Paraffin inhibitors

Our range includes

• paraffin deposition inhibitors—high-molecular-weight polymers that interact with paraffins in crude to modify or inhibit wax crystal formation, shape, and size, so that surface adhesion is eliminated
• pour-point depressants—polymers with n-alkyl chains that similarly impede wax crystal formation, leading to lower fluid viscosity, pour point, and yield stress
• paraffin dispersants—surface-active agents that prevent paraffin deposition in oilfield systems by creating repulsion between paraffin particles as well as between paraffin particles and other (e.g., pipe) surfaces.

If the optimal product is not part of our existing range, we can design a product specifically for your application.

Ambient conditions during treatment application are considered when selecting and designing the most cost-effective solution. For example, stability under extreme conditions, such as deepwater environments, is assessed when appropriate. A full range of deepwater-stable, umbilical-safe products is available.

We also provide a range of paraffin dissolvers to remediate deposition and restore production to optimal levels.

Paraffin dissolvers

SLB uses mechanical, thermal, and chemical techniques to treat deposited waxes.

Chemical dissolution treatment necessitates application of solvents that will effectively and efficiently remove paraffin wax deposits, dissolving the paraffin regardless of structure, size, or melting point. This process requires much less energy compared with melting the wax crystals. Solvent effectiveness improves with increased temperature and agitation.

Available solvents include chemistry based on aliphatics, aromatics, esters, terpenes, and more. The most effective product that meets the application requirements can be selected or designed based on your preferred parameters to ensure that your performance, cost, and environmental goals are achieved.