One of the critical processes in midstream oil and gas processing involves the separation of fluids from gases. For example, a heavy crude stream flowing from a well will contain water molecules that must be removed before the crude can be transported via pipeline to a refinery for processing.

When the crude consists of an emulsion that requires heat to be broken down, the most common piece of equipment used downstream of the well is known as a heater treater. Heater treaters basically consist of a low pressure three-phase separator with fire tubes.

As the heater treater applies heat to an incoming emulsion, it first vents gas from the emulsion before subsequently separating the emulsion into water and oil phases. Heater treaters can also serve as a heat exchanger, filter, water wash tank, and free water knockout.

Heater treaters come in both horizontal and vertical designs. Offering more flexibility in sizing, horizontal heater treaters can be used to treat heavier crudes because of their comparably larger oil-treating section, which allows longer retention periods for separation.

DAC Worldwide's 3-Phase Heater Treater Model (295-120) is a highly detailed scale model of a horizontal three-phase heater treater designed for training in the technology for the separation of water and gas from crude emulsions in oilfield processing.

The model includes all primary components and reflects common designs by well-known US manufacturers. The complete process can be easily visualized through color coding and indication of liquid levels. The product supports operations and maintenance training programs relating to the oil and gas industry.

The model features exact, "to-scale" construction throughout. The model supports indication of liquid levels using translucent graphic technique. Indication of primary process instrumentation is accomplished using symbolic component labels, descriptive tags, and physical model components. In addition, indication of basic processes is accomplished using flow arrows, and primary process connection identification labels.

The model boasts a durable PVC and acrylic baseplate assembly. It also features painting, where necessary, using a high-durability coating.