Scale Inhibitors- Let’s Know Them In Depth! Scale inhibitors are employed as a chemical or mechanical treatment that is injected into or placed in fluid flow systems to halt the precipitation and accumulation of slightly soluble compound formation on the walls of the systems. It comprises a technology designed specifically to slow the formation of scale and boost the production of water, gas, and oil. It makes an effort to boost heat transmission and the carrying capacity of the fluid distribution system. The dissolved salts in the mixture of gas, oil, and brine have precipitated as a result of the variation in air conditions in gas and oil production wells. Scale formation is influenced by pressure, temperature, and the chemical makeup or characteristics of the mixture. Topside and downhole scaling deposits that are frequent include● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Sodium carbonate Magnesium and sodium nitrates Silica Calcium fluorite Zinc sulfide Lead sulfide Magnesium carbonate Strontium sulfate (Celestine or celestite) Calcium sulfate dehydrate (Gypsum) Sodium chloride (Halite) Barium sulfate (barite) Calcium carbonate (Calcite)
Mechanical processes, including milling, drilling, and jetting, can be used to remove scaling. Chemicals and modern technology are employed to prevent the production of scale; they can also be used in place of more expensive mechanical methods. Based on the level of scale supersaturation that has been recorded, the scale inhibitor functions. Using phosphorus and inorganic chemicals, carbonate and sulphate scales are chelated during the chemical dissolution process. Precipitation and adsorption squeeze treatments constantly inject this chemical inhibitor solution into the fluid matrix. The scale inhibitor also helps in corrosion prevention since it improves the flow rate, thus not allowing certain corrosive materials to settle and adhere to the walls and the tubes. This addresses the problems encountered in heat transfer equipment like boilers, heat exchangers and heating systems. It reduces the plugging of pipes, water handling equipment and well tubing, thus generating economical oil, gas and water production systems.