Purpose and Applications

Test dehydrators provide short-term gas treatment before permanent facilities are installed. Essential for well testing operations to measure flow rates and reservoir characteristics, pipeline pre-commissioning to dry systems before product introduction, temporary gas processing during facility maintenance or turnarounds, and emergency backup when primary dehydration units require service. Used across upstream oil and gas, midstream pipeline operations, and gas gathering facilities.

Technology and Performance

ERGIL test dehydrators utilize glycol absorption technology with triethylene glycol (TEG) or diethylene glycol (DEG) as desiccant. The process flows natural gas through a contactor column where it contacts lean glycol, transferring water vapor to the liquid phase. Rich glycol circulates to a regeneration unit where heat drives off absorbed water, reconcentrating the glycol for reuse. Systems achieve outlet gas dew points to -40°C or lower, meeting pipeline specifications for water content typically below 7 lbs/MMSCF.

Modular Design

Complete skid-mounted systems include contactor tower, glycol circulation pumps, reboiler/regenerator, heat exchangers, instrumentation, and control panel. Transportable packages designed for rapid deployment with minimal field installation. Lifting points and structural supports facilitate truck or container transport. Weather-protected enclosures available for harsh environments.

Engineering Capabilities

ERGIL engineers each test dehydrator based on gas flow rate, inlet pressure and temperature, water content, and required dew point depression. Process simulation optimizes tower sizing, glycol circulation rates, and reboiler duty. Equipment designed per ASME, API, and international codes with certified materials for sour gas service when required. Full factory testing validates performance before shipment.

Operational Advantages

Automated operation with PLC control minimizes operator intervention. Remote monitoring capabilities provide real-time performance data. Quick startup and shutdown procedures enable flexible deployment schedules. Low glycol consumption and minimal maintenance requirements reduce operating costs. Systems can be relocated and redeployed across multiple projects, maximizing asset utilization.

Technical Specifications

Gas flow capacity from 1 to 50 MMSCFD, operating pressures 100-1500 psig, inlet temperatures -10°C to 60°C. Stainless steel or carbon steel construction. Explosion-proof electrical systems for hazardous area classifications. Compact footprints optimize transportation and site placement.

ERGIL has supplied test dehydration units for drilling operations, pipeline projects, and temporary gas processing across demanding environments worldwide. Our portable solutions deliver reliable performance when and where you need it.