Produced Water Training

Section 1: Introduction to the Oilfield Water Cycle

• Define what is meant by ‘produced water’ and identify its sources

• Identify the main components of formation water

• Explain how the formation water gets into a well

• Explain how injection water gets into a well

• Explain what is meant by ‘water cut’

Section 2: Production Streams and Disposal Management

• Give an overview of produced water management once at surface

• Identify the main challenges associated with produced water

• Describe the main produced water disposal methods

• Explain how reservoir management, different well design and equipment and the use of a produced water strategy can reduce volumes of produced water

Section 3: Produced Water Discharges - Environmental and Regulatory Requirements

• Give an overview of the marine environment

• Explain the potential environmental impacts of produced water disposal – identify environmental issues both before and after treatment

• Give an overview of the legislation that regulates the disposal of produced water

• Explain the methods for measuring the oil-in-water content

• Give an overview of the different treatment and testing requirements for produced water

Section 4: Produced Water Treatment Principles

• Identify the main methods of produced water treatment

• Explain the process of gravity separation and coalescence

• Explain the process of centrifugal force

• Explain the process of gas flotation

• Identify the main factors which influence the choice of produced water treatment

• Explain the main advantages and disadvantages of various produced water treatment techniques

Section 5: Produced Water Treatment Equipment

• Identify the types of equipment used in produced water treatment

• Explain how an API separator operates

• Explain how a CPI separator operates

• Explain how a coalescer operates

• Explain the operating principles of a hydrocyclone

• Explain the role of the degasser

• Explain how a gas flotation unit operates

• Explain how a compact flotation unit operates

• Give an overview of the principles of filtration and explain how pore or particle size can impact treatment

• Explain the role of a caisson

Section 6: Produced Water Chemical Management

• Explain the role of production chemicals for process operations

• Explain how chemical use for operations can affect produced water discharges quality

• Give an overview of good practice in relation to chemical management

Section 7: Oilfield Water Cycle Summary

• Give an overview of the Oilfield Water Cycle

• Review whether to treat or inject - overview of decision-making process

• Explain the main issues and costs that can affect the produced water management decision-making process

Once you have completed the course, you will be asked a series of questions to check your knowledge and understanding. These are based on the learning objectives for the course and have a pass mark of 80%.

• Internet access - users will need a device with a web browser and internet connection

• System - runs on computers, tablets and mobile devices using Windows 7 and above and MAC OS devices running IOS 11 and above

• Browsers - Edge, Chrome, Firefox and Safari

• Minimum browser size - none

• Audio - requires device speaker or headphones