Successful approach to mitigate the asphaltenes precipitation problems in ESP oil wells

Abstract This study introduces a comprehensive and cost-effective approach to diagnose treat the asphaltenes precipitation problems in different downhole conditions. The proposed has been successfully applied two oil wells (Well-I, Well-II) located Western Desert of Egypt. produce moderate high gravity with low content using Electrical Submersible Pumps (ESP). In such operating conditions, solid deposits caused blockage at pump intake within pumping stages wells. led sharp decrease production rate significant increase cost. existing failure analysis procedure was not able accurately identify reasons for blockage; accordingly, treatment operations were unsuccessful. On contrary, applying (1) identified type deposits, (2) solved problem proper option minimum cost, (3) improved rate. laboratory tests fluid showed that unstable crude acted as glue other minerals, diagnosed confirm had problem. extended select optimum asphaltene dispersant treatments. field application results from 700 1600 STB/D Well-I 470 1500 Well-II. Moreover, cost decreased considerably 2.01 0.43 $/STB Well-I, 4.37 0.52 Well-II after approach.