Typically, produced water mixed with produced crude is stabilized by small concentrations of naturally occurring emulsifiers and other produced sediment. As oil is often co-produced with water, emulsions are encountered in most phases of oil production and processing: inside reservoirs, wellbores, wellheads and wet crude handling facilities; transportation through pipelines and crude storage; and during processing. When an emulsion has been formed, it is necessary to apply chemicals and/or use particular processes to break it. In general, an oilfield emulsion must be treated before the oil is shipped.
Sterling field staff will assess the situation and select treatments that assist in meeting product quality, minimize processing system shut downs and manage viscosity for increased pumpability and reduced flow line pressures.