Overview
This course provides focused training in handling and upgrading challenges associated with viscous and heavy crude. It addresses practical requirements encountered in production, transportation and refining of heavy oil streams. Participants explore the technical principles behind reliable decision-making and day-to-day execution. The learning experience uses relevant field examples, guided exercises and technical discussions. The program is intended for engineers, technical specialists, supervisors and related operational personnel. Content depth, case studies and delivery methods can be adapted to the client’s equipment, priorities and participant experience.
Objectives
By the end of the program, participants will be able to:
- Explain heavy crude properties and processing limitations.
- Assess viscosity, emulsions and solids-handling concerns.
- Compare thermal and chemical conditioning methods.
- Evaluate transport and equipment operating constraints.
- Identify feasible upgrading and treatment approaches.
- Recommend practical efficiency and flow improvements.
Course outline
Heavy crude characteristics
- API gravity
- Viscosity
- Asphaltenes
- Sulfur and metals
Production handling
- Emulsions
- Sand and solids
- Heating
- Diluent use
Flow and transportation
- Pressure losses
- Wax deposition
- Thermal management
- Restart considerations
Processing options
- Dehydration
- Desalting
- Visbreaking
- Residue treatment
Optimization
- Energy use
- Chemical treatment
- Equipment reliability
- Economics and case studies
Customised for your team
After you accept the proposal, an online customisation session adapts content, examples and exercises to your participants, standards and equipment.