The dissolution of scales in oilfield systems
The phenomenon of scale formation has been experienced by generations of different races whenever water has been used. It was formed in Roman aqueducts and canals and is also found in the present day in the most modern oil production operations. The most commonly found scales in this industry are the carbonate and sulphate salts of calcium, barium and strontium which can be encountered from the reservoir rock itself all the way through the complete process train to the oil exporting system. It can therefore be appreciated that considerable decreases in efficiency of equipment and reservoir production can result from this. The need to maintain high rates of oil production makes this a serious problem and remedial action is desirable. This can be in the form of inhibition to prevent scale formation, or, where scale is already present, removal is required. This paper outlines the mechanisms of scaling and the principles of scale dissolution using sequestrants. Details of treatment techniques, especially in downhole situations, are also presented.
- OSTI ID:
- 5352279
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-850941-
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: European offshore conference, Aberdeen, UK, 10 Sep 1985
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Related Subjects
OIL WELLS
DESCALING
BARIUM
CALCIUM CARBONATES
CALCIUM SULFATES
CORROSION PRODUCTS
DISSOLUTION
EFFICIENCY
INHIBITION
OIL FIELDS
PRODUCTION
RESERVOIR ROCK
SCALING
STRONTIUM
ALKALINE EARTH METAL COMPOUNDS
ALKALINE EARTH METALS
CALCIUM COMPOUNDS
CARBON COMPOUNDS
CARBONATES
ELEMENTS
GEOLOGIC DEPOSITS
METALS
MINERAL RESOURCES
OXYGEN COMPOUNDS
PETROLEUM DEPOSITS
RESOURCES
SULFATES
SULFUR COMPOUNDS
SURFACE FINISHING
WELLS
020300* - Petroleum- Drilling & Production