Paper: Advancements In The Use Of Magnetics For Controlling Deposits And BSW In Oil Wells

Deposits of paraffin wax, asphaltene, mineral scale and the water component of BS&W (basic sediments and water) in oil wells have cost producers millions of dollars in chemical, thermal and mechanical treatments, and in lost production. In some cases, traditional treatment methods have reduced the ability of the wells to produce to their potential. Previous treatment methods such as biological, galvanic, and magnetic devices were minimal and were limited to a few geographical areas. Ceramic or alnico magnets used in the past have been replaced by the introduction of new high energy product magnetic material, which is eight to thirty times more powerful. This new magnetic material has allowed more effective circuit design in magnetic fluid conditioners (MFCs). Performance of properly designed MFCs has greatly increased, resulting in more effective control of the deposition of solids in oil wells and associated equipment.