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Successful Oil and Gas Flow Assurance Begins With Planning

By Robert Callais

At some point in every oil and gas operation, operators encounter obstacles. One all too common issue in production is the flow rate caused by build-up. The presence of compounds in the oil itself creates flow problems and collects in pipelines, flow lines and production tubulars, causing problems and inefficiencies in production. 

Ideal Energy Solutions custom formulates a suite of products targeted to solve and prevent various issues with build-up in production systems from the reservoir to the refinery. Because every job is unique, Ideal takes a detailed, hands-on approach to solving your flow assurance problems. 

A first-hand assessment of the problem

At Ideal, we like to get eyes on the wellsite or pipeline to get a complete picture of the operation. We start by gathering basic information from the operator about the pipeline or well, such as location, length or depth, flowline or tubular size and type, total volume, and more from our online questionnaire. We also need information about H2S and high-pressure issues from production for assessment purposes.

Once there is a basic understanding of the current problems, we visit the jobsite to survey the well or pipeline’s physical layout and mechanics.  We need to know what kind of equipment operators are using and understand the layout of their process. Inspecting flowlines and the types and sizes of connections or flanges ensure we have the proper equipment to make our connection when needed. 

We gather logistical information about placing our equipment, especially on offshore jobs with limited deck space. We verify crane ratings to be certain they can lift our equipment to make accommodations for bringing in a different crane. It is also important to confirm living quarters can accommodate our staff of men and women.

Learn the history of the well or pipeline

Once we see the physical layout of the operation, we gather information about the history of the well and any other issues it may be having. If the problem is persistent, we need to know what methods they used to remediate the pipeline or flowline before calling in Ideal. We need to be aware of any hazardous products or solutions previously used by producers to bring it back to service. 

Finally, we collect samples of crude to verify details and understand the root of the issues the solids in the crude may be causing. We need several good samples of the crude to run complete testing. To run thorough testing, we need at least 600 ml of oil.  

Lab testing of the troubled oil

Once we gather or receive a sufficient sample of the crude, our chemists begin analyzing it in the lab. We add our products and adjust amounts based on the problems production has to confirm that the crude is compatible with Ideal’s products. We are patient and measured during this step because we don’t want to create more problems for the producers, like causing a bad reaction or an emulsion. 

Prior addition of chemicals may result in further problems, which is why we ask about previous attempts to remediate the problem. When we know about other added chemicals prior to testing, we gather data sheets for these products to confirm we are compatible with these products. Once we ensure compatibility, our chemists test to determine which product best solves the flow issue. 

Our flow assurance products

Ideal has a variety of flow assurance products, each created to remediate specific issues. All of our products are Green Seal® certified, environmentally responsible and non-hazardous. 

  • WellRenew® Our wellbore remediation solution removes paraffin wax and asphaltene blockages in downhole tubulars and stimulates formations to eliminate skin damage and enhance production. 
  • PipeRenew® Our remediation solution that removes paraffin wax and asphaltene blockages in any flowline or pipeline. Temperature-independent and custom blended to penetrate plugs over any length of pipe.
  • PigRenew™ Our non-stickable pigging solution for remediating paraffin wax and asphaltene blockages in pipelines. Solid, unitized material cleans like a pig, dissolves and remediates the line without the risk of becoming stuck.
  • LamFlo® Our preventative treatment pipeline maintenance solution that breaks apart and suspends paraffin wax and asphaltenes. Pumped continuously to prevent future buildups, both land and offshore.
  • LamKleen® Our specially formulated detergent solution that penetrates organic deposits and removes hydrocarbon residuals. Cleans pipelines and equipment in preparation for hot work or in-place abandonment.

Learn More About Our Flow Assurance Products

Proven results and customer benefits

Ideal’s detailed approach to flow assurance means our solutions are customized to your specific issues. Our detailed information gathering and extensive lab testing result in the highest possible success rate for your well or pipeline remediation. Our willingness to work with other service providers, and our quick response time, show we are here to solve your problem as efficiently as possible to get your operation running at full capacity as soon as possible. 

 

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