Title : Method for digitalizing crude desalting operation through online realtime salt balancing without installing salt analyzers
Abstract:
The paper introduces a novel method for calculating salt content in GOSPs based on a salt balance approach and advanced data processing techniques. The invention utilizes data collected from existing sensors and instrumentation in the GOSP to determine the salt content in the produced oil accurately. By leveraging existing instrumentation and data sources, the invention eliminates the need for dedicated salt analyzers, reducing capital and operational costs while maintaining accuracy and reliability. The method involves collecting data from various sensors and instrumentation installed in the GOSP and from lab results, including crude and wash water flow meters, salt content of wash water and formation water associated with the crude. These sensors provide real-time data on the flow rates, the produced fluid at different stages of the separation process. The invention is to develop software algorithm to implement salt balance using real time process data collected from instrumentation and recent laboratory analysis. The calculation results continuously update the salt content downstream wet crude handling unit and act as real-time analyzer without the need to install physical/conventional salt analyzer. The parameters will be used to compute salt is the inlet crude rate and wash water injection which is extracted from existing flow meter. In additions, water cut, inlet crude total dissolved solids (TDS) and wash water total dissolved solids (TDS) are obtained from recent laboratory analysis which are to be fixed in the calculation until new analysis reveal any changes to the TDS. The inventions for real-time salt monitoring by utilizing the invent salt balance algorithm offers several benefits compared to conventional salt analyzers. Implementing a salt balance calculation for real-time monitoring eliminates the need for purchasing, installing, and maintaining conventional salt analyzers, resulting in significant cost savings in equipment acquisition and maintenance. Salt analyzers require periodic calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting, which can lead to downtime in operations. By relying on a salt balance calculation for real-time monitoring, operators can minimize downtime associated with analyzer maintenance and repair, thereby improving overall process reliability and availability. Salt balance calculations provide accurate and reliable estimates of salt content downstream of the wet crude handling unit based on continuous monitoring of process parameters and flow rates. This approach reduces the risk of measurement errors and inaccuracies associated with conventional salt analyzers. Overall, using salt balance calculation for real-time monitoring of salt content downstream of a wet crude handling unit offers numerous benefits, including cost savings, improved accuracy and reliability, enhanced process control, and continuous insight into process performance. This approach represents a cost-effective and efficient alternative to conventional salt analyzers, enabling operators to achieve optimal process efficiency and product quality in oil and gas production operations.