An AFE cost estimate was prepared and immediately a search was undertaken for adequately sized "used”, but  in good condition production equipment (line heater, 3 phase separator, dehydrator and oil storage tanks).  The design intent was to separate the oil (condensate) and water from the well’s production and utilize the cooling effect (JT effect).  The pressure reduction inherent in producing the "high pressure” well into the lower pressure pipeline condensed the heavier hydrocarbon components from the gas, thereby meeting the stringent pipeline delivery specifications.  Provisions were also implemented to substantially reduce VOC emissions from the facility and facilitate regulatory compliance approval.



Results:  Good quality, used production equipment was located and installed at the well site along with piping components designed to facilitate the removal of "heavy” hydrocarbons from the gas stream without the need for a costly "Low Temperature Separation Package”.  The gas delivery specification was met and the total installation was completed substantially below the AFE estimate for the facility.  Shortly after start-up the Client was met with a pleasant but challenging surprise.  The well’s production contained more than 10 times the anticipated oil (condensate) indicated on the initial well test.  The oil storage quickly became inadequate and an additional storage tank was installed.  An expedited application for modification of the Department of Environmental Quality permits necessitated by the additional storage (and a second well that had recently been completed) was included in the application.

















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