A Comparison of Crude Oil Fouling Using Two Different Probes

摘要

A variety of different fouling rigs, each with its own advantages and disadvantages is available to assess crudernoil fouling. In this research, fouling of three crude oils are compared, using two electrically heated annular probes withrnstrikingly different modes of operation. The Hot Liquid Process Simulator (HLPS) was operated in single-pass mode,rnunder creeping flow conditions for time durations of a few hours at constant surface temperature. The PortablernFouling Research Unit (PFRU) was operated at velocities a factor of 250 higher, and followed the fouling process overrntwo or more days at constant heat flux, using re-circulation of the crude oil. Three crude oils were tested at averagernsurface temperatures in the range 225-380°C, and bulk temperatures roughly 100°C lower. Fouling rates were twornorders of magnitude greater in the low velocity unit. Relative ranking of the fouling potentials for the three oils isrndiscussed.