Salt Water Disposal

Abstract

Abstract This paper begins with a short review of current state legislation directed toward the satisfactory disposal of salt water. An example is cited of the progress the oil industry has made in meeting the problems involved in disposing of salt water in the most economic manner while complying with certain state regulations. Methods of disposal, types of disposal systems, and the considerations involved in selecting the best method to use under given conditions are discussed. The paper enumerates the various components of a disposal system and discusses the selection of materials used in the construction of a salt water disposal system. A few paragraphs are devoted to the problems encountered during construction. The paper contains the writer's interpretation of the importance and reasons for a concentrated effort toward properly maintaining such systems after installation. Conclusions provide a few basic concepts that should be considered in the evaluation, design, construction, and maintenance of salt water disposal systems:During the past few years, there has been a sharp increase in the demand and a decrease in the availability of fresh water for residential and commercial uses. A definite need, therefore, exists for a continued concentration of efforts toward the elimination of pollution of the nation's fresh water resources. Proper disposal of waste brine is the oil industry's contribution to the solution of this problem.The importance of an economical solution to the problem of disposing of salt water is illustrated by the fact that on a national scale approximately three barrels of waste fluids are produced for each barrel of commercial crude.From an economical and operational standpoint, the use of semi-closed systems has proven to be successful in most instances.Experience has shown that with the proper emphasis on economics, a selection of the best corrosion-resistant materials would be advisable for use in salt water disposal systems.Good planning and close inspection of construction on salt water disposal projects has been beneficial in lowering future maintenance costs.Provision for periodic cleaning of gathering and injection facilities has proven to be profitable from an operational standpoint. Introduction Salt water is a by-product obtained from the production of oil for which there is no apparent economic value except in its use as a reservoir repressuring or flooding agent. It is a waste product that is often produced in large quantities with the recovery of crude from an underground reservoir. Salt water is an expensive item to the oil producer.