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Induced Gas Flotation (IGF)

Advanced Oil Removal System for Produced Water Treatment

The Induced Gas Flotation (IGF) unit is an efficient technology for removing free oil and suspended solids from produced water. The system operates by dispersing gas—typically natural gas or fuel gas—into the oily water stream in the form of fine bubbles. These bubbles attach to oil droplets, reducing their density and allowing them to float to the surface for removal.

This flotation process significantly enhances oil-water separation performance, making IGF systems a preferred choice in both onshore and offshore produced water treatment applications.

Process Description

The IGF unit functions as a dispersed gas and coalescent water clarifier, operating under a differential pressure induction system. Recirculation pumps pressurize the water manifold that feeds the venturi eductors, where gas is mixed with the liquid to form fine bubbles. The gas-liquid mixture is discharged into the flotation chamber, where rising bubbles lift entrained oil droplets to the surface.

The froth layer formed at the surface is continuously skimmed off using an internal hydraulic weir.
Coalescing screens further enhance separation efficiency by combining small oil droplets into larger ones, improving flotation performance.

Each IGF unit is equipped with two electric motor-driven recirculation pumps that control flow rates according to process requirements. Recovered oil is routed to oil collection systems via double diaphragm pumps, ensuring minimal fluid loss and maximum oil recovery.

Optional Coalescer Pack Equipped IGF

Diverter Plates

Separate the IGF compartments and control fluid flow, ensuring effective retention and oil removal.

Eductors

Static jet pumps that induce gas bubbles into the water stream to promote oil droplet attachment and flotation.

Coalescer Packs

Increase the contact surface area within the fluid, allowing small oil particles to merge into larger ones for improved separation.

Deflector Plates

Guide the separated oil film toward the collection bucket, preventing re-entrainment and allowing efficient skimming.

SPEC’s Designed and Manufactured IGF Units Provide

  • Customized and standard skid-mounted configurations
  • Vertical or horizontal vessel options
  • ASME-coded pressure vessels
  • Minimal or no moving parts for low maintenance
  • Optional coagulant chemical injection
  • Optional impeller or sparger design
  • Capable of achieving oil-in-water concentrations as low as 10 ppm

Why Partner with SPEC Technology

SPEC Technology delivers turnkey IGF systems engineered for reliability, safety, and operational efficiency. With extensive experience in oilfield technology and refinery project management, SPEC ensures consistent water quality, optimized performance, and compliance with global environmental standards—empowering clients to achieve cleaner operations with reduced downtime.