Abstract
Fouling mechanisms of a light conventional crude were investigated by characterizing the crude oil, performing fouling tests using a bench-scale Alcor hot liquid process simulator (HLPS) unit and characterizing fouling deposits by means of elemental analysis, scanned electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and photoacoustic infrared spectroscopy (PAS-IR). In addition, a mathematical fouling model was developed under a laminar flow regime following Epstein’s methodology. Fouling tests were conducted at different temperatures and bulk velocities. Although the asphaltene content in the crude oil is low, the asphaltenes are still unstable because of a high saturate content and this crude oil has a high fouling propensity. On the basis of the fouling test results, fouling model analysis, and characterization of fouling deposits, the fouling mechanism of this crude oil can be explained as follows: In a laminar flow regime, unstable asphaltenes transport to the hot surface, become attached to the surface, and then, through chemical reactions, form fouling deposits. Mass transfer of entrained suspended particulates in the crude oil also contributes to fouling, although it is not the main cause. However, under turbulent flow conditions, such as those that prevail in industrial operations, it is expected that suspended particles would play a greater role in fouling.
Published Version
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