of separated gas into the second separator and directs the first portion of separated gas into the annulus; andthe second separator coupled to the first separator, the second separator having a reduced capacity to receive and process a smaller flow rate of production fluid relative to the first separator, the second separator having an intake section for receiving the first flow of production fluid minus the first portion of separated gas from the first separator; an inducer section including, an inducer, a diffuser, and a centrifuge, the inducer and the centrifuge being rotatably coupled to a power transmission shaft, the inducer and the centrifuge also being adapted to separate a second potion of gas from the first flow of production fluid minus the first portion of separated gas; and a production section which includes a flow divider which directs the first flow of production fluid minus the first portion of separated gas and minus the second portion of gas towards a pump and directs the second portion of separated gas into the annulus.