Produced Water Management; Case Study

Abstract

Abstract Lined evaporation pits are a common way to dispose produced water, especially within hot climate where there is an absence of rainfall and high prevailing evaporation rates. Produced water generated through the separation of crude oil within this case study has been, for many years, disposed into evaporative pits. However, the historical use of unlined pits for the disposal of produced water has a high potential to result in soil and groundwater contamination and may cause severe harm to the environment due to hydrocarbons, residues from process chemicals, heavy metals and naturally occurring radioactive material (NORM). The area of the present study is an open flat desert environment that receives no rainfall and is exposed to strong sunlight and high temperatures. The facility management commissioned a study to identify applicable disposal options of produced water and generate capital cost estimates for each option. Options considered must have constituent of the produced water and the concentration of the dispersed oil in the water within acceptable regulatory limits for inland discharge besides being environmentally friendly. Two disposal options were developed, with each generating different levels of produced water management and utilization. Facility management was able to use and implement the results of the study to which obtained an excellent outcome and reduced the estimated cost of produced water disposal requirements. The study presents impact assessment of long-term disposal of produced water and the environmental remediation of historically contaminated areas. The study also provides the best technically viable options to utilize and dispose produced water.