Evaluation of downhole electric impedance heating systems for paraffin control in oil wells

Paraffin deposition in oil wells is a problem frequently encountered in the oil industry. Conventional methods such as hot oiling, chemical injection or using scrapers have not always been successful and cost effective. Novel approaches based on electrical technology such as electrical impedance heating offer a practical alternative to conventional methods. Three approaches using such technology are examined. An evaluation of a pilot oil well installation using the latest impedance heating technology is presented. A method of calculating skin effect and hysteresis losses is described. It is concluded that electric impedance heating can be a safe and effective method to control paraffin formation in oil wells; however, the economic viability needs to be assessed for each individual application