Impact of Produced EOR Polymer on Production Facilities

Abstract

Abstract Back-produced polymer to surface facilities is a significant topic in the literature due to the specific properties of the polymer, which are beneficial in the effective displacement of oil in the reservoir but could give challenges in the producers and surface facilities. This literature review addresses the impact of polymer on the key components of the production facilities ranging from artificial lift to the oil refinery and produced water disposal or reuse. The main polymer properties to interfere are (1) the ability to increase the viscosity of the produced water and (2) the precipitation of the polymer with constituents in water or process chemicals. These two properties could cause equipment failure, off spec quality of the oil and water, leading to oil deferment and increased maintenance. The magnitude of these challenges depends on the level of back-produced polymer. From the literature it is difficult to diagnose at what polymer concentration, insignificant impact is observed and when the production issues begin. It is recommended to analyse each key component individually and assess at what polymer concentration impact is expected in the operations. Important to identify is that an optimal polymer selection for the subsurface reservoir, might not be the right choice for the production facility. Therefore, early involvement of surface and chemical engineers is crucial to a successful polymer flood. This review will discuss a selection of the available literature addressing the main challenges and showing several examples. The content of a monitoring plan is discussed as well as the critical & additional analysis are given to properly understand the production side of a polymer flood and assist with mitigation strategies.