Mitigation of environmental damage aftereffects when operating an intra-field transportation system
This article presents one of the new resource-saving methods for ensuring safe and long-term operation of an intra-field pipeline, equipped by various pumps, separators, tanks, etc., in conditions characterized by intensive clogging of the system of the on-land equipment by mechanical impurities. Prolongation of the service life of the field equipment is achieved by preventing premature wear-out of the internal surface of the above-mentioned units by means of the most complete removal of the sand suspended particles and mechanical impurities contained in the well products. A new device is proposed to deposit and screen the sand and mechanical impurities coming with the production flow. The developed device is designed to prevent sand deposition and mechanical impurities, both in the intra-field pipelines and in the tanks of oil gathering and treatment stations. The article also presents the results of the field testing of the developed and manufactured sand settling device. The results of the conducted testing show that the installation of the sand settling device provides protection and prolongs the service life of the pipeline, helps to prevent environmental problems, accompanying the breakthroughs of the intra-field facilities and oil losses arising due to its spillage into the environment.