Scale Evaluation




The use of chemical additives to prevent the formation of scale in water process systems is well established. The costs of such programmes account for billions of dollars in the global chemical engineering industry.

In the oil and gas industry production costs are magnified by the difficulty of monitoring events thousands of feet below the surface. It is essential that any chemical treatment is proven to be cost effective. The selection of an ineffective chemical or an inappropriate dose level could at best mean money is being wasted. More importantly remedial maintenance work on the well costing millions of dollars in lost production might be avoided.

Oilfield Production Analysts Limited employ the P-MAC series in all scale evaluation studies of inhibitor products and squeeze chemicals at temperature and pressure controlled conditions, for Barium, Strontium, Calcium, Sulphate and Carbonate ions.

The service includes :

  1. Prediction of Scale deposition using computer software
  2. Confirmation of Scaling in Dynamic Tube blocking tests carried out at temperatures up to 200degreesC
  3. Screening of inhibitors to find the most effective treatment.
  4. Supervision of Treatment programmes and remedial actions.

Scale Predictions
Using state of the art computer models our consultants can predict scale formation from the mixing of incompatible brines or from the depressurisation of fluids during production. From these predictions treatment programmes can be formulated.

Dynamic Scale Deposition Tests
Using the latest Model 4000 P-MAC system from S B Systems we can carry out Dynamic Tube Blocking Tests at temperatures up to 200oC. This allows scaling tendencies predicted from our software to be proved up to 200oC and for scale inhibitor performance to be tested at the conditions at which it is asked to perform in the field.

Scale Inhibitor Screening
Using the P-MAC 4000 and Dynamic Tube Blocking Tests we are able to screen inhibitors for optimum performance at temperatures up to 200degreesC.

Programme Supervision
Having predicted the scaling, found the correct inhibitor and optimised the doseage we can provide a consultant to monitor the programme, decide on squeeze or injection philosophy and ensure the client gets value for money from the treatment programme.


For further Information on OPA and its products and services please contact:

Charlie Johnson

Oilfield Production Analysts Limited
Alliance House
46, Palmerston Road
Aberdeen
AB1 2QN
Telephone 01224 584775
Fax 01224 584048


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