Measure low flow rates and calibrate separator oil line meters

The atmospheric (nonpressurized) gauge tank is used to measure low flow rates or to calibrate testing system metering devices on the separator oil lines. When the flow rate is too low to efficiently drive oil to the burners, the tanks can be used for temporarily storing the oil.

Single- or dual-compartment versatility

The skid-mounted atmospheric gauge tanks have one or two compartments; in the latter case, as a transfer pump empties one compartment, the other is being filled. The built-in sight-glass level is used to calculate the change in volume based on the physical dimensions of the tank.

Safety features include flame arrestors on each vent from the tank, a grounding strap to prevent static charge buildup, and a shearing roof that opens at 0.5-psi burst pressure in the event that the vessel is accidentally overpressured.

Although the atmospheric gauge tank is frequently standard equipment for well testing, it cannot be used when H2S is present in the effluent because the gas released from the tank is vented to the atmosphere, which would pose a hazard to personnel.