Experimental studies of the operational properties of asphaltene-resin-paraffin deposits formed in main oil pipelines

The results of experimental laboratory studies of the properties of asphaltene-resin-paraffin deposits (ARPD) of oil affecting the efficiency and reliability of pumping are presented. An analysis of the negative and positive properties of the deposits, including the corrosiveness of ARPD in relation to the wall of the oil pipeline, was carried out. Measurements of the heat-conductivity factor of samples of oil deposits taken from operating main oil pipelines were performed. To assess the effect of the deposit layer on the smoothness of the pipe wall inner surface, tests were conducted to determine the values of the roughness coefficient on samples of coil segments. The samples were cut from areas of repaired main pipelines, the inner surface of which is covered with a layer of ARPD accumulated and strengthened during the long-term operation of the pipelines that were periodically exposed to in-line cleaning devices. The results of laboratory studies of ARPD thermophysical properties confirmed the relatively high thermal insulation properties and the smoothing capacity of the deposit layer. Tests to assess the corrosion properties of ARPD showed the possibility of reducing the rate of corrosion due to passive protection of the deposit layer formed on the inner surface of the pipe wall.