Key challenges are posed by asphaltenes precipitation and crude oil incompatibility. To address this critical issue, Orbit Research Associates offers advanced laboratory instruments manufactured by our principal, PSL Systemtechnik, Germany, designed to predict, evaluate, and manage these issues with high precision under varying conditions.
Precision Instruments for Crude Compatibility and Asphaltenes Deposition Studies
Asphaltenes are heavy, complex molecules present in crude oil. Under certain conditions—such as mixing incompatible crudes, pressure drops, or temperature changes—these molecules can precipitate out of the solution. This leads to sludge-like deposits in pipelines and production equipment, causing flow restrictions, pump failures, and costly shutdowns. Since asphaltene precipitation is difficult to reverse, predicting it in advance is critical for flow assurance and crude blending operations.
🛠️ Our Solution – Product Range:
ORBIT RESEARCH provides a specialized range of instruments developed by PSL Systemtechnik, Germany, to help study and mitigate asphaltenes-related issues:
Flocculation Tester FT5
A versatile lab system designed to detect asphaltenes precipitation and evaluate inhibitor efficiency using light-sensitive probes. It is available in multiple configurations, including ambient, mid-pressure (up to 200 bar), and high-pressure versions (up to 700 bar), with optional modules for automated titration, high-temperature operation (up to +300 °C), and in-line solid detection.
Wax Flow Loop (WFL)
Though primarily used for wax testing, the WFL can also be adapted to simulate asphaltene deposition under real pipeline conditions. It circulates crude oil through a test loop under controlled shear, temperature, and pressure—allowing users to evaluate the impact of flow dynamics, inhibitors, and restart scenarios on asphaltene stability.
Both systems are software-controlled, offer real-time data logging, and can be customized to specific testing requirements.
🔍 Applications:
Screening and validation of asphaltene inhibitors
Crude oil compatibility and blending assessments
Simulation of live oil behavior under pressure and temperature
Pipeline flow assurance studies
R&D on crude oil stability for refineries, upstream operators, and chemical suppliers.
🌟 Why Choose PSL Instruments?
Flexible configurations: Suitable for basic or advanced setups, including live oil testing
High sensitivity: Accurate detection even in dark, undiluted crude samples
Realistic simulation: Flow loop mimics actual pipeline conditions
Software control: Full automation, test scheduling, and exportable results
Trusted globally: PSL equipment is used by leading oil & gas companies, universities, and research institutions worldwide
📞 Need Help Choosing the Right Instrument?
Our technical team can help you select the ideal device based on your specific testing requirements and industry standards.
👉 Contact Us | 📧 info@orbitind.com | 📞 011 – 42420858 | 45578977