Cambridge Viscometers Provide High Temperature Viscosity Analysis for Heavy Oil Extraction Research
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Cambridge Viscosity recently delivered a customized VISCOlab PVT High Temperature viscometer for analyzing heavy oil samples to a second major European oil company. The international energy company has decades of experience in oil and gas extraction in the North Sea and in countries around the world. The research and development team purchased the high temperature viscometer to explore extraction methods for heavy oils in tar sands located near Calgary in Alberta, Canada. The company is currently using the steam-assisted gravity drainage method (SAGD) to remove heavy viscous bitumen from oil sands. The viscometer will be used to improve the current method and develop new techniques for locations where the environment and geography make standard approaches impractical.
Developing the high temperature version of the VISCOlab PVT presented many unique challenges for Cambridge Viscosity engineers. The customer required that the viscometer operate at temperatures up to 300°C and pressures of 20,000PSI. These requirements necessitated a redesign of the SPL-440 sensor's internal electrical components, inlet and outlet tubes and the viscometer's isothermal control system.
Director of Engineering Dan Airey, who oversaw the system redesign, addressed the challenges. "We had a number of problems to work out in order to deliver a system that could produce accurate and repeatable data under extreme conditions. The pressure and temperature combination required new components from the latest ceramics technology to advanced metal alloys. It was a significant effort, but I am very proud of the new design and the results the system provides."
"Cambridge's new high temperature PVT system is an important new tool for the industry as it continues to push into more difficult sources for oil," says Cambridge President Robert Kasameyer.
About Cambridge Viscosity
Cambridge Viscosity sets the standard for extraordinarily precise, reliable and low maintenance viscosity measurement and control systems. Patented oscillating piston technology ensures accurate, true results across a broad range of lab and in-line applications, including oil and gas, petroleum and
bio-fuels, coatings, paints and inks, pharmaceuticals and other substances.
Cambridge Viscosity's sensors and viscometer systems conform to ASTM, DIN, JIS and ISO standards, with a range of models designed to meet specific industry and application needs. Certifications include ATEX, CE, and FM. CSA certification is available upon request.
For additional information visit: www.cambridgeviscosity.com
