1. Dynamic Wax Deposition Modeling
Flow Assurance
Dynamic Wax Deposition Modeling

2. Wax Deposition
Wax is a solid deposit of long-chain paraffinic components (CnH2n+2, n > 20) originally dissolved in crude oils.
Wax deposition occurs when temperature in production string drops below wax appearance temperature.
Wax deposition can hinder fluid flow in production string.

3. Dynamic Wax Deposition Model

4. Progress to date
Dynamic wax deposition model was developed to predict wax deposition and growth in production string under dynamic flow conditions
Flow-loop experiments were performed to simulate wax deposition in production string under different production scenarios
Model predictions match data from flow-loop experiments well

6. Flow Loop Setup Flow Loop Test Section Pump Controller
Reservoir
Chiller
Pump
Flow Meter
Pressure Transducer
Flow Loop Test Section
Pump Controller

7. Wax Composition of Model Oil
Flow Loop Experiments
Wax Composition of Model Oil
(0.67wt% food grade wax dissolved in 3:1 ratio of Blandol white mineral oil and kerosene, WAT=26°C)

8. Effect of Wall Temperature on Deposition Thickness
Model Predictions Vs. Flow Loop Data
r: inner radius of flow loop available for oil flow
R: inner radius of flow loop

9. Effect of Flow Rate on Deposition Thickness Model Predictions Vs
Effect of Flow Rate on Deposition Thickness Model Predictions Vs. Flow Loop Data
r: inner radius of flow loop available for oil flow
R: inner radius of flow loop

10. Future Work Perform flow-loop experiments using Alaskan crudes
Modify dynamic wax deposition model for Alaskan crudes
Verify dynamic wax deposition model for other crudes