Heated Separators

An induced temperature difference reduces the surface tension and viscosity of oil, thus allowing the release of hydraulically retained gas.

The most effective method of heating crude oil is to pass it through a heated water bath. Using a spreader plate to disperse the oil into small streams or rivulets increases the effectiveness of the heated water bath.

Slight agitation of the oil in the water bath also helps separate gas from the oil and is the most effective method of removing foam bubbles from foaming crude oil.

While impractical in most oil and gas separators, adding heat to the oil via direct or indirect methods can obtain a heated water bath.