The invention provides a reliable method for restarting the flow of waxy crude oil in production pipelines after prolonged shutdowns in cold ambient conditions. By segmenting the gelled oil into smaller sections and using compressible gas to facilitate sequential degradation, the invention reduces the need for high-pressure pumping, ensuring a cost-effective and efficient restart of the oil flow.
Figure 1. Schematic representation of a pipeline transporting waxy crude oil, with a gel plug impeding flow of oil
Restarting the flow of waxy crude oil in pipelines after shutdowns in cold conditions is challenging due to the formation of gel-like structures that impede flow and require high pressure that often exceeds existing pumping and pipeline capacities.
- This solution reduces the need for high-pressure pumping, making the process more efficient and cost-effective.
- It uses compressible gases, such as nitrogen, to facilitate high-pressure gradients across each gel segment, consistent pressure propagation, and effective gel degradation.
- The sequential degradation of gel segments reduces viscous resistance and restarts flow at lower applied pressures.
- It can be implemented without significant modifications to existing pipeline infrastructure.
Prototype is under development.
A prototype is currently being developed to test the segmented gel degradation process and pressure management using compressible gases in controlled pipeline environments.
3
The invention promises a more reliable and cost-effective method for restarting oil flow in pipelines, potentially lowering production costs and enhancing the efficiency of oil extraction and transportation.
- Oil and gas industry, particularly in areas with cold ambient conditions
- Unconventional oil reservoirs where heavy oils present complex flow characteristics
- Any pipeline transport system experiencing similar gelation issues with transported fluids
202021017317
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