Analyzing Scaling, Corrosion, and Sludge in the Oil & Gas Supply Chain with Portable XRD

Scaling in Oil and Gas Assets

Scaling and corrosion affect equipment throughout the oil and gas subply chain, from exploration and extraction to pipelines and refineries. Knowing the composition of the scaling and corrosion products enables maintenance teams to apply the most appropriate anti-scaling treatment or corrosion additive immediately. For example, hydrochloric acid is often used to remove calcium carbonate scaling, while calcium sulfate scaling may be removed using chelanting agents such as ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA).

In the past, maintenance teams would have to send samples off site for laboratory analysis, typically taking days or weeks, or would have to experiment with expensive chemical treatments (which may risk harming the equipment). However, the number of scaling and corrosion products commonly encountered within oil and gas assets is typically limited, making XRD a fast, efficient inspection option.

• Hydrocarbon (e.g. lubricant and grease)
• Liquid (e.g. water and oil)
• Nonhydrocarbon or inorganic substances (e.g. scaling and corrosion)

Using XRD to understand the inorganic component of the sludge can assist the removal process and contribute to preventing reoccurrence. Dichloromethane can be used to separate the inorganic components (scaling and corrosion) from the sludge, enabling a more detailed characterization of scaling and corrosion products (by removing amorphous phases).

Current Practice

Send Samples for Laboratory Analysis:

• 2 to 3 week turnaround

Try Different Chemical Treatment Methods:

• Using an incorrect chemical treatment may damage equipment
• Associated costs in applying the incorrect chemical treatment
• Solution in days, rather than hours

Portable XRD Solution

Send Samples for Laboratory Analysis:

• Correctly identify the scaling/corrosion products, rapidly, on site
• Select the correct treatment strategy, the first time, significantly reducing downtime