How to configure membrane separation for oil and gas recovery at the loading platform of the oil depot? A solution for high-flow scenarios
Release time: 2026-10-07
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The loading platform of the oil depot is a major flow contributor to oil and gas recovery: when the oil loading cranes operate intensively, the instantaneous volume of oil and gas is large, the concentration is high, and the fluctuations are severe. This is completely different from the continuous low-flow emissions from tank breathing. The core of membrane separation configuration in the loading scenario lies in stabilizing the high flow rate and collecting the high concentration in stages. The equipment capacity is configured based on peak values, and the operation is adjusted according to average values. If the configuration idea is incorrect, either the investment will double or emissions will exceed standards during peak hours. This article clarifies the key points of scheme configuration in order based on the actual operation process of the loading platform.
What are the characteristics of oil and gas during loading
The loading operation adopts submerged loading, resulting in a displaced oil vapor concentration close to saturation. The gas volume is directly related to the number of loading arms and the oil dispensing speed: when multiple loading arms are operating simultaneously, the instantaneous gas volume increases exponentially, while it drops back to a low level when operating with a single loading arm. The components are mainly gasoline vapor, with heavy hydrocarbons above C5 accounting for the majority. This pulsed high-flow and high-concentration operating condition requires a buffering capacity and load adjustment capability for the device that is an order of magnitude higher than that required for tank breathing scenarios. The design of the scheme must first obtain actual measurement data on the number of loading arms and the oil dispensing rhythm.
How to configure the process
The typical configuration consists of five sections: the collection and manifold section, where branch pipes from each crane position are collected into a main pipe, and each crane position is equipped with solenoid valves and shut-off valves to ensure operational safety; the buffer section, where large-capacity buffer tanks are used to smooth peaks and fill valleys, transforming pulsed gas volume into steady feeding; the pressurization section, where equipment is selected based on peak gas volume with allowance; the condensation section, where high-temperature and high-concentration components are first collected, and heavy hydrocarbons are liquefied and returned to the tank; the membrane section, where uncondensed low-boiling-point components are enriched and returned to the compressor inlet for recycling treatment. The clean air retained after passing through the membrane meets emission standards. Each section performs its own function, and the balance point between investment and operation lies in the ratio of buffering to classification.
How to adjust the load
The device for high-flow scenarios must be able to keep pace with the operational rhythm: the variable frequency compressor automatically adjusts its speed according to the air volume, the condensation temperature level switches in stages according to the load, and the pressure difference of the membrane unit adapts automatically with the feedstock. During peak oil delivery, it operates at full capacity, and automatically transitions to standby during intermittent periods to avoid power consumption under no-load conditions. The control system is integrated with the oil delivery platform, and the crane position start signal triggers the device to speed up, ensuring that the device arrives when the vehicle arrives and stops when the vehicle leaves. The power consumption curve aligns with the operational curve, thereby keeping the operating costs under control.
There is an implicit benefit in the loading scenario that should not be overlooked: the collection pipeline can capture the unorganized emissions around the crane position, simultaneously improving the safety and occupational health environment of the platform. Although this part does not enter the recycling quantity statement, it is reflected in inspection ratings and insurance premiums. Presenting this information during the plan report will provide a more comprehensive perspective for investment decisions.
Overview of configuration essentials
| rank | task | Configuration considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Collection and management | Summary of crane position branch pipes | Single crane valve group ensures safety |
| Buffer section | peak shaving and valley filling | Large-capacity buffer tank |
| Pressure boosting section | Select type based on peak value | Variable frequency speed regulation with margin |
| Condensation section | Collect heavy hydrocarbons | Temperature level is categorized based on load |
| Membrane segment | Low concentration control | Enriched gas return inlet circulation |
| control system | Linked oil delivery signal | The car has arrived, and so has the device |
Safety and operation management
- Regular inspection of the sealing performance of the crane position collection pipeline, and monthly inspection of the function of the breakaway coupling;
- Conduct daily inspections on the liquid level and condensate drainage of the buffer tank;
- The compressor temperature and pressure interlock has been activated, and the alarm action is recorded;
- The defrosting cycle of the condensing unit is adjusted seasonally;
- The trend of membrane-front pressure difference is reviewed weekly, and abnormalities are first checked for pre-treatment;
- The discharge outlets are inspected in batches, and the data is archived along with the operation ledger.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to coordinate multiple cranes operating simultaneously?
The capacity of the device is configured based on the peak gas volume at full operation of each crane position, with the buffer tank smoothing out the instantaneous peak value. The design input for the oil delivery ledger is based on the operational rhythm over three consecutive months, which is much more reliable than estimates.
Can the old trestle be renovated?
Okay. A membrane check section is added after the original condensation or absorption device, and the collection and buffering parts are retained after calculating the surplus. The investment for the modification is much less than the overall replacement, and the downtime is also short.
How much land does it cover?
After modularization, the land occupation is reduced by about half compared to traditional solutions. As long as there is open space for loading bays near the platform, the layout can be arranged. During the survey, the pipeline routing and power supply locations should be determined together, and the layout plan can be produced in one go.
This article is compiled by Luoyang Wohong Petrochemical Equipment Co., Ltd., which provides design, manufacturing, and operation and maintenance services for condensation recovery, membrane separation recovery, and complete solvent recovery equipment to chemical and pharmaceutical enterprises. If you need process evaluation or scheme configuration, please feel free to contact us for discussion.
