Apex

Debris Catcher

Apex , Well Testing has developed its own set of fabrication specifications to ensure that equipment used by Apex Petroleum Services, Well Testing meets or exceeds all local requirements. Apex Petroleum Services, Well Testing specifications are primarily based on the following worldwide recognised specifications:

Equipment Design and Fabrication Specifications

  • API Spec 6A – Specification for Valves and Wellhead Equipment
  • ASME VIII For construction of pressure vessels , Div 1&2
  • API RP 14C – Recommended Practice for Analysis, Design, Installation, and Testing of Basic Surface Safety Systems on Offshore Production Platforms
  • NACE MR-01-75
  • Product Specification Level (PSL) 3
  • Material Class DD
  • Temperature Class P&X (-20° F to +350° F)
Talk to an expert

Debris Catcher

APEX’s debris catcher manifold is engineered to effectively remove drilling solids, formation particles, and proppant-based debris from wellbore fluids during well testing operations. Designed with operational efficiency and equipment protection in mind, the system safeguards downstream pressure control and measurement equipment from potential damage caused by debris-laden flow.

The manifold features two horizontal filter vessels—one on each side—equipped with independent upstream and downstream manual gate valves. This dual-path configuration allows for uninterrupted well testing flow while enabling the removal, cleaning, or replacement of filter screens without shutting down the operation.

Filter screens are available in a wide range of configurations, from junk-catcher types with customized slot or hole sizes to fine wire-wrapped sand filters with micron ratings of 200, 400, 800, and 1,200. Each screen includes a removable NPT plug at the closed end to support mechanical cleaning or flushing of stubborn debris.

APEX’s debris catcher manifold delivers a robust, flexible, and reliable solution for maintaining the integrity of well testing equipment and optimizing flow assurance.

Applications:

  • Onshore and offshore well testing
  • Clean-up and flow back operation

Key Features:

  • Dual-Flow Paths: Ensures continuous flow during maintenance or screen changeout without downtime during well clean-up.
  • Inside-to-Outside Filtration: Optimized for effective debris capture and easy removal.
  • No requirement for choking upstream flow.
  • Integrated Flushing & Drain Ports: Facilitates efficient cleaning and maintenance.
  • Pressure & Bleed-Off Ports: Enables real-time monitoring and safe depressurization.

Technical Specifications

SpecificationModel 1Model 2
Maximum Working Pressure10,000 psi (690 bar)15,000 psi (1,034 bar)
Working Temperature-20 to 250 °F (-29 to 121 °C)-20 to 350 °F (-29 to 177 °C)
Nominal ID3 inches (76.2 mm)3 inches (76.2 mm)
Maximum Gas Rate35 MMscfd (991,090 m³/day)50 MMscfd (1,415,842 m³/day)
Maximum Liquid Rate5,000 bpd (795 m³/day)5,000 bpd (795 m³/day)
Weight (Dry)12,125 lbs (5,500 kg)16,535 lbs (7,500 kg)
External Dimensions (L x W x H)9.81 x 8 x 3.25 ft (2.99 x 2.44 x 0.99 m)9.81 x 8.69 x 3.61 ft (2.99 x 2.65 x 1.10 m)
Inlet/Outlet Connections3” 1502 female/male3 1/16” 15K flange or D27 hub
Drain/Flush Connections1-13/16” API flange / 1” AEMP female with pressure test blinds1-13/16” API flange / 1” AEMP female with pressure test blinds

Note:

  • Designed and fabricated to API 6A – PSL3, ASME VIII Div2, NACE MR01.75, DNV 2.7-3.
  • Filter screens are available in SS 316L material with nominal sizing of 110mm diameter x 1675mm overall length, screen ranges of 400, 800 & 1200 microns, with options of holed or slotted screens available on request.

Other sizes and configurations are available to meet most applications. For more information, contact your local Apex Petroleum Services representative.