Skid Mounted Testers: Reliable Solutions for Harsh Conditions

In the demanding world of oilfield operations, efficiency and reliability are not optional. Equipment must perform consistently under extreme environmental and operational stress. Skid mounted testers have become an essential tool for ensuring production efficiency, quality control, and safety in oil and gas operations. At Smith Industries, our high-quality skid mounted testers are built with safe and easy operation in mind, combining robust construction with long-term, low-maintenance capabilities to withstand the harshest oilfield conditions.

This article explores what skid mounted testers are, how they work, their benefits, and why Smith Industries’ solutions set the standard in the field. We will also highlight compliance and safety considerations backed by authoritative industry standards.

What Are Skid Mounted Testers?

A skid mounted tester is a self-contained, transportable unit that measures and separates fluids such as oil, gas, and water during production testing. The “skid” refers to the structural frame on which the equipment is mounted, allowing for mobility, stability, and protection during transport and operation.

These testers are commonly used during well testing, production monitoring, and equipment calibration phases. They are critical in determining the productivity of a well, identifying the water cut in production fluids, and monitoring the flow rates of oil and gas.

Smith Industries’ Skid Mounted Tester Features

Smith Industries’ skid mounted testers are engineered for maximum durability and reliability. Our design approach focuses on safe, simple operation and long service life, even under challenging field conditions.

Key features include:

• Robust Construction: Our testers are built using heavy-duty materials designed to resist damage from harsh oilfield environments.

• NACE-Compliant Materials: All units meet the corrosion-resistance standards set by the National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE), ensuring long-term performance when handling corrosive fluids.

• Custom Coating Options: We offer a range of interior and exterior coating options to accommodate various process materials and environmental conditions.

• ASME Code Compliance: Every skid mounted tester we manufacture complies with the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Code requirements, which ensures structural integrity and safety.

• Rigorous Testing Procedures: Before delivery, each unit is pressure tested and subjected to a strict set of inspection protocols to guarantee 100% reliability on site.

• Flexible Size Range: Our typical skid mounted tester sizes range from 6' x 15' to 10' x 40', allowing us to meet different operational requirements.

How Skid Mounted Testers Work

The primary function of a skid mounted tester is to separate and measure multiphase fluids produced from oil and gas wells. The unit typically includes a test separator, flow meters, control valves, and other instrumentation to measure fluid volumes and flow rates accurately.

Basic process:

1. Fluid Inlet: Production fluids from the well enter the tester.

2. Separation: The test separator divides the incoming fluid into oil, gas, and water streams based on density differences.

3. Measurement: Flow meters and gauges record the volume and rate of each separated phase.

4. Data Collection: Operators use this data to assess well performance, detect production problems, and optimize production strategies.

   
   

Benefits of Skid Mounted Testers

Investing in a high-quality skid mounted tester offers multiple advantages:

1. Mobility and Flexibility

   Skid mounted testers can be easily transported to different well sites, making them ideal for both temporary testing and permanent installations.

2. Reduced Downtime

   Since these units are self-contained and ready for immediate deployment, they can be set up quickly, minimizing operational interruptions.

3. Long-Term Cost Savings

   The robust construction and corrosion-resistant materials reduce the frequency and cost of repairs, lowering the total cost of ownership.

4. Accurate Performance Monitoring

   Operators can make informed decisions about well operations based on precise, real-time measurements.

5. Compliance with Industry Standards

   With ASME and NACE compliance, these units meet rigorous safety and operational standards, protecting both workers and equipment.

   
   

Industry Standards and Compliance

Industry compliance is critical for skid mounted testers. Smith Industries follows stringent guidelines to ensure our equipment meets or exceeds established standards.

• ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code (BPVC): This code outlines the requirements for the design, fabrication, inspection, and testing of pressure vessels, ensuring safety and reliability in high-pressure environments.

• NACE Standards: The National Association of Corrosion Engineers sets material and coating standards for equipment used in corrosive environments, helping extend service life and prevent equipment failure.

Compliance with these standards is not just about meeting regulations; it is about safeguarding operational integrity and worker safety.

Applications in Oilfield Operations

Skid mounted testers are versatile tools used in several phases of oil and gas production:

1. Well Testing

   During the initial stages of a well's life, skid mounted testers help determine the flow potential and productivity.

2. Production Optimization

   Regular testing can highlight inefficiencies, allowing operators to adjust choke settings or perform maintenance.

3. Reservoir Management

   By monitoring water cut and gas-to-oil ratio over time, engineers can better manage reservoir performance.

4. Regulatory Compliance

   Many jurisdictions require regular production testing to maintain permits and meet environmental standards.

   
   

Customization Options at Smith Industries

Every oilfield operation is unique, so our skid mounted testers can be tailored to meet specific requirements:

• Size and Capacity: We offer units in sizes from 6' x 15' to 10' x 40'.

• Material Selection: NACE-compliant materials can be matched to the expected fluid composition.

• Coating Systems: Interior and exterior coatings are chosen based on process materials and environmental exposure.

• Instrumentation: We can equip units with a variety of flow meters, control valves, and automated data acquisition systems.

Maintenance and Longevity

A well-built skid mounted tester from Smith Industries is designed for years of trouble-free service. However, proper maintenance is essential for maximizing equipment lifespan:

• Regular Inspection: Checking for corrosion, wear, and mechanical issues can prevent costly breakdowns.

• Calibration of Meters: Flow meters and gauges should be periodically calibrated to maintain measurement accuracy.

• Coating Integrity: Coatings should be inspected and repaired as needed to maintain corrosion resistance.

By following a proactive maintenance plan, operators can keep their skid mounted testers performing at peak efficiency for decades.

Why Choose Smith Industries for Skid Mounted Testers

Smith Industries has built a reputation for delivering equipment that performs in the most challenging environments. Our skid mounted testers are engineered with the operator in mind, balancing performance, safety, and ease of use.

Our advantages include:

• Decades of industry experience

• Proven track record in oilfield equipment manufacturing

• Commitment to ASME and NACE compliance

• Custom engineering to meet unique operational needs

• Rigorous quality control and testing processes

Conclusion

In oilfield operations, reliable testing equipment is the foundation of informed decision-making and operational efficiency. Skid mounted testers from Smith Industries combine rugged construction, precision engineering, and industry-standard compliance to deliver unmatched reliability in the field.

Whether you need a compact unit for small-scale operations or a large-capacity tester for high-output wells, Smith Industries offers solutions that are built to last. Our commitment to quality, safety, and customization makes us the trusted choice for skid mounted testers across the oil and gas industry.

Contact Smith Industries today to learn more about our skid mounted tester solutions and how they can enhance your operational performance.