Hydrate Research Loop

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Wet Gas/Multiphase Publications
Wet Gas Research Loop
Multiphase Research Loop

Since 2002, CEESI has performed experimental studies in a new hydrate test facility (HTF). Hydrates are an ice-like crystalline formation that can form whenever water and natural gas are in contact with each other. Given sufficient time, and the proper pressure and temperature conditions, the hydrate formation can grow to a size that will completely block a pipeline.

Snapshots of hydrate transport in piping section with gas velocity of about 2 ft/sec. The only components in the pipeline are natural gas and pure water. The gas temperature is about 10 degrees below hydration formation temperature.

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The hydrates form at temperatures that are usually above the ice-point (0°C, 32°F). At the typical pipeline operating pressure, hydrates will form at temperatures in the range of 40°F to 60°F. The natural gas producers and storage well operators are continually confronting the problems associated with the formation of hydrates.

The HTF is capable of duplicating the field conditions where the hydrate formation causes problems for the pipeline operators. Experiments at these conditions can be performed to control, remove, or prevent the formation of hydrates. At present, the natural gas industry use expensive inhibitors such as methanol to help control the hydrate problem. One of the goals of the initial hydrate test program that is now being conducted is to reduce or eliminate the amount inhibitor required for storage field operations.

The Hydrate Test Facility can perform experimental tests over a pressure range of 100 to 4300 psi in pipe sizes from 1" to 8". Gas velocities up to 50 feet/second can be obtained. However, hydrate plugs will generally form at low velocities of less than 5 feet/second or whenever the well is "shut-in".

Typically, the HTF uses lean natural gas with an energy content of 1000 to 1100 BTU/cubic-foot as the gaseous flowing media. However, since the HTF is a closed-loop system, a specific mixture of natural gas components can be made for special testing.

Since hydrate problems cover such a broad range of operational conditions, please contact CEESI with your questions, and we will be happy to provide any assistance that we can.

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