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:
- 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.