Case Study 6 AAs are a Major Hydrate Plug Prevention Tool

4 Case Study 6 AAs are a Major Hydrate Plug Prevention Tool 

Mehta et al. (2003) review the shortcomings of traditional thermodynamic inhibitors, and the use of the new LDHIs, which are based upon kinetic principles, and are typically applied in concentrations less than 1 wt%. They note that the new KHIs have an upper subcooling limitation of approximately 20°F, while deepwater developments often have subcooling requirements of 35-40°F. 

In addition, Mehta et al. present a case study of Shell s Popeye field use of a new AA inhibitor in a gas condensate line, with the following points  

The AA works by emulsifying hydrates in the hydrocarbon liquid. Hydrates are carried as a nonagglomerated slurry, without viscosity increase for up to 50% water cuts. 

The AA limit to water cut (volume of water per volume of oil) is approximately 60%. 

---