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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Apparatus for emulsion breaking of crude oils

Patent ·
OSTI ID:6666374
An apparatus is provided for demulsification of water in oil emulsions. The water-oil emulsion phase is controlled in the settling tank to a predetermined depth so that a desired or regulated quantity of chemicals may be used in the emulsion breaking treatment. In the apparatus a control system is used which operates automatically. In general, the apparatus consists of a settling vessel, usually of a cylindrical or spherical shape. The fluid is preferably introduced near the top of the vessel. A conduit having valve means is provided for adding the chemical demulsifying agent. This chemcial agent is preferably added prior to introducing the emulsion into the vessel to afford sufficient opportunity for it to intimately mix with the emulsion. An outlet is provided for withdrawing the oil which is substantially free of water from the vessel. Similarly, the water is drawn from the vessel through a second outlet.
Assignee:
Texaco Inc.
Patent Number(s):
US 3220930
OSTI ID:
6666374
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English