Low Temperature Rheological Behavior of Umbarka Waxy Crude and Influence of Flow Improver

International audienceThe low temperature flow properties; pour point and rheological parameters; have been determined for untreated and additive treated Umbarka waxy crude. The rheological characteristics of the crude showed non-Newtonian yield pseudoplastic flow behavior and pronounced thixotropic effect. Viscometric data are fitted to Bingham, Casson and Herschel-Bulkley plastic flow models using linear and non-linear computer regression analysis. Herschel parameters showed inconsistent results whereas Casson equation fitted the data reasonably well. Treatment of the crude with flow improver ameliorated both rheological properties and pour point but in a different manner. The influence of the additive on the rheology of the crude is greatly affected by shear rate. The thixotropic phenomenon of the crude is likely to be temperature-dependent in addition to the other controlling factors