Bringing together the last several posts we now can make recommendations for using Facilities Sand Management technology in heavy oil and viscous fluid production.

Recommendations Based on Node (@ Step 1: Separation)

Node 1/2: Multiphase Desander (WHD/WSD)

• Install at highest pressure, temperature, and gas content
• Needs 15-20 psi pressure drop
• In-situ liquid viscosity <100 cP (not dead oil viscosity)
• High gas content will reduce mixture viscosity
• Can inject gas and/or liquid diluent upstream to reduce viscosity
• In many cases provide sufficient/helpful separation performance

Node 1/2: Multiphase Screen viable technology

• Separation unaffected by viscosity, but may have very high pressure drop

Node 3: Separator Jetting

• Automate operation of jetting and sand removal
• Remove sand more frequently (don’t let get cold, consolidate, or bind)
• Combine jets with cyclonic evacuation devices

Node 4: Produced Water Desanding per normal use

• 15-25 psi pressure drop and located on water outlet leg of separator upstream of oil-water separation equipment

Recommendations Based on Step Methodology

Collect

• Always fill accumulator with hot/clean water bath – prevents sand binding and consolidation, and aids further cleaning and transport

Clean

• Follow previous guidelines: 50°C water, 30 minute shear processing time, and NaOH and/or surfactant

Dewater

• Gravity drain in filter bin/bag only works if sufficient oil removed
• May be best to let sit and decant

Transport

• Vacuum truck works well
• May not be able to re-use filter bags (dispose with sand)
• Local use (road surface) or slurry injection in many cases
• Pressure Drop and Separation Size from FSM-M4

References:

1. Rawlins, C.H. 2019. “Enhanced Production Through Surface Facilities Sand Management.” SPE Distinguished Lecturer presentation. Link here

Next week I will finish the discussion for sand removal in heavy oil production.