MNS Test Rig

MNS Test Rig

IPL’s Mackay/Nadeau/Steelman (MNS) Test Rig

IPL brought online a MNS test rig to increase their capability to be able to test how the physical and chemical properties of crude oil change in the event of an oil spill.

The MNS test rig was first designed for the use of laboratory scale dispersant testing, where certain volumes of oil and oil spill dispersant are added to the surface of the water and measurements taken at certain time periods. The apparatus allowed the experimenter to control conditions in the apparatus to accurately reflect conditions present in the open ocean. This includes wind speed, wind temperature, water temperature, and wave action. 
IPL adapted this equipment to perform laboratory scale weathering of crude oil.

Oil is added to the MNS Test Rig (controlled water temperature and wave action) and air is passed over the oil (at a controlled temperature and speed). The air and the wave action stimulate mixing and cause the crude to weather much like it would in the event of an ocean oil spill.  Samples are then drawn at set time frames and the physical and chemical properties of the oil tested on these samples are compared back to the un-weathered crude oil.

Weathering of oils, chemicals and similar products and the testing of weathered products physical and chemical properties can be fully catered to your requirements.

In New Zealand, weathering and dispersant testing is required as part of the Discharge Management Plan for all offshore oil exploration. 

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