Upstream

Naphthenates

Certain crude oils have a tendency to form calcium or sodium naphthenates. Calcium naphthenates form hard solids that can, almost without warning, foul and plug processing vessels and lines. The appearance of calcium naphthenates usually leads to heavy cost penalties in the form of system upsets, delayed production, laborious cleanouts and system repairs.

Sodium naphthenates do not form solid deposits, but can nevertheless cause major production headaches. These materials tend to cause emulsion problems in processing equipment that, if not properly diagnosed and treated, can waste valuable time, cause production losses and create frequent system upsets.

Fortunately, once the problem is properly understood, naphthenates can be effectively managed in the field. Baker Hughes works with you to understand the problem and devise optimized treatment options that are right for your production. We help characterize the problem and follow through with the products and service expertise to handle all aspects of a treatment program. In short, we help you maintain trouble-free production.

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