The Dean-Stark apparatus is a specialized tool used for analyzing fluid saturation in core samples, employing a distillation and extraction process. This method effectively separates water from the sample and extracts oil using solvents such as toluene, which mixes with oil but does not mix with water. The process involves heating the system, evaporating the water and solvent, and collecting the water in a graduated receiver. Once the solvent’s initial color is stabilized, the sample is dried, and its weight is measured to calculate the precise volume of oil and water produced using mass balance equations.

This device plays a crucial role in chemical and oil industries, especially for completing equilibrium reactions by removing the accompanying water. The process occurs under reflux conditions, with a solvent that forms an azeotrope with water. This allows the separation of water from the condensed azeotrope and prevents it from returning to the reaction mixture.

Technical Specifications

1. Core Sample Diameter: Up to 4 inches.
2. Core Sample Length: Customizable based on request.
3. Extraction Capacity: Up to 5000 cc.
4. Boiling Flask Volume: Up to 5000 cc.
5. Collection Chamber Volume: Customizable based on request.
6. Heating Temperature: Up to 450°C.
7. Cooling System: Water flow rate of 0.5 to 3 liters per minute at 18°C.
8. Power Supply: 220V AC, 50Hz.

Benefits

1. High Flexibility: Suitable for cores with varying diameters and lengths according to needs.
2. Large Extraction Capacity: Ensures precise and fast fluid extraction with a capacity of up to 5000 cc.
3. Advanced Heating: Adjustable heating temperature up to 450°C, suitable for all laboratory conditions.
4. Optimized Cooling System: Guarantees stable and continuous operation with a water flow rate of 0.5 to 3 liters per minute at 18°C.
5. High-Quality Construction: Built from durable materials to ensure long-lasting accuracy and reliability.
6. Customization: The collection chamber and core sample length can be customized based on customer requirements.
7. Efficient and Fast Performance: Reduces experiment time while maintaining high precision in fluid extraction.

Operation and Experimental Steps with the Dien Stark Apparatus

1. Weighing the Core Sample:

   First, weigh the fluid-saturated core sample and record its weight. Place the sample in the apparatus’s glass chamber.

2. Connecting the Glass Chamber:

   Connect the glass chamber to a flask containing a solvent (e.g., toluene), which is heated by an external heating source.

3. Connecting to the Liquid Separation System:

   Attach the system to the liquid separation setup at the top of the apparatus.

4. Heating the System:

   Turn on the heating mantle and adjust the temperature to begin boiling the solvent.

5. Solvent Vapor Movement:

   The solvent vapor moves upward and condenses in the condenser.

6. Recycling the Solvent:

   The condensed solvent returns to the sample, causing the oil to be extracted.

7. Water Evaporation:

   The water inside the sample evaporates, condenses in the condenser, and is collected in a graduated tube.

8. Continuation of Distillation:

   Continue the distillation process until the solvent returns to its original color, and no impurities are seen. Then, remove the extracted sample from the apparatus.

9. Drying and Reweighing the Sample:

   Place the sample in an oven to dry completely. Once dried, weigh it again.

10. Calculating the Extracted Oil Volume:

    Use the recorded weights (saturated core, dried core, and produced water) in mass balance equations to calculate the volume of extracted oil.

Components of the Dien Stark Apparatus

• Distillation Flask
• Sample Holding Chamber
• Graduated Water Collection Tube
• Condenser
• Drying Tube with Moisture Absorbing Material
• Heating Mantle with Temperature Controller
• Component Storage Rack

Petro Pazhohesh Ahoura Company, with extensive experience and technical expertise, is well known for manufacturing laboratory equipment. With a high capacity, the company produces a variety of laboratory and industrial equipment for the oil and gas sector, meeting the diverse needs of industry and research. For consultations or equipment orders, feel free to contact us to benefit from our team's services and expertise.