Mohammed Al-Yaari
Associate Professor
King Faisal University
Dr. Mohammed Al-Yaari is an Associate Professor in the Chemical Engineering Department at King Faisal University. He earned his PhD from King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals (KFUPM) in 2013. His academic journey includes extensive experimental work for both his MSc and PhD at the Schlumberger Dhahran Center for Carbonate Research (SDCR). Dr. Al-Yaari’s research interests encompass a range of topics, including drag-reducing polymers, emulsified acids, multiphase flow, and flow assurance.
Participates in
TECHNICAL PROGRAMME | Energy Infrastructure
Pipelines, Storage and SPRs
Forum 08 | Digital Poster Plaza 2
28
April
12:30
14:30
UTC+3
The integration of drag-reducing polymers (DRPs) in oil-water pipelines has emerged as a promising strategy for optimizing flow efficiency and enhancing separation processes. This study consolidates findings from multiple investigations on the effects of DRPs on oil-water flow dynamics within horizontal pipelines, emphasizing their significant role in reducing drag, altering flow patterns, and improving emulsion stability.
In experiments conducted in a 0.0254 m diameter pipe, the injection of water-soluble polymer solutions, specifically at concentrations of 10–15 ppm, led to drag reductions of approximately 65%. This reduction was particularly pronounced at higher mixture velocities, resulting in a noticeable decrease in pressure gradient and a shift in flow patterns. Notably, the phase inversion in dispersed flow regimes was identified within a 0.33–0.35 water fraction range, which could be effectively managed with the introduction of as little as 5 ppm of DRP.
Further investigations into water holdup conducted in a 2.54 cm pipe revealed that DRP injection significantly influenced water holdup at various superficial water velocities. The presence of DRP consistently increased water holdup in oil-water mixtures at lower velocities, demonstrating their potential to enhance separation efficiency. The results underscore the capability of DRPs to modify the distribution of oil-water droplets, thereby optimizing flow characteristics.
Additionally, the impact of DRPs on surfactant-stabilized water-oil emulsions was explored. The application of both oil-soluble and water-soluble polymers was examined for their effect on emulsion stability and pressure drop across varying temperatures and concentrations. The findings indicated that the appropriate selection of DRP could markedly improve emulsion stability, particularly with higher molecular weight polymers. Conversely, elevated temperatures tended to diminish the stability benefits provided by DRPs.
The results highlight the intricate interplay between drag reduction, flow dynamics, and emulsion characteristics, paving the way for enhanced design and operation of oil-water pipeline systems. By employing targeted DRP formulations, the energy efficiency of pipeline transport can be significantly improved, contributing to more sustainable oil and gas operations. This research not only elucidates the mechanisms behind DRP efficacy but also sets the foundation for future innovations in pipeline technology aimed at optimizing drag reduction and flow management.
In experiments conducted in a 0.0254 m diameter pipe, the injection of water-soluble polymer solutions, specifically at concentrations of 10–15 ppm, led to drag reductions of approximately 65%. This reduction was particularly pronounced at higher mixture velocities, resulting in a noticeable decrease in pressure gradient and a shift in flow patterns. Notably, the phase inversion in dispersed flow regimes was identified within a 0.33–0.35 water fraction range, which could be effectively managed with the introduction of as little as 5 ppm of DRP.
Further investigations into water holdup conducted in a 2.54 cm pipe revealed that DRP injection significantly influenced water holdup at various superficial water velocities. The presence of DRP consistently increased water holdup in oil-water mixtures at lower velocities, demonstrating their potential to enhance separation efficiency. The results underscore the capability of DRPs to modify the distribution of oil-water droplets, thereby optimizing flow characteristics.
Additionally, the impact of DRPs on surfactant-stabilized water-oil emulsions was explored. The application of both oil-soluble and water-soluble polymers was examined for their effect on emulsion stability and pressure drop across varying temperatures and concentrations. The findings indicated that the appropriate selection of DRP could markedly improve emulsion stability, particularly with higher molecular weight polymers. Conversely, elevated temperatures tended to diminish the stability benefits provided by DRPs.
The results highlight the intricate interplay between drag reduction, flow dynamics, and emulsion characteristics, paving the way for enhanced design and operation of oil-water pipeline systems. By employing targeted DRP formulations, the energy efficiency of pipeline transport can be significantly improved, contributing to more sustainable oil and gas operations. This research not only elucidates the mechanisms behind DRP efficacy but also sets the foundation for future innovations in pipeline technology aimed at optimizing drag reduction and flow management.
