Processing Facility Crude Stabilizer NGL

Problem

NGL product has high levels of Black Powder contamination coming out of the stabilizer column. The contamination was causing damage to the pumps, meters, and valves downstream; off-spec product was getting rejected by third party pipelines.

Solution

A Magnetic Separator system was installed in the discharge of the NGL going to the pipeline pumps.

Results

Analysis of the contamination determined a composition of 83% iron oxide, 9% carbon, 7% dust, as well as dirt, fibers, a grass seed, and trace amounts of chrome, manganese and titanium.