
doi: 10.2118/80516-ms , 10.2523/80516-ms
Abstract Waxy condensate was suspected as a contributing factor to the process and operational upsets at one gas-condensate processing platform operated by Petronas Carigali. As an immediate solution, the suspected wells were either shut-in or curtail back, while a detail investigative study is conducted. The main objectives of the study are to identify the source and quantify the extent of the problem and subsequently formulate appropriate solutions to manage the problem. Key actions implemented include in-situ condensate testing, gas process profiling and extensive laboratory analysis of condensate samples from all producing gas wells in the field. However, the difficulty is to identify the contributing wells due to the nature of the light condensate i.e. high API gravity of condensate, but low pour point as contrast to typical waxy crude where the API gravity is generally low. While wax precipitation from crude has been extensively studied, precipitation from gas condensates is not generally well recognized1. From the various laboratory analysis data, it was confirmed that paraffinic wax would form at the current operating temperature of the gas-condensate plant. Furthermore, from well analysis data, four wells were confirmed as the potential source of the problem. Through wax crystal modifiers2 or Pour Point Depressant (PPD) screening and testing using condensate sample from one of the shorlisted well, a suitable chemical was identified for plant testing on two shorlisted wells. A pilot test using the PPD was conducted on-site and the condensate pour point was monitored at both the offshore processing platform and the onshore gas terminal (OGT). Subsequently the performance monitoring data showed that the PPD is able to reduce the pour point of the condensate to an acceptable level. The optimum dosage of PPD treatment was also determined. This encouraging result permitted both wells to produce at their maximum potential.
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