Introducing Cork As An Alternative Insulator to Polyurethane in Field X Production Pipelines: A Simulation Study

Authors

  • Astra Agus Pramana Universitas Pertamina
  • Adhikara Paramayoga Universitas Pertamina
  • Utami Farahdibah Universitas Pertamina
  • M. Kurniawan Balai Besar Pengujian Minyak dan Gas Bumi LEMIGAS

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.29017/scog.v48i3.1871

Keywords:

Wax Deposition, Insulation, Polyurethane, Cork, Wax Appearance Temperature (WAT)

Abstract

This study investigates the role of insulation in mitigating wax deposition and compares the performance of two insulation materials, cork and polyurethane, when it is applied to production pipelines. The objective is to evaluate their effects on wax layer thickness, thermal energy retention within the production pipe, and reservoir fluid temperature relative to the Wax Appearance Temperature (WAT). The methodology involves fluid characterization using Multiflash PVT Modeling & Flow Assurance software, combined with dynamic multiphase flow simulations to model production pipelines and assess flow assurance performance. The novelty of this research lies in introducing cork as an alternative insulation material to polyurethane, providing new insights into sustainable and effective solutions for wax deposition control.

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Published

31-10-2025

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