Factors Affecting Formation and Stability of Emulsions In Sudanese Crude oil

Abstract

The objectives of this study are: Is to study the factors and components that affect the formation and stability of oil in water (O/W) and water in oil (W/O) emulsions in Sudanese crude oil during production and processing. To come- up with and recommend the best solutions, to reduce presence of crude oil emulsions during production and processing. Samples were collected from all seven producing fields in Muglad basin. A blend was prepared according to the same ratios of all the fields in the Nile blend in order to obtain the same emulsion formed during separation and treatment processes in the central processing facilities (CPF). To obtain solid and constituent results, and to overcome the variation in formation properties, the samples were taken on a monthly basis for one year. Physical and chemical parameters of crude oil and water were determined using standard techniques of the American Society for Testing and Materials, (ASTM), and standard test methods used for examination of water and waste water to study the relationship between the presence and stability of emulsion and the various physical and chemical properties of oil & water. Results were subjected to statistical analysis and correlation regression. Relationship coefficients between emulsions and other parameters were determined. This study concluded that there is a positive and strong relationship between formation & stability of emulsion and some

Components of crude oil and produced water. Emulsion is found to be more stable when there is increase concentration of waxes (23.8%), Asphaltene (0.9%), solid sediments (clay & sand) (0.05 vol%), viscosity (66 mPa.S @ 40 C), and some produced water parameters such as total suspended solids (TSS) (0.6 mg/L), turbidity (24.8NTU), Carbonates (58.8mg/L), Bicarbonates (570mg/L) hydrocarbons (137.7 mg/L). Also it has been found, there is no direct relationship between emulsion stability and metal ion concentration in crude oil and produced water.