What Causes Wax & Paraffin in Pipelines?
Crude oil and gas condensates contain varying amounts of wax or paraffin. When oil is at 60 to 70°c, the wax is dissolved, but as the temperature drops below 35–40°C, wax solidifies onto the walls of the pipe, causing roughness, turbulent flow and diameter restriction that reduces product flow. The wax can become extremely hard on the wall of the pipe through time, especially with static flow and temperature changes during maintenance shutdowns.
How to Prevent Wax & Paraffin Build-up With Pipeline Pigging
Although regular pigging maintenance program prevents the potential for wax and paraffin to form, flow is maximized and energy costs reduced, it is critical to use the right pigs and pigging method to avoid damage to check valves.
Inline Services Provides Waxy & Paraffin Removing Pigs
Inline Services offers pipeline cleaning pigs specifically made to effectively remove wax from the line by keeping it suspended in the product flow ahead of the pig. Keeping the wax ahead of the pig is key to avoiding damage to valves.
Our pigging experts can assist you in designing a pigging program to prevent the build up of wax and paraffin in your lines. Contact us today!