RXSOL Paraffin Wax Dispersant Rx is typically applied at concentrations of 250 –1000 ppm. It can be added directly to the sludge, but it is more typically used in combination with a diluent such as a light naphtha, crude oil or aromaticsolvent. The resulting mixture is circulated for several hours until all of the sludge has been dispersed. The circulation is then stopped and the solids and water allowed to settle. The clean crude can then be pumped out of the vessel.
RXSOL Paraffin Wax Dispersant Rx can be combined with Rxsol PPD depending on composition of the deposit to achieve maximum effectiveness.
The optimum dosage depends on the crude-oil composition, paraffin content, Wax Appearance Temperature, operating temperature, existing deposit thickness, flow velocity and treatment method.
Preventive / Continuous Treatment
A typical starting dosage is:
50-500 ppm
The product should preferably be injected upstream of the location where wax deposition normally begins and, where practical, while the crude oil temperature remains above or close to its Wax Appearance Temperature.
Moderate Wax Deposition
Typical treatment:
500-2,000 ppm
Treatment may be continuous or intermittent depending upon operating conditions.
Severe Wax Deposition / Batch Treatment
For heavily waxed systems, a concentrated treatment may be required.
Typical starting range:
1-10% product in a suitable hydrocarbon carrier
Higher concentrations or neat-product treatment may be considered after compatibility and field testing.
Soaking Treatment for cleaning Heavy Wax Deposits
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For pipelines, equipment or isolated sections containing hardened paraffin deposits:
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Remove free oil where operationally appropriate.
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Introduce Paraffin Wax Dispersant neat or diluted in a compatible hydrocarbon solvent.
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Ensure maximum contact with the wax deposit.
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Allow sufficient soaking time.
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Circulate where possible to increase mass transfer.
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Flush displaced wax and contaminated solution from the system.
Typical contact time may range from 2–12 hours, depending on deposit thickness, temperature and circulation conditions.
Injection Procedure
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For continuous treatment, Paraffin Wax Dispersant may be injected using a chemical dosing pump.
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The injection point should preferably be located:
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Upstream of the wax deposition zone
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At the wellhead
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Downhole where technically suitable
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Upstream of flowline restrictions
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Before pipeline temperature falls substantially below WAT
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Upstream of separators or transfer systems where wax deposition is observed
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Uniform distribution of the chemical in the crude oil is important for maximum effectiveness.
Pipeline Cleaning
For existing paraffin deposits in pipelines:
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Determine the approximate amount and location of wax accumulation.
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Where practical, mechanically remove excessive bulk deposits before chemical treatment.
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Introduce the product neat or diluted with a compatible hydrocarbon solvent.
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Circulate the cleaning solution through the affected section.
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Maintain adequate contact time.
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Moderate heating, where equipment and operating procedures permit, can substantially improve wax dissolution.
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Continue circulation until the required flow improvement or deposit removal is obtained.
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Displace the spent cleaning solution and loosened wax into an appropriate recovery system.
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Laboratory testing is recommended before large-scale treatment.
Tank Cleaning
For paraffin/wax accumulation in crude-oil tanks:
Paraffin Wax Dispersant can be applied to soften and disperse waxy hydrocarbon residues prior to mechanical removal or circulation cleaning.
The product may be:
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Sprayed onto wax deposits
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Added to a hydrocarbon circulation medium
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Recirculated through the tank
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Applied as part of a soak-and-circulate cleaning procedure
Warm hydrocarbon circulation may increase cleaning efficiency where safe and operationally permissible.