Asphaltene Flow Assurance Modeling

AsphWax Professional Course

Course Objectives:

 

• Learn briefly what equations of state (EOS) are and their underlying thermodynamics. This is intended to serve as continuation to the EOS Modeling course.

 

• Learn the concept of solution theory as it pertains to asphaltene modeling.

 

• Learn the concepts of solubility parameter and molar volume and how to compute the same using different techniques.

 

• Learn the concepts of Langmuir Isotherm, gamma function particle size distribution, and packing factors as they pertain to asphaltenes.

 

• Learn how to apply solution theory and the Langmuir Isotherm to asphaltene phase behavior modeling using a PARA EOS Fluid Characterization and AsphWax's TCModelSM. Use results to determine asphaltene sludge build-up in separators and storage facilities (tanks, FPSOs, etc.).

 

• Learn asphaltene deposition theory in tubings and how to simulate the same using AsphWax's Well Asphaltene Deposition Simulator-WELLModelSM, especially as it relates to generation of streaming potential.

 

• Learn asphaltene formation damage theory as it relates to skin evolution near wellbores and how to simulate asphaltene-induced formation damage using AsphWax's Near-Wellbore Asphaltene-Induced Formation Damage Simulator-FDModelSM.

 

• Perform hands-on asphaltene phase behavior, tubing deposition, and formation damage simulations with real-life examples using AsphWax's internet accessible simulators and computers.

 

• As time permits, learn how to use results in step 6 above to plan and execute chemical stimulation treatments using asphaltene dispersants with Coiled Tubing Units.

Course Objectives:

 

This is a five-day intensive advanced course that teaches how to simulate the asphaltene phase behavior of reservoir hydrocarbons utilizing the most promising theories and technologies. The thermodynamic basis of equations of state (EOS) is covered in brief detail. The course includes intricate details of the most recent and complete versions of the T-C ModelSM (Thermodynamic-Colloidal Model of asphaltenes), AsphWax's asphaltene phase behavior simulator. Asphaltene deposition modeling is also covered in the course with special emphasis on asphaltene deposition caused by streaming potential generated during flow in the tubing. The WELLModelSM theory, AsphWax's asphaltene deposition simulator, is presented in detail. Asphaltene-induced near-well-bore formation damage modeling is also covered in the course. Details on the FDModelSM theory, AsphWax's asphaltene-induced near-well-bore formation damage simulator, are also presented. This course is a continuation of the courses Fluid Characterization for Flow Assurance and Equation of State Modeling, although it can be taken separately by engineers experienced in EOS modeling. The course manual is custom-designed to minimize or virtually eliminate note taking.

Course Outline:

 

• Equations of State (EOS)-Brief Description

 

• Solution Theory

 

• Solubility Parameter and Molar Volume

 

• Asphaltene Theory (ADE)

 

• Thermodynamic-Colloidal Model of Asphaltenes-T-C ModelSM:

 

• • Solubility

 

• • Colloidal Stability-Langmuir Isotherm

 

• • Asphaltene Particle Size Distribution

 

• T-C ModelR Applications:

 

• • PARA EOS Fluid Characterization

 

• • T-C ModelSM Tuning

 

• • Asphaltene Phase Behavior Simulations

 

• Asphaltene Deposition Theory (WELLModelSM)

 

• Asphaltene Deposition Simulations

 

• Asphaltene Formation Damage Theory (FDModelSM)

 

• Formation Damage Simulations

 

• Course Summary - Conclusions