Abstract: Hydrocarbon fluid production wells and similar process flowstreams have a spiral baffle-type separator interposed in a surface flowline for separating fluids of different densities, such as gas from oil or gas from oil and from water, for example. Particulate solids may also be separated from the fluid flowstream. The separator includes a spiral baffle of single or multiple diameters interposed in an elongated cylindrical casing connected at its opposite ends to suitable fittings whereby the separator may be connected to conventional fluid flowlines on the surface just downstream of a wellhead or otherwise in a process flowstream. Multiple spiral baffle separators may be connected in series to provide multiple stages for separation of fluids of different densities. The separator is particularly compact, mechanically uncomplicated and may be easily adapted to be interposed in well production fluid flowlines or conduits for process flowstreams.

Abstract: A downhole gas-liquid separator for multiphase fluid producing wells includes a tubular member with a spiral baffle disposed therein and a duct including an inlet disposed adjacent the discharge end of the spiral baffle. Fluid flow into the separator undergoes substantial gas and liquid separation by centrifugal forces imposed on the liquid as it progresses through the spiral flowpath. Gas is drawn off at the discharge end of the spiral baffle and discharged into the wellbore annulus while liquid and a small amount of gas pass on through the separator and the production tubing to the surface. The spiral baffle may be disposed in the wellbore between the distal end of the production tubing string and the point of entry of gas and liquid into the wellbore. The separator may include a retrievable tubular body inserted in a ported nipple interposed in the tubing string.

Abstract: Oil and gas are separated downhole in a free flowing well and are transmitted separately to the surface. Liquid oil is transmitted through an elongated tubing which extends into a liquid column in the bottom of the well and is anchored in a liquid production tubing string to form an annular flow space. Gas flows from a wellbore space above the column of liquid through the annular space and through a flow passage which may be formed by a side pocket mandrel into the well annulus and then to the surface. The liquid conducting tubing is secured in the tubing string and a seal point is formed by a packer above the gas flow passage formed by the side pocket mandrel. Alternative arrangements provide for a subsurface gas flow safety valve interposed in the gas flow path. The safety valve may be interposed in a cross-over body which permits flow of liquid and gas therethrough and past a seal formed between the body and the tubing string.