Paraffin (or wax) deposition is one of the most common flow assurance problems in oil and gas production — especially in waxy crude oils with high long-chain alkane content.

When temperature drops below the wax appearance temperature (WAT), paraffin crystals begin to form and stick to the walls of tubing, flowlines, and surface equipment. Over time, this buildup can:
-Restrict flow and reduce production rates
-Increase pressure losses
-Cause equipment blockage or shutdown
-Raise maintenance and operational costs

What causes paraffin deposition?
-Cooling of crude oil below its WAT
-Pressure drop during production
-Changes in flow regime and turbulence
-Poor insulation in pipelines or flowlines

How can it be controlled or removed?
-Thermal methods – Hot oil or hot water circulation to melt and remove wax.
-Mechanical methods – Scrapers, pigs, or wireline tools to physically clean deposits.
-Chemical inhibitors – Pour point depressants or wax dispersants to prevent crystal growth.
-Insulation and heating systems – Maintain temperature above WAT during transport.
-Production optimization – Managing flow rates and minimizing shutdowns that allow cooling.

A proactive paraffin management program combining monitoring, chemical treatment, and optimized operation can significantly reduce downtime and protect asset integrity.

Flow assurance isn’t just about keeping oil moving — it’s about understanding the chemistry, physics, and thermodynamics behind every molecule in motion.