DefinePK

Abstract

The production of sand along with hydrocarbons has been a major problem faced by the oil and gas industry ever since the discovery of oil and gas. The production of sand from the reservoirs may result in erosion, accumulation, plugging and contamination by sand particles. Sand particle erosion may lead to failure of piping components or equipment, leaks in pipelines, and also hazard to personnel on site. Hence, the prediction of solid particle erosion rate is critical in ensuring the integrity of equipment and the safety of the system. Empirical models are developed by performing experiments to measure erosion rate at different particle properties and flow parameters. Particle properties include particle size, shape and hardness. Any change in these properties will result in a change in the erosion rate. In this review paper, the findings of previous researchers on the effects of particle properties on solid particle erosion rates were identified and reviewed. In addition, the limitations in some of the research done were highlighted to enable researchers to further study on the identified areas. This current work would be beneficial to researchers who are developing empirical models by identifying the key particle properties to be included in their solid particle erosion prediction models.