EVALUATING DOWNHOLE CHEMICAL INJECTION FOR SCALE AND PARAFFIN CONTROL TO OPTIMIZE NIGERIA OILFIELD PRODUCTION AND WELL PERFORMANCE

Student: Victor Emmanuel Etim
Supervisor: Dr Wilfred C Okologume
HOD: Dr Wilfred C Okologume
Department of Petroleum Engineering
Engineering and Technology
Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun, Delta State

Abstract

Scale deposition and paraffin buildup are major challenges in oil production, causing reduced flow efficiency, increased operational costs, and frequent well interventions. This study investigates the potential of using downhole chemical injection for scale inhibition and paraffin control in Nigerian oil fields to optimize production and minimize well interventions. A core flooding experiment was conducted using sandstone cores representative of Nigerian reservoirs to evaluate the effectiveness of locally available and cost-effective chemicals. The experiment examined the impact of chemical concentration, rock properties, and operating conditions on scale and paraffin control efficiency. Results indicate that selected scale inhibitors and paraffin control agents significantly reduced deposition rates, with effectiveness influenced by core permeability and porosity. Optimal chemical concentrations and injection rates were identified for maximum performance. The study highlights the importance of selecting stable and compatible chemicals for downhole use under high-temperature and high-pressure conditions.

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