Viscosity measurements of water-in-crude-oil emulsions under flowing conditions: A theoretical and practical approach

The influence of emulsion viscosity on multiphase flow calculations is discussed and illustrated with a simple example. Existing methods for calculation and determination of the effective viscosity of a real hydrocarbon/water system under realistic field conditions have been reviewed and are discussed in relation to their applicability. An experimental method using a high-pressure test wheel for flow simulation is under development for the specific purpose of measuring rheological properties in hydrocarbon gas/water/oil systems under realistic conditions, i.e. pressure, temperature and shear. This method is illustrated by measurements performed on a North Sea crude.