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[robotan]

hello 

 

we have a tank of crude oil with volume of 35000 m3. with 30m of diameter this tank  feeds the tpping unit.

 

at the five metter of the tank we have a formation of mud that will disrupts the unit and  at this level we stop the exploitation of this tank immediatelly.

 

at the bottom of the tank we have mixers but they can't work.

 

What is the solution to get rid of this mud without opening the tank??

 

is there any product to inject in the tank to dilute this mud and make this crude oil expoitable.

 

thank you 

 

 

 

 

[Dazzler]

Robotan,

A few thoughts:

• Can you sample the feed flow out of the tank when it is muddy or otherwise sample the mud phase from the tank.  So you can visually see and feel it and test it, for tar/bitumen, hydrocarbon, sand and clay, wax, water content, iron (from rust), for example?  You can then also test its density and how it behaves if you heat it slightly.  
• Aside from tank mixers, perhaps heating or pump around is needed to keep it moving?
• Also, I would look in the crude handling unit downstream for places at risk of the mud also collecting, before it becomes a problem.
• Perhaps an ultrasonic or radiographic image of the tank will show the level or surface layer of this semi-solid phase?

Please let us know what you find and how the situation progresses.

Dazzler