Investigation of Rheological Properties, Stability and Inversion Point for Crude Oil Emulsion from Early Production facility (EPF) In North Kuwait

Emulsion formation is a common problem in oil production. It affects production costs and may lead to shutdowns of production facilities, as well as failure to meet the desired crude oil specifications. In this research, a detailed study of the stability and rheological properties of four crude oil emulsions were collected from different locations in Kuwait oil fields under different operating and field conditions. These operating conditions included water cut, temperature, viscosity, organic and inorganic solid content, mixing rate, shear rate, and others. The inversion point at which emulsion changes from oil continuous to water was established. The results of the research will be used to upgrade field treatment units so they can handle heavier crude oil emulsion samples under various ranges of operation and production conditions.