Category: CRUDE OIL

We begin this webinar with a definition of crude oil fouling and the difference between crude oil fouling and other types of fouling mechanisms. Following this review, we discuss fouling research at HTRI by describing the High Temperature Fouling Unit (HTFU), the research testing that we conduct, and the prediction models...
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HTRI’s recently acquired SmartPM™ software complements the HTRI fouling research program, and takes the understanding and management of crude oil fouling to the next level. SmartPM can be used by a wide range of engineers including: Process engineers evaluating current plant performance Planners allocating maintenance budgets for most cost-effective future cleaning...
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In 2013 HTRI commissioned the Rotating Fouling Unit (RFU). With its smaller volume, shorter run duration, and faster turnaround, the RFU serves as a screening device for the High Temperature Fouling Units (HTFU-1 and HTFU-2) and is ideal for fouling impact studies on specific variables. Initial fouling tests and fouling impact...
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A longstanding goal of the HTRI fouling program is to develop methods to predict the fouling tendency of a crude oil from its chemical and physical properties and the heat exchanger operating conditions. This report summarizes the characterizations HTRI has performed on most research crude oils with a brief explanation as to why...
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Obtaining viscosity measurements at elevated temperatures and pressures is challenging. HTRI evaluated several viscosity correlations to determine the best model for hydrocarbons. We also examined a viscosity-density correlation using limited density data. From the initial evaluation, the Walther model proved to be the most promising for extrapolation, predicting viscosity within ±30%...
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HTRI developed a standardized crude oil fouling test matrix that covers industry-relevant ranges of flow, bulk temperature, and wall temperature. The test matrix provides a more complete picture of a crude oil’s fouling behavior in the High Temperature Fouling Units (HTFUs). This report summarizes the design of the HTFUs, the identification...
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