Definition: Remove adsorbed oil layer from produced solids using mechanical scrubbing in a compact system primarily for offshore use.

• Minimal footprint and weight (cyclonic technology)
• No or minimal chemical use (solvents or surfactants)
• Minimal energy use (e.g. heat addition)

Uses combination of mechanical forces:

• Shear: liquid-particle interaction
• Abrasion: particle-wall interaction
• Attrition: particle-particle interaction

Oil attachment to sand particle

• Oil can attach to sand particle in many different ways as illustrated in graphic above

References:

1. Rawlins, C.H. and Wang, I. 2001. “Design and Installation of a Sand-Separation and -Handling System for a Gulf of Mexico Oil Production Facility”. SPE Production and Facilities, August, pp. 134-140. https://doi.org/10.2118/72999-PA
2. Rawlins, C.H. 2019. “Enhanced Production Through Surface Facilities Sand Management.” SPE Distinguished Lecturer presentation. Link here

Next week I will cover oil-on-sand calculations.