Foreword

Mineral scales, hereinafter referred to as scales, are adherent forms of inorganic solids that deposit on production equipment surfaces. Oilfield brines containing, among other constituents, excess concentrations of calcium and barium, form solid carbonate and sulfate salts when thermodynamic and kinetic conditions are favorable. When scales deposit on process equipment, production decreases and operators are compelled to remedy the problem, increasing production costs. Therefore, effective scale inhibition is a common preventive practice when oil and gas wells are designed and operated.

Using threshold scale inhibitor chemicals to prevent scale formation is a common industry practice. These chemicals are effective at substoichiometric concentrations (typically in the ppm region), making them a cost-effective treatment option. Determining the minimum concentration typically used to inhibit scale formation is the focus of this report. Specifically, this report reviews the open literature for information about the dynamic scale inhibitor evaluation apparatus known as the tube-blocking apparatus.

The purpose of this technical committee report is to present a resource for oil and gas professionals in using dynamic flow-through test apparatus, and procedures typically used for evaluating chemical scale inhibitors. A discussion of the test apparatus is included and operational problems are addressed. A bibliographic reference of papers relevant to this type of testing is included.

This technical committee report was prepared by NACE International Task Group (TG) 072, Oil and Gas Production: Inhibitors, Dynamic Scale Evaluation Devices and Procedures. This TG is administered by Specific Technology Group (STG) 31 on Oil and Gas Production— Corrosion and Scale Inhibition. It is also sponsored by STG 60 on Corrosion Mechanisms. This technical committee report is issued by NACE International under the auspices of STG 31.

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