Reducing Sludge in Oil Pipelines

Sludge accumulation in oil pipelines is a complex problem caused by the combination of heavy hydrocarbons, fine solids, and water. This sludge reduces effective pipeline diameter, increases pumping pressures, and can cause complete blockages if left untreated.

A pipeline operator was experiencing increasing sludge-related pigging runs. The frequency of pipeline cleaning operations was disrupting normal operations and increasing maintenance costs significantly.

After installing Merus technology, sludge formation rates decreased substantially. The treated crude oil showed improved flow characteristics, and the frequency of pigging operations was reduced considerably.