The key role of vacuum insulated tube in heavy oil thermal recovery
With the growth of global energy demand and the gradual depletion of traditional oil field resources, the research and application of extraction technology for high-viscosity crude oil such as heavy oil has become increasingly important. In the thermal recovery process of heavy oil, insulation pipes, as one of the key equipment, play a vital role. This article will discuss in detail the role and importance of vacuum insulated tube in heavy oil thermal recovery.
Heavy oil thermal recovery background
Heavy oil refers to a type of crude oil with high viscosity and low fluidity, often found in deep underground reservoirs. Due to its high viscosity and large density, traditional oil recovery methods are difficult to effectively extract. Heavy oil thermal recovery technology delivers high-temperature heat media to the reservoir to reduce the viscosity of heavy oil and promote its flow, which has become one of the main means to solve the problem of heavy oil recovery.
The structure and function of vacuum insulated tube
vacuum insulated tube are pipeline equipment used to transport high-temperature heat media to deep reservoirs. Its structure and functions mainly include:
Material selection: vacuum insulated tube are usually made of high temperature and pressure resistant alloy steel or stainless steel to ensure stability and durability in high temperature and high pressure environments.
Thermal insulation layer: The surface of the insulated pipe is usually covered with a thermal insulation layer to prevent the loss of heat energy and ensure that the heat medium maintains sufficient temperature during transportation, thus improving the fluidity of heavy oil.
Lining: The inside of the insulated pipe is usually coated with a layer of corrosion-resistant lining material to prevent corrosion of the pipe wall by the heat medium and extend the service life of the insulated pipe.
Connectors: The connectors of vacuum insulated tube also need to be resistant to high temperatures and pressure to ensure a secure and sealed connection.
The role of vacuum insulated tube in heavy oil thermal recovery
Transporting thermal energy: The insulated pipe is responsible for transporting high-temperature thermal media to the depths of the oil reservoir, providing thermal energy for heavy oil, reducing its viscosity, and promoting the flow of crude oil.
Protection of oil wells and equipment: The existence of vacuum insulated tube protects oil wells and related equipment from the influence of high-temperature thermal media and prevents equipment damage.
Improved recovery: The insulated pipe transports high-temperature heat media, which reduces the viscosity of crude oil and improves the recoverability and recovery rate of crude oil.
Improve production efficiency: The use of vacuum insulated tube reduces the viscosity of crude oil, making it easier for the crude oil in the oil well to flow, thereby increasing production efficiency and output.
