Why does WAX form inside crude pipelines and how to effectively remove such paraffin/heavy fuel oil matter?
Paraffin deposits generally form when the temperature of wax-containing crude oil falls below its Wax Appearance Temperature (WAT). Dissolved higher-molecular-weight paraffinic hydrocarbons begin to crystallize and may subsequently agglomerate and adhere to cooler metal surfaces.
Paraffin Wax Dispersant works through a combination of:
1. Solvent Penetration
The aromatic hydrocarbon solvent system penetrates wax deposits and assists in softening and dissolving hydrocarbon-soluble fractions.
2. Surface Wetting
The benzenesulfonic acid derivative improves wetting of wax-contaminated surfaces, allowing the solvent phase to penetrate deposits more efficiently.
3. Wax Dispersion
As deposits are loosened, the dispersing component helps separate wax particles and crystals and maintain them in the hydrocarbon phase.
4. Reduction of Redeposition
By maintaining loosened wax in a dispersed condition, the product helps reduce rapid reagglomeration and redeposition downstream.