Thermal Desorption of Oil from Oil-Based Drilling Fluids Cuttings: Processes and Technologies

Proposal This paper presents the results of a study of processes and technologies for the thermal desorption of oil from oil-based drilling fluids cuttings for both onshore and offshore applications. A field investigation of available technologies designed to separate oil from oil-based drilling fluids cuttings by thermal desorption was conducted. In addition, some technologies that perform separation by physical-chemical means were also investigated; however, all commercial processes presently available use thermal desorption. The mechanisms of desorption of oil from cuttings were investigated. Process parameters and theoretical concepts for thermal desorption by distillation were developed using proprietary computer simulation programs for the distillation of hydrocarbons. Theoretically ideal temperatures for the process were calculated for various conditions and for various oils. The impact of moisture and oil content on the heat balance was calculated. The recoverability of the oil under various conditions was investigated. Nineteen companies were contacted for information on their desorption technology. Twelve company sites were visited to determine the developmental stage of their technology and to determine how well the technology functioned in the field. The technologies were evaluated for air emissions, liquid emissions, safety, oil content of processed material, space requirements, utility and chemical requirements, and other operating and design factors. Applicability of the technologies for offshore use was evaluated. Safety and environmental issues for each technology and the recycling of oil are also addressed in this paper, along with future work needs in this area.