As we continue our analysis of Facilities Sand Management (FSM), an initial step is to clearly identify the exact problem(s) that solids are causing with the facilities equipment or operability.
While sand is ubiquitous in oil & gas wells, not all sand causes a problem or causes the same problem. Sand particles may be of insignificant size or in insignificant amounts to interfere with production. When sand is present in size or quantity to have a negative effect, a clear statement of the problem is necessary to formulate a clear strategy for mending the problem.
Sand causes four primary problems in oil & gas facilities;
Erosion: Occurs in high velocity zones or regions
- Examples include wellhead chokes, pipe contractions and elbows, valve cages, pump impellers, and deoiling hydrocyclones. Photo below shows erosion on inside of choke body on platform in North Sea.