Analysis of Nucleation Time of Gas Hydrates in Presence of Paraffin During Mechanized Oil Production

The objective of this study is to investigate the nucleation timing of gas hydrate molecules in oil flows. This research focuses on examining how paraffin particles impact the formation timing of hydrate deposits during the mechanical production of oil. A thorough comprehension and control over the formation of organic deposits within the wellbore can substantially mitigate equipment maintenance expenses, enhance the safety and consistency of production, and bolster the economic viability of extracting hydrocarbons. The initial segment of the paper outlines a methodology for identifying the formation depths of gas hydrates and asphaltene-resin-paraffin deposits (ARPD) in operational oil wells through the resolution of thermobaric differential equation systems. Subsequent laboratory experiments were conducted to assess the nucleation timing of gas hydrates in the presence of paraffin. These tests were performed in a specialized high-pressure autoclave that enables the establishment of requisite thermobaric conditions. An internal agitator in the autoclave facilitates the needed dispersion within the system to emulate well flow conditions. Experimental findings revealed that paraffin particles impede the formation of gas hydrate deposits and decelerate their nucleation process. Notably, a 3% increase in paraffin concentration within the mixture was observed to prolong the nucleation timing of gas hydrates by a factor of nine. Based on the review of available literature, it is deduced that further comprehensive investigations are essential for the advancement of a temporal model governing the operational dynamics of production wells under the influence of gas hydrate and ARPD formation.